Things to do in Barcelona for Pride Day

UPDATED JULY 2024By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Rainbow over the Barcelona rooftops

Barcelona has always been a bit of a trailblazer. No surprise then that the Catalan capital was the first Spanish city to host a Pride march back in 1977, when a few hundred people protested along Las Ramblas in the name of the Gay Liberation Front of Catalonia. Today, the celebration has become one of Spain’s largest LGBTQ+ festivals and, for two weeks in July, the streets are transformed into an ocean of vibrant rainbow flags. This mass celebration of love, diversity and inclusion – variously known as Barcelona Pride, Barcelona Gay Pride, and Pride! BCN – culminates with a colorful mid-month parade that attracts around a quarter of a million participants and spectators, and a series of concerts and closing parties that all but blow the lid off Barcelona! Read on for our guide to all the best things to do in Barcelona on and around Pride Day…

Barcelona Pride Parade

Colorful march in Barcelona

Barcelona’s Pride Parade is the (almost) grand finale to a series of flamboyant events taking place across the city through the first half of July. Bearing in mind that the middle of the day can get pretty hot here in summer, the Barcelona parade kicks off at a relatively balmy 6PM, blazing a colorful trail that starts in the Tres Xemeneies Park – named for the three industrial chimneys that dominate the skyline here. The parade paints a rainbow the length of Avenida del Parallel before turning towards Avinguda Maria Cristina and Palau Nacional, home of the Pride Village and main stage. Expect flamboyant floats, banging party anthems, outlandish costumes and feather boas galore. Get there in plenty of time to grab a spot by the barriers that line the route then make for the huge free concert and after-party by the Pride stage. This location at the foot of Montjuïc hill is the hub of all things Pride throughout the two-week celebration, with daily performances, workshops, community events and more, plus plenty of food and drink.

More Barcelona Pride Events

A pair of hairy ankles in high heels

The variety of events leading up to the parade and concert is colorful as it is varied. The program changes from year to year, but there are several festival stalwarts that can be relied upon to return regularly. These include:

  • Miss Drag Pride Pageant. The most talented drag kings and queens from across Barcelona and beyond come together to perform in front of a panel of drag experts (in full showstopping drag regalia, natch). The event  – the closest thing you can get to experiencing RuPaul’s Drag Race without RuPaul themself – usually takes place in the Maria Cristina club.
  • The High Heels Race. This event is precisely what it sounds like: a high-speed, high-octane, high-stakes, high-heeled race to the finish line, with runners temporary setting aside the festival’s spirit of love and acceptance in pursuit of a greater goal: cash. Expect trips, stumbles and lots of laughs from this most comical and cut-throat of Pride spectacles.
The Palau Nacional in Barcelona
  • The Pride Village. With the beautiful Palau Nacional (pictured) as its backdrop, the Pride Village is your one-stop-shop for all things LGBTQ+ throughout the festival. We’re talking exhibitions, information stands, bars, food stalls and even an activity area for kids – there’s a strong focus on family at Barcelona Pride, and many of the events are open to participants of all ages. Yes: even the High Heels Race! This is also where the opening and closing parties take place, with international DJs, live bands, drag performers and dancers among the many entertainers to grace the stage.

Barcelona Pride Nightlife

Club DJ on the decks

Barcelona is a gay-friendly city and the LGBTQ+ nightlife is excellent year-round. There are stacks of bars and clubs to pick from but gay hotel chain Axel’s sky bar roof terrace is one of the best. Not only is the company here great; there’s also a pool, loungers, long cocktail menu and some splendid views across the rooftops of Eixample, the LGBTQ+ district known fondly as ‘Gayxample’ by some locals. The legendary Safari Club is also close to Eixample and Plaça Espana (itself a bit of a Pride month hotspot). Regular club nights at Safari include Bananas on Friday nights and YASS! parties on Saturdays, which are of course even busier and wilder during Pride. The monthly Matinee party (sorry ladies, men only) is another of Pride’s big events, running from around midnight well into the small hours. Check local listings for details, dates and more info on all of the above, plus many other massive club nights taking place across Barcelona during Pride.

Best of the Rest: Things to do during Barcelona Pride

A rainbow flag flying in the town of Sitges, near Barcelona

It’s summer! It’s Pride! It’s Barcelona! So what better way to while away the long daylight hours than on one of the city beaches? Closest to the center, you’ll recognise Platja de Sant Sebastià by the huge, sail-shaped hotel at its southern end. Or head north along the coast to the Poblenou district for clothing-optional Platja de la Mar Bella. Fancy a beachy day trip? Strike out for Platja de la Bassa Rodona, a few miles south of the city in nearby Sitges. All of these beaches are very scenic, sandy and LGBTQ-friendly sunbathing spots.

You’ll also want to hang out in gay-friendly Eixample, which gives you as good a reason as any to spend time ogling some of Antoni Gaudí’s most eye-popping architectural exercises in Catalan Modernism. We’re talking the iconic Sagrada Familia as well as the quite extraordinary confections that are Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (aka La Pedrera). 

Park Guell in Barcelona

Entry to all three is included with a Go Barcelona pass, which also gives you access to several more Barcelona bucket-listers, including…

  • A guided tour of yet another of Gaudí’s masterpieces: the absolutely Insta-tastic Park Güell (pictured above).
  • A sightseeing tour aboard the open-top Barcelona bus.
  • A lip-smacking tapas-tasting tour.
  • A ride on the Barcelona cable car.
  • Entry to the bonkers worlds of the Museum of Illusions and Big Fun Museum.
  • Entry to the Picasso Museum and a walking tour of the maestro’s old Barcelona haunts.
  • A walking tour of Barcelona’s best markets.
  • … and many more!

Find out more and get your Barcelona attractions pass here.

More things to do in Barcelona

Top summer activities in Barcelona

Barcelona’s best parks

Barcelona neighborhoods guide

Free things to do in Barcelona

The Barcelona tourist traps to avoid

Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

Continue reading

best markets in barcelona
Blog

Best Markets in Barcelona

All you need to know about Barcelona's best markets
Dom Bewley
sagrada familia
Blog

Gaudi Tour in Barcelona

Lauded as one of the greatest architects the world has ever seen, Antoni Gaudi needs no introduction. His unique style is instantly recognizable, and rightly so. Using a creative mix of organic shapes and Eastern-inspired techniques to create his masterpieces, his buildings are one-of-a-kind. As a Catalonian, most of his work resides in the delightful city of Barcelona, renowned for its food, culture, and so much more. So, if you're lucky enough to be visiting one of the world's best cities and want to learn more about him, why not take a Gaudi tour in Barcelona? If that sounds like your thing, then never fear. We've put together an exhaustive list of Gaudi goodness right here. So relax, read on, and get ready to plan your trip! Featuring: Sagrada Familia Tour Modernism and Gaudi Walking Tour Gaudí Experiència Park Guell Guided Tour and Sagrada Familia Virtual Tour 360 Sagrada Familia Tour No list of Barcelona tours would be fit for purpose without including Gaudi's best. La Sagrada Familia is considered by many to be his magnum opus, sadly one he never finished before he passed. However, don't let its incomplete state fool you. This remarkable sight looks like something from another world. And, as one of Gaudi's most recognizable works, it's an absolute must-see. As you wander the basilica's ornate spires and otherworldly spectacle, you'll be joined by an experienced, arts-trained guide. They'll ensure you absorb all of the history and stories about the work, from conception to construction. They'll also shine a light on the symbolism present throughout the building. You're sure to enjoy seeing the Nativity and Glory facades for yourself. After all, there's a reason it's considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site! There are currently plans to complete the work by 2026, which will mark 100 years since Gaudi's death. Modernism and Gaudi Walking Tour Of course, La Sagrada Familia is just one of his many works. Gaudi was a prolific artist and architect, so you'll find plenty more of his designs peppered throughout Barcelona. Why not check them out on this Modernism and Gaudi walking tour? This 3-hour tour will take you across the city, letting you experience the mark that Gaudi left on the Catalan capital. Feast your eyes on the smooth, wave-like facade of La Pedrera. See the Casa Batllo, with its bone-like exterior and flesh-inspired interior. Learn about Gaudi's inspiration for each work. And, take a stroll through El Eixample, a district renowned for its modern art styling. While this is the best way to soak up as much Gaudi on one tour, if you're jonesing for a closer look, we've got you covered. Casa Batllo, La Pedrera, and even Casa Vicens all have their own dedicated tours and visits worth checking out, if a fleeting glance doesn't quite cut it. Gaudí Experiència 4D For a change of pace, why not add another dimension to proceedings? The fourth dimension, to be exact. Gaudi Experiencia is a 4D, interactive exhibition of Gaudi's work, life and passion. Through state-of-the-art technology, you'll see and feel his creations like never before. Swipe through interactive screens of his life and art. Grab a photo with a brass statue of the man himself. And immerse yourself in Gaudi's genius, thanks to 4D and augmented reality. The Gaudi Experiencia will let you look behind the curtain at the language and symbolism behind Gaudi's works. And at the end of it all, be sure to check out the exclusive books and souvenirs available in the on-site shop. One of the best Gaudi tours you can experience in Barcelona, especially if you're looking for something a little leftfield. Park Güell Guided Tour Why not add a little nature to your tour? Park Guell is one of Barcelona's most famous parks, brimming with history and architecture. This guided tour will show off the very best of Barcelona while scratching that Gaudi itch too. Because, well, there's no way he'd let one of the city's most memorable places go Gaudi-free. As soon as you step foot in Park Guell, you'll feel like you've been transported to another world. First opened in 1922, just four years before Gaudi's death, this wonderland of weird is full of Art Nouveau buildings, strange sculptures, and mesmerizing mosaics. Soak up the atmosphere and nature as an expert guide takes you around the park, shedding light on the most exciting works on display. Be sure to keep an eye out for El Drac - a large multicolored mosaic salamander that's one of the most photographed places in the city. And the Porter's Lodge, which has Gaudi's unmistakable style on full display. Sagrada Familia Virtual Tour 360 Finally, we end where we began. But this time, with the added twist of another reality. A virtual reality! See the inside from the outside by taking a Sagrada Familia Virtual Tour 360. Through the magical alchemy of VR, you'll be transported to the inside of Gaudi's masterpiece. Admire the exquisite detail of the pillars, the curvature of the nave, and the stunning ceiling. Study every facade from right up close, without worrying about disturbing the timeless architecture. Listen as the guide takes you through the journey of Gaudi's life, unlocking the secrets of his technique and the deeper meaning behind his carvings. All this, while the fresh Barcelona breeze washes over you. Because hey, sometimes it's just better outside than inside. Those are just some of the best Gaudi tours that Barcelona has to offer. The man himself clearly left his mark on the city, and no matter your preference, you're sure to find the perfect artsy addition to your trip. While you're here, feel free to check out our guides to weekends in Barcelona. Or, peruse the city's best museums and art galleries. If you're taking that special someone with you, look up our Barcelona guide for couples! And finally, if you want to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank, why not check out Go City? There's so much to see in Barcelona, we wouldn't want you to miss a thing.
Dom Bewley
Guests dining outside a restaurant on Plaça Reial
Blog

Weekend in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of Europe’s top city break destinations, and makes for a pretty great weekend getaway. Between its famously thriving nightlife scene and its wealth of central cultural attractions, a couple of days is more than enough to see plenty of what the city has to offer. No matter your preferences, no matter the weather, a weekend in Barcelona is sure to be a fantastic city break. Offering everything from intimate evening dining and electric seafront parties to a vast wealth of cultural sites and classic retail therapy spots, Barcelona has something for just about everyone. Visiting at the Weekend Depending on when in the year you choose to visit, the conditions surrounding your trip will vary quite significantly. Visiting during the summer will mean peak weather conditions but also the largest crowds throughout the city. The spring and fall shoulder seasons are considered ideal times to visit, with often milder weather and more bearable crowds. And of course, winter is therefore the quietest but also coldest period. No matter the season, however, a general rule of thumb is to expect weekends to be busier than their weekday counterparts. On one side, Barcelona is a particularly popular weekend city break destination, as evidenced by the fact you’re reading this article right now. On the other, many locals tend to visit the city over the weekends while off work or school. The increase in throughput at the weekend naturally means that attractions, museums and restaurants tend to be significantly busier than throughout the week. What’s more, you should expect hotel rates to increase somewhat over the weekend, often becoming fairly expensive in busier months. For many, though, this is exactly the appeal of visiting over the weekend. As a city renowned for its bustling atmosphere, this is when Barcelona thrives most. Bars and restaurants see more local clientele, offering a more authentic ambience, and the nightlife scene in particular truly comes to life with tourists, students and locals alike letting loose at the end of the week. Things To Do A weekend in Barcelona is more than enough to see many of the city’s top sights. While seeing absolutely everything would be a stretch and hardly worth the strain, you can put together as extensive or relaxing an itinerary as you’d like and get a great experience either way. Top Attractions Most trips to the Catalan capital would be incomplete without ticking off some of the city’s most famous attractions. The Sagrada Familia and Park Güell are Barcelona’s most visited attractions, by merit of their fantastically photogenic architecture. If you have the spare time, Montjuïc is also well worth a visit, as the park is home to a huge selection of iconic landmarks and cultural sites. Architectural Marvels If you’re keen on exploring the city’s famous diversity of architecture, many of the city’s most celebrated Gothic and Modernist structures can be discovered one after another on foot, or can be crossed off even quicker using the transport links between each key location. You can also join onto a guided tour of the Gothic Quarter and the best works of Antoni Gaudí. Cultural Hotspots For your fill of history and culture, Barcelona is also home to a huge selection of fantastic museums and art galleries. History buffs should be sure to check out the Museu d'Història de Catalunya and the Museo de Historia de Barcelona, while art enthusiasts are bound to enjoy the likes of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, the Museu Picasso and the Fundació Joan Miró. Retail Therapy And of course, a European city break destination is nothing without its fair share of shopping opportunities. Spread across the city, you’ll find a wide range of boutique stores, local retailers and shopping centers. One of the most notable outlets is Las Arenas, built into a former bullfighting ring and offering panoramic views of the city, alongside El Triangle Centre Comercial and the Mercat de la Boqueria. Weekend Nightlife Some of Barcelona’s greatest appeal comes from its internationally renowned nightlife scene. Replete with a healthy selection of delightful restaurants, hip bars and classy seaside clubs, the city brims with life in the evenings. And this is never more true than at the weekend. Historical Plazas For some great local cuisine and an intimate evening drink, the Gothic Quarter has a wealth of charming traditional squares filled with local bars and restaurants. Most popular among these are Plaça Reial, Plaça del Rei and Plaça de Santa Maria. Grab yourself a hearty meal and a glass of local cava to finish your day in style, or to set the mood for the evening to come. Beachfront Spirits If you’re looking to keep up spirits into the night, then your best bet is to take yourself down to the seafront. There, you’ll find the likes of La Barceloneta lined with stylish tapas bars and clubs. If the weather seems up to par, then why not also join many of Barcelona’s youth and the many tourist groups partying on the beach? Cocktails With a View Alternatively, if you’re looking for more of a high-class evening with less of the rowdy partying, Barcelona is also host to a great number of chic rooftop bars. Some of the most popular among these include the Grand Central Hotel SkyBar, 83,3 Terrace Bar and El Cel de Gaudí. In summer, you can even book for special rooftop events atop the likes of La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.
Robert Heaney

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon