6 Things to do in Barcelona!
Are you hoping to discover a city that captivates all five of your senses and awakens new curiosities around every corner? Then look no further than the incredible Barcelona! Here, in this corner of the Mediterranean, a journey full of emotion and new discoveries awaits. From its historical monuments and great beaches to the pleasant climate and even the contagious energy of its streets so full of life, the city positively invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world full of unforgettable experiences.
Walk through streets bursting with history, admire Gaudí’s world-renowned architecture, or simply get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Gothic Quarter. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beating heart of this truly unique city, as we share some of our favourite things to do in Barcelona. Keep reading and we can’t wait to hear how you get on!
1. Boat trips to see the America’s Cup preparations from Barcelona Port
Embark on an exciting maritime adventure as you discover the skyline of the city from an altogether different perspective with Las Golondrinas boat trips from Barcelona Port. To mark the America’s Cup, a whole range of new and exciting boat trips are available from the Port Vell harbour, helping you see the bases for the teams taking part in the world-famous competition up close. Since their debut at the Universal Exhibition of Barcelona in 1888, Las Golondrinas have witnessed the evolution of the city first hand and now offer you the opportunity to experience something truly unforgettable.
Until 21 August, there will be two daily departures from Les Drassanes dock, from where you’ll be able to see all the preparations of the six teams competing in this year’s America’s Cup up close. Over the course of an hour, you’ll have the unique opportunity to get a close look at all the ins and outs of the competition, while hearing stories about the history of the America’s Cup and the teams taking part with your very own audio guide.
2. Architecture Weeks 2024
Barcelona is an open-air museum that showcases its history and diversity through its buildings and monuments. From the Renaissance to Modernism, the city’s architecture reflects the evolution of various cultures and artistic styles. The Architecture Weeks 2024, organized by the City Council and the Mies van der Rohe Foundation, along with numerous architectural dissemination entities, offer a program full of free and accessible activities for all audiences. From May 14 to June 28, the city becomes a vibrant stage hosting exhibitions, contests, awards, talks, guided tours, and parties, among other proposals.
During these seven weeks, more than 180 activities aim to strengthen the bond between architecture and the public, addressing current issues such as sustainability and urban development. Moreover, these weeks also highlight Barcelona’s designation as the World Capital of Architecture 2026 by UNESCO and the celebration of the World Congress of Architecture in 2026.
Open houses at emblematic buildings such as the Pabellones Güell, ceramic workshops, or debates on current topics, the Architecture Weeks offer a unique opportunity to explore and understand the architectural richness of the city.
3. Special Visit to Casa Batlló
Barcelona breathes Modernism in every corner, but if there is one building that embodies the essence of this artistic movement, it is Casa Batlló. With its emblematic façade, it is a must-see for architecture and history lovers. However, there are parts of this architectural gem that often escape the public eye. Thanks to a special collaboration between Cases Singulars and Casa Batlló, you now have the opportunity to discover the best-kept secrets of this iconic building.
The special tour will take you to explore the first complete restoration of the back façade and courtyard, as well as the intimate private garden of the Batlló family. While the artisans work to restore the original splendor of the materials, you will have privileged access to the restoration areas and can witness the process live. Additionally, a temporary exhibition inside the house will immerse you in the era and the craft techniques currently used to keep the place’s history alive.
However, the crown jewel is the Sky Garden, a walkable scaffold that will take you to the top of the façade, offering an unparalleled view of the rooftop chimneys and the majestic Sagrada Familia. Immerse yourself in this unique experience and see Barcelona from a completely new perspective. The special guided tours are held every Sunday, and tickets are now available for reservation on the Cases Singulars website.
4. Visit to the Picasso Museum
Exploring Barcelona’s cultural wealth has never been as accessible as it is now. While visiting museums and galleries is always a great option, doing so for free makes it even more appealing. From May 2 to October 31, the Picasso Museum will welcome visitors for free three days a week: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, from 7 PM to 9 PM. For the rest of the year, Thursdays from 4 PM to 7 PM will be free entry. This initiative expands opportunities for both locals and tourists to enjoy the museum’s extensive collection at no cost.
In addition to free access to Picasso’s works, the museum will also offer free guided tours in Catalan during the free entry days. These tours will allow visitors to delve deeper into the genius of Picasso and better understand his impact on the art world.
But that’s not all. During this period, the Picasso Museum will also host a special exhibition of travel reports by photographer Bernard Plossu. Titled “Bernard Plossu. Picasso’s Catalan Landscapes,” the show reveals the connection between Plossu’s work and the places that inspired Picasso in Catalonia. From Horta de Sant Joan to Barcelona, the exhibition provides a unique look through the photographer’s lens at the landscapes that captivated both artists. Don’t miss this exhibition, available until September 16 at the Picasso Museum.
5. Beethoven’s Opera Fidelio
Barcelona is preparing to host a unique musical experience led by maestro Gustavo Dudamel and his Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra (LA Phil). This European tour marks the beginning of two extraordinary programs that promise to captivate music lovers and classical music enthusiasts alike. The Gran Teatro del Liceu will be the stage for the performance of Beethoven’s iconic opera Fidelio on May 26 and 27. This innovative and fully inclusive production has been adapted for both deaf and hearing audiences.
This ambitious project, praised since its premiere in 2022, offers an interpretation in international sign language, allowing people with hearing disabilities to fully immerse themselves in the magic of classical music. It also features the Coro de Manos Blancas, a program of El Sistema dedicated to children with disabilities, demonstrating Dudamel and LA Phil’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion in the world of music.
6. Night of Museums 2024
One of the most anticipated events of the year for art and culture lovers is approaching: the Night of Museums. Barcelona is gearing up for a unique evening inviting us to explore the city’s museums at an unconventional time, from 7 PM to 1 AM on Saturday, May 18.
In this edition, the Night of Museums offers the opportunity to visit 87 museum spaces across 8 municipalities in the metropolitan area, including Barcelona, Badalona, and Cornellà de Llobregat. This year, new spaces such as the Sala Barcelona and the Museum of Forbidden Art will open their doors for the first time during this celebration.
During this special night, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of free activities, ranging from guided tours of temporary and permanent exhibitions to workshops, concerts, performances, and video mapping shows. It’s a unique opportunity to discover the cultural richness of Barcelona and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of art and history. Get ready for a night full of surprises and emotions at the Night of Museums 2024!
Categories: barcelona
