Barcelona off the beaten path:
Hidden treasures to add to your travel itinerary
Originally published July 2, 2020. Updated February of 2025
All images are courtesy of the Spain Less Traveled team, unless otherwise stated.
An introduction to Barcelona
Barcelona is hardly Spain Less Traveled. It’s Spain’s most popular city with visitors and has developed a reputation for being anything but off the beaten path. But with a little digging, you can find those special hidden gems in Barcelona. We aren’t saying “don’t go to la Sagrada Familia!” By all means, go! In fact, you must! It is beyond impressive. But we urge you to mix the big monuments with a taste of local Barcelona.
The second-largest city in Spain, Barcelona and Madrid could not possibly be any more different! So take time to savor all of what Barcelona and the surroundings have to offer.
And of course, we would love to help plan your dream trip to Spain!
Where is Barcelona?
Map of Spain. Image: VectorStock
Barcelona is in the far northeast corner of Spain in the autonomous region of Catalonia. It sits on the Mediterranean Sea, and is not far from the Pyrenees Mountains and the border with France.
A note about Barcelona
If you are planning a trip to Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia is most likely high on your list of places to visit. While this Antoni Gaudi masterpiece is a must-see, did you know that there are so many lesser known spots in Catalonia’s capital that will also wow you?
It’s true - some of the best sites in Barcelona are off the beaten path. This post spotlights some fun and quirky things for you to see, do, and taste when you come explore the city. So, enjoy learning about Barcelona less traveled and remember to include these hidden treasures in your Spain travel itinerary!
If you are hoping to find flamenco, and practice your Spanish, you won’t find it in Barcelona. While internationally recognized as part of Spain, Catalan culture and history is very different. Here you will hear Catalan spoken in the streets. And those flags you see everywhere are not the flag of Spain, but are the flag of Catalonia.
That said, Barcelona is the perfect destination for those who want to explore the richness of Catalan culture. A city with an international vibe that welcomes visitors from all over the world, Barcelona has so many special and unique qualities. From the architecture to the Catalan food scene (one of the best food scenes in Spain!) to all the hidden gems in between, a trip to Barcelona is unlike a trip anywhere else in Spain. Or in the world for that matter!
How we can help you discover Barcelona, authentic and personalized
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Some top reasons why Barcelona is an amazing city
The other Gaudís
Side view of Casa Vicens
Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and Park Güell are Gaudí masterpieces that attract thousand of visitors, and rightfully so, but there are other marvels to be explored without the crowds:
Casa Vicens was his first architectural masterpiece. Built in 1883, this whimsical building was commissioned to be the patron’s summer home. If you want to learn how Gaudi made his mark in Barcelona, plan an afternoon here. You can top off your visit sipping an aperitif in the garden on the grounds too.
Even if it’s right by the Ramblas, Palau Güell doesn’t attract a lot of visitors, and it should, as it is an impressive building, beautifully restored so you can appreciate its many details. The rooftop is a delight with many mosaic covered chimneys and pinacles.
And finally for something totally different, try to make it out to Bellesguard. Built in 1909, Bellesguard was a private residence up in the hills with Gaudí’s trademark uniqueness. Some parts are unfinished, making it even more interesting, as you can see the internal structures. And it also offers great views of Barcelona. It’s a bit far from the city center, but it can be reached by bus or taxi.
Funky architectural finds
L’Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau is an impressive building that is both a hospital and UNESCO World Heritage site. Designed by architect Lluis Domènech i Montaner, the medieval and Moorish architectural structures, along with subterranean tunnels, make this unique medical complex an off the beaten path find worth checking out.
Also by Domènech i Montaner, Palau de la Musica Catalana is probably the most beautiful concert hall in the world, with astonishing decoration. It allows tourist visits, but attending one of its frequent concerts is an once in a lifetime experience.
There are so many architectural styles to appreciate in both Barcelona and Spain. If you’re curious and want to learn more, take a look at this post about architecture in Spain
Montjuic, the magical mountain
Montjuic World’s Fair pavilions
Montjuic is a large mountain close to the port, and includes many attractions. It was mostly developed for the 1929 World’s Fair. Many visitors only get as far as the National Museum and the Magic Fountains, but that’s just scratching the surface. You can explore further to many other great places:
Pabellón alemán. It was the German pavilion for the fair. Designed by German architect Mies van der Rohe, it’s considered one of the most influential buildings in modern architecture.
Poble Espanyol. It’s a village made of houses reproducing traditional architecture from all over Spain. If you are going to see flamenco in Barcelona, the recommended show is at Tablao de Carmen. (Note: the ticket to flamenco includes an entry into Poble Espanyol.
Fundació Miró. The most important collection of Joan Miró works in the world, as well as temporary exhibitions. You can find out what is going on here.
Anella Olímpica, the area with the most of 1992 olympics facilities, is also located in Montjuic. There is a small Olympic museum that can be visited.
CaixaForum is a cultural center inside a former Factory of Modernist style. It house big temporary exhibitions about art, history and culture.
The Barcelona Botanic Gardens are also up there, you can get there by taking the cable car Teleféric de Montjuic.
A great way of finishing the Montjuic visit is taking the Teleféric del Port. An aerial cable car that flies all over Barcelona port, ending in a tall tower in La Barceloneta. Not for the faint hearted.
One of the best hoods to visit in Barcelona
While each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own personality, Gracia is one that stands out. This eclectic hood is filled with tons of cafes, boutique shops, and small businesses that reflect the unique vibe in this part of the city.
And, if you want to hang like a local, you can’t go wrong with Can Tosca for a bite, Bodega Ca’l Pep for a shot of vermouth, and La Nena for a yummy chocolate dessert!
Gracia is also the place to be for its annual festival featuring live music, exhibits and local treats. The celebration kicks off each year on August 15th – the public holiday Assumption day - and goes through the 21st.
Raval, only for the brave.
Museum of Contemporary Art MACBA
The Raval Quarter, located next to Gothic Quarter has a reputation of being dangerous and seedy, and yes, it’s not the cleanest and safest area of the city. But with a llttle precaution and going preferably during the day it's a great visit.
You can find there many small squares with café terraces, art galleries, bookstores and two of the city’s main museums: MACBA (Contemporary art museum) in a light filled building by American architect Richard Meier, and the CCCB (Popular and urban culture center). Also look out for it’s many great examples of street art.
Lesser known vantage points to see the city
View of Barcelona
There are so many off the beaten path spots to appreciate spectacular views of Barcelona. One lesser known place is Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar - a church with a terrace overlooking the city. There’s even a tour at dusk, just for you to watch the sunset.
Located in the Raval neighborhood, the Barcelo hotel and bar is a fun off the beaten path vantage point to enjoy Barcelona – and a cocktail. Although it’s in a touristy part of the city, you can look down on the crowds from the view you’ll see from up above!
A new addition to this list is Torre Glories. Located on the 30rd floor of Barcelona third tallest building, it offers 360º views and also has some interactive exhibitions about the city. As it is very close to Sagrada Familia, you can see Gaudi’s masterpiece from a different perspective.
If you want to combine a walk while looking at the water, check out Mirador del Migdia. During high season, sip a cocktail and soak in the scenery at the small bar along the path. Also, when you go to Park Guell, wander over to the Carmel Bunkers. Time your visit to catch the sunset over the panoramic view of the city.
For the adventurous shopper
One of the best ways to get a feel for Barcelona is to shop like a local. You’ll find everything and anything at the vibrant Mercat de Sant Antoni, one of the top markets in Spain. This recently renovated market is popping with stalls to buy clothing or food. You can also grab a café or hang at one of the tapas bars here.
Mercat de Santa Caterina is the perfect combination of fresh goods and great architecture. The old market was renovated a few years ago, adding a bold roof covered by colored tiles. It also has a small food court that makes it a good alternative to the often too crowded La Boquería.
Want to be a pirate for the day? If so, plan to spend time at Encants flea market digging for treasures. Aside from antiquing, take in a concert, have a bite to eat, and have fun people watching.
Hit the beach!
For a relaxing day of play, stay away from the congested, touristy beaches in Barcelona. Instead, take a short metro or train ride to Badalona beach. Along with avoiding the crowds, you’ll be surprised if you hear anyone speaking English at this local gem.
If you don’t have enough time to plan a day trip, Playa de Bogatell is a bustling beach in Barcelona that’s both convenient and enjoyable.
Less known and more fabulous spots to eat and drink
A personalized boutique travel experience is not complete without eating and drinking like a local. In Barcelona, that means indulging in as much cava and tapas as you can. Although there are tons of options scattered throughout the city, meander to Carrer de Blai for a great time. Here, you can “tapas hop” from restaurant to restaurant and people watch while hanging at an outside table.
And, if you have a sweet tooth, Granja La Pallaresa is a local secret that will feed your craving for churros and chocolate.
Even if they are originally from the Basque country, pintxos are very popular in Barcelona. You will find many pintxos bars all over the city. One of our favorites is Maitea.
But wait, there’s so much more to do in Barcelona
Another off the beaten path thing to do during your visit is explore Barcelona’s graffiti art scene. If you love to walk, make time to wander through Parc del Laberint d’Horta – a cool park with a fun labyrinth to get lost in!
Even though there are so many renown museums in Barcelona, head to the Miro Museum to take in an eclectic art collection. If history is your thing, make time to check out Sinagoga Major – one of the oldest Jewish synagogues in Europe.
(Interested in Spain’s Jewish history? Here’s more information for travelers who want to see more of Sephardic Spain )
Barcelona was a prosperous city during Roman times, and hidden in the depths of the Gothic Quarter, you can see the remains of the Temple of Augustus. it’s in a courtyard accessible from Carrer del Paradís.
Also, if you’re eager to see a flamenco show, avoid the tourist traps. Instead, head to local bars that offer flamenco concerts, like Gracia Latina on Sundays or La Rouge Raval on Wednesdays. It’s the best way to appreciate an authentic part of Spanish culture.
Sardana is the most traditional dance in Catalonia. It’s danced in every celebration, and also every Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning in front of the cathedral (not to be confused with Sagrada Familia)
And if you’re lucky enough to be in Barcelona at the right time, the city hosts several festivals to celebrate Catalan culture!
Venture beyond Barcelona
From the old city walls and Gothic Quarter of Girona to the Roman Ruins of Tarragona to the impressive monastery of Montserrat and more, there is no shortage of wonderful day trips from Barcelona! We’ve got a comprehensive guide to those too!
Time to plan your boutique travel holiday
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ABOUT OUR GUEST BLOGGERS
Marla runs Marlita’s Atlas Writing Services. When she’s not creating content, Marla is teaching ESL, volunteering, and planning her next travel adventure.