When you live somewhere – whether for a few months or several years – you can often neglect the amazing attractions and sights around you. It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of thinking you’ll get round to it ‘next weekend’ and this is especially true on gap years.
But before you know it, you’ll be packing your bags to move on to the next stage of your adventure – so don’t keep putting things off! If you’ll be spending some time in Barcelona, we’ve come up with a few experiences you simply must have.
Grab a coffee at Boqueria Market
Boqueria is the largest food market in Barcelona and if you’re spending a few months in the city you need to wander around its varied stalls to soak up the sights and sounds at least once during your trip. The best way to fully appreciate the lively atmosphere here is to head to one of its cafes or restaurants for a coffee and a bite to eat – you’re guaranteed to be served the best-quality and freshest produce available.
Cool off in Barcelona’s ice bar
Icebarcelona is possibly one of the most unusual drinking establishments you’ll find in the city, with the entire building made from ice and chilled to -5 degrees C no matter what the outside temperature is. (image blow by Cobiie)
It’s not just the walls that are made from ice, but also the furniture and even the glasses that the cocktails and shots are served in. Luckily you’ll be provided with gloves and a thick jacket when you walk through the door, so you can enjoy your drinks in comfort. One of the best things about Icebarcelona is its sculptures, which are also made of (you guessed it) frozen water! These change regularly but there’s always a nod to Gaudi in there somewhere.
Seek out the flamenco scene
Flamenco dancing is synonymous with Barcelona and the city is home to numerous clubs and bars where the best performers showcase their steps on a regular basis. The only way to truly experience flamenco is to visit one of these establishments, buy a jug of sangria with a few plates of tapas, and just sit back and enjoy the show.
There are plenty of flamenco bars in Barcelona, but some of the best include Tablao Flamenco Cordobes, Restaurant Flamenco Nervion, El Patio Andaluz and Palacio del Flamenco.
Lose yourself in a labyrinth
Barcelona is full of surprises and if you’ve got the time to explore the city in detail, it’s worth seeking out a few of its hidden gems – one of which is Parc de Laberint in the Horta and Guinardo district.
One of the park’s defining features is its maze, although there are 55 hectares of grounds to explore and lots of secluded spots where you can chill out in total peace and quiet. You have to head into the labyrinth of hedges, though, to see if you can find the centre – and make your way out again!
Pay a visit to MACBA
MACBA – or the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona – is worth a visit for two reasons. Firstly, it’s home to some amazing examples of contemporary art that will really take your breath away and secondly because the Placa dels Angels on which you’ll find the gallery has become something of a skating mecca.
This so-called ‘concrete playground’ is where you’ll see some of Barcelona’s top skaters perfecting their tricks and showing off their best moves. Just sit back in the early evening sunshine and watch as they glide gracefully around the square.
Now that we’ve whet your appetite with a snapshot of some of Barcelona’s top attractions, you can start planning your stay in the city. Visit this website for helpful information about accommodation.
Related post: The Bar Hopper’s Guide to Alicante
Header image by aigle_dore