Top 10 free things to do in Barcelona

Hello fellow budget hunters.

In honour of my Mum’s cousin being in Barcelona today – hi Sally! I thought I would go back to my list of the best 10 things to do for free in Barcelona! I did really love this city and I can’t wait to go back with my boyfriend – I know he will like a cosmopolitan city by the sea!

 So here it is, Barcelona is a fairly expensive European city but there’s things to do for free so take a look. I would recommend getting a map from the tourist information – ask for things to do for free and they will be circled for you.

1. Free museums on Sundays

Some city museums are free on Sunday afternoons some are saturdays, from 3pm to 8pm. Others are also free on one given day of the month, often the first Wednesday or Sunday – check each museum separately as its dependant on the place.

2. Stroll along La Rambla

It’s very touristy, but ambling along this 1km-long walkway is arguably the must see Barcelona experience. Lined with classical historical buildings, La Rambla is a great place to saunter for a few hours and watch out for the awesome artists and performers!

3. Visit the Mercat de la Boqueria

This infamous indoor market is a colourful explosion of fruit, vegetables, seafood, rows and rows of cured jamón. There are tapas bars, pizza stalls to eat at but my personal favourite is the fruit juice stands for 1 euro. (some offer 2 for 2 euros or more so shop about)

4. Go for a walk and sightsee

There are so many architectural sights to go and see, although a lot of them have fees to enter there is no harm in looking. Go for a walk around Parc Guell, La Sagrada Familia, Arc de triomphe and look at all the amazing sights. Best parts are always on display and it’s free!

5. Relax on a beach

Barcelona has some wonderful beaches perfect for resting aching feet after days of sightseeing. Barceloneta is the most popular but can get busy at peak season so Lonely Planet recommends for something less crowded, walk further north towards the Fòrum area.

6. Visit La Catedral

In the heart of Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter), La Catedral is as impressive outside as it is within. We learnt there is free entry in the morning and late afternoon so worth waiting until 5pm to save yourself a few euros .

7. Enjoy the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

This is my favourite part of the whole trip. It was built for Barcelona’s 1929 World Exposition and features lights, music and water. I believe music has been updated recently and now features music from the 21st century. 

8. Enjoy Barri Gòtic

Head around the Gothic Quarter and enjoy the buildings. Very shady area if it’s peak summer and means you can get out the sun. Very interesting place to stroll around with and recommend getting a map from the tourist information. You will normally pop out at la rambla!

9. Visit Plaça Reial

At this arcaded square look out for Gaudí’s first piece of commissioned work for the city – lamp-posts featuring coiled dragon-headed serpents. It looks like a more modern version of a square in Venice – enjoy the sun!

10. Walk around the street art

There’s so many amazing pieces of artwork the city is basically an art gallery.

So here it is.. that’s my top 10 things to do in Barcelona!! I hope you enjoy and take note from the experience! Have a great time and enjoy it!

I have other free guides. Check out my links here :-

• Free things to do in London