5 Secret Hideaway Places in Barcelona, Spain

As one of the most visited cities in Spain, Barcelona is a cultural wonderland for both tourists and residents. Though Barcelona is known for its famous attractions, such as the Barcelona Aquarium and the Picasso Museum, this lively city also has its hidden gems. Discover what Barcelona's secret places are in this mini travel guide, and include them in your travel plans to Barcelona.

1. Carmel bunkers 

The Carmel Bunkers are a hidden landmark in the hilly El Carmel neighborhood of Barcelona. These anti-aircraft concrete bunkers were built in the late 1930s during the Spanish Civil War to help defend the city against air raids.

Over 180 bunkers were strategically constructed on Turó de la Rovira hill and other high points around El Carmel. The bunkers housed machine guns and artillery used by the Republican army. Though never used for their intended purpose, the bunkers stand today as haunting reminders of Barcelona's war-torn past. Many are now covered in graffiti art, and the bunkers have become popular spots to take in panoramic views of the city skyline.

2. El Rei de la Magia 

El Rei de la Magia, which translates to King of Magic, isn't your ordinary museum. In most museums, you'll find timeless art masterpieces, important historical documents or famous sculptures. But in the El Rei de la Magia museum, you'll discover magic. From classic tricks to a magic shop, El Rei de la Magia is a magical world for families to enjoy.

3. Sala Montjuic 

Are you planning a summer trip to Barcelona? Make sure to visit the open-air cinema in Barcelona: Sala Montjuic. Located between the walls of the Montjuic Castle, Sala Montjuic is a great place to enjoy a picnic with your family and friends. Also, with the Montjuic Castle right next to the open-air cinema, you can go on a guided tour of this historical monument; this location is a two-in-one attraction.

4. Parc del Laberint d'Horta 

If you're looking for a way to enjoy a relaxing setting and stay active at the same time, the Parc del Laberint d'Horta -- also known as Horta's Labyrinth Park -- is a unique park to visit. The Parc del Laberint d'Horta, in the image above, features a small maze that you can challenge yourself to go through. This park also has smaller trails that you can walk on that weave through the park's beautiful landscape. Not only is the Parc del Laberint d'Horta a relaxing setting, but it's also a historical site.

5. Placa Reial 

Take a break from the busy city side of Barcelona, and go to Placa Reial. With bars and outdoor seating, Placa Reial sets up a wonderful, relaxing atmosphere. Buildings in Placa Reial boast stunning architectural design, so you get a resting place and scenic environment in one place.

Barcelona is more than its popular tourist attractions. Go off the beaten path, and explore these great hidden gems yourself on your next trip to Barcelona. If you are looking for the best place to stay, you can never go wrong checking out Expedia. You can find great deals on hotel and accommodation.

Ethnic Barcelona

Under the Catalan flag new citizens living in the old quarters unknowingly compose spontaneous scenes that were unthinkable 20 years ago. These new Catalans come from all over the world and they seem to have been always in Barcelona. Maybe it is because their essence never left, because the Moors were here, the Jews were here, the Romans, maybe with their Nubian slaves were here, the Phoenicians, the Visigoths, you name it, even pirates came here often. So the melting pot was always here. It's just that Barcelona had taken a small break. Perhaps Franco, helped a little bit. The point is that this process will not stop because big cities have always been a lure for immigrants, for nomads like the castle walls attracted people in Medieval times and burgs appeared. The time has come to call everyone a Catalan every single person living in this burg, no matter the language, the creed and the origin.

Trumpeter at Carrer de la Merce

Street musicians or buskers can be found around Barcelona by the hundreds. There are some, especially in the subway that don't seem to be very qualified but all in all, you can find great intrumentalists roaming the streets. The old part of town or casc antic is no exception. The other day I spotted this wonderful young trumpeter playing his instrument at Carrer de la Merce, next to the church by the same name. The nearby archway favored the acoustics and I am sure it was not a coincidence that he was lying there.

Canopy and Crucifix, High Altar, Sagrada Familia

Above the High Altar at the Sagrada Família, a dramatic bronze “Crucifixion of Christ” by sculptor Carles Mani i Roig hangs from a luminous canopy that seems to float in the basilica’s vast central space. The warm light on the figure and the canopy’s grape‑like fringe echo traditional Eucharistic symbolism while still feeling very modern inside Gaudí’s forest of columns.

Beneath this suspended crucifix stands a stark block of porphyry from Iran, serving as an extremely austere altar table that contrasts with the elaborate architecture around it. The combination of expressive sculpture, hanging baldachin and simple stone slab creates a powerful visual focus for the nave, drawing the eye from the forest of pillars toward the liturgy at the very heart of the temple.

If you want to see the High Altar during a service, check the latest Mass timetable on the official Sagrada Família website's Worship section, especially the daily Masses in the crypt and the Sunday international Mass in the basilica, as times and languages change throughout the year.