The 20 Best Places to Take Photos in Barcelona for Instagram

Barcelona overflows with picture-perfect spots for travel photography. From Gaudí's surreal architecture to palm-lined beaches and lively boulevards, Barcelona offers countless visually stunning backdrops. Whether you're a pro toting a DSLR or an amateur snapping smartphone pics, you'll find awesome places in Barcelona to capture postcard-worthy shots. This guide covers the top 20 locations in Barcelona to ignite your social shares. With tips for snagging super shots, you'll be able to fill your Instagram with artistic Barcelona photos that will mesmerize your followers.

1. Sagrada Familia

   No trip to Barcelona is complete without visiting Antoni Gaudí’s magnificent Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, which is a photographer's paradise for Instagram. This awe-inspiring Gothic and Art Nouveau cathedral has soaring spires, intricate details, and colorful stained glass perfect for your Instagram feed. Climb high for a wide cityscape shot or get up close to capture the ornate Passion Façade. The never-ending construction and scaffolds add dynamic angles. Morning light illuminates the textures beautifully for Instagram. Snap photos from unique perspectives to stand out on Instagram. The Sagrada Familia is Barcelona's most iconic landmark and should be at the top of any travel photographer's Instagram bucket list.

   

2. Parc Güell

   Another whimsical Instagrammable masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, Parc Güell makes for unforgettable photos. Winding pathways, colorful mosaics, and fairytale-like structures create a dreamy Instagram backdrop. Shoot the main terrace overlooking the city or wander the park to discover more photogenic gems like the Gaudí House Museum for your Instagram grid. Frame a selfie on the serpentine bench or against the Hansel and Gretel-style gingerbread gatehouses. Early morning or late afternoon golden hour is best for glowing light. Parc Güell captures Barcelona's magical architecture and is perfect for your Instagram feed.

   

3. Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

   This futuristic-looking apartment building designed by Gaudí is both bizarre and beautiful, making for excellent Instagram photos. The rippling stone facade and skeletal rooftop make dramatic subjects. Pose on the front steps or on the roof among the eerie chimneys resembling medieval warriors for Instagram. At night, Casa Milà is illuminated for a striking, science-fiction feel perfect for Instagram. Shoot upward for patterns against the sky or capture the surreal sculptural details up close. As one of Barcelona's most imaginative buildings, La Pedrera will add artistic flair to your Instagram gallery.

   

4. Casa Batlló

   Gaudí's Casa Batlló dazzles with a facade covered in colorful mosaic tiles and wave-like window frames, creating eye-catching Instagram photos. The roofline resembles a dragon's back, complete with ridge spikes for scales. Capture the fluid forms and marine motifs from street level or get a rooftop view from the rear of the block for Instagram. Inside, snap the skeletal interior columns or light shaft. Photos of Casa Batlló's colorful artistry make great Instagram posts showing Barcelona's modernisme style.

   

5. Montjuïc and Magic Fountains

   Rising above the city, Montjuïc provides stunning elevated views of Barcelona's skyline perfect for Instagram. The hilltop Castillo de Montjuïc fortress has panoramic vistas and old cannon batteries to explore. Come at dusk for a majestic Instagram shot of the port and city below with a pink sky. At the Magic Fountain, capture the colorful lights artistically blurred with slow shutter speed for Instagram. Photos from Montjuïc showcase Barcelona's beauty from above.

   

6. Barri Gòtic

   Barcelona's atmospheric Gothic Quarter is another favorite spot for Instagrammable photography. Wander the medieval labyrinth of narrow cobblestone alleys lined with classic architecture. Photograph soaring 14th century cathedrals, hidden plazas and iron lanterns. For moody Instagram shots, capture the stone arches and shadows. The mix of old and new makes the Barri Gòtic endlessly inspiring. Share your gothic Barcelona photos and transport Instagram followers to the historic heart of the city.

   

7. La Rambla

   Always buzzing with activity, Barcelona's famous La Rambla boulevard offers dramatic Instagrammable street photography. Catch a flamenco dancer in action or snap the living statues posing elegantly. Look for candy vendors in colorful costumes or street performers in inventive costumes. Shoot upward for architectural details on the elaborate buildings along the pedestrian street. Capture the energy and eclectic sights of La Rambla then share your images on Instagram.

   

8. Plaça de Catalunya

   The expansive Plaça de Catalunya square provides a lively Instagrammable urban backdrop. People watch and capture daily local life: street musicians, pigeon feeders, children playing. Photograph friends sitting on the central fountain or statue base. The square links old and new Barcelona; shoot both the modern El Corte Inglés department store and older buildings like the Hotel Colón. The hustle and bustle of Plaça de Catalunya encapsulates the city's lively spirit for Instagram.

   

9. Arc de Triomf

   Barcelona's iconic Arc de Triomf brickwork archway makes a dramatic framing element for Instagram photos. Built for the 1888 World's Fair, this bold neo-Mudejar arch adds a pop of red against the cityscape. Photograph models or friends strolling through the arch or posing in front. For scale, include the whole arch in your Instagram shot. At night, the illuminated Arc de Triomf is perfect for a neon-lit urban snap. Share these monumental Barcelona photos with Instagram fans.

   

10. Parc de la Ciutadella

    This idyllic green space offers a serene natural contrast to the city for Instagram. Capture the towering palm trees, sparkling central fountain, and picturesque gazebos. Row across the lake for romantic Instagram photos on the water. Shoot friends relaxing on the grass or people commuting by bike through the park. Look for birds and other wildlife as photogenic subjects. Share your park snapshots to show the greener side of Barcelona on Instagram.

    

11. Parc del Laberint d'Horta

    Outside Barcelona, this magical 18th-century hedge maze park creates whimsical Instagrammable photos. Shoot the maze from above or send someone inside for adventure shots winding through the labyrinth. Other photogenic elements include the central pond, neoclassical statues, and stone temple ruins. The harmonious landscape allows striking nature photography for Instagram. For magical garden photos to enchant your feed, visit Parc del Laberint d’Horta.

    

12. Tibidabo

    Soaring above the city, Tibidabo Amusement Park provides beautiful panoramic views for Instagram photos. Shoot the ride-filled skyline or pose in front of the vintage Ferris wheel and quirky attractions. Watch the cable car ascend for dramatic overhead shots. At sunset, Tibidabo lights up for golden hour magic. Show off the whole of Barcelona from this elevated vantage point in your Instagram posts.

    

13. La Boqueria Market

    Barcelona’s vibrant La Boqueria food market explodes with colorful Instagrammable photo opportunities. Capture the overflowing fruit and vegetable displays, shimmering seafood catches, and hanging hams. Photograph the busy market activity and characters like fruit vendors in the early morning. Close-ups of ingredients pop against the market backdrop. Foodies and travel photographers alike will delight in La Boqueria’s lively visual feast for Instagram.

    

14. Port and Passeig de Colom

    Along the pedestrian Passeig de Colom, snap Instagram photos of the sailboats and yachts moored in the marina. Look for reflections in the water. Shoot the famous Columbus Monument statue pointing out across the sea. Capture the star-shaped Barcelona Royal Shipyard buildings across the port. At sunrise or sunset, incorporate colorful skies for dramatic seaside Instagram photographs.

    

15. Palau de la Música Catalana

    This concert hall designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner is an ornate vision perfect for Instagram, with mosaic-tiled columns, stained glass skylights, and a gold sculpture-adorned facade. Photograph the exterior details then tour inside for brilliant Instagram photos of the grand auditorium capped by a stained-glass inverted dome. The kaleidoscopic colors and textures make Palau de la Música Catalana a unique Barcelona subject for your artsy Instagram shots.

    

16. Monastery of Pedralbes

    This medieval Gothic convent surrounded by tranquil gardens creates ethereal Instagram photos away from the city hustle. Shoot the three-story cloister gallery and central fountain from different perspectives. Capture the arched walkways framed by vines and flowers. At night, photograph the dramatically lit architectural details. Share this serene spot with your Instagram feed for a moment of Barcelona calm.

    

17. Hospital de Sant Pau

    Architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner designed this early 20th-century hospital complex filled with decorative buildings and gardens perfect for Instagram. Capture the colorful tiled pavilions, stained glass windows, and unique circular windows. Wander for unexpected angles like doorways and passageways. Photos from these whimsical grounds capture innovative modernisme style for Instagram.

    

18. Rambla de Catalunya

    Lined with elegant architecture and chic shops, this upscale thoroughfare attracts Barcelona’s fashionable crowd for Instagrammable shots. Capture mod looks against the Art Nouveau and Art Deco building facades. Look up for intricate ironwork balconies and window frames to photograph. Tree-filled Canaletes square links to Rambla de Catalunya for added scenery. For stylish Instagram street photography, add this posh promenade to your feed.

    

19. Plaça del Sol in Gràcia

    In the charming Gràcia district, this quaint plaza delivers Instagrammable snapshots of daily life. Young families gather at the playground, cyclists traverse the plaza, street musicians strum guitars. Capture the facades surrounding the plaza in geometric patterns interspersed with arches and ornate details. Shoot upward for architectural patterns framed by blue sky. Photos from this lively square spotlight authentic local Barcelona culture for Instagram.

    

20. Old Harbor and Barceloneta

    Along the harbor at the foot of La Rambla, snap Instagram photos of the sail-shaped Columbus Monument against the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. Capture the iconic red and yellow sightseeing boat Golondrinas docked near the waterfront promenade. Shoot the Barceloneta neighborhood’s narrow 18th-century lanes lined with history homes and shops. Photos from the old harbor and seaside deliver classic nautical Barcelona vibes for Instagram.

    

With stunning architecture, lively neighborhoods, markets, and coastal scenery, Barcelona offers endless inspiration for travel photography. Use this guide to capture artistic and distinctive photos at the top Instagrammable spots in Barcelona. For more tips, check out these top Barcelona Instagrammers:

• @xopet1969
• @thebarcelonist
• @barcelonacitizen

Whether you use your smartphone or DSLR camera, Barcelona provides picture-perfect settings for unique images to share on Instagram and remember your travels.

How to Make the Most of Your First Trip to Barcelona in 2023

Barcelona is a city that captivates visitors from around the globe with its blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Here are some essential travel tips to make the most of your first trip to Barcelona:

Plan your itinerary wisely. Barcelona offers a wealth of attractions and activities, so it's important to plan your itinerary wisely. Start by outlining a list of the things you most want to see and do. Be sure to include iconic sites such as the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, and the Sagrada Familia. You can find more information about these attractions in my blog posts about the Gothic Quarter, about Las Ramblas, and about the Sagrada Familia.

Secure accommodation in advance. Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season. This will ensure you have a comfortable place to stay and give you more options to choose from.

Obtain a Barcelona Card. The Barcelona Card is a great way to save money on transportation, attractions, and tours. It can be purchased for one, two, or three days, and it gives you free entry to many of the city's most popular attractions, as well as discounts on public transportation and tours.

Familiarize yourself with basic Spanish phrases. While many locals in Barcelona speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be immensely helpful. Polite greetings, simple directions, and ordering food are a few key phrases that can enhance your interactions with locals and create a more immersive experience. Here is a list of basic words and phrases in Spanish:

Certainly! Here are some useful Spanish words and phrases that can enhance your experience during your first visit to Barcelona:

1. Greetings:

• - Hello: Hola
• - Good morning: Buenos días
• - Good afternoon/evening: Buenas tardes
• - Goodnight: Buenas noches
• - Goodbye: Adiós

2. Polite Expressions:

• - Please: Por favor
• - Thank you: Gracias
• - You're welcome: De nada
• - Excuse me: Perdón/Disculpe
• - I'm sorry: Lo siento

3. Basic Conversational Phrases:

• - Yes: Sí
• - No: No
• - I don't understand: No entiendo
• - Could you please repeat that?: ¿Podría repetir eso, por favor?
• - Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?

4. Asking for Directions:

• - Where is...?: ¿Dónde está...?
• - How can I get to...?: ¿Cómo puedo llegar a...?
• - Is it far?: ¿Está lejos?
• - Left: Izquierda
• - Right: Derecha
• - Straight ahead: Todo recto

5. Ordering Food and Drinks:

• - I would like...: Me gustaría...
• - What do you recommend?: ¿Qué me recomienda?
• - Can I have the bill, please?: ¿Me puede traer la cuenta, por favor?
• - A table for two, please: Una mesa para dos, por favor
• - Cheers!: ¡Salud!

6. Shopping:

• - How much does it cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
• - Can I try it on?: ¿Puedo probármelo?
• - I'm just browsing: Solo estoy mirando
• - Do you have this in a different color/size?: ¿Tiene esto en otro color/talla?
• - Can I pay with a credit card?: ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta de crédito?

7. Emergencies:

• - Help!: ¡Ayuda!
• - I need a doctor: Necesito un médico
• - Where is the nearest hospital?: ¿Dónde está el hospital más cercano?
• - I lost my passport: Perdí mi pasaporte
• - I've been robbed: Me han robado

Remember, even if you're not fluent in Spanish, locals appreciate the effort to communicate in their language. These basic phrases will help you navigate common situations and interact with locals more comfortably during your visit to Barcelona. If you manage to learn them in Catalan it would be great!

Prepare for crowds. Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, so certain areas like the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas can become crowded. Be prepared for bustling streets and plan accordingly. Exploring early in the morning or during weekdays might offer a more tranquil experience.

Utilize public transportation. Barcelona boasts an efficient public transportation system, consisting of metro lines, buses, and trams. Purchase a T-10 ticket (no need to buy this one for each of you), which allows ten trips on various modes of transportation, or opt for a travel card that provides unlimited travel for a specific duration. Navigating the city becomes convenient, cost-effective, and time-saving with these options.

Wander on foot. While public transportation is excellent, don't forget to explore Barcelona's streets on foot. Meander through the narrow alleys, soak in the city's atmosphere, and stumble upon hidden gems tucked away from the main tourist routes. Walking enables you to discover charming neighborhoods and stumble upon quaint cafes or boutique shops. Tourist exploration has skyrocketed lately so finding new routes is not that frequent anymore. Don't stop trying though there are still unconquered treasures out there with a good pirate map.

Marvel at Gaudí's architectural wonders. Antoni Gaudí's architectural masterpieces are an integral part of Barcelona's identity. No visit to the city is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, the whimsical Park Güell, and the extraordinary Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Marvel at the intricate details and innovative designs that make Gaudí's works truly unique. But remember our architecture expands way beyond the master's legacy. Try other famous architects like Domenech i Montaner or check my list of 10 best modernist architectural buildings in Barcelona

Indulge in beach time. Barcelona's beautiful coastline beckons visitors to relax and unwind. Set aside time to enjoy the city's sandy beaches, with Barceloneta Beach being the most renowned. Whether it's sunbathing, strolling along the promenade, or engaging in water sports, the Mediterranean Sea provides a refreshing escape. 

Experience the vibrant nightlife. As the sun sets, Barcelona's nightlife comes alive. From cozy bars to pulsating nightclubs, the city offers a diverse range of options for nocturnal adventures. Explore the lively neighborhoods of El Raval, Gràcia, or the trendy district of El Born (not just at night), where you can savor tapas, sip on refreshing cocktails, and dance the night away.

Barcelona is a city that encapsulates the essence of a rich culture and a captivating history, besides our architectural wonders. By following these travel tips, you can ensure a memorable experience during your first visit. Embrace the energy of the city, explore its hidden corners, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of Catalan charm that makes Barcelona an unparalleled destination.

How to plan the perfect trip to Barcelona

Barcelona is the perfect holiday location if you want an exciting city break with plenty of sunshine, beautiful beaches and plenty of exciting attractions to enjoy. Millions of tourists enjoy its long golden beaches, stunning architecture, and beautiful parks every year. It’s always best to be prepared before you travel in order to get the most out of your holiday. Take a look at these helpful tips to help you plan the best break possible.

Choose where to stay

Barcelona is a fairly spread out city and where you stay will have a big impact on the kind of trip you will have. Here are some recommendations on the top places to stay in Barcelona:

• Gothic Quarter - This is Barcelona’s oldest neighborhood and also considered the most beautiful. It’s the most popular area with tourists and has plenty of great restaurants, bars, and attractions nearby.
• Las Ramblas - Barcelona’s most popular and busiest road! Staying on Las Ramblas means you’ll be right in the center of the action and near all of the city’s main attractions.
• Gracia - This hip village has some of Gaudi's most famous works within easy walking distance. It’s also a lot quieter and less crowded.
• El Born - This area looks similar to the Gothic Quarter, but with a more residential feel and far fewer tourists.

Decide how to get around

Once you know where you will be staying, you need to decide how to get around. Fortunately, Barcelona has a great metro system which makes navigating the city fairly straightforward. Renting a car is another great option as it offers convenience and flexibility, especially if you want to go outside of the city and main tourist areas. It's also pretty straightforward to arrange, with plenty of car hire companies offering Discount International Car Rental, so you should find it easy to find a good deal! Generally, the early you book the better the price, but you should still be able to find good last-minute rental deals if you want to plan a spontaneous Spanish road trip.

Find the best attractions

Barcelona is perfect for travelers of all ages! Adults can appreciate the fascinating history, architecture, and culture, but there’s also plenty of things to keep kids entertained too. Make sure you do some research and make a list of attractions you want to visit. You can use resources like travel websites and blogs to find recommendations. Here are some of the best attractions you should be sure to check out when visiting Barcelona:

• La Sagrada Familia - Designed by Antoni Gaudi, this impressive building dominates the city skyline and is one of the world’s most visited basilicas.
• Park Guell - This is a beautiful large park showcasing some of Gaudi’s best work.
• Barcelona Cathedral - An impressive example of gothic architecture that offers amazing photo opportunities.
• The Magic Fountains of Montjuic - The fountain puts on an amazing nightly light, music and water performance that shouldn’t be missed.

3 Secret and Underappreciated Spots in Barcelona

It’s no secret that Barcelona is straining under the weight of the explosion of tourists it has received over the last decade. Each year, more and more visitors head out to the Catalan capital, and the city is struggling to keep pace. Part of the issue is that everyone wants to see the same things, at the same time: the Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas, the Gothic Cathedral, the Picasso Museum. Every day, thousands of tourists all congregate in the same areas of the city, and overcrowding is a serious issue causing many problems.

However, it is still possible to visit Barcelona and be a part of the solution and not the problem. One way you can ease the burden on those over-visited sights is to take a guided tour of some of Barcelona’s lesser visited spots. Not only will this allow you to appreciate the city from another perspective, but you’ll also understand more of the history and culture that makes the city unique. Once you’re done with that, why not check out these other three underappreciated spots and expand your knowledge of this truly special place.

Palo Alto

 

Palo Alto looks a lot like any other dilapidated factory complex in the Poblenou district. However, behinds its industrial facade lies a vibrant and dynamic hub of innovation and creativity. Home to offices and coworking spaces, the inner courtyard is bursting with exotic plants and other greenery. Cafes and event spaces also help to give the atmosphere an electric buzz throughout the week.

On the first weekend of the month, The Palo Alto Market brings together an eclectic mix of food trucks, vintage stalls, and artisanal crafts alongside some great music and a generally laidback atmosphere. It’s the perfect time to visit these hidden gardens and get a taste for Barcelona’s entrepreneurial side.

Carmel Bunkers

 

(source)

If you’re looking for THE best views across Barcelona, then you need to head out to the Carmel Bunkers. Standing at a height of 262 meters, these Spanish Civil War era antiaircraft bunkers offer 360º views over the city, and plenty of interesting history to complement those spectacular landscapes. For instance, it’s interesting to note that, while the name would suggest otherwise, these concrete structures were never actually bunkers, and only provided foundations for the antiaircraft artillery over a short period of the civil war.

After the civil war, these concrete turrets fell into disrepair. However, with space at a premium in Barcelona, the area quickly grew into a shanty town that existed until the 1990s. Today, the area has been regenerated by the municipality, however, you can learn more about the colorful history of the Carmel Bunkers at the MUHBA exhibition onsite. Entry to the Bunkers is free and they’re open 24/7.

Antic Theatre

( source)

Another secret idyll in the heart of Barcelona, the Antic Theatre lies just a few meters from the Palau de la Música. Featuring a large open-air terrace, the courtyard is surrounded by typical Catalan architecture that creates a particularly intimate and authentic space to escape the sun for midday drinks. A favorite haunt of Barcelona’s hip young things, the Antic Theatre always has a healthy buzz echoing through the courtyard.

After you’ve enjoyed some great food and drinks, you’ll find that the theatre itself also hosts an eclectic selection of productions throughout the year, and the free-thinking spirit of its members maintain the themes of “independence, sustainability, and resistance” through workshops and other community-based programs. For theatre lovers, or anyone with a taste for something a little different, the Antic Theatre is a must-visit venue on our list of underappreciated spots in Barcelona.

Find Best Barcelona Spots Suggested by Locals

source: Spotted by Locals

Would you like to explore a city and skip most of the typical touristic places so you do not end up having paella in Las Ramblas for example? Would you be willing to waste your precious time going straight to Sagrada Familia without buying the tickets online in the right website if you could avoid it? 

Many are the mistakes we can make when we play the tourist in a foreign country. But what if we were able to get the best advice from dozens or hundreds of local 'guides' that volunteer to give you the best hints about places they have spotted for you, places that are their favorite secret troves. 

Yep, those things you can have with Google reviews, Google Maps' local guides, Foursquare, Yelp or the omnipresent but sometimes dubious Trip Advisor. In fact, there is a jungle out there of contradictory opinions that you have to sift and filter a lot to make your final decisions. Many of these helpful sites have their own biased interests, like selling accommodation, earning commission from restaurants, favoring the big business in the city and ruining the good guys, you name it. Well, sometimes money counts. Many of us sell stuff online with more or less success. It is just that the big shots are very unfair in their game.

And so, let's keep going with our hypothesis of the, what if? What if you could take those volunteered opinions in one city guide that you can navigate offline like a map, that you can update with fresh opinions from locals and to which you can add your own favorite spots? What if not only you could cover Barcelona for example but also 70 other cities in one single website? Or what is best, what if all that, traveled with you in a single app? 

Spotted by locals, founded by two experienced nomadic travel experts, Sanne and Bart back in 2008, is a network of almost 500 hand picked local spotters from all over the world that meet each other regularly and enjoy the benefits of sharing their own findings among them and fortunately with us. And they not only offer this excellent service on their website but now also in an app available for android or ios.

And you would say, this guy is selling me stuff, just like the rest. You are right! I am selling you a bright idea, an all-in-one travel app recommended by the New York Times. What did I get for this? What if I tell you that I am a happy user of the Barcelona Spotted by Locals app? I wish I could pay 3.99 euros for every city I visit. It would save me a lot of trouble. So far I just got Barcelona. It comes handy on many occasions. Another good reason is that last year Barcelona Photoblog was selected among the best Barcelona blogs of 2017 by Spotted by Locals. They were kind enough as to try my site and found it useful. I have tried their app and I loved it. And so why would I keep it just for myself if everything Barcelona, everything good in my lovely city is the reason for this blog to exist. I hope you enjoy their great work as much as I do.

We Are All Barcelona, We Are All Las Ramblas

August 17th 2017 has been a sad date for Barcelona because of the savage terrorist attack occurred in the most visited street of our beautiful city. We do not want to remember Las Ramblas as an empty place but as the happy, busy, and free walk it has ever been and will be. No one is going to come here and try to threaten us with cowardly acts. I do not want to show mourning, that is what they want. Let us all remember this day and the ones that are not here today. Let them all be in our hearts forever. We are all Barcelona.

Mercat of Sant Antoni: Restored Market to Open in 2018

After 8 years of work, the remodeled Mercat de Sant Antoni is expected to be open to the public during the first months of 2018. With an important investment made by its own market stand owners and the local government, around 60 million EUR all in all, another jewel in the history of Barcelona, will be recovered in all its splendor. Do not expect it to be just like La Boqueria or at least that is the intention of the project that seems very concerned with the avalanche of tourists in Las Ramblas.

The addition of more space, including two new squares plus the inclusion of a small museum (an archeological excavation site has unveiled part of the old city walls and Via Augusta) promise to make this 135 old market something more important than just a collection of stands. There will be 4 underground floors, two for parking lots, 1 for storage and 1 for commercial areas.

The origin of the Mercat de Sant Antoni is a remnant of the 13th century Mercat dels Encants, a marginal market outside the walls that was moved to Carrer del Consolat in 1850. In 1882, Rovira i Trias finished building the iron market, and there were almost no houses in its surroundings, the working class neighborhood of El Raval.

Update 02/02/2018: According to several sources the restored Mercat de Sant Antoni will be opened by the end of April or beginnings of May. Local retailers have accepted the proposal of using awnings for the Sunday market and the book market. Such awnings will be located in the areas which were previously the market yards, now regained for public use. Lighter retractable metal canopies in a highly resistant metal structure will be used.

10 Fun Things to Do in Barcelona

Barcelona is among the most popular choices in the world, when it comes to holiday destinations. This is because there are so many great things to do there – like these ten.

1. Taking a stroll

Barcelona offers great weather for wandering and attractions unique to the city. Montjuic Castle, Parc de Joan Miro and Parc de la Ciutadella are among the stunning parks and buildings that you can enjoy at any time of the year.

2. Take in a concert

While Barcelona is home to many concert venues, perhaps the best is Gran Teatre del Liceu. From the luxurious red carpeting and gold leaf, to performances of Beethoven, Wagner and the annual Christmas concert, this is a pleasure to visit.

3. Take the Picasso tour

Picasso spent his youth in Barcelona and you can grab the chance to visit haunts like the site of his former home on C/Merce, hit Els 4 Gats, where he spent time with the likes of Salvador Dali and finish at the Museu Picasso.

4. Attend a Barcelona match

Barcelona is a city passionate about football and for anyone with an interest in sport, a visit to Camp Nou will be essential. Obviously this is best outside of summer, so you can take in a La Liga fixture.

5. Tibidabo

This enormous mountain overlooks the city and yet many visitors neglect it. During the summer months it will provide superb views of the entire city.

6. Las Ramblas

This area of the city is very tourist-heavy, but still well worth a visit – especially off-season. Then you will best be able to enjoy the shops, street performances and colour of this vibrant locale.

7. Steel Donkey Ride

This means a bicycle, but the rides take in less touristy spots – such as El Borne’s back streets, the Gracia village district and the Poblenou ruins. This is perfect for anyone who wants a more individual experience of Barcelona.

8. Skateboarding

Perhaps surprisingly, Barcelona is a European skateboarding centre, and a visit to the Plaza del Angels will be the ideal activity for any teenagers you have with you.

9. Visit the Casino Barcelona

The city has several casinos, but the Casino Barcelona is the best. Poker is the popular game here, with the numerous tournaments having built the reputation of this casino. If you don’t fancy the hassle of going to actual casino try some online mobilepokies with sites such as mobilecasinoaustralia in the comfort of your own room. However you will also find slots and other table games in the actual casino.

10. Try the cuisine

One of the best restaurants for sampling local Basque cuisine like Pinxtos is Euskal Etxea, making this a great stop for those who want the authentic culinary experience.

There is so much to sample in Barcelona, if you research and explore a little.