15 Free Things to Do in Barcelona That Will Make Your Trip Unforgettable!

As the most visited city in Spain, Barcelona is one of the top places to visit in Europe. So it’s no wonder we are seeing more visitors each year.

From exploring the stunning architecture of Antoni Gaudí to taking a stroll through the city’s vibrant streets, there are plenty of amazing free things to do in Barcelona. In this blog post, we will explore 15 of the top free things to do in Barcelona that everyone should experience on their next visit. Read on to discover the best free activities in Barcelona and start planning your next trip!

Go to Parc Guell

This excellent and unique park is one of Gaudi’s most famous works. It has a beautiful view of Barcelona, and it’s located near other great attractions such as Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, and La Pedrera.

Ensure you reserve an hour to explore it correctly, as there is much to see. Tickets cost 3€ so you won’t find anything more affordable than that! If you want to save even more money, try visiting on Sunday when free admission.

Enjoy an outdoor film at night

Every Sunday and Wednesday, Cineteca de ViesLlars opens its doors for an open-air cinema. You can enjoy a wide range of films under the stars. The event begins at sunset and lasts until midnight. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot some shooting stars. 

This is one activity where it pays to come early – only around 100 seats are available, and it is first come, first served! Plenty of cafes nearby allow you to grab something tasty to eat before settling down on a blanket or towel with your friends.

If you prefer indoors, try out La Cinemateca Catalana. It has two screens which show classic movies every day (except Mondays). Tickets cost €4 per person, but there are discounts for students and children.

See some street art around town

You can find street art on many walls of buildings throughout Barcelona. You can visit open-air exhibitions such as La Panera (The Bread Box), a renowned contemporary art gallery. It’s an excellent place for street art fans. Alternatively, head to Fundació Joan Miró and check out some modern works of art by artists like Dalí, Picasso, or Miró himself. 

Adults have an entrance fee of about $15, but children under 14 can enter for free. If you want something different, why not visit one of our museums? The Museu d’Història de Catalunya and Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya both have free entry all year round. You might also want to take a stroll through our parks. 

Sitges has several beautiful ones, including Parc del Pinar and Jardins del Marques de Tamarit, designed by Gaudí. Another option is to visit one of our beaches—plenty along Barceloneta and Sant Sebastià beaches where you can swim for free!

Check out La Boqueria Market

La Boqueria is one of my favorite places in Barcelona. It’s a massive food market near Placa de la Boqueria, by La Ramblas. Hundreds of stalls crammed into every nook and cranny make it easy to spend hours there simply wandering around.

La Boqueria is a must-see if you like fresh produce or are merely interested in all those exotic smells. And best of all? It’s completely free!

Enjoy The Mercat del Ninot is another excellent food market in Barcelona. Located at Carrer Nou de Sant Francesc just down from Barri Gòtic, I particularly love visiting here during Christmas when they have an incredible selection of traditional Catalan Christmas goodies and giant decorations everywhere.

The Mercat del Ninot isn’t quite as big as La Boqueria Market, but it offers some unique items, which makes a visit worthwhile – especially if you want to try something new! Worth checking out if you’re ever in town.

View Picasso’s works on display

The Picasso Museum is a great place to start on any sightseeing itinerary. There are several exciting paintings by one of Spain’s most famous artists, and a walk through his life’s work is nothing if not eye-opening. The museum also showcases works from other Spanish artists such as Dali, Miró, and Tàpies. 

It’s free, so there’s no excuse not to visit it! If you want to see more of Picasso’s work, you can find some at La Pedrera, Casa Batllo, and Casa Milà (known as La Pedrera). You’ll need to book tickets online well in advance; they tend to sell out fast! It’s free, so there’s no excuse not to visit it!

Stroll down La Rambla

Barcelona’s iconic La Rambla is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and it’s completely free. This famous street is a great place to explore and experience the vibrant culture of Barcelona.

As you walk down this bustling avenue, check out all the stalls and vendors that line the street selling unique souvenirs, snacks, and gifts. La Rambla is also a great place to take in some of Barcelona’s amazing street art and get a sense of the city’s nightlife.

With plenty of free things to do in Barcelona, strolling down La Rambla is a great way to explore the city without spending money!

Visit Catedral de Barcelona

One of the most popular attractions in Barcelona is the Catedral de Barcelona. It’s a great spot to enjoy some of the city’s incredible architecture and is one of Barcelona’s top free things to do.

The cathedral dates back to the 14th century and features Gothic and Baroque elements. As you enter the entrance, take in the intricate carvings, stunning stained glass windows, and beautiful paintings adorning its walls. You can explore all the nooks and crannies of the cathedral at your own pace, or you can join one of the guided tours that run regularly throughout the day.

Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the sheer scale of the building and its impressive architecture before heading outside for more sightseeing.

Explore Parc de la Ciutadella

Located on the northeastern side of Barcelona, Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the city’s most beloved parks. The spacious and lush gardens provide a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city. This is the perfect spot to spend a leisurely day exploring the sights and sounds of Barcelona without spending a dime.

The park features a beautiful lake, monuments, fountains, and a zoo. You can save money by exploring the grounds for free. While it can get busy, especially during the summer, there are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park is also home to several unique sculptures and works of art, making it a great place for those interested in culture and history. There’s even an area dedicated to children with a playground and puppet theatre.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Barcelona, Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the best options. It offers something for everyone, from peaceful strolls to exciting activities. Whether traveling solo or with family, you can find something to do here that won’t cost you anything.

Spot the Magic Montjuic Fountain

One of Barcelona’s most magical and romantic attractions is the Magic Fountain of Montjuic. Located at the foot of Montjuic Hill, the fountain is an incredible spectacle of light, music, and water.

Every night at dusk, the fountain comes alive with over 50 powerful jets of water that soar up to 140 feet in the air, illuminated by hundreds of colored lights. The show is completely free and offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening with your special someone or want to enjoy one of the best free things to do in Barcelona, the Magic Fountain of Montjuic is worth a visit.

Visit Santa Maria del Mar

Santa Maria del Mar is a beautiful attraction that should be noticed regarding free things to do in Barcelona. This magnificent gothic church was built between 1329 and 1383, making it one of the oldest churches in Barcelona.

Santa Maria del Mar stands tall and proud with its unique architecture, which features stunning stained glass windows and pointed arches. Visitors can explore the church and admire its beauty from the outside. Inside, you can also marvel at its incredibly detailed frescoes, artworks, and sculptures and its two soaring towers.

Lose your way in El Raval

El Raval is a vibrant neighborhood in Barcelona with surprises and free things to do! Take an afternoon to explore the winding, narrow streets and experience the unique culture and cuisine that make this area unique.

Enjoy the colorful graffiti artwork adorning the buildings, soak up the lively atmosphere in the bustling plazas, and discover hidden gems in the local shops and restaurants. With its proximity to the Ciutat Vella district, you’ll find plenty of interesting places to explore, from historic churches to cutting-edge galleries.

Remember to take a break at one of the charming cafes or enjoy a stroll along the banks of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking for a cultural adventure or want to relax, El Raval offers plenty of free things to do in Barcelona.

Visit a Museum on Sunday

A great free thing to do in Barcelona on Sunday is to visit a museum. Many of the city’s famous attractions and galleries, such as the National Art Museum of Catalonia, are open and free every Sunday.

Visitors can admire some of the country’s most celebrated art pieces, from paintings and sculptures to photography and textiles. Check out the other cultural hotspots around Barcelona for more attractions offering free Sunday admissions, such as the world-renowned Picasso Museum and the stunning Joan Miró Foundation.

Get lost in the Barri Gòtic

Exploring Barcelona’s Barri Gòtic is one of the most amazing free things to do in Barcelona. This historic district has been around since Roman times, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s culture and history firsthand.

Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets and explore hidden plazas, ancient churches, and centuries-old buildings. Relax in some squares and enjoy the lively atmosphere, with street musicians and artists scattered throughout.

Plenty of cafes and restaurants make this an ideal spot to sit and relax while watching the locals go by. This is one of the most exciting free things to do in Barcelona!

Bask on a city beach

When in Barcelona, it is impossible to ignore the wonderful beaches around the city. Plenty of city beaches offer free access, giving you the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the sun and the sea. While some beaches may require a fee to use their services, many are free.

Visiting a beach in Barcelona is one of the best free things to do in Barcelona. You can lay down a towel and bask in the sun or dip in the water. With plenty of beach bars and restaurants around, you can always get a refreshing drink or snack.

Ensure you bring everything you need to feel comfortable on the beach – sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a good book or magazine.

Watch the Sunset from Sagrat Cor

Watching the sunset from Sagrat Cor is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful free experiences. Located atop Mount Tibidabo, Sagrat Cor is an iconic church with incredible city views and beyond.

As the sun sets, you’ll be able to witness an unforgettable view of the Mediterranean Sea while also taking in the gorgeous night skyline of Barcelona. To save money, take public transportation up the mountain, and enjoy a relaxing evening at this historic site.

You can also take advantage of free walking tours that will help you explore other famous landmarks near Sagrat Cor, such as the Torre de Collserola, which offers amazing panoramic views of Barcelona. Another great way to save money is to grab a bite from one of the many small local restaurants nearby. With delicious food at affordable prices, you’ll find something for everyone.