Fresh air, blue skies, fabulous beaches and natural parks: In Barcelona, it’s easy to go wild even in the heart of the city.
An urban oasis with perfect weather in easy reach of the beach and the mountains – it’s no wonder that many of the best places to visit in Barcelona are outdoors. This city offers lots of walking, biking and water-based activities, plus tranquil treks to postcard-perfect public parks.
Parks-a-plenty
You’ll be surprised just how many green spaces there are throughout the city. Public parks in Barcelona range from large open spaces with 100-year old fountains and foliage to quaint, tree-lined neighbourhood strips perfect for sunbathing, dog walking or family outings. Two mammoth natural parks dominate the spectacular hillside landscape. The first, near the mighty Tibidabo Mountains and adjoining amusement park is Collserola Park, a woodland wonderland boasting ancient evergreens and pines as well as over 150 wildlife species including wild boars and exotic birds. The second is the majestic Parc de Montjuïc, featuring the serenading Magic Fountain concerts, ornate sculptures and the Botanical Gardens.
Perfect for kids and picnics
Outdoor Barcelona attractions great for kids include the Gaudi-centric Park Güell, with its whimsical mosaic monuments, the quirky hedge-maze at Parc del Laberint, and Parc de la Ciutadella with its classic fountains and proximity to the Barcelona Zoo, all perfect for exploring with the family or taking a picnic. If you fancy something more modern in style, contemporary art and clever city planning makes parks like Parc del Clot, Parc del Centre de Poblenou and Parc Central de Nou Barris among the best places for taking walks in Barcelona.
Exploring by land and Sea
Montjuïc Castle attracts visitors of all ages with its ancient walls and weaponry and movie screenings under the stars every summer between July and August, which fill its gardens to capacity. Poble Espanyol, a miniature version of the most iconic monuments and streets in Spain, boasts a unique way to take in a scenic city stroll. Even sports teams get into the act: FC Barcelona’s Nou Camp offers fans an unforgettable off-season visit to their playing field.
Thanks to Barcelona’s mild Mediterranean climate, two major seaports and its long beachside boardwalk, locals routinely alternate between sunbathing and adventures on the sea. Choose between group sailing around the Port Vell harbour, glass-floored ferry tours to nearby sea towns like Sitges or Tossa del Mar, or you can even charter vessels of varying sizes for fishing getaways or private events.
Let’s get physical
With so many places to visit Barcelona offers lots of choices for getting to know the city while burning calories or practicing new sports. Fat Tire Bike Tours will keep you active with cycling tours to iconic monuments like the Sagrada Familia or the lesser-known La Monumental, a former bullring turned museum. Visit the beachside boardwalk between Barceloneta and Port Olimpic and take your pick between Segway touring, horseback riding, in-line skating or impromptu yoga classes right on the beach. Water sports enthusiasts can choose between kayaking and paddle-surfing sessions.
From Park Güell to FC Barcelona, some of the greatest Barcelona attractions are hidden in plain sight. Get out there and start exploring!