Off the beaten track in Barcelona

Las Ramblas, La Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, La Boqueria. These places top most lists of “top things to do” in Barcelona. And, without a doubt, they are worth doing. But every tourist under the sun will also be heading to these places, with the resulting crowds and costs that come with the territory. So below are a few places off the beaten track that you should explore. 

Head to the Gracia neighbourhood

The Plaça Catalunya is the Trafalgar Square of Barcelona, replete with statues, fountains and many, many pigeons. While you may find yourself passing through at some point during your trip – because its secondary function is as a transportation hub – dedicating much time to the square itself isn’t particularly worthwhile.

For a more authentic Barcelona square experience, venture to the Gràcia neighbourhood. This area is replete with plazas that locals frequent. Whether enjoying tapas and a drink at Plaça de la Virreina or joining the bohemian crowd strumming guitars in Plaça del Sol, Gràcia provides a vibrant and local atmosphere. Alternatively, consider Plaça Reial, located just steps away from the Ramblas. This square serves as a bustling hub for various city street activities throughout the day and night.

Visit the less-familiar Sant Pau

Let’s be honest, you will probably go to the Sagrada Familia. Not visiting this amazing – and still unfinished – masterpiece envisioned by Antoni Gaudí is the equivalent of avoiding Buckingham Palace on your first trip to London.

But lovers of architecture do not have to look far to find other masterpieces of architectural design. Just down the street is the Hospital de Sant Pau. This sprawling complex offers a fantastic example of Catalonian modernism and art nouveau architecture. Built between 1901 and 1930, the complex consists of 12 pavilions connected by underground galleries and was still a hospital until 2009.  It is now a museum and headquarters for social organisations. It offers a fantastic experience while being less crowded and more budget-friendly, making it a double win for any visitor.

Take a trip to Girona or be reBorn. 

The Gothic quarter may be the ancient heart of Barcelona and any visitor would be remiss to not spend many hours exploring its narrow alleyways, hidden bars and multitude of shops. But its also super busy. And with popularity comes… tourist traps. There is of course endless authenticity in the Gothic quarter and plenty of things to do. But you may find yourself coughing up a small fortune in the process. 

Girona on the other hand is not too far away, approximately 90 minutes on the regular train, or just under 40 minutes on the high speed AVE train.

This small city offers a charming mediaeval experience without the same level of tourist activity found in the Gothic Quarter, so much so that several scenes in Game of Thrones were filmed within its ancient city walls. If visiting in the Spring be sure to catch the marvellous Temps de Flors flower festival too!

If you are pressed for time however, or simply wish to remain in Barcelona, head to the Born district. Described as the city’s cultural hub, its mediaeval streets are home to hundreds of trendy bars, shops and restaurants.