Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. However, precisely because of this reason, most of its attractions are super well known, and it can be tricky to find unusual places to visit here. But, we’ve done all the digging for you. So, if you’re looking for offbeat places to visit in Barcelona, look no further.
So, if you’ve already seen Las Ramblas, and you’ve been to all the churches, and eaten all the tapas, here are 11 unusual attractions to put in your itinerary. Step away from the guidebooks and into the hidden corners of this Catalan city.
Check Out These 11 Unusual Places To Visit In Barcelona
1. Relax At The Plaça del Duc de Medinaceli
Barcelona is dotted with picturesque squares, but many of them are essentially tourist traps where many overpriced cafes and McDonald’s compete for your attention. But one square that remains a quiet refuge is the Plaça del Duc de Medinaceli (located near the Plaça Trial), which is the perfect spot to sit with a friend or a good book.
2. Visit The Booksellers On Urgell Street
If you’re in Barcelona during the weekend, you’ll notice that Sundays are pretty quiet. However, one little corner of activity can be found at a unique place in Barcelona – Urgell Street. Early in the morning, traders set up the local flea market (Encants Vells Market) where you can find everything from the latest comic book to rare first editions. It’s also an excellent place to buy vinyl records at bargain prices.
3. See Chocolate Sculptures At The Museu de la Xocolata
Once you’ve already seen the Picasso Museum or the Maritime Museum, why not head to the Museu de la Xocolata (literally the “Museum of Chocolate”)? This unusual attraction in Barcelona is dedicated entirely to chocolate. Here, you can see amazing sculptures made entirely out of the delicious treat, including models of the La Sagrada Familia and the house from the Pixar movie ‘Up’!
4. If You Want Panoramic Views, Head To The Bunker Del Carmel
To experience one of the best 360-degree panoramic views of the city, head to the Bunker Del Carmel. Located in the hills surrounding Barcelona, this former wartime bunker has been transformed into a wonderful local hangout away from the city’s crowds. Its breathtaking views stretch to the sea and over Mount Tibidabo. Try to visit at sunset, and remember to wear comfy shoes as you might have to climb a bit.
5. Check Out The Spooky Hospital Del Tórax
Those who want to get really far away from the tourist trail, and see some of Barcelona’s offbeat places, should take a trip to Terrassa. Here you can visit the spooky and (allegedly) haunted Hospital del Tórax. This abandoned hospital was once used for patients with respiratory problems. However, it was abandoned in 1997 and ever since visitors have claimed that ghosts lurk in its halls.
Also read: Visit 15 of the spookiest abandoned places in the world
6. Experience The Beautiful Architecture Of Casa Vicens
Barcelona is full of stunning architecture, and a lot of it was designed by Antoni Gaudí. However, one forgotten wonder lies to the north of the city centre in San Gervasi. The artistic and hauntingly beautiful Casa Vicens was planned in the 19th century and is full of innovative designs that make it well worth a visit.
7. Visit The Antic Teatre, The Perfect Place For A Night Out
The Antic Teatre is a secret bar in the El Born neighbourhood, located just a minute away from the famous Palau de la Música. This unusual place in Barcelona is an urban oasis boasting a large open-air terrace surrounded by the stunning buildings of Barcelona’s Old Town.
8. Stop At The Jardins del Teatre Grec Amphitheatre For A Picnic
Carved into the side of Montjuïc Hill, this amphitheatre was constructed in the 1920s for the Barcelona International Exposition. Each July, it hosts the Grec Festival, an international theatre, dance, music and circus festival. However, for the rest of the year, both the theatre and its surrounding gardens are open to the public. They’re the perfect place to escape from the city crowds and have a picnic.
9. Explore The Gardens Of The Laberint d’Horta
If you’ve ever wanted to lose yourself in a real-life maze, you can do so at the Horta Labyrinth, one of the most amazing places to visit in Barcelona. This 820-yard-long labyrinth is located just outside the city and was built by the Marquis Joan Antoni Desvalls of d’Ardena in the 18th century. Before you visit though, remember that only 750 visitors are allowed each day so be sure to check before you book.
Read more: Be A-maze-d at the maze garden of Barcelona
10. Go See The Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera
Located at the foot of Montjuïc Hill, this garden is famous for its hardy species of plants. Created in the 1970s, it is home to hundreds of species of cacti, succulents, and tropical plants. It’s located in the courtyard of a former factory that hosts the Palo Alto Market each month.
11. Swim At The Zona de Banys del Fòrum
Barcelona’s beaches are usually extremely crowded, so if you feel like you want to go for a swim, why not head to the Zona de Banys del Fòrum? It’s the city’s top open-water swimming pool, which combines the benefits of the open sea and the safety of swimming in a pool.
So, Which Of These Unusual Attractions Will You Visit In Barcelona?
Whether you’ve already been to the La Sagrada Familia and the Picasso Museum and you’re looking for something different, or you just want to avoid the large crowds at the city’s popular attractions, don’t pass up these perfect opportunities y to visit some offbeat places in Barcelona. These alternative ideas are sure to show you the capital of Catalonia in a completely new light.
