Barcelona will always be an attractive destination in Spain, but it definitely can run your tourist dollars up if you’re not careful. We share affordable places to eat, stay and tour the city to stay within your budget constraints and still have a good time.

How to save on visiting Barcelona, explore many parts of the city and do all these free activities and attractions

Barcelona is definitely feeling the overtourism effects with popular tourists spots like Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas and any Gaudi structures overrun with tourists.

The best way to avoid these peaks is to travel in the off season to visiting the city.

The off-season for visiting Barcelona typically falls between late November and early March, excluding the Christmas and New Year holidays when tourism briefly picks up again. During this period, the city sees fewer visitors, cooler temperatures (averaging 10–15°C or 50–60°F), and lower hotel rates, making it an ideal time for travelers who prefer a quieter and more local experience.

Visiting Barcelona in the off-season has its advantages — you can explore major sites like the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter without the long lines or crowds that define the summer months. Museums and galleries are easier to enjoy at a slower pace, and restaurants often have more availability, letting you linger over tapas or a glass of cava without feeling rushed.

For travel logistics, flights and accommodations are generally more affordable, especially if you book directly with local hotels or apartment rentals. Some outdoor attractions may have shorter hours, but most remain open year-round. Dressing in layers is smart since mornings and evenings can be chilly, but sunny afternoons are pleasant for walking around.

If you want to experience the local vibe, winter is also when you’ll find fewer tourists and more neighborhood events — think traditional markets, winter festivals, and cozy cafés where locals escape the cool weather.

Check out these unique things to do in Barcelona below.

1. Explore the Barri Gòtic

You can easily explore the Barri Gotic or the Gothic Quarter on your own with historical buildings, Roman Ruins and other medieval structures. Or you can just get lost exploring all the narrow and cool cobblestone alleys that open up into public squares and other cools spots.

To understanding the district better, I would think about doing any of the free walking tours of the area to really get in depth knowledge of all the historical monuments, architecture and unusual attractions that can easily be missed.

You can check out all the free walking tours of the Barri Gotic area below for more inspiration. Of course, the tours are based on what you think it is worth and tips are basically what the guides do for their own livelihoods so tip well or according to the service done.

• Check online booking platforms: Search on sites like Guruwalk, FreeTour.com, and Civitatis.

If you want to just explore on your own, visit the popular various sites, squares and points of interest below:

Placa Reial

El Pont del bisbe

Placa de Sant Jaume

Avinguda del Portal de l’Angel

2. Admire the Barcelona Cathedral

The stunning landmark that is a must visit in the Barri Gotic is the Barcelona Cathedral. Created in Gothic style, the cathedral  is the attraction cornerstone in the Bari district and a must see. Although the entrance to the cathedral costs approx. 16 Euro to visit, entrance is possible certain times of the day for worship and services.

Tip visiting for free – This is typically allowed in the morning hours until noon and after 5 or 6pm in the afternoon. You can also view and walk around the facade and entire exterior areas of the church.

5. Wonder around the Sagrada Familia

You can actually get a flavor of visiting Sagrada Familia by walking around this sacred Basilia and marvel at all the stunning details outside. The details inside and above are definitely worth the splurge to visit the stunning interiors of the basilica and museum to explore Barcelona’s historic symbol of the city.

Considered Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece and taking almost a century and half and scheduled to be completed in 2026. With three impressive facades, each side showcases a different style from the Glory facade (to be completed), the Nativity facade and the Passion facade. You’ll be able to admire each of these different styles by just walking around the exterior areas and accessible walking areas around the basilica and admire the stunning architecture, facades and gigantic spires.

Although you can book a tour to see the insides of the site but it is easy enough to walk around the perimeter and enjoy all the exterior details of all the facades, towers and beautiful craftsmanship in the entries and other parts of the basilica.

You can enjoy the Sagrada Família without paying an entrance fee—here’s how to make the most of it while keeping your wallet closed.

1. Admire the Exterior (Totally Free, Anytime)

The outside of the basilica is a masterpiece on its own.

• Walk around all three façades to see how different they are:
  • Nativity Façade (ornate, joyful, nature-inspired)
  • Passion Façade (dramatic, minimalist, angular)
  • Glory Façade (still under construction, future main entrance)
• Go slow—Gaudí designed the exterior to tell stories in stone.

Best time: Early morning or golden hour before sunset for light, shadows, and fewer crowds.

2. Attend Sunday Mass (Free, but With Planning)

• International Mass is held every Sunday morning.
• Free to attend, but you must reserve a ticket online in advance.
• Tickets are released weekly and go fast.
• No sightseeing during Mass—this is a religious service, not a tour.

Tip: Dress respectfully and arrive early; seating is limited.

3. Visit the Park Across the Street

• Plaça de Gaudí offers one of the best free views.
• The small pond often reflects the basilica—great for photos.
• Sit, relax, and take in the scale without rushing.

4. Explore the Neighborhood (Also Free)

• Walk through Eixample to appreciate the grid layout and modernist buildings.
• Peek into nearby bakeries or cafés just to soak in local life.
• Look up—many surrounding buildings have subtle Modernisme details.

5. Learn Before You Go

• Read about Gaudí’s symbolism or watch a short documentary beforehand.
• Understanding the meaning behind the façades makes the exterior visit far more powerful.
• You’ll notice details most people walk right past.

6. Night View Magic

• The basilica is beautifully lit after dark.
• Fewer tour groups, calmer atmosphere, and dramatic lighting make it feel almost spiritual.
• Great option if you’ve already had a busy sightseeing day.

While the interior ticket is worth it if you can swing it, the Sagrada Família offers a rich, meaningful experience for free through its exterior art, surroundings, and spiritual presence. Take your time—Gaudí would’ve wanted it that way.

6. Check out the Colorful Mercat de la Boqueria

Located just of La Rambla, the Mercat de la Boqueria is the must visit public market and landmark to visit. Filled with stunning and well decorated food stalls, fruits and vegetable stands, amazing meat and fish purveyors and specialty food producers from the region. It really is a colorful, aroma filled and visual sensation to experience. There are small cafes to experience the fresh and local ingredients from the marketplace and enjoy the local seafoods, Jamon Serrano, olive oils and delicious looking fruit stands in the area.

Check out my post to visiting the Mercat de la Boqueria here for more inspiration

7. Explore the Port Vell Area

Towards the end of La Rambla is the expansive Port Vell area filled with shopping venues, cafes and stores, an impressive harbor area and the Columbus monument that is prominent in the circle entrance to the port area.

Central to the Port Vell is the Mare magnum shopping center and the delicious TIme Out food venues (an upscale food court with fantastic views of the port area and delicious food venues of local and farm to table stalls to choose from)

Here are some free things you can do around the Port Vell area in Barcelona, great for walking, sightseeing, relaxing by the water, and soaking up local culture — all without spending money (or with free access to the public spaces):

Waterfront & Scenic Strolls

• Rambla De Mar – Walk the wooden bridge promenade from La Rambla out toward the marina. It’s a pleasant pedestrian route with sea views and photo spots.

• Barcelona Port Vell – Explore the marina area on foot. You can stroll around the berths, admire sailboats and yachts, and watch the harbor activity. This entire port space is public and free to enjoy.

• Barceloneta Beach – A short walk from Port Vell, the beach and sea promenade are completely free. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, people-watching, or picnicking by the Mediterranean.

Walking & People-Watching

• La Rambla – Just up from Port Vell, this famous pedestrian street is free to explore. Enjoy street performers, local life, flower stalls, and the buzz of Barcelona’s iconic boulevard.

• Public art & harbor sculptures – The port area has many statues and artworks set in open space, making a pleasant free outdoor art walk.

Markets & Events

• Weekend markets – Near Portal de la Pau and around the port, you’ll often find antique, craft, or seasonal markets that are free to browse (only purchases cost money).

• Seasonal festivals – Depending on the time of year, Port Vell hosts public events and celebrations (like festive fairs or themed activities) that are free to attend.

Free Cultural Stops

• Terrace at Centre d’Art Santa Mònica – Free contemporary art exhibitions and a public terrace to sit and enjoy views near the waterfront (entrance to exhibitions is usually free).

🚶‍♂️ Nearby Free Explorations

• Gothic Quarter & El Born – A short walk inland from Port Vell, these historic neighborhoods are full of narrow streets, plazas, fountains, and atmosphere — all free to wander.

• Historic fountains & sights – Find small historic gems (like Font del Gat) in nearby streets and squares without admission fees

Things to Know

Open public spaces — Much of Port Vell’s waterfront and promenades are open and free for everyone to enjoy.
Paid attractions nearby — Places like the aquarium or cable car have fees (e.g., L’Aquàrium de Barcelona), but you can still enjoy views around them without going inside.
Festivals & markets — Often free to enter; check local event listings for dates and details.

9. Check Out the City Views from Montjuïc Hill and Castle

Montjuïc Hill offers some sweeping views of Barcelona and is one of my favorite places for sunset. Unfortunately, the castle at the top no longer has free entry daily, but if you happen to be around on a Sunday, you can take advantage of the free entry all afternoon.

Visit the castle when it is free

Montjuïc Castle is free to visit every Sunday after 3 pm and every first Sunday of the month all day. The 17th-century fortress also houses a military museum, although most people head here for the sea views. There are other free holidays when the castle is open, you can check out the Barcelona website here for more details.

I like going to Montjuïc Castle in the late afternoon and staying for sunset.  If you can’t take advantage of the Sunday free entry, you can still walk around the castle and enjoy beautiful views.

10. Enjoy the Serene Atmosphere of the gardens of Montjuic

Montjuic is not only known for the many amazing museums, views and historic places to visit, but the many gardens here are gorgeous and free to visit. Some with stunning views to the city below, here are the main gardens to visit at Montjuic:

Here’s a guide to the free public gardens you can visit on Montjuïc hill in Barcelona — perfect for nature lovers, picnics, views, and peaceful strolls without paying entry. Montjuïc doesn’t just have one garden — it’s a patchwork of beautiful green spaces connected by paths, steps, and viewpoints.

1. Jardins de Joan Brossa

A leafy, slightly wild garden that used to be the city’s amusement park. It’s now full of Mediterranean vegetation, shaded paths, open lawns, and even play areas for kids. Great for a relaxed wander or a picnic.

Why visit: Free, family-friendly, lots of nooks & crannies to explore.

2. Jardins de Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer

Named after a famous Catalan poet, these gardens are quieter, lush, and ideal for a gentle stroll or sitting under the shade. There are winding paths, small grassy areas and it connects nicely with several other Montjuïc gardens.

Why visit: Free, peaceful, and tucked into a slope with views across Barcelona.

3. Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera

One of Montjuïc’s most unique free gardens — it’s a large cactus and succulent garden perched on the sunny, south-facing slopes overlooking the sea. You’ll find hundreds of desert plants from around the world here.

Why visit: Free, dramatic desert landscapes, great sea views.

4. Jardins de Laribal

A beautiful classic garden with cascading water features, tiled benches, shady trees, and quiet corners named after historic groups who used the space centuries ago. It’s one of Montjuïc’s most romantic gardens.

Why visit: Free, great for photos and tranquil walks.

5. Jardins del Mirador

These terraced gardens near MNAC (National Art Museum of Catalonia) are perfect for views. You can sit among shrubs and flowers and enjoy panoramic scenes of Barcelona and the harbor below.

Why visit: Free, stunning lookout points + gardens.

6. Parc de Montjuïc (General Green Space)

Not a single garden, but the whole hill is filled with tree-lined routes, shaded promenades, and small planted areas that you can enjoy for free. Wander anywhere from the Mirador de l’Alcalde viewpoint down to the paths around Olympic Stadium and beyond.

Why visit: Free, natural oak groves, easy trails, wildlife, and hidden spots.

7. Jardins de Joan Maragall (Weekends & Holidays)

These elegant, French-style gardens surround Palauet Albéniz (the royal residence). Free entry on weekends and public holidays — paths, fountains, statues, and wide lawns make it a lovely stop if your visit coincides with open hours. (Ir Barcelona)

Why visit: Free (on weekends/holidays), beautiful landscaped design.

Tips for Visiting

• Best light: Early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people.
• Picnic spots: Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer and parts of Joan Brossa or Laribal are ideal.
• Views: Jardins del Mirador and Costa i Llobera offer some of the best panoramic views.
• Connect your walk: Start near Plaça Espanya and walk up — you’ll pass multiple gardens and viewpoints as you ascend toward Montjuïc Castle.

Opening Hours & Practical Notes

• Most gardens are open daily from sunrise until around sunset; exact times depend on season.Jardins de Joan Maragall has limited public hours (usually weekends/holidays).
• Some smaller paths and viewpoints (like in general Montjuïc Park) are accessible 24/7 — perfect for late-day walks.

11. Stroll Along Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia is one of the most important streets in Barcelona to explore and enjoy. With wide tree-lined streets and beautiful stores and galleries to window shop, the area is attractive and filled with beautiful buildings.

Passeig de Gracia starts at the main square at Plaça de Catalunya, a square that is a popular gathering spot for locals, tourists and hordes of pigeons that gather to feed on whatever people feed them. From the square, it’s an easy stroll around Passeig de Gracia. You’ll find a variety of shops, popular shopping brands along with iconic Modernista style architecture and some of Antoni Gaudi’s iconic buildings to marvel from the outside

Here are free things you can enjoy around the Gràcia neighborhood in Barcelona — from local squares and parks to people-watching, culture, and authentic Catalan experiences. Gràcia is one of Barcelona’s most charming districts precisely because you don’t need to spend money to soak up its vibe.

Parks, Views & Outdoor Spots

Plaça de Lesseps

Plaça de Lesseps – Address: Pl. de Lesseps, 14, Gràcia, 08023 Barcelona, Spain

A lively local hub where you can sit, watch daily life, or start a stroll through Gràcia’s quieter streets.

Plaza del Sol

Plaza del Sol Address: Gràcia, 08012 Barcelona, Spain

One of Gràcia’s most famous plazas — great for people-watching, street music, or a picnic on the grass.

Plaça de la Virreina

Plaça de la Virreina is a relaxed square with benches and shade — perfect for reading, sketching, or just pausing between wanderings.

Jardins de Menéndez i Pelayo

Jardins de Menéndez i Pelayo Address: Carrer de Mossèn Batlle, 1, Gràcia, 08024 Barcelona, Spain

A small local park, lovely for a quiet sit or stroll and to enjoy neighborhood greenery.

Mirador de Consol Casals i Genover

Mirador de Consol Casals i Genover Address: Av. del Coll del Portell, 78, Gràcia, 08024 Barcelona, Spain

A scenic viewpoint offering a relaxing panorama over parts of the city — especially pleasant at sunset.

Wander the Neighborhood Streets

Gràcia feels like a small town within Barcelona, full of narrow pedestrian streets, balconies, artisans, and bakeries. Aimless exploration is one of the best free ways to experience it.

Discover Small Squares (“Plaças”)

There are many tiny plazas hidden behind corners, each with its own vibe — from quiet morning coffee spots to evening social hubs filled with locals.

People-Watch Like a Local

Grab a drink from a shop and sit on a bench in any of the plazas. Locals often socialize here over vermut (vermouth) or coffee — a real slice of Barcelona life.

Culture & Events (Often Free)

Festa Major de Gràcia (August)

Every August, Gràcia’s streets are transformed with elaborate themed decorations and free events, music, performances, and communal celebrations open to everyone.

Community Cultural Events

Throughout the year, you can also catch free concerts, artisan fairs, and neighborhood gatherings in different plazas.

Architectural Sightseeing (Free From Outside)

While many paid attractions exist, Gràcia is surrounded by interesting architecture you can admire without entering:

• Casa Vicens Gaudí — Gaudí’s first major project: the exterior is beautiful to see from the street.
• The neighborhood itself has many Modernista façades and historic buildings worth viewing as you wander.

Chill & Local Pastimes

• Relax with a book in a plaza (one of the most authentic Gràcia experiences).
• Catch street performers or musicians — especially in the evening around Plaça del Sol or Plaça de la Virreina.
• Sit with locals over an inexpensive drink and just watch the pace of life unfold.

Visit the free parts of Park Guell

If you’re up for a bit more walking, you can also combine your visit with a stroll to nearby free urban green spaces or viewpoints (like parts of Park Güell outside the ticketed Monumental Zone or Turó de les Tres Creus for skyline views) — both great ways to enjoy nature and scenery for free.

Enjoy the local vibe

The spirit of Gràcia is in its everyday authenticity — slow strolls, plazas full of conversations, and spontaneous discoveries. Many of the best experiences are absolutely free and gives you a sense of space to really enjoy the area.

12. Enjoy the Mercat de Sant Antoni

A more low-key version of La Boqueria market, the Mercat de Sant Antoni is the real market alternative to shopping for local foods, produce and shopping for produce, products and gifts in a more local environment.

Mostly a local crowd, you’ll see that most locals shop at Mercat de Sant Antoni and still enjoy what is fresh and delicious in the market without the tourist crowds and well-groomed food stalls. You’ll still get to experience real foods and local produce of what’s in season with fruits, vegetables, snacks and local foods to enjoy in a beautiful and large market.

Mercat de Sant Antoni is located close to the El Raval neighborhood and you can take a metro to the Sant Antoni stop or have an easy walk from the main Placa de Catalunya in Barcelona. On Saturday’s, you’ll find an outdoor market that features an outdoor book market.

Check out more information to visiting Mercat de Sant Antoni here for more information.

13. Get Lost Around the Streets of El Born

The beautiful Via Laietana separates Barri Gòtic from El Born, another iconic neighborhood in the Ciutat Vella, Barcelona’s Old Town. Unlike Barri Gòtic, El Born is more laid-back, with fewer tourists despite being home to top attractions like the Picasso Museum.

El Born is a great place to base yourself if you want to stay close to the main tourist spots and enjoy a more local vibe. With plenty of cozy cafes, hip restaurants, and tapas bars, El Born is great for dining and nightlife.

The neighborhood is also great for a cultural experience. Aside from the most famous Picasso Museum, here you can find the European Museum of Modern Art, the Moco Museum, and the El Born Center for Culture and Memory. Don’t forget to also check out Santa Maria del Mar Basilica, Mercat de Santa Caterina, and Palau de la Música Catalana.

14. Visit the Picasso Museum for free

The Picasso Museum in Barcelona is one of the must-see museums for art lovers of Picasso’s expansive works of art. Housed in five adjacent medieval buildings, the museum was the first dedicated to the Spanish artist and has an extensive collection of works, including some of Picasso’s most renowned paintings.

Entry to the Picasso Museum for free happens on every first Sunday of the month and open door days that happen in January, February, May and September on specific days. Also, mid-October to April you can also visit the museum every Thursday afternoon, Friday and Saturday evening. You can check the official website for more up-to-date information.

15. Visit the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

One of the most historic and stunning museums to visit in Barcelona is the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya located at Montjuic Hill. The MNAC is a stunning edifice with artwork that houses famouse collections of Catalunya artists and exploring the many beautiful galleries of the Museum.

Free entry to the Museum occurs every Saturday after 3pm and also on the first Sundays of the Month for the entire day.

It took me a long time to finally enter the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, and I can absolutely recommend it. Sitting on a hilltop overlooking Plaça Espanya, MNAC is one of the must-see museums in Barcelona.

16. Watch the Wonderful Show at La Font Màgica de Montjuïc

Due to extreme water shortages happening in Catalunya and Barcelona, the Magic Fountains show has been limited for special events or occasions and eventually rolling out to more normal show times.

Since reopening, the fountain has been offering its classic choreographed shows (music, water jets and lights). Typical times in recent months have been:

• October – December 2025: Thursday to Saturday evenings, usually around 9 pm – 10 pm (October) and 8 pm – 9 pm (November/December).

What to Expect in 2026

For 2026, the fountain is expected to continue running on a seasonal schedule, with shows mainly in the evening on select days (often Thu–Sat or similar), but exact dates/times are set each year by the city and can vary with weather or maintenance. Checking the official Barcelona tourism or city council site closer to your travel dates is recommended.

For update information on seeing the free Magic Fountain show, check out the schedule or updates on the  Barcelona city council website for more information.

17. Admire the Stunning Exterior of Gaudí’s buildings

Gaudí influenced Barcelona’s architecture made a big statement with many of the city’s iconic architecture and landmarks. You can visit and book an entry to see the inside and outside of each building but this is definitely an expensive experience and might be worth visiting just one of two main sites.

18. Visit the historic El Born Market, now a museum

If you’re interested in local history combined with historic Barcelona markets, visiting the El Born Market Museum is.a fascinating visit and also free to explore.

Visiting the historic El Born Market—now known as El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria (CCM)—is a fascinating journey into Barcelona’s past, right in the heart of the lively El Born neighborhood.

A Market Turned Time Capsule

Originally opened in 1876 as a wholesale food market, El Born Market is one of Europe’s earliest examples of iron-and-glass architecture, predating even Paris’s Les Halles. After decades of use, it closed in the 1970s and was later rediscovered during renovations—revealing something extraordinary beneath.

Archaeological Ruins Beneath Your Feet

Inside, you’ll find an extensive archaeological site showcasing the remains of streets, homes, and shops from medieval and early 18th-century Barcelona. These ruins date to the period before 1714, when the city fell during the War of the Spanish Succession—an event that profoundly shaped Catalan history.

Cultural & Historical Exhibits

The center hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore Catalan identity, memory, and social history. Informational panels, audiovisual displays, and guided tours help bring the stories of the former residents to life.

Light, Space, and Atmosphere

The soaring metal structure floods the interior with natural light, creating a striking contrast between modern architecture and ancient stone ruins. It’s calm, reflective, and surprisingly moving.

Why Visit

• Free entry to the main space
• Unique blend of architecture and archaeology
• Deep insight into Barcelona’s lesser-known history
• Central location in one of the city’s most atmospheric districts

Visiting El Born Market isn’t just sightseeing—it’s stepping into the layers of Barcelona’s soul, all under one remarkable roof.

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19. Discover the Vibrant El Raval

El Raval is one of the most historic neighborhoods in Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella or old district. Having a bad rap and dangerous neighborhood in the past, El Ravel is changing into more trendy venues, bars and hang out spaces. You can still see many historical monuments including the Monastery of Sant Pau del Cam, the Contemporary Art venues including the Centre de Cultura Contemporania de Barcelona and the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona.

You can wander around and visit many iconic spots including Placa dels Angels, Rambla del Raval and enjoy cool sculpture including the El Gat de Botero.

Visit the El Raval neighborhood here for more information.

20. Check out the Beautiful Architecture in the Eixample District

You’ll find the Modernista architecture to be predominant around this beautiful district filled with stunning architecture. The Modernista style is the most celebrated architecture also known as Catalan Art Nouveau and the beautiful line palm tree streets, swanky apartment buildings and wide avenues.

The Eixample district is a large area that encompasses the many neighborhoods to include Gracia and Sants and is located northeast of the Placa de Catalunya.

You can wander down large tree-lined avenues along the Passeig de Gracia and see architecturally striking buildings like Palau del baro de Quadras, palau macaya, Casa de les Punxes and Casa Comalat. you’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars to hang out in throughout the day into the evening.

21. Gorgeous views at the Bunkers del Carmel

One of the best views of Barcelona from above is at the Bunkers del Carmen which is one of the most popular spots to visit especially during sunset. The bunkers closes around 7:30 and you’ll find a large crowd enjoying the views.

Located closer to Park Guell, you can take the metro to Alfons X and do a hike up to the bunkers or you can take a local 22 or 24 bus to get you closer to the viewpoint.

Visiting one of the highest peaks surrounding Barcelona is worth the effort to get to Mount Tibidabo. Also known as an amusement park called Tibidabo, the views above the city are spectacular and if your into thrill rides, the amusement park is also fun to explore.

You can hike up to Mount Tibidabo or better yet take the funicular or the Cuca de Llum for a roundrip ride, but if you want to do this for free, you can hike up throug the Serra de Collserola. At the top is the Sacred Heart of Jesus temple which stands out as an iconic site.

The views are worth the effort to visiting Mount Tibidabo if you hike, take public transport or faster yet, take the funicular to the top and back.

Barcelona Travel Tips