Looking for something unique and out of the ordinary, and experiences that can only be had here?
Such hidden gems are collected here just for you! I'm sure you will find things you do while in Barcelona and plan your trip for the memories of a lifetime!
1. Morning activity- For early birds!
Can't imagine you would oversleep in the morning here in the country of sunshine. Let's get out of bed and start your adventure!
1-1. Sunrise on Montjuïc Hill
Watching the sunrise from Montjuïc Hill in Barcelona is a magical experience! Here’s what you can expect:
Stunning Panoramic Views
Montjuïc offers breathtaking views of Barcelona, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding landscape. As the sun rises, the city gradually lights up, creating a beautiful contrast between the warm golden hues of the sky and the cool blue of the sea.
A Peaceful Atmosphere
Unlike the busy tourist areas of Barcelona, Montjuïc in the early morning is calm and quiet, making it a great spot for relaxation, meditation, or photography without crowds.
Changing Colors Over Iconic Landmarks
As the sun rises, you’ll see famous landmarks like the Sagrada Família, Torre Glòries, and even the distant Tibidabo mountain bathed in warm morning light.
Unique Perspectives from Different Spots
Montjuïc Castle: Provides one of the best vantage points for a full panoramic sunrise.
Mirador de l’Alcalde: A scenic viewpoint with benches to sit and enjoy the sunrise.
Joan Miró Foundation Area: Offers a mix of city and nature views.
Morning Birdsong and Nature Sounds
Montjuïc is home to many birds and green spaces, adding a natural soundtrack to the experience.
Great for an Early Morning Walk or Workout
Locals often jog, cycle, or practice yoga on Montjuïc in the early morning, making it a refreshing way to start the day. Why not join them!
1-2. Breakfast like locals
If you want to enjoy breakfast like a local in Barcelona, here are some top recommendations:
Traditional Catalan Breakfast Options
- Pa amb tomàquet (Bread with tomato) – A must-try! Toasted bread rubbed with ripe tomato, drizzled with olive oil, and sometimes topped with cheese, ham, or anchovies.
- Ensaimada or Croissant – A sweet pastry, perfect with coffee. Try a "croissant de mantega" (butter croissant) for a true Catalan touch.
- Truita de patates (Potato omelet) – A hearty option if you want something filling.
Local Drinks for Breakfast
- Café amb llet (Coffee with milk) – The local version of a café latte.
- Cacaolat – A traditional cold chocolate milk drink, great for a sweet start.
- Zumo de naranja natural (Fresh orange juice) – Often freshly squeezed in cafés.
1-3. Visit La Rambla
Visiting La Rambla in the morning offers several advantages that make the experience much more enjoyable compared to later in the day. Here’s why:
Fewer Crowds
La Rambla is one of the most famous (and busiest) streets in Barcelona, often packed with tourists by midday. In the morning, you can walk comfortably without the overwhelming crowds, enjoying the atmosphere more peacefully.
A More Local Experience
Early in the morning, you’ll see locals starting their day—shopkeepers setting up, florists arranging their stalls, and cafés serving breakfast to regulars. This is a more authentic side of La Rambla compared to the later tourist rush.
Perfect Light for Photography
The soft morning light is ideal for capturing great photos of the street, its historic buildings, and famous sites like Plaça Reial, Gran Teatre del Liceu, and Palau Güell without harsh shadows or too many people.
Fresh Pastries & Coffee at Historic Cafés
Start your day like a local at one of the classic cafés:
- Café de l’Òpera – A historic café with great coffee and croissants.
- Escribà – A legendary pastry shop known for its chocolate croissants and cakes.
A More Relaxing Visit to La Boqueria Market
One of the best reasons to visit La Rambla in the morning is La Boqueria Market (opens at 8 AM). In the early hours, you can explore the market without the midday tourist crowds, enjoy fresh juices, and have a traditional "esmorzar de forquilla" (a hearty breakfast).
Safer and More Pleasant Strolling
While La Rambla is generally safe, it’s known for pickpockets. In the morning, when it’s less crowded, you can explore more comfortably without worrying as much about security.
1-4. Stroll to the Columbus Monument
Continue walking to the Mirador de Colom, the monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus at the end of La Rambla. From here, you’ll get great views of the port and the sea.
1-5. Hit the Beach
Hitting the beach in the morning in Barcelona is one of the best ways to enjoy the Mediterranean without the crowds and heat. Whether you want to relax, swim, jog, or just watch the sunrise, it’s exactly a perfect plan!
Advantages of Visiting the Beach in the Morning
- Fewer Crowds & More Relaxing
Barcelona’s beaches, especially Barceloneta, get very crowded by midday. In the morning, you can enjoy the beach with fewer people, making it perfect for a peaceful walk or a quiet swim. - Cooler Temperatures
The summer sun in Barcelona can be intense, but in the morning, the temperature is much more comfortable for sunbathing, swimming, or exercising. - Great for a Refreshing Swim
The Mediterranean Sea is calm in the morning, with gentle waves and clearer water. It’s the best time for a swim before the wind picks up later in the day. - Perfect for a Morning Walk or Jog
Many locals go for a walk, run, or bike ride along the beachfront promenade in the morning. The fresh sea breeze makes it an energizing start to the day. - Beautiful Sunrise Views
If you go early enough (around 6:30–7:30 AM in summer), you’ll catch a stunning sunrise over the Mediterranean. Best sunrise spots:- Barceloneta Beach (most iconic)
- Bogatell Beach (quieter, cleaner)
- W Hotel area (great reflections of the sunrise on the hotel’s glass facade)
- Enjoy a Beachfront Breakfast
After your morning swim or walk, grab breakfast at a seaside café:- Bacoa Beach (Barceloneta) – Great for healthy breakfasts with fresh juices.
- Brunch & Cake by the Sea – Trendy spot with delicious brunch options.
- Can Dendê (Poblenou) – Fantastic local brunch near Bogatell Beach.
Best Beaches for a Morning Visit
- Barceloneta Beach – Best for iconic sunrise views, but more touristy.
- Bogatell Beach – Quieter, cleaner, and great for a peaceful morning.
- Nova Icaria Beach – Calm waters, ideal for swimming.
- Ocata Beach (Montgat) – If you want to take a short train ride, this is a peaceful, wide beach with golden sand.
How to Get There Early?
- Metro: Take the L4 (Yellow Line) to Barceloneta or Ciutadella/Vila Olímpica.
- Bike: Rent a Bicing (locals' bike-sharing service) or an e-bike.
- Walk: If you're near La Rambla or the Gothic Quarter, it’s a 20-minute walk to Barceloneta Beach.
2. Afternoon activity- For those looking for a more exciting experience!
2-1. Turó de la Rovira and Bunkers del Carmel
The Turó de la Rovira heritage space was officially inaugurated in March 2011, following efforts to rehabilitate and recognize a once-degraded, isolated, and little-known site in the city. This location preserves the remains of an anti-aircraft battery that protected Barcelona from air raids during the Civil War, alongside the traces of the Canons shantytown, which endured until 1990 and was one of the informal settlements that, in the late 1950s, accommodated 7% of the city’s inhabitants.
You can enjoy the panoramic 360-degree views of the city. Have fun to walk uphill for about 20 minutes from the closest metro station, El Carmel!
2-3. RCD Espanyol de Barcelona
RCD Espanyol, a Spanish Premier League football team, plays its home matches at the Estadi Cornellà-El Prat, competing in the same league as its more affluent neighbors. Located just a few miles away, the club receives far fewer visitors than FC Barcelona, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an "off the beaten path" experience.
You can not help getting excited when you immerse yourself in the atmosphere at the stadium.
Checking out a game here is highly recommended. Let’s support the small team in Barcelona!
2-4. Camp Nou
Spotify Camp Nou has been FC Barcelona's home since it was officially opened on 24 September 1957.
Even if you are not interested in soccer, it’s worth visiting! Watching a soccer game is one of the things you cannot miss while in Europe. And this is one of the best places to see a European soccer game.
If you are in Barcelona in the offseason and soccer games are not held during your stay, I recommend joining a stadium tour. You can not only learn the history of the game, team, and the stadium, but also explore the tunnels, locker rooms, and even setting foot on the pitch, where players have walked countless times before.
2-5. Rent a Bike/ E-Bike or Scooter & Cruise Along the Beachfront
Ride along Barcelona’s beautiful coastline on an e-bike or electric scooter for a fun and fast way to explore the city!
It's really exciting to feel the sea breeze as you ride from Barceloneta Beach to Bogatell Beach. Moreover, it must be one of the best ideas to stop at beach bars for a cocktail or a fresh juice. I would also recommend visiting the Olympic Port and see the W Bosolina hotels famous glass structure.
Best time? 2–5 PM, when the beaches are lively.
2-6. Experience La Sagrada Família & Climb the Towers
If you haven't visited La Sagrada Família yet, the afternoon is a great time!
The sunlight shining through the stained-glass windows in the afternoon is unreal. Also, climbing the Nativity or Passion Towers for breathtaking city views is highly recommended. However, you may be wondering which one to choose.
Nativity Tower vs. Passion Tower: Which One to Choose?
Both Nativity Tower and Passion Tower at La Sagrada Família offer unique experiences, but the best choice depends on what you’re looking for. Here’s a comparison to help you decide!
- Nativity Tower (Gaudí’s original work) → More detailed, colorful, and offers sea views.
Best for: First-time visitors, architecture lovers, and those who want the “real” Gaudí experience. - Passion Tower (newer, modern style) → More minimalist and offers mountain views.
Best for: Fans of modern architecture, people who prefer dramatic city views over sea views, or those who don’t like tight spiral staircases.
3. Evening/Night activity
For those who are looking for unique and exciting experiences. Here are 5 unusual ones for young adults!
3-1. Underground Speakeasy & Hidden Bars
Discover Barcelona’s secret speakeasies, hidden cocktail bars, and prohibition-style lounges. Many are unmarked or disguised as other businesses, like Paradiso, a bar hidden behind a pastrami sandwich shop. Some require secret passwords or have vintage themes. A local guide can take you on a curated tour of these hidden gems.
3-2. Kayaking & Full Moon Paddleboarding at Barceloneta
Experience Barcelona’s coastline at night by kayaking or paddleboarding under the full moon. Some tour companies offer LED-lit paddleboards, adding a surreal glow to the sea. It’s a peaceful yet thrilling way to see the city skyline from the water, followed by drinks at a beachside bar.
3-4. Escape Room Adventure in a Haunted Medieval Castle
Barcelona boasts some of the most immersive escape rooms in Europe, with several set in haunted mansions or medieval castles.Try an after-dark horror escape room, where you solve puzzles in eerie settings with live actors, sound effects, and secret passageways. Some venues, like Horror Box or Enigmatium Room, offer dining experiences combined with mystery-solving.
3-5. Flamenco Rave: Fusion of Electronic Music & Traditional Dance
Experience a modern twist on Flamenco at a Flamenco-electronic fusion event. Venues like Palau Dalmases or Los Tarantos sometimes host flamenco performances with DJ sets, blending deep house beats with passionate live dancing. The mix of Andalusian culture and underground electronic music makes for a truly unique and high-energy night.
Tips to enjoy unique and exciting experiences
If you want to have an extraordinary experience that is unknown to others, why not ask a private guide to take you there? I’m sure they will help you have a safe and comfortable journey!
Private Guides waiting for you!
Tours of Barcelona with a Private Guide
https://gowithguide.com/s?city=barcelona&t=tours
Private Car Tours in Barcelona
https://gowithguide.com/s?city=barcelona&t=transportation
