Keeping up with the Barcelona lifestyle can be pretty expensive mostly because the culture revolves around being out and about. Out for a coffee, for drinks, a visit to the famous museums, meeting up at the fabulous boardwalk terraces – there is always somewhere to go! But when your wallet needs a break and you just want to sit back and relax with a book, music or a good friend, Barcelona has just what you need! Check out our list of 8 free spots around the city centre where you can just chill out!
1. Port of Barcelona
At the southern end of the famous La Rambla Boulevard, you will find the Port of Barcelona – also known as the Port Vell. The harbor has all kinds of things to do, from restaurants and snack shops to the Aquarium and tours. But, most importantly, it’s a great place to just hangout. Grab a seat along the docks and soak in the sun. Or take a walk/bike ride down the Passeig Colom and breathe in the fresh air. The Port is also a wonderful place to hangout during the sunset!
2. Ciutadella Park
The Ciutadella Park is a very popular hangout spot for the locals of Barcelona. The park was created to replace the old citadel that once owned the land during the 1888 World’s Fair. The park was Barcelona’s first green space within the city and had become a staple in daily life. The park has a lake, waterfalls, a zoo, a citadel and a museum. It’s free to visit this park, so pack your picnic and head over to enjoy a lovely afternoon!
3. Plaza Catalunya
This huge plaza sits right between the city centre and the old city and is considered one of the most important plazas in terms of location. From here, you can access some of the biggest streets in the city – like Passeig de Gràcia, Rambla de Catalunya, La Rambla and Portal de l’Àngel. The plaza features a large fountain, public art works and a grassy area to chill out. This is perfect meeting point before a night out or a quick chat with friends.
4. Plaza Reial
Plaza Reial is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful features. This plaza bursts with atmosphere from its classic colonial and gothic architecture and vibrant café’s and restaurants. But if you don’t want to spend any money here, simply grab a bench or take a seat next to the fountain and watch the world around you. The Plaza is also known to host several open air events that are free to the public!
5. Montjuic Hill
What could be better than strolling through a park, on top of a mountain, over looking the entire city of Barcelona with an almost 360 degree view? Not much, to be honest. Montjuic Hill is a great place to just hang out at any time of the day. Whether you want to chill on the steps of the National Palace, lie around on the grass or walk through the hilltop park – it’s all free and it’s all relaxing!
6. The Gothic Quarter
The beauty about Spain and specifically Barcelona is that you don’t need to go to a museum to see the history, art and culture of Catalonia. The Gothic Quarter is a perfect example of this. A walk through the Gothic Quarter of the city will take you on a journey back in time. Surround yourself with amazing architecture, charming streets and enchanting plazas. It’s a truly unique way to chill out alone, with friends or even on a date!
7. Select Museums (on certain days)
Almost all of the major museums in Barcelona have free entry days and hours in their schedule. If you’re on a budget, we highly suggest taking advantage of these opportunities! What could be more relaxing than hanging out in a quiet museum, taking in the culture of the city? For details on which museums have free entry when, click here.
8. Collserola Mountain
22 times larger than New York’s Central Park, Collserola Mountain is the largest metropolitan park in the world. If you’re idea of “chilling out” involves nature and outdoor sports, then Collserola is for you! There are endless hiking trails, bike courses, mountain rages and animals to spot! You can access the park by car, bike and train.
Your friendly neighbourhood travel guide,
– Leah
