Free Things to do in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is not a cheap town to visit. According to 2018 Cost of Living Survey from Mercer, Barcelona ranks 49th in the world for one of the most expensive cities. However, budget tourists will have fun discovering the best places in town without spending their savings.

Barcelona is a beautiful city with a lot to offer tourists. From the stunning architecture to the delicious food, there is something for everyone in Barcelona. The best part is that many of the city’s attractions can be enjoyed without spending a lot of money. Here are free things to do in Barcelona. To plan an entire trip check out this 4 day Barcelona itinerary. 

Free Things to do in Barcelona

Discover Barceloneta Beach and Old Barcelona Port

One day on the Mediterranean shore will be a good choice for travelers with a limited budget. During summer, Barcelonaís beaches become the favorite place to spend the day for locals and tourists. Just sit on the sand, admire the sea, and get a tan. A

Visit Barceloneta, a small district with Arabic influences, on your way back to town. Stroll to Columbus Monument and stop for a while in Port Vell, where you will discover the harbor, and the private yachts and boats anchored here.

The Magic Fountains of Montjuoc

End your day at the Magic Fountains. The breathtaking water and music show is a spectacle you should not miss. It lasts for 15 minutes, and it repeats several times throughout the evening. The Magic Fountains are of the last work designed for the Universal Exhibition of 1929, which took place in Barcelona. Small fountains were set on Avinguda Maria Cristina, and one big fountain was placed at the end of the boulevard, facing Palau Nacional.

According to a Barcelona city guide, the fountains run evening shows all around the year. Hundreds of tourists come to see them because they are free of charge, and it can be hard to find a seat upfront on the hill.

Stroll on Las Ramblas and visit La Boqueria Market

Las Ramblas Boulevard is one of the main attractions in Barcelona, crowded with visitors all around the year. It runs from the city’s harbor to Playa Catalunya, and it’s the right place to explore Barcelona’s busy life. Dancers, musicians, mimes, and actors will entertain the tourists, at no charge. Although, if you take a photo with them you should tip them. 

You don’t have to pay if you visit La Boqueria either. This noisy food market catches travelers’ attention with its colorful fruit and vegetable stands, chic coffee shops, and inexpensive restaurants.

Gaudi’s Houses on Passeig de Gracia

It is essential to see Gaudi’s masterpieces when visiting Barcelona. The best thing is that you donít have to pay for tickets to take a close look at his architectural achievements. Stroll on Passeig de Gracia Boulevard and you’ll have the chance to see Casa Batllo and La Pedrera, two of Gaudi’s works. Choose a good angle and admire their galleries, the undulating facades covered in ceramic and broken glass.

La Sagrada Familia

The famous landmark of Barcelona should be a stop on your visit. If the admission tax is rather high for your budget, you can get a great view from outside. Contemplate Gaudi’s unfinished cathedral; admire the new architectural style and unusual geometrical forms he used for his dearest workpiece.

Visit Park Guell

The famous Gaudi lizard that became the symbol of Barcelona stands at the entrance of this park. It draws crowds of tourists because it’s free to see it through the gate and take a picture. It’s cheap to get in though so plan to buy a ticket to enjoy the whole park. Gaudi also designed the staircase at the main entrance, the pavilions with colored tiles, and the ceramic serpentine bench, putting his best into this urban park.

Barcelona Cathedral

The Telegraph includes Barcelona’s Gothic cathedral on the top five things that travelers can see without paying a ticket. Located not far from Las Ramblas, the church has a lovely garden which hosts a gaggle of geese.

Get a panoramic view of Barcelona from Tibidabo Amusement Park

Tourists and locals go to the Tibidabo Amusement Park for the big panoramic wheel, the traditional carousel, or the exciting roller coaster rides. You should not miss this spot if you go to Barcelona with your kids. You must pay to have fun in the amusement park, but it is free to stand there and get the panoramic view over Barcelona.

To reach Tibidabo Amusement park you should take the Blue Tram and then the funicular. If you donít want to pay for this ride, you can always walk on foot to the top of the hill. It is free, but it will take you about one hour.

Stroll Through El Born

A historic neighborhood located near Placa de Catalunya, El Born features narrow streets, quaint cafes, and boutique shops. This is an ideal spot for visitors who want to experience everyday life in Barcelona away from some of the more touristy areas .

Check Out Santa Maria del Mar: One of Barcelona’s most beautiful churches

Santa Maria del Mar dates back to 1329 and features Gothic architecture. While entrance to most churches in Barcelona requires a small fee, visitors can admire Santa Maria del Mar from both inside and out free of charge

People Watch at Placa de Catalunya

One of the busiest squares in Barcelona, Placa de Catalunya is the perfect place to sit back and watch the world go by. There are often performers and street musicians entertaining passersby, so there’s always something to see in this vibrant square.