Many places in Europe are known for their skate culture and Barcelona is no exception!
Barcelona is often said to be the skating capital of Europe, with its endless flat streets, steps and ledges that attract skaters from all corners of the world, it is easy to see why it is regularly featured in famous skate documentaries worldwide.
So what is it that makes Barcelona a so-called ‘Mecca’ for these curb-grinding thrill seekers?
Aside from the fact that the most popular hotspots seem almost tailor-made for skating, the attitude from the skaters, police and locals is a lot more relaxed in Barcelona than many other cities. These are the two main factors that made Barcelona a haven for skaters in the nineties and although things have changed slightly from the days of old, it is still one of the best places in the world to chill out with like-minded people and practice your skills.
Ok, so yeah, the police may every now and again stop people skating but for the most part, they have better things to do and just let it happen. This is especially true in Barcelona’s most noted skate spot, MACBA, Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona. You will find people skating here pretty much all day every day with the busiest being Tuesdays and Sundays.
For those skaters who want a quieter, or perhaps, less known skating experience then all you have to do is hear from word of mouth and rumours of a nice set of steps or ledge somewhere and you are guaranteed to find numerous other little gems of your own along the way.
To compliment Barcelona’s thriving skate scene there are plenty of skate shops in the city centre along with skater-themed bars and hostels for the travelers who come here for a skating holiday.
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The chain of bars called Nevermind are the most well-known skate bars with one situated minutes away from MACBA. These are heavily stickered venues with cheap prices, skate videos on the screens, skateboards used as furniture and even a mini ramp inside!
The most popular skate hostel is the Sant Jordi Sagrada Familia, you can take one guess at which part of town that is in. The hostel boasts that all their staff are skaters themselves and are only too happy to give you maps indicating all the best spots along with a true skater experience.
So if skating is your thing, or maybe like others, you simply like to watch, then head out to the MACBA or Nevermind to experience a part of Barcelona’s culture that is rarely mentioned in the travel guides.
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