Enjoying the free outdoor spaces of Barcelona

Discovering Barcelona is about visiting her gardens and sitting in her squares just as much as it is about ticking the local tourist attractions off the list. If you are trying to enjoy this beautiful city on a budget or want to discover the places that aren’t on the tourist maps than have a wander through her streets, you’re sure to find a spot to enjoy it all from.

Related article: Free things to do in Barcelona in the Summer

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Carrer D’Espronceda

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In this street you will find a good dose of street art, it attracts well known as well as up and coming artists to its city walls. This is a beautiful, ever-changing, outdoor gallery with a distinct Barcelona flavour.

Passatge Bernardi Martorell

This street is smack-bang in the middle of the action in Barcelona, it separates north from south Raval. It’s a historic street with lots of places to stop and people watch. And don’t forget to look up, you’ll be surprised what new perspectives tell you about a city.

Jardins de Costa i Llobera

Towards the foot of Montjuic, nestled underneath the castle and facing the sea you will find a botanical garden full of succulents, one of the best in Europe. The garden is a well kept secret that doesn’t get the usual tourist numbers so it just might be a nice place to relax and get away from it all.

Placa de Masadas

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This porticoed square is in the heart of La Sagrera – one of three remaining in Barcelona. Twenty minutes by metro from the city centre, it’s very much worth a visit. You will not be disappointed, the arched walkways and small terraces overlooking the square along with the pink and amber hues of the buildings will all add to the romance.

Santa Maria del Mar

This church was built at the height of Catalonia‘s maritime and mercantile preeminence, between 1329 to 1383. It is an imposing example of Catalan Gothic architecture. The inside of the church, in contrast to the exterior, gives the impression of light and spaciousness so make sure to walk inside and have a look.

Font Magica – also known as Magic Fountain

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This fountain comes alive at night with lights and music. It is Barcelona’s biggest ornamental fountain, built in 1929 for the International Exhibition. Visitors are regularly impressed by the show and often walk away feeling it’s magic affect.

Poblenou Cemetery

You can explore the city’s connection with its past at this grand cemetery. It’s not for the faint hearted or those that get easily spooked. The tombs are beautiful and so are the statues that adorn them. Find out more.

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