Top 33 Fun, Crazy, and Unusual Things to Do in Barcelona

Barcelona never runs out of surprises, if you’re open to trying extraordinary activities.

Beyond the iconic landmarks and bustling tourist spots, there’s an exciting world of quirky adventures and offbeat experiences.

After living in and exploring the city for years, I’ve tried the most fun, crazy, and unusual things to do in Barcelona.

Ready to take your Barcelona itinerary to the next level? Here are my handpicked 33 unique things to do in Barcelona that will make your adventure unforgettable.

Let’s jump right in!

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33 Best Crazy, Unique, and Unusual Things to Do in Barcelona

The Crazy Attractions of Barcelona

1. Poble Espanyol

Poble Espanyol represents all of Spain in one single attraction. One of the most unusual things to do in Barcelona is a unique blend of architecture, culture, and art.

Built in 1929 for the International Exposition, Poble Espanyol showcases full-scale replicas of traditional Spanish buildings from different regions. As you stroll through its streets, you’ll feel like you’re visiting various parts of Spain in one place.

The open-air museum hosts artisan workshops of glassblowing and pottery, art galleries, live performances, and festivals.

It’s home to several museums, including the Fran Daurel Museum, which features contemporary art from Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and Salvador Dalí.

2. The Montjuïc Cable Car

Soaring through the air over the city, the Montjuïc Cable Car offers a breathtaking ride to the top of Montjuïc Hill.

Starting near Montjuïc Park, the historic gondola lift takes you on a scenic journey with sweeping views of Barcelona’s skyline. Awe at the roofs of Sagrada Família and the Cathedral of Barcelona, then look down at the crystal waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

The ride stops at the Mirador de l’Alcalde and culminates at Montjuïc Castle. It’s the best way to visit the steep hill and one of the most fun things to do in Barcelona.

3. Barça Immersive Tour

Become part of one of the coolest things to do in Barcelona, the Barça Immersive Tour.

This unforgettable journey takes you through the museum at the legendary Camp Nou stadium. Inside, you can interact with holograms and multimedia displays showcasing the club’s glorious history and iconic players.

The cutting-edge exhibition features 18 installations.

Check out the countless trophies that one of the best clubs in the world has won and the fascinating memorabilia that celebrates FC Barcelona’s legacy.

Joining the Barça Immersive Tour is a must for any sports fan.

4. The Best Views of Barcelona

Scattered around the city, you’ll find high buildings and viewpoints revealing spectacular views of Barcelona.

Some are free, some require an entrance fee, and some are rooftop bars where consumption is at your discretion.

Here are my favorite unusual spots in Barcelona to enjoy the best vistas:

• Torre Glòries: The modern skyscraper features a 360° observation deck on the 30th floor.
• Tibidabo: The historic amusement park is on top of the Collserola Mountain, watching over Barcelona.
• Cathedral of Barcelona: The neo-Gothic cathedral offers jaw-dropping sights of the Old Town from its roof.
• Museum of the History of Catalonia: The rooftop terrace houses a fancy restaurant, a posh bar, and a small area with free access for visitors to the museum.
• 360° at Hotel Barceló Raval: One of the most iconic rooftop bars in Barcelona reveals a stunning 360° panorama of the whole city.
• Bunkers of Carmel: The ruins of the air-defense system stand on a hilltop with spectacular views.
• El Corte Ingles: The confection store at the iconic Plaça de Catalunya has a self-service restaurant on the last floor.
• Las Arenas de Barcelona: The shopping center in a former bullfighting arena offers a 360° terrace.
• Montjuïc: The easiest viewpoint to access is at the stairs of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya but there are many more.

5. Barcelona’s Monumental Cemeteries

The city’s monumental cemeteries belong to the best hidden gems in Barcelona.

The two that I recommend you visit are Montjuïc Cemetery and Poblenou Cemetery. Their artistic and architectural masterpieces will astound you.

At Cementiri de Montjuïc, you can explore the tombs and pantheons of notable Barcelonian families. In the massive cemetery, architectural wonders from different styles coexist peacefully. If you decide to go, prepare for steep pathways and stairs.

Cementiri de Poblenou is one of Barcelona’s most unusual places. It boasts intricate tombs and delicate sculptures. Its most famous monument is The Kiss of Death, an intricate sculpture of a skeleton kissing a young man on the forehead.

6. Street Art and Urban Hubs

Barcelona is famous for its street art and urban scene. There’s plenty to uncover from the iconic The Kiss mural in the Gothic District to the Three Chimneys Urban Park.

Head to the Jardins de les 3 Xemeneies to observe graffiti artists repainting the murals, as well as BMX riders, skaters, and basketball players mastering their tricks. You’ll recognize the urban space by the towering chimneys of a closed power station.

In a small plaza in El Gotico, you’ll find one of the most unusual things to do in Barcelona.

From a distance, the mural reveals a passionate kiss. Get close, and you‘ll see that each tile is a single photo. The tiles display photos from Barcelona residents, capturing moments of joy.

7. The Best Vintage Markets in Barcelona

You’ll find a ton of vintage stores and flea markets in Barcelona.

Whether you’re hunting for rare finds or just enjoying the lively atmosphere, check out these unique spots:

• Sant Antoni Market: On Sundays, the area around the magnificent market transforms into a bustling second-hand book fair, famous for the wide selection of comic books.
• Mercat dels Encants: The gigantic flea market is the oldest in the city. Hundreds of vendors offer their goods at bargain prices.
• Palo Alto: This trendy market occurs once a month in a beautiful garden setting. It features a mix of vintage clothing, local designer pieces, and street food stalls.

Unusual Experiences in Barcelona

8. Getting Lost in the Labyrinth Park

Parc del Laberint d’Horta is Barcelona’s oldest garden, famous for its intricate hedge maze.

The 610 m (2,000 ft.) of pathways in the labyrinth lead to a charming pond with statues.

The myth of the Minotaur inspired the design of the maze. According to Greek mythology, a labyrinth was created to trap the scary monster.

Even after multiple visits, I still find navigating the maze thrilling and challenging. Good thing there’s no mythical creature waiting for me around the corner in one of Barcelona’s best parks 😉

9. Sailing Along the Barcelona Coastline

What better way to enjoy the Mediterranean than by sailing along Barcelona’s coastline?

Experience breathtaking views of the city from the tranquil waters on a sunset cruise aboard a luxury yacht. With an inviting ambiance, open bar, and relaxing music, the voyage begins at the Old Harbor.

After meeting the crew, you’ll set sail, taking in iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea.

Enjoy light snacks, refreshing drinks, and a chance to swim if conditions permit. The yacht is fully equipped and the crew is perfectly trained to ensure your comfort, safety, and unforgettable experience.

10. Devouring Culinary Delights

Spanish cuisine is world-renowned, and Catalonia offers its contribution to the country’s culinary diversity.

In Barcelona, food is not just about eating, it’s a full-on experience. From savoring the sweet, charred flavor of calçots during their winter harvest season to sipping on a refreshing vermut at a local bar, every meal feels like a celebration.

If you’re seeking an interactive experience, try creating your own cava. Catalonia is famous for the production of delicious sparkling wine.

If you‘d rather indulge in a sweet delight, try the rich custard treat crema catalana.

And who can say no to chocolate? Stroll down Carrer de Petritxol, known as Chocolate Street, to discover its charming cafés and chocolate shops.

Another unmissable spot for chocolate lovers is Chocolate Amatller, established in 1797. Here, you can enjoy the oldest hot chocolate recipe in Barcelona. It’s served at the iconic Casa Amatller, a modernist palace, whose owners were the pioneers in cacao production for centuries.

11. Soaring Above the City on the Aerial Tramway

Starting from Montjuïc and ending at the waterfront in Barceloneta, the Port Vell Aerial Tramway is one of the most unique things to do in Barcelona.

Experience an unparalleled perspective of Barcelona’s landmarks, including the beach and the bustling port area. This is the perfect way to combine adventure with stunning scenery.

Glide above the skyline over Barcelona’s Old Harbor and observe Columbus Monument, Port Vell, and the busy streets beneath you.

The journey starts at Miramar station on the side of Montjuïc, at an altitude of 57 m (187 ft.). The aerial tramway then climbs to Torre Jaume I, which sits at 107 m (351 ft.). Finally, it descends to Torre Sant Sebastià (86 m /282 ft.) near the beach.

12. Honing Your Skateboard Tricks

Barcelona is widely known for its fantastic skateboarding scene. The streets and plazas of the city are welcoming to any gadget on wheels.

These are the most popular spots where you can observe skateboarders perform their tricks and try your own skills as well:

• MACBA: The area in front of the gallery in Raval is the most popular spot in Barcelona for skateboarders.
• Plaza Universitat: The square in front of the historic university belongs to skaters.
• Mar Bella Beach: Close to the promenade, you’ll find a huge skate park. Rollerbladers and scooters are welcome, too.
• Three Chimneys Urban Park: skaters and BMX bikers show their latest moves in the iconic urban space.

13. Visiting a Nudist Beach

Platja de la Mar Bella is where locals go to relax without the crowds of the more touristy Barcelona beaches.

Mar Bella has a laid-back vibe and an LGBT-friendly crowd. It also features a designated nude area, so don’t be surprised if you spot a naked individual.

The non-touristy beach has clean sand, wide spaces, lifeguards, and amenities. You’ll see people sunbathing, swimming, picnicking, and playing volleyball. When hunger strikes, the nearby chiringuitos will serve you drinks and fresh seafood.

Like all of Barcelona’s beaches, Mar Bella Beach is smoke-free.

14. Exploring Spanish Civil War History

The Spanish Civil War, the darkest moment in the country’s modern history, has left its marks on the face of Barcelona. You can explore several important spots to get to know the past.

• Refugi 307 is a well-preserved bomb shelter built to protect Barcelonians from air raids. Carved into the Montjuïc hillside, it fits roughly 2,000 people. The tunnels span over 400 m (1,312 ft.).
• The Bunkers of Carmel were part of Barcelona’s air defense system. Apart from the fantastic vistas from the hill, explore the museum MUHBA Turó de la Rovira beneath the concrete remains.
• Montjuïc Castle, an old military fortress from 1640, was used as a prison during the Civil War. In its tunnels, both sides of the conflict imprisoned, tortured, and murdered their political enemies.

15. Strolling the Local Las Ramblas

You probably know of the infamous La Rambla, the main pedestrian street of Barcelona.

But did you know that almost every neighborhood in Barcelona has its own La Rambla? And unlike this touristy alley, the local Ramblas are very laid-back and safe to explore.

You don’t have to worry about your belongings or inflated bills. Instead, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and/or a tasty meal.

The most popular of the local “ramblas” are La Rambla del Raval, La Rambla Catalunya, and La Rambla del Poblenou.

16. Celebrating the Craziest Fiestas

Barcelonians sure know how to celebrate a fiesta!

The festivals in Barcelona feature loads of free concerts, crazy parades, rhythmic drums, loud crackers, drone shows, and firework displays.

These are the best to experience, in my opinion:

• La Mercè: The major festival of Barcelona is a five-day event. Tens of free concerts, dancing giants, parades, processions, human towers, and fireworks fill the calendar.
• Three Kings Day: Watching the procession is one of the craziest things to do in Barcelona. Classical, futuristic, and quirky platforms parade through the streets.
• Sant Jordi Day: The day celebrating the patron saint of Catalonia is filled with books and roses.
• Festa Major de Gràcia: Of all the colorful neighborhood fiestas in Barcelona, this is the best. The highlight is the Street Decorating Competition which shows the creativeness of the local communities.
• The Night of Sant Joan: If you dislike loud crackers, fireworks, and bonfires, avoid this fest at all costs 😉
• New Year’s Eve: The free concert and fireworks show at Plaça de Espanya are legendary.

The Most Unique Museums in Barcelona

17. Banksy Museum

Exploring Banksy Museum is one of the craziest things to do in Barcelona.

The immersive exhibition found its permanent home in the Catalan capital. It showcases the elusive artist’s most famous and lesser-known masterpieces.

The gallery features over 130 artworks and interactive installations that let you immerse into Banksy’s rebellious world. The pieces from the master of street art reveal his enormous talent and provocative genius.

Marvel at the emblematic Girl with Balloon, Girl with the Umbrella, and Flower Thrower. Then, discover Laugh Now, a monkey with a powerful societal message, and Mobile Lovers, a couple distracted by technology.

18. Moco Museum

Moco Museum is another art jewel among the most unusual things to do in Barcelona.

Located in a former 16^th-century palace in El Borne, the museum curates an incredible collection of modern and contemporary masters of art. Shows, installations, and exhibitions by Andy Warhol, Yayoi Kusama, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Salvador Dalí, and Banksy coexist side by side to challenge your perceptions.

The gigantic Final Days by KAWS greets you at the entrance of one of the top art museums in Barcelona. The wooden sculpture welcoming you with stretched arms is a peculiar sight.

My favorite part of the exhibition is the Digital Immersive Art installation. The multi-sensory creation transports you into a vibrant parallel universe.

19. Bubble Planet Barcelona

Bubble Planet Barcelona is a fun experience in the Poblenou neighborhood. It takes you into an immersive world of play.

The attraction merges art, technology, and games to create one of the most unique things to do in Barcelona for kids.

Discover striking LED installations, explore interactive playrooms, and take selfies immersed in glowing spheres and light shows.

Whether you’re jumping into a bubble pit or roaming through vibrant bubble tunnels, Bubble Planet will make you feel like a child again. It’s among the top things to do in Poblenou, especially if you’re traveling with little ones.

20. Museu Frederic Marès

Museu Frederic Marès holds one of the most unique collections I’ve ever encountered. The artifacts, gathered by its founder, sculptor Frederic Marès, are housed in the Royal Palace of the Counts of Barcelona in the Gothic Quarter.

Inside one of the best museums in Barcelona, you’ll find an eclectic array of collectibles you might never expect to see in one place.

The first floor is dedicated to centuries-old religious statues. The upper floors showcase tens of thousands of objects, from ancient weapons and intricate fans to decorative smoking pipes, early cameras, and ornate clocks.

Each display is thoughtfully curated, enhancing the intimate atmosphere of the historic palace.

The top floor offers a glimpse into the sculptor’s personal study, along with some of his remarkable works.

If you have an hour or two, I highly recommend visiting this hidden gem. It’s truly one of the most unusual things to do in Barcelona.

21. Science Museum CosmoCaixa

The innovative Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa is perfect for curious travelers. I’ve visited it twice and would gladly return.

The interactive science museum occupies multiple floors and blends a variety of science exhibits. They cover topics from biology to geology, and from physics to anatomy. You can experiment with the displays and observe animals, plants, and even human organs.

My favorite part of the museum is the magnificent Amazon rainforest. Inside it, you’ll encounter over 100 species of fish, birds, mammals, and tropical plants.

22. Maritime Museum of Barcelona

If you only visit one attraction in Barcelona’s center, I recommend you choose Museu Marítim.

This interactive museum populates the impressive former shipyards. The exhibition will captivate you with tales of the city’s rich nautical history.

Cut-in-half shipping containers hold legends of the sea, while digital recreations and fascinating displays transport you into the glorious days of sea exploration and famous trade routes.

But the highlight of one of the best free museums in Barcelona is the stunning replica of the royal galleon from the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. You can walk on its deck, peak into its hull, and pose on its bridge.

23. Museum of Wax Barcelona

Museu de Cera is one of the most unusual things to do in Barcelona, located off La Rambla.

Inside, you can meet famous personalities from the worlds of art, music, cinema, and sports. Historic figures, international superstars, and local celebrities rub shoulders. The collection features more than 120 wax figures, divided into 28 displays.

In the museum’s themed rooms, you can take a selfie with your personal hero. Pose next to Lionel Messi, Elton John, Freddie Mercury, Pablo Picasso, or Albert Einstein. For an even more unique experience, “meet” the most terrifying characters from popular horror movies.

24. Museum of World Cultures Barcelona

Museu de Cultures del Món occupies a former palace close to the Picasso Museum and Moco Museum.

Often overlooked in favor of its neighbors, let me tell you this. If I had to pick one of the three to return to, I would definitely revisit the Museum of World Cultures.

The gallery offers an incredible journey through the art and traditions of peoples from the most faraway places in the world.

Through intricate masks, ceremonial objects, religious sculptures, and everyday objects, the museum’s collection offers a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of diverse communities around the globe.

25. IDEAL Center of Digital Arts

One of the craziest and most unusual things to do in Barcelona is to immerse in the virtual worlds of IDEAL Centre d’Arts Digitals.

Dive into quantum physics, parallel universes, DNA sequencing, sacred geometry, and the fourth dimension.

With the help of 3D displays, state-of-the-art virtual reality, and high-end audiovisual projections, you’ll be transformed into the imagination of famous artists and visionary scientists.

The current exhibition at IDEAL is Jules Verne 200. The immersive event teleports you into the fantasy worlds of the legendary author.

Through cutting-edge visuals and projections, Verne’s groundbreaking visions of space travel, deep-sea exploration, and journeys to the center of the Earth come to life.

26. Chocolate Museum

Exploring Museu de la Xocolata in El Born must be one of the most fun things to do in Barcelona.

What better way to raise your dopamine than by stimulating both your mind and your taste buds?

Learn the history of the delicious treat, from when conquistadors brought cocoa to Spain over 500 years ago to nowadays. Then, visit the museum’s workshop and chocolate bar while taking a bite of your entry ticket. It’s made from chocolate!

The museum’s exhibit includes intricate chocolate statues, including Gaudi’s most famous buildings in Barcelona. The impressive replica of Sagrada Familia and the stunning model of Park Güell recreated in chocolate will make your jaw drop.

Sharing the experience is one of the most romantic things to do in Barcelona for couples.

27. European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM)

A stunning 18^th-century palace houses Museu Europeu d’Art Modern (MEAM). Between its walls, you’ll find masterpieces from European artists from the last two centuries.

The permanent collections include contemporary figurative art and modern sculpture. The captivating temporary exhibits display fascinating realism, landscapes, and photography.

The intimate setting allows you to experience the artwork up close, enhancing the connection between viewer and piece.

The gallery also frequently organizes events, such as classical concerts, workshops, and courses.

Other Fun Things to Do in Barcelona

Barcelona owes its architectural charm to the genius of several Modernist architects.

28. Exploring Gaudi’s Non-Touristy Buildings

While Gaudi’s most famous works are among the top attractions in the city, his lesser-known buildings deserve your full attention just as much.

Among the most unusual things to do in Barcelona are several Gaudi creations:

• Torre Bellesguard: The exterior incorporates a neo-Gothic style, something unique for a Gaudi construction. The interior shows the architect’s Modernist style in all its glory. And the rooftop hides a mythical creature that you’ll need to discover for yourself!
• Casa Vicens: The first house that Antoni Gaudí designed. His unique use of bare stones, coarse red bricks, and ceramic tiles with bright patterns makes it worth a visit.
• Pavellons Güell: The most impressive part of the estate is the main gate. It’s shaped like an attacking mythological dragon. Marveling the wrought-iron construction is one of the crazy things to do in Barcelona.

29. Discovering Amazing Modernist Architecture

Barcelona is the best place in the world to experience the vibrant Modernist architectural style. Also known as Art Nouveau, the design became popular at the end of the 19^th and beginning of the 20^th century.

You probably already know the biggest Modernist architect, Antoni Gaudi. But Barcelona owes its architectural charm to two other creative geniuses, who worked alongside him.

Lluís Domènech i Montaner created the mind-blowing UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Barcelona Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau and Palau de la Musica Catalana, as well as many other stunning buildings in Catalonia.

His works are characterized by an unbelievable blend of mythical, religious, and modern statues, combined with impossible arches and towers, and adorned with vibrant tiles and stained glass.

The other name you should pay attention to is Josep Puig i Cadafalch. His most distinguished creations include the Casa de les Punxes (House of the Spikes) and Casa Amatller (next door to Gaudi’s Casa Batlló).

Both are included in the list of Spanish Cultural Heritage and feature typical Modernist elements, symbols, and materials.

30. Roaming Barcelona’s Vibrant Neighborhoods

Barcelona consists of many neighborhoods that used to be separate villages. As the city grew, they were incorporated into the Catalan capital. No wonder crossing a street can sometimes feel like you’ve walked into a different city.

Most tourists never leave the Old Town and the main streets of Eixample. But you’re not most tourist, so you need to find unusual things to do in Barcelona, am I right? 😉

Leave the streets, marked on tourist maps, and explore the lively districts of Gracia, Sant Antoni, Poblenou, and Pedralbes. All of them are easily accessible via Barcelona’s public transportation.

The quaint plazas of Gracia, the vibrant market in Sant Antoni, the staggering mansions of Pedralbes, and the hip vibe of Poblenou all make it worth the effort.

31. Feeling the Adrenaline Rush at the Vintage Tibidabo

At 1,680 ft. (512 m), Tibidabo offers sweeping vistas over Barcelona. On its summit sits one of the oldest theme parks in the world, Tibidabo Amusement Park.

Opened in 1901, this historic park blends vintage charm with modern thrills.

The classic plane ride Avió is the oldest in the park. The Ferris wheel offers the best panoramic views. And the newest attraction, Merlí, is a 52-m (171-ft.) freefall tower that will satisfy even the most hard-core thrill seeker.

Don’t skip visiting the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor (Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus). It tops the highest point of the Serra de Collserola and is visible from almost anywhere in Barcelona.

32. Finding the Best Libraries of Barcelona

Exploring the city’s libraries is one of the most unique things to do in Barcelona. This activity offers a peaceful escape from the crowds and a glimpse into the culture and education of Catalonia.

My two favorite libraries include the Gabriel García Márquez Library and the Library of Catalonia.

Named after the famous Columbian writer, Gabriel García Márquez Library is an architectural gem in the Sant Martí district. The stunning award-winning building features sleek lines and open spaces that promote creativity.

Biblioteca de Catalunya, located in the heart of the Raval district, is also worth visiting. Housed in a stunning Gothic building, it’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the rich literary history of Catalonia.

33. Learning Spanish at Camino Barcelona

Last but not least of my favorite unusual things to do in Barcelona is the initial reason I fell in love with the city.

Back in 2022, when travel started to open post-pandemic, I signed up for a Spanish language course.

It turned out to be a life-changing travel and educational experience. The teachers, the staff, and the students create a great community and an unforgettable learning environment.

The school’s daily activities include tours around Barcelona, wine tastings, dancing, and cooking lessons. The Saturdays are reserved for day trips from Barcelona to spectacular destinations.

At Camino Barcelona, you’re not only learning a new language. You’re also forging life-long friendships and immersing yourself in Spanish and Catalan history, culture, and traditions.

Now You Know Where to Find the Best Unusual Things to Do in Barcelona

And there you have it – the 33 most unusual things to do in Barcelona to add to your travel itinerary.

From bizarre museums to thrilling rides, and from peculiar art to crazy experiences, the Catalan capital has a side most visitors never see.

So why not step off the beaten path and discover a Barcelona you’ll never forget?