15 Best Things to Do in Barcelona When it Rains

Visiting Barcelona and it starts to rain?

Don’t worry, I got you covered!

Rain might change your plans, but it can’t stop you from having an amazing time in the city.

From exploring world-class museums to indulging in Spanish cuisine, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Barcelona when it rains.

After years of discovering hidden gems and rainy day activities, I’ve rounded up the best ways to make the most of your time, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Ready to turn a rainy day into an unforgettable adventure?

Let’s get started!

Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase through one of them, I may receive a small commission from the platform at no extra cost to you. Thanks for the support!

Does it rain a lot in Barcelona, Spain?

No, Barcelona doesn’t experience a lot of rain overall. In fact, Catalonia has been in a state of drought for the past three years.

The Catalan capital enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mostly sunny days throughout the year. However, when it does rain, it’s often short and intense, especially during autumn and spring.

What month does it rain the most in Barcelona?

October in Barcelona is typically the rainiest month.

Autumn showers are common, and storms can bring heavy rain and occasional strong winds. Despite this, the rain often clears up quickly, leaving plenty of time to explore the city.

15 Top Things to Do in Barcelona When It’s Raining

1. Discover Gaudi’s Hidden Gems

When it rains, skip the crowds at Casa Batlló and Sagrada Família. Instead, explore the lesser-known Gaudí buildings in Barcelona.

Visit Torre Bellesguard, a striking blend of medieval and modernist architecture tucked away in the peaceful Sarrià-Sant Gervasi neighborhood. Its fascinating history and intricate design make it a must-see for any Gaudí enthusiast.

Another gem is Casa Vicens, Gaudí’s first major project and one of Barcelona’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The vibrant tiles and imaginative details showcase the architect’s early genius while offering a quieter but equally captivating experience.

2. Shop in a Historic Bullring

Escape the rain and indulge in some retail therapy at Las Arenas, a former bullring turned modern shopping center.

Located in Plaça d’Espanya, this iconic building retains its original façade while housing a variety of stores, restaurants, and cinemas. You can browse everything from global brands to unique local shops.

There’s even a gigantic gym on the top floors with a swimming pool overlooking the city.

Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for stunning 360° panoramic views of Barcelona. Even on a rainy day, it’s a great spot to snap some photos.

3. Take a Sightseeing Bus Tour

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to hop on a sightseeing bus tour and see Barcelona from the comfort of a covered seat.

The double-decker hop-on, hop-off buses offer panoramic windows and audio guides. This gives you the chance to admire iconic landmarks like Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and Montjuïc without getting drenched.

Choose any of the three routes. You can step out and explore whenever the rain lets up or stay cozy inside as you cruise through the city’s highlights.

I know from experience that this is the most stress-free way to sightsee when the weather isn’t ideal.

4. Dive into Science Adventures

One of my favorite things to do in Barcelona when it rains is to head to CosmoCaixa.

Barcelona’s science museum offers an interactive and mind-expanding experience for all ages.

The family-friendly attraction offers fascinating exhibits, including a recreated Amazon rainforest, a geology wall, and hands-on experiments.

You can explore topics like space, nature, and technology, making it a fun and educational escape from the rain.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or just curious about the world, CosmoCaixa is a fantastic way to spend a rainy day. Plus, its affordable ticket price and spacious layout make it one of Barcelona’s best indoor attractions.

5. Visit Barcelona’s Top Art Galleries

When the weather keeps you indoors, immerse yourself in the city’s rich art scene by visiting some of its top galleries.

Start with the famous Museu Picasso, home to an extensive collection of the legendary artist’s works. The exhibition includes his early sketches and lesser-known pieces.

Another must-see is the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), offering a stunning collection of Romanesque art, Catalan modernism, and more, all housed in a grand building on Montjuïc.

For contemporary art lovers, I recommend the Moco Museum Barcelona. It features thought-provoking exhibits and installations in a striking medieval palace.

Whether you’re into classic masterpieces or cutting-edge collections, the art museums in Barcelona will inspire you.

6. Find Hidden Vintage Gems

Browsing the city’s second-hand markets is one of the coolest free things to do in Barcelona when it’s raining.

Head to Els Encants, Barcelona’s largest and oldest flea market. The treasure trove for vintage-lovers is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. You’ll find everything from clothing, books, and antiques to quirky collectibles and furniture.

Another great spot is the Sant Antoni Book Fair, held every Sunday. There, you can hunt for second-hand books, vinyl records, comic books, and unique prints.

Explore the narrow alleys of El Raval and Gràcia for more vintage shopping during the week. Independent shops in the charming neighborhoods sell vintage clothes, vinyl, and antique items.

7. Explore the Barcelona Aquarium

Rainy days are the perfect opportunity to discover the wonders of the Barcelona Aquarium. It’s one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in Europe.

Located at Port Vell, the aquarium features over 11,000 marine animals across a variety of exhibits, from Mediterranean species to tropical fish.

The highlight is the Oceanarium, where you can walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks, sting rays, and colorful fish.

Exploring the fascinating marine life is definitely among the top things to do in Barcelona when it rains.

8. Cook an Authentic Paella

Embrace the rain by getting hands-on in the kitchen and learning how to cook an authentic paella.

Barcelona offers plenty of cooking classes where you’ll shop for the freshest ingredients at the famous La Boqueria Market.

From seafood to vegetables, you’ll pick out everything needed for the dish under the guidance of local chefs.

Then, you’ll head to the kitchen to learn how to prepare a seafood paella, the Barcelona style.

It’s a fun and flavorful way to spend a rainy day and perfect for warming up after a soggy afternoon.

💡 Tip: Sharing a paella for two is also among the most romantic things to do in Barcelona when it rains.

9. Rejuvenate at a Luxury Spa

Rainy days in Barcelona are the perfect excuse to unwind and indulge in some pampering at one of the city’s luxurious spas.

Start with AIRE Barcelona, a stunning spa housed in a restored industrial building. It offers a relaxing experience with hot and cold baths, massages, and aromatherapy in a serene atmosphere.

Another top choice is Banys Orientals. There, you can enjoy an exotic blend of traditional Arabic baths and modern treatments, perfect for a soothing escape from the rain.

For a more contemporary experience, visit Mandarin Oriental Spa, known for its world-class treatments and tranquil environment.

Whether it’s a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating facial, these spas are the ultimate rainy day activities in Barcelona to unwind and recharge.

10. Join a Fun Spanish Class

Turn a rainy day into an opportunity to brush up on your Spanish skills by joining a fun Spanish class at Camino Barcelona Language School.

The award-winning school offers a range of courses for all levels, from beginner to advanced, in a relaxed and friendly setting.

Whether you’re learning the basics or improving your conversation skills, the interactive lessons are designed to keep you engaged and motivated.

It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, meet new people, and, most importantly, have fun while you learn.

11. Master Your Cocktail Skills

Rainy days are the perfect time to enhance your cocktail-making skills in Barcelona’s lively Gothic Quarter.

Join an unforgettable evening of cocktails and traditional Spanish tapas, where you’ll learn to craft four different cocktails from a professional mixologist.

In a cozy bar, you’ll get hands-on instructions and discover the secrets behind classic cocktails.

While you perfect your bartending techniques, a private chef will serve you a selection of tasty tapas to accompany each drink.

By the end of the night, you’ll have mastered the art of mixing cocktails and enjoyed one of the most fun rainy day activities in Barcelona.

12. Try Gaudí’s Mosaic Technique

Unleash your inner artist and learn Gaudí’s iconic trencadís mosaic technique on a rainy day in Barcelona.

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll start with an introduction to the technique Gaudí famously used in his masterpieces in Park Güell.

After choosing your template, you’ll work with ceramic pieces to create your own colorful mosaic. Your experienced instructor will guide you through each step, allowing your creativity to flow as you design a unique piece of art.

Once your masterpiece is complete, it will be grouted and ready for pickup the next day.

Making this memorable souvenir of your time in Barcelona is the perfect rainy day activity for art lovers and Gaudí fans.

13. Sip Barcelona’s Oldest Hot Chocolate

Rainy weather is perfect for tasting Barcelona’s oldest hot chocolate recipe at Casa Amatller.

Located in the heart of the city, the building is more than worth exploring. It boasts a stunning modernist design by the renowned Catalan architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch.

The project was commissioned by the chocolate manufacturer Antoni Amatller. The structure features stunning decorative elements, including intricate mosaics, stained-glass windows, and elaborate sculptures.

The Casa Amatller Café offers a charming atmosphere, where you can taste the famous hot chocolate made from the original family recipe. The rich, velvety drink is a true local tradition and one of the tastiest things to do in Barcelona when it’s raining.

14. Uncover the City’s Fascinating History

When it starts pouring rain in Barcelona, why not step back in time to explore the rich history of the city?

I recommend you visit two of the best museums in Barcelona, the Museu d’Historia de Barcelona (MUHBA) and the Museum of the History of Catalonia.

At MUHBA, you’ll wander through Roman ruins beneath the city and see how Barcelona evolved over the centuries. The museum’s interactive exhibits allow you to explore the city’s past, from its early settlements to modern-day culture.

Meanwhile, the Museum of the History of Catalonia offers an immersive journey through Catalonia’s history, showcasing its cultural, political, and social evolution.

These extraordinary history museums provide the perfect indoor escape on a rainy day in Barcelona and offer a deep dive into its fascinating story and amazing people.

15. Enjoy Breathtaking Vistas

Rain or shine, you can enjoy incredible views of Barcelona from Torre Glòries.

The iconic skyscraper, known for its peculiar shape, houses an observation deck on the 30^th floor. The panoramic vistas of the city are mind-blowing.

On a rainy day, the misty cityscape is even more mystical than on a clear day. Barcelona’s urban landscape with Sagrada Familia as the focal point will leave you speechless.

The slick, modern architecture of Torre Glòries is equally impressive, making it a must-visit spot for both the stunning views and its architectural significance.

Tips About the Things to Do in Barcelona When it Rains

💡 Barcelona’s top attractions will be packed when it rains. If possible, try to avoid visiting the most popular landmarks in the city because everyone else will be there as well. This list gives you enough options to enjoy rainy day activities in Barcelona with fewer crowds.

💡 Plan in advance for the most popular attractions. Barcelona sees lots of tourists in any season. Top spots like Park Güell and Casa Batlló fill up fast. Buy your tickets online beforehand to secure your entry and skip the lines.

💡 Tickets for Sagrada Família are only sold online and in advance. They also sell out quickly, even in off-season months. My advice? Once you book your flight and accommodation, get your Sagrada Família tickets next.

💡 Pack a rain jacket but don’t forget your sunglasses. The rains in Barcelona are quite short. The moment the Mediterranean sun shines again, you’ll want to have your sunglasses handy.

💡Watch out for strong winds. Rain in Barcelona in autumn and winter often comes with gusty winds and rough seas. Try to stay indoors during windstorms, as they can feel harsher than the rain. If you’re planning a sailing trip, bring motion sickness remedies just in case.

Now You Know What to Do in Barcelona When It Rains

And there you have it—15 of the best activities to enjoy in Barcelona on a rainy day.

Now you know what to do in Barcelona when it rains, so grab your umbrella, embrace the cozy vibes, and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

Whether you’re diving into its rich art scene, mixing incredible cocktails, or learning a few fun phrases in Spanish, Barcelona is a fantastic destination in any weather.