Barcelona is a city jam-packed with history, culture, gastronomy, and art. There’s no shortage of unique things to do in Barcelona.

There’s so much to experience in the Catalan capital, that it’s simply impossible to tick off everything on your to-do list on a single visit here.

For those looking to experience something a little unusual while in Barcelona (apart from the usual tourist attractions in Barcelona), here’s our list of…

The top unique things to do in Barcelona

Take a shot at beach volleyball

This fun, summer-time sport takes place all year round in Barcelona! This is a city that loves its sports, with the legacy of the 1992 Olympic Games living on today with the Catalans passion for all things sporty.

Beach volleyball has become particularly popular in the city over the last few years. Due to the increased interest, the council has set up several public nets on the beaches of Barcelona. The most popular beach for a game of volleyball is at Nova Icària. Many people come to play a casual game, or to take part in more competitive tournaments.

And, while you’re at the beach why not check out some of the water sports in Barcelona?

PS – here’s the best sunglasses for beach volleyball

Unique things to do in Barcelona - play volleyball on the beach.
Beach volleyball on Nova Icària Beach

Party at a summer festival

If there’s one thing that Barcelona is famous for, it’s partying. The Catalans know how to throw a good fiesta, with summer being the best time of year to get involved.

There is the iconic Primavera Sound festival, which takes place every April. They’ve had the likes of Radiohead, Kendrick Lamar, and Arctic Monkeys, among many others, perform here in the past. Next up on the line-up is Sonar, an electronic dance festival with uber-cool attendees (you’ll have to wait until 2022 for the next one).

Aside from the big, international music festivals, there’s also Barcelona’s own street fiestas in Summer. There is the Festa de Sant Joan (Feast of St. John) on 23 June to celebrate Summer Solstice each year. Expect fireworks, dances, bonfires and much more at this exciting celebration!

Unique festivals in Barcelona during the summer months.
Crowds at Primavera Sound Festival

Sail on a private boat

The comfortable year-round climate of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea makes it perfect for sailing, 365 days a year. For an unforgettable day out on the blue shores of Barcelona, why not hire a private sailing boat?

Take a stab at sailing, or have a professional skipper make life easier! Sip on some refreshing vermouth, while you sunbathe in front of the spectacular views of the city.

Sailing trip with Vela in Barcelona, Spain.
Sailing in Barcelona
Sailing boat in Port Vell at Sunset

Learn to cook paella

Barcelona is a foodie-paradise, but why not try being the chef for the day yourself? Paella is a classic Catalan dish, and one of Spain’s most famous dishes. We recommend joining a cooking class to master this delicious rice dish.

Make it a fun day out with your friends and family, so you can all go home knowing how to cook likes pros! Some courses include a trip to the market to see where all the fresh ingredients are coming from, too.

Learn how to make paella in Barcelona
Seafood paella

Related Read: Cheap Tapas Bars in Barcelona

Take a Segway tour of the city

Forget a boring walking tour of Barcelona, up your sight-seeing game and hop on a Segway around the city! This is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Barcelona.

A tour guide will train you how to use the Segway, so there’s no dramatic falls in front of the Sagrada Familia! Then zoom round Gaudí’s city, learning about all the most fantastic landmarks and sights as you go.

Unique things to do in Barcelona - go on  segway tour
Segway tour along the seafront

Ride on the oldest amusement park in Spain

Tibidabo can be seen from all over Barcelona, up on the Collserola Ridge Mountains. It was first established over 100 years ago, making it the oldest amusement park in Spain. But don’t worry, the rides aren’t originals!

Get your camera ready for some breathtaking views of the entire city at your feet. Tibidabo is great for any age, as there’s a variety of attractions to suit everybody. We recommend a trip on the big wheel, though be wary if you have a fear of heights!

Here’s a few other great spots with the best views in Barcelona!

Unique things to do in Barcelona
The view of Barcelona from Tibidabo

Take a yoga lesson on a paddle board

If you want to take your fitness skills to the next level, this is the activity for you. Stand up paddle surf combined with yoga lessons can be super challenging, but such fun! If you already practice yoga, and love the beach, this is a great way to combine the two.

Head out on the waters with your instructor and group, basking in the beautiful sunshine. Stand up paddle yoga reinforces your balance and stability, great practice for any budding surfers too.

Sup yoga in Barcelona
Stand up paddle yoga class with SupYoga, via @supyogacat

These are just a few of the most unique things to do in Barcelona – check out our Barcelona activity guide for more of the touristy things to do in Barcelona.

Author

  • Apartment Barcelona

    We are an expert agency in the tourism sector based in Barcelona, Catalonia. For over 10 years, we have offered holiday apartments and long-term apartments in Barcelona, to anyone wanting to visit or spend some time in the Catalan Capital.