How to do Barcelona when you’re not a fan of art and architecture?

Barcelona is famous for its marvelous art and impressive architecture, and many travelers happily travel to Barcelona to see it. But some travelers simply aren’t interested in art and architecture and don’t want to stand around looking at century-old paintings and buildings. For those travelers, I’m happy to say that there is a lot more to see and do in Barcelona, whether you’re looking for some active days, are more of a beach bum, or want to explore other parts of the local culture.

While most people head to Barcelona for a city break, it’s also possible to have a beach vacation in this Mediterranean city. Barcelona has seven beaches, and Barcelona Beach is often listed as one the world’s top ten city beaches. There are amazing beaches that are just a few minutes by train. Read more about Barcelona’s beaches on our blog here.

Make sure to leave some space in your suitcase, because Barcelona is great for shopping. Besides Spanish brands, there are also a ton of boutiques. The best shopping is done in the Gothic Quarter, El Born, or along the Passeig de Gràcia.

Our Private El Born – Independent Boutiques Shopping Tour will take you strolling along El Born’s narrow streets and exploring local shops, allowing you to get behind the counter for a truly immersive experience.

For those who like to switch between city strolling and active days, Montserrat is an ideal day trip destination.

The mountain is excellent for hiking and offers more than stunning views: the monastery, the Boys’ Choir Escolania, and artisan cheese and honey along the way. The Private Montserrat – Half Day Tour is perfect if you want to hike a little more. Other options include the Complete Montserrat Premium Tour and the Montserrat Tour.

You won’t have a complete Barcelona-experience without exploring the food and drink culture.

You can go off on your own and hope to stumble upon a fantastic tapas place and the best wine in the region, or you can just book a tour and not have to worry about finding the best spots. We offer a number of food and wine tours:

• The Private Wine and Tapas Tour in the Gothic Quarter introduces you to the culinary and gastronomic treasures of Barcelona, during a 3-hour walking tour along bars, squares, and markets.
• Enjoy a dinner walking tour along Barcelona’s best tapas bars, after which you’ll be full of great food, tradition, good wine, good conversation, and have a better understanding of local food culture.
• Savor the different wines paired with tapas during the Wine Tasting Experience with Tapas in Barcelona. A wine ambassador will take you to the best hotspots and teach you how to taste, pair, and buy wines.

Depending on your interests, you may want to look into booking a Private Camp Nou Barcelona & Olympic Games Tour, combine Montserrat with the Codorníu Wine Cellars, admire the urban transformation in eastern Barcelona during the Private Smart & Sustainable BCN Tour, or take an amazing sightseeing cruise along the coast.

I told you there was a lot to see and do in Barcelona!

Are you ready to fill your itinerary with unique and authentic experiences? We wait for you! 🙂