Barcelona On A Budget

The best free things to do and the cheapest travel deals around 

Exploring the attractions of any major city is bound to set you back a few pounds or in this case, euros, and Barcelona is no different to anywhere else where many of the ‘to do’ list tourist attractions will eat away at your spending money but there is still loads of great stuff you can do to get a feel of the place. Pretty often it’s the sights that don’t cost anything that give you the most authentic experience cementing the belief that sometimes the best things in life really are free.

The bustling city of Barcelona isn’t just a feast for the senses, it’s an entire banquet! It is packed with vibrant street life and magnificent architecture and arguably one of the most cultural destinations in Europe.

Sagardi, Pinchos & Tapa’s Tour

Let us take you on a journey through the dazzling Catalan capital of Barcelona and see what we can find without splashing too much cash. After all, you’ll want to keep as much as you can in your pocket for tasty tapas and refreshing drinks after a hard day’s sight-seeing.

Discover Las Ramblas

A great starting point for your adventures in this stunning city should be the colourful pedestrianized thoroughfare known as Las Ramblas. This famous landmark is a lively boulevard that runs through the heart of the city and offers street entertainers, cafes, shops and bars all surrounded by decorative architecture. You will probably be tempted to dig into your wallet as there is plenty to buy, eat and drink on this one kilometre long stretch but you can simply stroll up and down the length of this bustling thoroughfare, soaking up the sights and sounds without spending money if you don’t want to.

Enjoy Barcelona’s Architecture

First of all, if you are a lover of architecture then you’ve come to the right place. Barcelona is a feast for the eyes…and the soul! Even if you weren’t that bothered about admiring buildings, you will probably be an aficionado by the time you get back on the plane. Where to start describing the structures and buildings of Barcelona. It’s just awesome! Quirky, bold, colourful, unique- it’s certainly distinctive whichever way you look at it.

There’s something really satisfying about strolling around a new city just taking in the sights before you – wondering who built them, what was the inspiration behind the shapes and colours; just mind-blowing stuff and it won’t cost you a cent to admire them from outside. Don’t miss Passeig de Gracia and Avenida Diagonal for some of the best of Barcelona’s architecture but try to avoid busy times. The early bird catches the worm so they say, so why not get up at sunrise and appreciate these routes when it’s a little quieter and in the beautiful light of morning.

Wallet-friendly culture

There’s usually always some sort of free cultural bonanza going on in Barcelona. There’s a great site that lists everything you can do without parting with any cash. Visit forfree.cat for full listings and dates to fit with your trip and choose from free exhibitions, performing arts, workshops, kids’ activities and outdoor events.

Free Museum Admission on Sundays

If you happen to be in Barcelona over a weekend, then you must take advantage of the free admission slots on some of the city’s great museums and cultural centres. From 3pm until 8pm on Sundays, you’ll have a treasure trove of delights at your disposal and if you stick to this time, it won’t cost you a penny.You will be able to learn so much from some of the most informative and interesting attractions here in Barcelona, such as MUHBA Museu d’Historia de Barcelona, Museu de la Musica, Museu Picasso and the Centre de Cultura Contemporania de Barcelona. Also, included in this free session is Barcelona’s Botanical Gardens.

Take it to church?

If you want to escape the heat and head for a more spiritual experience then you must take a peek at the two most famous Barcelona cathedrals. Admire the Sagrada Familia’s impressive façade from the public park/square across the road. Of course, if you want to explore inside, you can but there is an entry fee* (24 euros general admission, there are concessions available and kids age 1-9 years go free)
Sagrada Familia Guided Tour with Tower Access from £40

Another richly spiritual spot to seek refuge in is the majestic Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, also known as Barcelona Cathedral, this Gothic cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona. Spend some time in the cool interior of La Catedral in the heart of the Barri Gothic. This beautiful church is free to visit at certain times (08:00-12:45 and 17:45-19:30) other times require a donation. Click here for more information.

Soak up the atmosphere and listen to the city heartbeat

Explore the Gothic Quarter by just wandering around, discovering all the nooks and crannies of this popular corner of the city. The quaint little streets and pleasant squares are perfect to stop in and just watch the world go by. There’s something quite entertaining by just people watching and observing the locals go about their business.

You can also pass some time by admiring the street art which covers the walls of houses and alleyways throughout the neighbourhood. Speaking of people watching, another great spot to spend an afternoon in is the Placa Reial (Royal Plaza) Not far from Las Ramblas, this elegant courtyard is ideal for getting a feel for the city. Part with a few euros for a drink or a coffee in one of the cafes and lose yourself in the ambience of this vibrant and pretty spot.

Walking Tour of Barcelona’s Atmospheric Gothic Quarter

Eat out for less

Like most places, if you choose to wine and dine in the most central, tourist spots then it will cost you more for the privilege. However, wander a few blocks, stop to refuel in somewhere off the main hub and you’ll find your cash stretches a little further. Sometimes by venturing off the tourist trail, you can happen upon a really exquisite little eatery, packed with locals who have been reluctant to share the secret. Check out TripAdvisor’s 10 best cheap eats in Barcelona.

Now that we’ve shown you how to spend your time in Barcelona without parting with too much money, we’re guessing you’d like to get there on a budget too. Look no further, we’ve partnered with some of the best travel operators around and you can pick up cheap flights to Barcelona and hotel accommodation that won’t break the bank either.

PLUS save £££s on lots of other attractions with the Barcelona discount card.

*Information and prices correct at time of publication. Please check with each attractions’ websites.