This blog post was originally posted on October 16 and was updated on February 1, 2018.
Barcelona is a pretty cool place. So cool that people tend to return again and again. Read on for some ideas for unique activities in Barcelona!
Relaxing in Ancient Baths
Ancient public bathhouses or baños arabes are common down south in places like Granada and Córdoba. However, Barcelona has its fair share as well! One in particular, Aire de Barcelona, houses its baths in original ancient structures, below street level in the Born. With plenty of different packages and starting at around 30 euros, it might be one of the most unique spa experiences you’ll ever have. Not only that, but this truly is one of the most relaxing, luxurious and unique activities in Barcelona.
Address: Passeig de Picasso, 22
Partying with Locals at Anti-Karaoke
Of the Barcelona nightlife scene, perhaps there is no party quite as famous among locals as Anti-Karaoke. It’s a rock concert-meets-Broadway-meets-freak show fiesta that is known for its wild entertainment and rowdy crowd. The host, comedian Rachel Arieff, knows what good karaoke is! For all types of music fans, and at €8 including a drink, Anti-Karaoke will not disappoint. Every Thursday night from 10 pm on at one of Barcelona’s most mythical venues, Sidecar (Plaça Reial, 7).
Exploring Abandoned Bunkers
Barcelona is filled with hidden corners and dark history. One of these secret places are the Carmel bunkers, located atop the Turó de la Rovira hill in the neighborhood of Carmel. Built in 1937 during the Spanish Civil War, these air-raid bunkers’ remains were later used as government housing. These were where dozens of people inhabited over 400 barracks at the site. During the preparations for the 1992 Olympics, the barracks were destroyed. Furthermore, the bunkers were again completely abandoned. Today, beyond being one of the lesser-known and more curious sights of Barcelona, it holds some of the best views of the city.
Having a Go at Water Sports
The waters of the Mediterranean are, to expert surfers, notoriously calm. All the same, for beginners, intermediates and even children, they are ideal to try out different water sports! There are several centers along the coast that offer courses and material. Try Base Nàutica de la Marbella (Avenida Litoral) or Pukas Surf Eskola (Passeig de Joan de Borbo, 93). Furthermore, during the mild winters and with a wetsuit, it’s a year-round gig.