Save Money When Visiting Barcelona with these Free and Affordable Attractions

Barcelona is a city with such a wealth of beauty, offering a range of attractions that are free to observe and explore. Known for its exquisite architecture, many of Barcelona’s iconic landmarks are either free to enter, or very kind on the purse strings. There is an endless list of things to do for visitors to Barcelona on a budget, and below are a few examples of some of the best free and affordable attractions. 1. La Rambla – A popular attraction in Barcelona, La Rambla is the bustling central boulevard that meanders through the heart of Barcelona. This mostly pedestrianized promenade runs from Port Vell right through to Placa Catalunya, spanning over a kilometre in length. La Rambla is teeming with street performers, artists, and stalls selling all kinds of local goods and souvenirs. The vibrant Boqueria Market is located off La Rambla, selling a wonderful assortment of colourful fruit and veg, tapas, fresh meat and fish. Perfect if you’re planning on cooking a meal in your Barcelona apartment. The Liceu Opera can also be found down La Rambla. 2. Parc Guell – This extraordinary park houses the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s magnificent creative works, representing his passion and inspiration for natural formations, colour, and nature. It is free to explore Parc Guell, which previous to becoming a municipal park, was planned as an upper-class housing plot. Now in the hands of the city, Parc Guell attracts many visitors and locals, looking to explore Gaudi’s inspiring works, and to simply relax in this tranquil setting. There are some of the finest views to be had from Parc Guell, as the site is situated on top of El Carmel Hill, and you can appreciate these views for free, which is a delight. 3. Barcelona Cathedral – You will be blown away by the sheer beauty of both the exterior and interior of Barcelona’s Cathedral, boasting the finest Neo-Gothic inspired architecture. This imposing religious site was built in the 13th century, with modifications to the design taking place later in the 19th century, creating the distinguished façade that can be viewed today. You can explore this architectural wonder for free, or opt to pay just €1 for further insight at the cathedral’s museum, or €2 to take a trip up to the cathedral’s spectacular roof. 4. Montjuic Hill – Standing at 230m high, Montjuic Hill overlooks Barcelona city centre and offers fabulous views of the city and of the surrounding areas. Visiting the summit is a great day or afternoon out, with many attractions for all ages. If you’re on a budget then you can reach the top by taking the funicular rail which is part of the city’s Metro line, so is accessible using your Metro ticket, or for an exciting ascent, take the cable car from the beach area of San Sebastia for around €9.30 return. Visit the 1928 Olympic Stadium, which is now used for the city’s 2nd football team, the Castell de Montjuic, which was used as a defence fortress for the city in the 18th century. Admission to Castell de Montjuic is free, and often hosts outdoor festivals and films. Admire many Mediterranean plants and flowers in the Botanical Garden, with entry costing a mere € 3.50, although you can choose to visit on a Sunday for free between 3pm-8pm. 5. Parc de la Ciutadella – Barcelona’s City Park is a vast public space stretching over 70 acres of parkland, lakes and playgrounds. Once viewed as a place of repression due to its previous occupation as a fortress, the site is now a tranquil oasis offering many exciting activities. The lake offers boats to hire, and a stunning fountain called The Cascada, which was constructed with the aid of Antoni Gaudi. Prepare a picnic in the kitchen of your Barcelona holiday apartment, and simply relax and enjoy the free open space, or if you have some money to space, visit the park’s zoo, which showcases over 7,500 animals.