Barcelona is known throughout the world for its unique architecture, fashion, and beautiful weather along the northern Spanish Mediterranean coastline. However, beyond the normal tourist attractions and sights, you’ll discover a number of hidden gems tucked away from most visitors. From secrets bars to breathtaking hotels, with a city as old as Barcelona you’ll discover a secret world, if you just know where to look. Here are seven of the secret hidden gems in Barcelona you absolutely must check out during your next visit.
Bunkers of Carmel
Also known as Bunkers del Carmel, these are hidden bunkers that were built into the mountainside and served as anti-aircraft fortifications used during the Spanish Civil War in 1938. While the cannons have since been removed, you will have the perfect panorama view of the entire city and even the sea beyond. This is one spot you’ll want to make sure you bring your camera for. If you’re an early riser, strap on your best hiking shoes and head out to see the sunrise for a more intimate experience that isn’t crowded with tourists.
Labyrinth Park of Horta
Whether in children’s literature or in movies, you’ve likely seen these picturesque hedge mazes. The original corn maze, Labyrinth Park of Horta has been entertaining guests since 1791. It is a fun-filled maze and also brimming with history that you can learn about on the grounds of this unique location. However, if you do decide to come out here make sure you do so early. Only 750 visitors are allowed into the park per day to help maintain its beauty.
Gelarto Rosa
Maybe hiking through a maze isn’t your style. Perhaps snacking on delicious gelato is? Gelarto Rosa is a local “chain” of gelaterias where you’ll be served scoops of the frozen treat shaped like beautiful, colorful roses. The snack alone is worth a picture so, whether you’re going for a refreshing bite or just for an Instagram post, you’ll find this spot to be worthy of coming back to (or maybe another one of its other locations in Europe).
El Paradiso
Yes, you read that right. It’s a speakeasy that you enter through a freezer door. This is one bar that looks like it’s out of a Stanley Kubrick movie. When you arrive at the Patrami Bar, make your way down to this iconic watering hole. We can’t expose too much information as this was meant to be a secret, after all. You’ll just have to see for yourself why this made the list of the best hidden gems in Barcelona.
Bo de B
You’ll probably be hungry after a day of sightseeing and exploring the city and there is no shortage of fantastic restaurants in Barcelona. This not-so-fancy, hole in the wall spot will serve up one of the best sandwiches in Spain and beyond. Sample their small plates or gorge yourself with a massive baguette sandwich that’ll soon become the best you’ve ever (and will ever) eat. Don’t be fooled by the appearance of this location from the outside, the food is high-quality and fresh. Just as your mom always said, don’t judge a book by its cover!
El Bombon
Looking to dance like a local while soaking up Caribbean music? El Bombon is a refreshing combination of Spanish style and Caribbean flair. Listen to the live band while sipping on one of their out-of-this-world Caribbean cocktails. You might even forget that you’re not in the islands. Dance the night away at this lesser-known club and enjoy some of their late-night snacks after your feet tire.
Ayre Hotel
You will come to Ayre Hotel not specifically for the beds (although you can), but for the spectacular view of Sagrada Familia and sangria from the rooftop bar. It offers the very best view of the city. So book a stay here, or just swing by for an afternoon cocktail to enjoy spectacular views of the city and architecture of the 17th-century temple.
These are seven hidden gems in Barcelona many who visit tend to miss. In fact, many who live in the city don’t even know about these locations. So from sneaking into bars tucked away in freezers to incredible views of this historic city, the next time you find yourself in Barcelona make sure to stop by each of these destinations. You’ll be glad you did.
Shawn Boyer is the Co-founder and Creative Director of Anatomie. Anatomie is a luxury travel clothing brand worn by travelers across the globe.
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