Spain is a noticeably relaxed place to visit on Sundays, even in Barcelona. Lots of places might be closed as employees and shop-owners get their well-deserved weekly rest with family, but that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to do. Here are five plans to fill a beautiful Sunday in Barcelona this spring or summer:
1. Visit museums for free
Nearly every museum is open to the public for free for a few hours per week, mostly on Sundays. If not weekly, it’s likely to happen every first Sunday of the month.
This city has lots of options to choose from, ranging from museums on music to art, history and maritime life, not to mention one devoted to chocolate. Check local guides and institution websites to verify the exact hours of your destination of choice.
Two semi-exceptions: La Virreina Centre de la Imatge is always free. On the other hand, MACBA, the Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona, is free on Saturday afternoons.
On International Museums Day, Barcelona joins the thousands of cities worldwide that open their doors for free. Check the calendar for Barcelona’s participation, called “Nit dels Museus”, which frequently is held on a Sunday.
2. Stroll through the markets
While the food markets aren’t open, there are other street markets to explore on a Sunday morning in Barcelona.
The Fira de Nautumismo in Plaça Reial has already earned its reputation among stamp and rare-item collectors.
There’s a great art market in Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol from just 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, so don’t miss it! On the other hand, Plaça Blanquerna is an open place of trade right through Sunday afternoon for those of you who sleep in late.
Books and accessories are up for grabs at just an euro each at L'Ovella Negra del Poblenou, on carrer Zamora.
There’s food, kids’ activities and live music at Monumental Club on the last Sunday of the month. While there is an entrance fee, it’s pretty cheap. This is a good option if you’re accompanied by children.
3. Go to the cinema and enjoy a film
When it comes to film, why stick with international releases you could see in your hometown when you have access to independent houses with amazing yet lesser-known films from artists worldwide, right around the corner?
Here are a few of the city’s best:
Cine Texas (Carrer de Bailén, 205) Located on the edge of the Gràcia neighborhood, this is an indie-lovers’ favorite and a student hotspot. Beyond the intense film at cheap prices, English speakers will notice that Catalan is a main part of the vibe and offer. What a great way to learn and practice with locals!
Filmoteca de Catalunya (Plaça de Salvador Seguí, 1, 9) Smack in the middle of El Raval, the Catalonia Department of Culture is the engine behind this highly-popular movie theater where you can find local, Spanish and international films, either dubbed or in their original language.
Cinema Maldà (Carrer del Pi, 5) This little gem in the center of the old Jewish quarter, el Call, shows films in VOSE. You’re guaranteed to find not just Spanish and American films, but local Catalan and art film originating from Egypt, Finland, Japan and Korea, Chile and many more.
Tips:
- VO means version original, in the original language. Alternatively, VOSE means version original, subtitulado en español, meaning original language with Spanish subtitles.
- Make sure to be there in plenty of time. Locals know where the good stuff is, so movies get sold out frequently. Plus, you don’t want to be that person who opens the door when the movie’s already going, then has to pass in front of somebody…you get the picture.
4. Buy books
Get to know the booksellers at the Sant Antoni book market on Sundays from 10 am to 3 pm. Postcards, stamps, DVDs and posters are also on sale and the selection stretches for at least two city blocks!
The vast majority on offer is for Spanish and Catalan readers, although some of the places mentioned do offer titles in English, French and a precious few in other languages.
5. Indulge in AIRE
Barcelona can keep you going at a frenetic pace. Where is the best place to relax in Barcelona on a Sunday?
The experience awaiting you in the city center starts with your first step through the door at Passeig Picasso, 22. Embrace the timeless wisdom of health and beauty rituals originating around the Mediterranean that have been passed down to us from generation to generation. Come into AIRE on a Sunday and discover the place where time stops.