The Atlas Obscura Guide To Barcelona

74 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

Updated August 7, 2026

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Unusual Attractions in Barcelona

Casa Batllo

Barcelona, Spain

Casa Batlló

One of Antoni Gaudí's most classic buildings is well-known for its "dragon-back" design.

The facade of the church, still under construction.

Barcelona, Spain

Sagrada Família

Construction of Barcelona’s iconic (but controversial) church was finally completed in 2026—a century after the death of its architect.

Labyrinth Park of Horta

Barcelona, Spain

Labyrinth Park of Horta

This semi-secret storybook hedge maze is also the oldest garden in the city.

Houses inside Park Güell designed by Gaudí

Barcelona, Spain

Park Güell

Gaudí's famously flamboyant architectural style is on full display in this sprawling park and garden.

Barcelona, Spain

Montjuïc Cemetery

This cemetery features modernist statues as strange as its name.

Barcelona, Spain

Calder Mercury Fountain

A beautiful but toxic fountain of mercury.

Bunkers del Carmel

Barcelona, Spain

Bunkers of Carmel

These secluded and abandoned anti-aircraft defenses have become one the most scenic viewpoints in Barcelona.

See All 74 Things To Do in Barcelona

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Barcelona

Chocolate chariot driver and his horses (Flickr/SpirosK)

Barcelona, Spain

Chocolate Museum

Gaze upon chocolate sculptures depicting everything from chariot races to Gaudí's famous church at this shrine to sweets.

Barcelona, Spain

Caelum

This cafe offers a curated collection of treats and tipples made by monks and nuns.

This venerable bar was founded in 1820.

Barcelona, Spain

Bar Marsella

A centuries-old bar once frequented by Picasso, Hemingway, and Dalí.

See all 14 Places to Eat in Barcelona

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Explore Barcelona, Spain

Architecture 15

Museums 10

Sacred Spaces 9

Restaurants 9

Churches 8

Food 7

Art 6

Collections 5

History 5

Roman 5

History & Culture 5

Gardens 4

Medieval 4

Parks 4

Art Nouveau 4

Sculptures 4

Homes 4

Statues 3

Bars 3

Nature 3

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