Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, yet it can be easy to overlook some of its best-kept secrets.
The Gothic Quarter is packed with stunning architecture that takes you back in time! From medieval buildings to ancient Roman ruins, this area is an incredible destination to discover.
It’s a hidden gem and perfect for romantic walk scenes! Plus, it boasts one of the city’s oldest churches as well as an attractive fountain.
1. Park del Laberint d’Horta
Barcelona boasts a number of iconic tourist attractions, making it an attractive tourist destination. But if you’re searching for something unique, why not explore some of Barcelona’s lesser-known gems?
One of our favourite places to explore in Barcelona is the Gothic Quarter, home to stunning architecture that dates back centuries! Stepping through its cobbled streets can give you a feeling of being transported back in time as you wind your way through this vibrant area.
In addition to its stunning buildings, Carrer de l’Argenteria is home to some amazing Roman ruins! Visitors can explore these remnants from an ancient Roman colony that once flourished in this region.
Aside from these stunning historical structures, the Gothic Quarter boasts some of Barcelona’s finest museums! For those with an interest in Roman history, the Temple of Augustus should not be missed!
Another must-visit is the Monasterio de Pedralbes, an 11th century Gothic monastery offering religious art exhibits, meditation courses and other events.
If you’re seeking something a bit more mysterious, the Park del Laberint d’Horta might be worth visiting. Here, visitors can explore two 18th-century gardens as well as an intriguing hedge maze. It’s the perfect getaway from city life while taking in some natural splendor at the same time.
2. Temple of Augustus
Barcelona’s Temple of Augustus, one of Barcelona’s best-kept secrets, is situated in the Gothic quarter of the city and housed within the Medieval building housing the Centre Excursionista de Catalunya (Hiking Club of Catalonia). This 2,000 year-old marvel can be explored via guided tours offered by guides inside or outside of its medieval walls.
This temple was constructed between 2 BC and 14 AD in Barcino, Italy and once towered over its forum square. Consisting of a cella, an antechamber, and podium that were surrounded by columns on all sides, it once towered over this ancient Roman town.
It dates to the Imperial Period and stands atop Mont Taber, a rocky hillock named for Emperor Augustus. As one of Rome’s best-preserved relics of its kind, this temple remains today.
During the Roman era, this temple was a popular site of worship. While much of its features have been lost, its inscriptions remain and can be read today in both Latin and Greek.
The Temple of Augustus is an iconic reminder of Rome’s presence in Anatolia, and its preservation ensures it will remain so for future generations. Whether you come here for its historical significance or to admire its captivating architecture, visitors to Barcelona should not miss this must-visit destination.
3. Old Roman Aqueduct
Barcelona is a bustling metropolis filled with culture, art and cuisine. Its popularity has grown in recent years, making it an increasingly sought-after destination for visitors from around the globe. But if you want to truly immerse yourself in Barcelona’s unique charms and hidden spots, it’s essential to explore its lesser-known corners and hidden spots.
The Old Roman Aqueduct is one of those hidden gems that many tourists overlook. Situated in Barcino, it provided water from the Besos River for centuries.
Today, the remnants of this aqueduct are seamlessly blended into the surrounding modern buildings. But its unique beauty still merits a visit.
Ancient Roman aqueducts used gravity to move water along a long underground tunnel. To create this channel, engineers made it gradually lower so the water could flow downhill even over hills.
Rome engineers devised a system of tunnels when their aqueduct had to cross steep ridges, as well as bridges when terrain descended into valleys. Although difficult, their engineers managed to complete this feat.
At a time when population was increasing and cities were expanding, water became essential to ensure everyone had access to it. Rome’s engineers were able to construct aqueducts across the city as well as an underground network of channels for providing water to temples, churches, and other monuments within its boundaries.
4. Monasterio de Pedralbes
The Monasterio de Pedralbes is an impressive Gothic masterpiece and open to the public as a museum. It offers visitors an insight into the lives of medieval monks.
Queen Elisenda de Montcada founded this monastery in 1326, and it has been run by nuns from the Poor Clare order ever since. Construction was completed quickly, creating one of Catalonia’s finest examples of Gothic architecture.
The main part of the monastery is a church, but you’ll also find St Michael’s Chapel with stunning frescoes depicting scenes from Jesus and Mary’s lives. You can also explore its museum which displays liturgical objects and furniture used by the Poor Clares during their religious observances.
There’s also a medicinal garden and two-dozen miniatures depicting Jesus Christ’s birth, death and resurrection. Additionally, concerts and activities take place in the monastery’s gardens during summer months – making it an ideal getaway from Barcelona’s busy lifestyle.
Queen Elisenda of Montcada founded the Monasterio de Pedralbes in 1326 with support from King James II, to free herself of her sins and those of her family while supporting the Poor Clare order of nuns. It was an enormously successful endeavor – today it still stands as a beacon for spiritual enlightenment.
5. Casa Vicens
Barcelona offers so much to discover and experience, from exploring its beaches to La Sagrada Familia. But there’s also another side of this stunning city that most tourists don’t get to experience: whether you’re after a peaceful stroll through the park, an unforgettable meal at one of its hidden tapas bars or an incredible hike, there is something for everyone in Barcelona.
If you’re a fan of Gaudi’s work, head to the Gracia neighbourhood to visit Casa Vicens – one of his early masterpieces and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constructed between 1883-1885, this house showcases oriental architectural influences combined with decorative elements from Hispanic Islamic art in an innovative blend that only Gaudi could create.
Experience this stunning masterpiece by booking a guided tour that takes you through the entire house. Not only will this give you access to its main rooms, but it’s an excellent opportunity to learn about its history and architecture as well.
Besides being an excellent location to take pictures, the house is also a museum that displays some of Gaudi’s other works. Not only can visitors learn about Gaudi’s career as an architect, they can also gain insight into his artistic influence and Modernism’s evolution. Plus they get an exclusive preview into restoration work done on the house!
6. Museu de la Xocolata
Chocolate lovers won’t want to miss visiting Museu de la Xocolata. This fascinating private museum honors Spain’s beloved chocolate tradition and should be on everyone’s must-visit list for foodies everywhere.
The museum is housed in a red brick building that used to be a monastery near El Born and La Rivera neighborhoods in Madrid. It was created to promote Spain’s chocolate tradition and raise awareness of its nutritional benefits.
The museum features two main sections: an interactive exhibit about chocolate’s history and a showcase of stunning chocolate sculptures. Some models depict local landmarks, including an intricate Sagrada Familia model.
Even if it’s not as popular as some of Barcelona’s other attractions, a visit to this museum is still worth taking. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the museum without any crowds and at your own pace without feeling rushed.
Poblenou Cemetery is another unique attraction worth exploring in the city of Poblenou. Situated within walking distance from its beaches, this burial ground provides a serene and picturesque environment to take a leisurely walk and appreciate local religious art and relics adorning its picturesque walls.
In addition to this hidden treasure, visitors can take in an impressive 360 degree view of Barcelona’s skyline from Tibidabo mountain. Designed by renowned architect Enric Sagnier, this UNESCO-listed church provides breathtaking 360 degree panoramas.