Discover the Alternative Side of Barcelona
Come and explore Barcelona a vibrant city that has been known with its grand architectural designs, beautiful beaches and historical roots. Other than the famous landmarks, such as Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, there is another less known cooler side of Barcelona that should be mixed with its alternative culture. All throughout this blog, we’ll discover the hidden places and unique moments that define Barcelona for the seekers of out-of-the-box expeditions.
Street Art and Graffiti
The bohemian nature of Barcelona’s art means its streets become an open-air gallery for the entire city. If you’re interested in street art culture, visit the El Raval neighborhood in Barcelona. Strolling in these streets shambling upon you are vibrant murals depicting the colourful fabric of Barcelona’s culture and social life. A visit to Barcelona will not be complete without viewing Jardins de les Tres Xemeneies where you will be seen comprehensively tagged with graffiti on the walls.
Eccentric Architecture
Even though the city is best known for its famous creations by Gaudí, it also accommodates an array of lesser known architectural gems. The Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site is an unknown place whose glory is the avant-garde architecture of Lluís Domènech i Montaner. This complex here is full of impressive mosaics, attention-getting facades, and peaceful gardens that make it an out-of-the-park escape from the jam-packed tourist sites of the city.
Hidden Cafes and Bars
Although, Barcelona is celebrated for its dining places, many visitors might not be aware of the local eateries that hide in class sight. El Born neighborhood is a perfect staging post for seeking out hidden gems. Find little gems of a tucked away café on the side streets that offer up the same traditional flavours found at home. If you’re looking for a unique night scene then Gràcia is your place – it’s filled with original bars and venues that feature live music. Walk around Plaça del Sol and witness original, unusual nightlife of the city.
Local Markets and Vintage Shopping
Seeing Barcelona’s local markets and vintage shops provides an irreversible shopping opportunity. Mercat de Sant Antoni is an active market offering a myriad of fresh food, antiques and vintage clothes. For all retro-clothing lovers, a stop in El Raval should be made, and there many unique boutiques line the avenues representing a variety of vintage items.
Alternative Festivals and Events
If somehow you would end up in Barcelona while one of its alternative festival or events is on, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. In August, the Festa Major de Gràcia brings life to Gràcia with the local streets alive in bright colors and full of exuberant performances and revelry. During the month of September, the BAM Festival introduces Barcelona’s music community to life without the restriction of charges in form of free performances in the many parks and public areas in the city.
Escape to Nature
Although it is brimming with barrels of energy, the city offers plenty of space to escape in its natural location. To stay in a peaceful and restorative way, Montjuïc Mountain has handsome gardens and panoramic views as well as an antique fortress to explore. For adventure trotters, Collserola Natural Park promises a simple trek, a green cup of gumption outside of Barcelona. Forsake the city, walk in the city’s verdant parks and landscapes.
Conclusion
Barcelona is actually a treasure house of a vibrant alternative scene that is eager to be discovered by adventurous visitors. For the adventurous eye that wants to catch the city in a novel light, there are more than enough treasures to be found such as cutting edge street art and lesser known eateries. Why not make a random trip to find Barcelona’s secret treasures and other cultures? Through exploring these other spots, you will encounter rare moments, an intimate relationship with Catalan culture and memories that will last a life-time.
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