Where to chill out in Barcelona
A round-up of cool havens, hangouts and hideaways where you can chill out in Barcelona.
Ready to relax, unwind and chill out in Barcelona? As the stunning cosmopolitan capital of Spain, there are several reasons why Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. From its cultural attractions and sun-splashed plazas, to its bustling nightlife and exquisite cuisine, Barcelona certainly ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for the ultimate urban getaway. If you’re looking to simply chill out in Barcelona, there are plenty of cool places dotted around the city, from low-key hideaways to popular hangouts. Check out our round-up of the hottest chill out zones in Barcelona.
Barceló Raval 360º Terrace
Hotel Barceló Raval is a beautiful cosmopolitan hotel in the heart of Barcelona city, next to the vibrant Rambla del Raval. The hotel is renowned for its rooftop bar, which offers spectacular 360° views of Barcelona. The terrace also features a non-heated pool if you fancy a refreshing dip, and a fully-stocked bar if you want to sip on sangrias or indulge in delicious tapas. There is plenty of seating around the terrace, from deck chairs to stools to benches, so wherever you sit you will be able to enjoy the impressive panoramic views. This is the ultimate chill out zone for summer days and nights, with a live DJ kicking off the party atmosphere every Thursday to Saturday. Enjoy a unique city experience in a location that’s hard to beat.
Keen to stay in Barcelona’s coolest hangout? Don’t miss out and check the latest deals and availability at Barceló Raval .
Milk Bar and Bistro
Milk Bar and Bistro is a delicious restaurant in Barcelona that sits on Carrer d'en Gignàs. This hot spot is a cool hangout with a cute design, encompassing elegant plush sofas and pillows, giving off a true living room feel. Milk has cemented itself as one of the premium cocktail bars in Barcelona offering a diverse and creative menu. They also offer an extensive menu featuring exquisite food served in an upscale yet unpretentious setting. Looking for the best brunch in Barcelona? Milk is renowned for its ‘Recovery Brunch’, where you’ll find people from all over flocking in after a heavy night out in the city. Served every day from 9:00am to 4:30pm, the mouth-watering American-style brunch menu offers delicious morning options, from warm stacked pancakes, fry-ups and burgers to Cesar salads, avocados and smoothies. There’s no such thing has a hangover after you devour a quintessential Milk recovery brunch.
The Carmel Bunkers
Long known as one of the city’s best kept secrets, the Carmel Bunkers are the ultimate haven if you’re looking to chill out in the city and discover a hidden hangout with a view. The Carmel Bunkers is a viewpoint from which you can see the whole city of Barcelona and enjoy a mesmerising 360º city view. It is located at the top of Turó de la Rovira in the Carmel neighbourhood, which stands at a whopping 262 meters. The bunkers were built during the Spanish Civil War where anti-aircraft guns were installed. Today, the bunkers are a popular hangout if you’re looking to escape the bustling city and touristy traps for a spot of piece and quiet. Pack a picnic and enjoy the very best eyeful of the city, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the sunset and watch the city twinkle.
Plaça del Sol
Located in the west of the city in Barcelona’s low-key district of Gracià lies one of the city’s loveliest plazas - Plaça del Sol. During the day, the plaza is quiet and free from the city’s bustle and noise, making it the perfect hideaway if you’re keen to escape the tourist traps. Tucked between many charming old buildings, this plaza is where you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and dine al fresco in the square’s restaurants and cafes. Come evening, you will find the locals flocking in for a drink and enjoying the acoustic guitar music as the sun goes down.
Poblenou Urban District
If you’re looking for Barcelona’s version of London’s Shoreditch or New York’s Meatpacking District, then Poblenou Urban District is the place to be. The Poblenou neighbourhood was for a long time the industrial fringe of the city and home to many factories and work-houses. In recent years, the neighbourhood has slowly undergone gentrification, with a series of incredible creative hubs springing up. The district has now become a quirky hangout bustling with pop-up shops, warehouse conversions, design studios, artist workshops, hotels, cafes and restaurants. Book yourself on an open-day tour and explore the artistic workshops and attractions of this creative community.
Parc de la Ciutadella
Parc de la Ciutadella is an idyllic park on the north-eastern edge of Ciutat Vella where you can spend a relaxing afternoon hanging out in the city. Lay on the pristine grass underneath the palm trees and soak up the city sun in a tranquil and pleasant atmosphere. The beautiful park also features a lush fountain, a zoo, a museum and a lake in the centre where you can hire a rowing boat and admire the scenic views that surround you. Parc de la Ciutadella is a green oasis for anyone looking to relax and reflect.
Barceloneta Beach
Looking for a wellness kick in Barcelona? Where better to chill out than the incredible urban beach – Barceloneta? This bustling and much-loved stretch is lined with golden sands, restaurants and bars where tourists and locals head to bask in the city sunshine, swim in the warm waters or savour the finest seafood dishes and tapas. Even if you’re not a sun worshipper or beach bum, you will adore chilling out in the city’s most popular hotspot.
Transbordador Aeri del Port
Transbordador Aeri del Port is Barcelona’s spectacular port cable car that cuts across the city’s skyline, offering the most unique and exclusive views over the city. Glide above the tree tops and take in a bird’s eye view of the port, harbour and famed monuments in a journey that lasts up to approximately ten minutes. If you’d prefer to explore the city views in a relaxed environment as opposed to busy guided tours, then this is the ideal experience for you.