Barcelona is known throughout the world for its unique architecture, fashion, and beautiful weather along the northern Spanish Mediterranean coastline. However, beyond the normal tourist attractions and sights, you’ll discover a number of hidden gems tucked away from most visitors. From secrets bars to breathtaking hotels, with a city as old as Barcelona you’ll discover a secret world if you just know where to look. Here are six of the secret hidden gems in Barcelona you absolutely must check out during your next visit.
Labyrinth Park of Horta
Whether in children’s literature or in movies, you’ve likely seen these picturesque hedge mazes. The original corn maze, Labyrinth Park of Horta has been entertaining guests since 1791. It is a fun-filled maze and also brimming with history that you can learn about on the grounds of this unique location. However, if you do decide to come out here make sure you do so early. Only 750 visitors are allowed into the park per day to help maintain its beauty.
Gelarto Rosa
Maybe hiking through a maze isn’t your style. Perhaps snacking on delicious gelato is? Gelarto Rosa is a local “chain” of gelaterias where you’ll be served scoops of the frozen treat shaped like beautiful, colorful roses. The snack alone is worth a picture so, whether you’re going for a refreshing bite or just for an Instagram post, you’ll find this spot to be worthy of coming back to (or maybe another one of its other locations in Europe).
Ayre Hotel
You will come to Ayre Hotel not specifically for the beds (although you can), but for the spectacular view of Sagrada Familia and sangria from the rooftop bar. It offers the very best view of the city. So book a stay here, or just swing by for an afternoon cocktail to enjoy spectacular views of the city and architecture of the 17th-century temple.
Gardens from Mossèn Costa i Llobera
The cactus is a plant commonly associated with hot climates, like deserts. Who knew that the most important cactus-specialized park in Europe is in Barcelona? Located in one of the sides of the Montjuic Mountain, the Jardin de cactus de Mossèn Costa i Llobera is a beautiful natural space, a botanical reserve of great variety and a terrific viewpoint to see Barcelona. And just a few minutes away from the city.
Casa de les Punxes Terrace
With more than 600 m2 of extension and inspired in the old Wagnerian castles, this modernist rooftop is a must-see for the architecture fans. Not only because of its historic, architectonic and touristic value, but for its exclusiveness. In reduced groups, you will be allowed to get up to this private terrace to enjoy a great view of Barcelona and taste Champagne and Spanish ham.
Pont del Bisbe
In the Gothic district, one of the medieval areas of the city, we find a bridge that connects the Palau de la Generalitat (The Catalonian Government Palace) with La Casa dels Canonges. The great mystery of this famous landmark is in the lower part where, if you look closely, you find a skull pierced by a dagger. How did it get there? What does it mean? Nobody knows. So, if you want to be the one that solves the mystery, you better check it out.