Autumn starts on the 23rd of September but it starts getting colder in November. In Autumn, leaves start falling from trees, warm days turn into darker ones and the breeze starts to be noticeable. It’s also time to get the umbrella out of the wardrobe. What can we do on a rainy day in Barcelona?
Here are some ideas for you to bear in mind when the weather is dull. Then, you won’t have any excuses to go out and explore the city!
Shopping addicts
Do you like going shopping and spending all your savings on your favorite clothing brand? Well, don’t plan to do that on a sunny day in Barcelona. Instead do it in a rainy day as Barcelona has several indoor shopping malls where you can shop all day long without getting wet.
Maremagnum is the star of Barcelona for shopping addicts as it is situated in one of the main touristic areas in the city, the Port. It is big, has many shops, restaurants and it has a nice view. It opens everyday, including lazy Sundays and there’s also a cinema. NOTE: Las Golondrinas and The Aquarium are nearby the shopping center.
The other well known shopping center is Las Arenas, which is Barcelona’s old bullring, located in Plaça Espanya. Here you can find many expensive and affordable brands, jewelry stands, restaurants, a supermarket, a cinema and amazing views from the top floor.
The last but not least shopping mall is Maquinista. It also has a cinema, an arcade and bowling, restaurants and lots of shops. However, its location is not as central as the previous ones as it is situated on Torres i Bages Metro station (near Santa Coloma).
Art & Culture in Museums
Museums are probably the go-to attraction when the weather is not great as it’s the perfect indoor space to get to know the destination through its history, culture and art. You can also visit museums in a sunny day, it’s just a shame to miss out on the beach, xiringuitos or any outdoor event that is going on then. Remember that museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month. You can also book a ticket in a venue to enjoy a concert or a show in Liceu Theater or Palau de la Música Catalana.
Popcorn and Films
There are cinemas in most shopping malls but, what if you’re a foreigner who doesn’t speak Spanish and would like to watch a film in English? Well, luckily for you Barcelona has more than a few Original Version Film cinemas such as Yelmo Icaria, Balmes Multicines, Verdi cinemas or Renoir. Check them out and find the one closest to you!
Foodies
Other people just like to eat, drink and explore the latest and coolest bars or restaurants in a city. That’s also fine. Make sure you take the best shot of your dish to post it on Instagram. That’s probably the best option when it’s pouring down outside as not only you’re enjoying brunch, a fancy drink or an exquisite dessert but also discovering original, authentic and stylish places. I totally recommend you to head to El Born neighborhood as it has many caffs that serve delicious brunches, cakes and pastries.
Activities and Entertainment
Escape Rooms are the new tendency for groups, couples or kids that want a change from their usual routine. It is more exciting if there’s not much going on outside. I personally like Escape Rooms as it’s a challenge and gets your brain to work more than usual.
If you’re the type to go for a more relaxing activity, why not book a spa session in Aire ? It has more than 15 Spa experiences to relax body and mind, which you can book online and enjoy any time you want.
Finally, another indoor activity that you could try is learn how to cook a Catalan dish in one of the many organised cooking classes around Barcelona. Improve your skills and cook an authentic Mediterranean meal to your own family back home.
These are just some of the activities that you can do in Barcelona when it’s raining but if you’re still not convinced, you can always stay at home and have a Netflix & Chill evening!
