What to Do in Barcelona When it Rains

Rain in Barcelona might dampen your travel plans, but don’t worry!  There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona when it rains so you can still have a great time without the weather ruining your trip.  From exploring some of the excellent museums in Barcelona to foodie treats, shopping and some more unusual activities, here are the best things to do in Barcelona in the rain.

How Often Does It Rain in Barcelona?

It doesn’t rain very often in Barcelona, although it does depend on what time of year you are visiting the city.  There has been a period of drought in Catalonia during the last few years, but recently rain has returned and while you may not like it, it is much needed to replenish the reservoirs that serve the city, so try to embrace wet weather in Barcelona if you can!

On average, Barcelona receives about 55 rainy days per year.  Summer tends to be hot and dry, although the occasional storm isn’t unheard of.  The rest of the year, you might get some rain, and most of the rain falls during the cooler months, from October to April.  November and February tend to be the wettest months.

So, if you’re planning to visit Barcelona and want to avoid the rain, the best time to go to Barcelona is during the summer, when the weather is generally sunny and dry.

However, that is also the busiest time of year, so if you want to visit Barcelona when it is a little quieter, then you might need to prepare for a little rain.  But don’t worry – even on rainy days, there are plenty of indoor things to do in Barcelona to keep you warm and dry in wet weather.

What to do in Barcelona in the Rain?

Visit some Top Class Museums in Barcelona

Barcelona museums are among the best in the world and there is something for everyone to enjoy, with topics ranging from art and history to marijuana and wax figures!

Unfortunately, if it rains on a Monday, most museums in Barcelona are closed on Mondays (unless it is a public holiday) so check opening days and times before you arrive at the museum you want to visit.

If you are in Barcelona on a Sunday and it’s raining, many of the museums in Barcelona are free after 3pm, or all day on the 1st Sunday of the month, although you’ll need to book tickets in advance.  Check out the best free museums in Barcelona here.

Barcelona Money Saving Tip

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There are too many to list here but these are some of the most popular museums in Barcelona that are perfect for visiting on a rainy day in Barcelona:

Museu Picasso (Picasso Museum)

Dedicated to the famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, this museum houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks from his early years.  There are a few “classic” Picasso pieces, but a lot that I wouldn’t have recognised as his work, so I’d say it’s one for Picasso fans but there are other more interesting museums if you are just a casual visitor.

That said, the Picasso Museum is one of the most visited museums in Barcelona, so you’ll need to book tickets in advance or expect a long line – especially if it is raining!  Tickets do not include an audio guide unless you book one for €5.  Closed on Mondays.

➡️ Buy Tickets for the Picasso Museum

➡️ Book a Guided Tour of the Picasso Museum

Moco Museum Barcelona

The Moco Museum in Barcelona has an excellent collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by greats such as Warhol, Basquiat and Banksy, as well as up-and-coming artists.  Many of the exhibitions are interactive so you can enjoy digital immersive art as well as more “traditional” pieces. It is on the same street as the Picasso Museum so it could be a nice combo to visit one and then the other.  Open every day.

➡️ Buy Moco Museum Barcelona Entry Tickets 

FC Barcelona Museum

The FC Barcelona Museum, officially known as the “Camp Nou Experience,” is a must-visit for football (soccer) enthusiasts and fans of FC Barcelona.  While Camp Nou is undergoing extensive renovation work until mid-2025 the experience doesn’t include a tour of the ground but it is still worth going if you are a fan, and there is a viewpoint so you can see the work going on inside the stadium.  Open every day.

➡️ Buy FC Barcelona Museum “Barça Immersive Tour” Tickets

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)

Located in the stunning Palau Nacional on Montjuïc hill, The National Catalan Art Museum (MNAC) has an impressive collection of Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the mid-20th century.  The beautiful building is almost worth the visit alone, and there are various other attractions to explore on Montjuic before or after your visit.  Avance tickets aren’t usually needed but you can book online here.  Closed on Mondays.

Fundació Joan Miró (Joan Miró Foundation)

This museum is also on Montjuïc, and is dedicated to the works of the renowned Catalan surrealist artist Joan Miró. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and other pieces spanning Miró’s career.  (You can also spot some of his work in other places in Barcelona, namely the mosaic on La Rambla, and at the Airport).

➡️ Book Fundació Joan Miró Skip-the-Line Entry Tickets

Barcelona Maritime Museum (Museu Marítim)

Explore the rich maritime history of Barcelona through exhibits on ships, navigation, and underwater archaeology. The incredible museum is housed in historic shipyards at the bottom of La Rambla and is one of my favourite rainy-day activities in Barcelona.  Open every day, online tickets aren’t available so buy them directly at the museum.

Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA)

Focused on contemporary art, MACBA is a cultural hub that hosts a diverse range of temporary exhibitions, performances, and events.

➡️ Buy Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art Entrance Tickets

CosmoCaixa Barcelona

This science museum is great for both adults and children. It features interactive exhibits and a digital planetarium, as well as its own rainforest, making it a fun and educational option on a rainy day.  The website is all in Spanish but some of the events are in English.  Entry is €6 per person.

Barcelona Wax Museum

Explore this interactive museum featuring wax figures of historical and famous personalities. While it can be fun for all ages, I’d say this museum is more for the kids.

➡️ Buy Wax Museum Entry Tickets

Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA)

This museum comprises several sites throughout the city, with various exhibitions about Barcelona’s history. Some of them are indoors and underground, making it a great choice for a rainy day activity in Barcelona.  Most sections are closed on Mondays, advance tickets aren’t usually needed but you can book online here.

Museu Etnològic i de Cultures del Món

This ethnology & culture museum is on the same street as the Picasso Museum and the MOCO Museum, and was a total revelation when I visited it last year.  It is packed with fascinating artefacts from different cultures and civilisations all around the world and the information is provided in Spanish, Catalan and English, with audio guides available.

The museum is very affordable with entry tickets from €5,20 per person.  It’s not usually required to pre-book but you can buy tickets online here.

Barcelona Design Museum

Explore the world of design and decorative arts in this modern museum, which often features special exhibitions alongside its permanent collection.

Admire Barcelona’s Art Galleries

In addition to the larger art museums in the city, there are numerous art galleries in Barcelona that showcase contemporary and traditional art. Entry to all of these is free so you can take a look inside to appreciate local and international artists’ works, and see if you want to buy something to take home as a souvenir.

• Galeria Senda – Carrer de Trafalgar, 32
• Galeria Joan Gaspar – Carrer de la Diputació, 290
• Alzueta Gallery Barcelona Seneca – Carrer de Seneca,9
• Base Elements Urban Art Gallery – Carrer dels Banys Vells, 26
• N2 Galería – Carrer d’Enric Granados, 61
• Galería Artevistas – Passatge del Crèdit, 4
• Galeria Eude – Carrer del Consell de Cent, 278

Explore Gaudi’s Masterpieces

Many of Antoni Gaudí’s famous architectural works can be enjoyed indoors if it rains in Barcelona.

Palau Güell, La Pedrera and Casa Batlló are all mostly indoors where you can admire the architecture and artistry without getting wet.  That said, to fully enjoy the rooftops of these Gaudí houses you will need to brave the rain, and they each have terraces which are definitely worth getting wet for!

As for La Sagrada Familia, you can see it from outside at any time, regardless of the weather, and the Sagrada Familia interior is still breathtaking, although it is better when the sun shines through the stained glass window, you can still appreciate the brilliance of Gaudí’s design and vision if it is raining outside.

However, Park Güell is almost all outdoors, so while you certainly can visit Park Güell in the rain, it is best in the sunshine if you have a nice day when you can take your time and appreciate the views of the city, too!

Visit Casa Amatller

This impressive modernist building was designed by architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch in 1900, and is usually less crowded than some of Gaudí’s famous works, despite being right next door to Casa Batlló. It offers guided tours in English, Spanish and Catalan, and is a fantastic example of the Art Nouveau movement which you can enjoy on a rainy day in Barcelona as it is all indoors.

The Amatller family, who owned the building, were chocolate manufacturers and there is also a chocolate shop downstairs where you can buy the beautifully packaged chocolate for a souvenir or gift from Barcelona.  There’s a small cafe too which sells pastries, salads and sandwiches, and delicious hot chocolate!

Marvel at the Palau de la Música Catalana

Enjoy a concert or take a guided tour of the beautiful modernist concert hall Palau de la Musica, designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a perfect way to experience Barcelona’s artistic heritage indoors.

Be sure to take a look at the program of events as well, seeing a performance in the Palau de la Musica is a wonderful experience whatever the weather!

Dive into the Aquarium

Visiting the Aquarium in Barcelona is a must for nature enthusiasts and families. You can get up close and personal with an array of marine life, including sharks, colourful coral reefs, and seahorses.  You can even book an experience to dive with sharks!

The Aquarium provides a fantastic educational experience, with an emphasis on the importance of ocean conservation through immersive displays and interactive exhibits.  It is likely to be very busy though as it is a popular indoor attraction in Barcelona at any time, but especially when it rains!

Shop Till You Drop

Explore the city’s shopping streets and malls for something to treat yourself or a souvenir to take home. Some popular shopping areas include Passeig de Gracia for high-end stores, Portal de l’Àngel for the usual high-street shops, and Maremagnum.

The Maremagnum shopping centre is ideal for rainy days as it’s largely indoors, and it’s close to the Aquarium too.  There is also a food court – Time Out Market – where you can grab some food.

Barcelona also has a thriving vintage and thrift store scene as well as lots of independent boutiques in the Gothic Quarter, El Born and Gracia. Spend some time hunting for unique finds to add to your wardrobe or collection, although you might get wet going from shop to shop, so bring an umbrella!

Enjoy Delicious Food and Drink

Barcelona is known for its culinary scene and there is lots of delicious food to try here.  Spend your rainy day in Barcelona exploring the city’s tapas bars and restaurants. Try some local dishes and a glass of cava sparkling wine to wash them down, or warm up with a sweet treat of a cup of Spanish hot chocolate and long, sweet donuts known as churros – perfect for dipping in the chocolate!

Discover Barcelona’s Chocolate Heritage

Speaking of chocolate, Barcelona is known for its chocolate, and you can find a variety of high-quality chocolate in shops around the city.  However, to get to know more, I recommend a chocolate tasting at Chocolate Amatller in El Born neighbourhood.  Amatller is one of the most important Barcelona chocolate brands and started a chocolate factory in El Born in the 1800s.

More recently, in 2025, Chocolate Amatller bought an emblematic store close to where their original factory was.  It’s here where Chocolate Amatller offer their chocolate tasting experience that my friends and I loved!  We started with a short video about the history of chocolate in Barcelona and the history of the Amatller family and then had a guided chocolate tasting.

Our host talked us through each piece of chocolate we tasted (4 different varieties) and we learned which flavours to look out for.  Then we got to grind our own cocoa beans to blend our own chocolate, before finishing with a cup of smooth hot chocolate.

We then had time to taste some more samples and buy some more chocolate from the store.  If you love chocolate, you will love this chocolate tasting in Barcelona ➡️ Check prices and availability here

Explore the Local Markets

Speaking of food and drink, the indoor food markets in Barcelona are a fantastic way to see what local produce is on offer and enjoy some tasty food at the bars and stalls within the markets.  Here are some of the best Barcelona markets to visit:

Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria

Also just known as La Boqueria, the most famous market in Barcelona is just off La Rambla, so is more popular with tourists and less so with locals.  It is always busy, but you can still find some gems, especially if you leave the main aisles and explore.  El Quim de la Boqueria is a good place to sit and eat here, or buy something to take-away.

Santa Caterina Market (Mercat de Santa Caterina)

Known for its modern architecture and colourful tiled roof, Santa Caterina Market is in the Born neighbourhood, not far from the Gothic Cathedral. The market has a wide selection of fresh produce, seafood, meats, and artisanal products.

It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for high-quality ingredients and a great place to eat too.  Bar Joan is one of my favourites.

Sant Antoni Market (Mercat de Sant Antoni)

The Mercat de Sant Antoni is one of Barcelona’s historic markets and is particularly known for its architectural significance and diverse stalls. The market first opened in 1882 and underwent a major renovation before reopening in 2018.  You can find some excellent local produce and some great tapas bars too like Bar Restaurant Pinotxo.

Cooking Classes

Join a cooking class in Barcelona to learn how to prepare Spanish and Catalan dishes like tapas and paella. It’s a fun and educational way to spend a rainy day, not to mention the delight of eating everything you’ve prepared!

Some tours include a market visit so you might get wet going from the market back to the kitchen location, but the promise of all that tasty food should be enough to get you through the showers!

Food and Wine Tastings

Another wonderful way to enjoy the food in Barcelona is to take part in a tasting or a food tour.  There are various wine tastings in Barcelona city centre you can try, or visit a wine shop that offers tastings themselves.

If you are more of a foodie, then a food tour will keep your tastebuds busy, even in the rain!  While you might get wet walking from place to place, you’ll be able to dry off and warm up as you tuck into the delicious dishes.

Tour a Gin Distillery

Gin might not be the first drink you think of in Barcelona, but Corpen Distillery is the first distillery to make gin in Barcelona city centre, and you can go and tour the distillery in Poble Nou.  Make sure you have a sample of gin while you are there!  You can also buy full-size or mini bottles to take home with you, or buy a bottle online if you’re short of luggage space!

Bar Hopping

Barcelona is a fantastic place for small, independent tapas bars where you can enjoy a bite to eat and a drink before moving on to the next cute bar.  Most neighbourhoods have enough bars so you can hop from one to the other without spending too much time outdoors!

Carrer Blai in Poble Sec is perfect for pintxos – a Basque style tapas of a slice of bread with various toppings, and there is a whole street lined with bars to choose from.  For cava and tapas, try la Xampaneria on the edge of El Born and Barceloneta, followed by El Xampanyet near the Picasso Museum.

Indulge in Tea Houses and Coffee Shops

For hot drinks instead of alcoholic ones, Barcelona has a variety of cosy cafes and coffee shops where you can relax with a good book, board games, or simply enjoy a hot beverage and a piece of cake.  There aren’t too many places with sofas though so if you find a free spot then snap it up!  I like Lodetto Cafe but there are hundreds all over Barcelona to try.

Indoor Sports & Fitness

Some sports facilities, like indoor swimming pools or gyms, might be a good option for staying active on a rainy day.  Many yoga and wellness studios in Barcelona offer drop-in classes to try, or for the more adventurous, try indoor climbing or bouldering at one of the city’s climbing gyms.

You might be able to find a salsa or flamenco class to try out too.

Get Lost in a Book at a Library or Bookstore

If you enjoy reading, consider visiting a local library or bookstore. You might find some interesting books in both Spanish and Catalan as well as some English books.  Some, like Llibreria la Central have cafes inside where you can have a snack and a hot drink surrounded by books – that bookshop also has a good selection of English books too.

The Gabriel García Márquez Library in Barcelona was named the best new library in the world in 2023, so you can head there to admire the architecture as well as browse the books and magazines on offer.

Treat Yourself with a Spa or Massage Experience

Pamper yourself at one of Barcelona’s spas. It’s a great way to relax and rejuvenate on a gloomy day.  There are numerous options for a Thai massage in Barcelona, as well as more exclusive spas where you can swim, wallow in a jacuzzi and steam away all your stress.

AIRE Ancient Baths is a lovely spot to relax indoors for a spa experience, or if you’re just looking for a massage, I had a great one at Moon Relax Spa near the Sagrada Familia.

Escape Rooms & Gaming

Challenge your mind by participating in an indoor escape room. There are several Escape Rooms in Barcelona that can provide a thrilling and brain-teasing experience to help you avoid the rain in Barcelona.  You can also check out the gaming arcades or virtual reality centres in the city for some high-tech entertainment that’s perfect for a rainy day.

Gamble the Night Away

If you’re feeling lucky, head to one of the casinos in Barcelona where you can spend your money – and maybe even win some!

Watch a Movie at the Cinema

Catch a movie at one of Barcelona’s English-language cinemas.  Several movie theatres show films in the original language – look for English movies advertised in VOSE (original version with Spanish subtitles) so you can watch the film in English.

Cinemas where you can find original version films in Barcelona include Renoir Floridablanca in Sant Antoni, Cines Verdi in Gracia, Mooby Cinema at Glòries and Phenomena close to Sagrada Familia, which shows classic films as well as modern releases.

Watch a Flamenco Show

Experience the passion of traditional Spanish flamenco at an evening flamenco show in Barcelona. While Flamenco isn’t traditionally from Catalonia there are some excellent venues in Barcelona that offer indoor shows where you can enjoy a flamenco performance.

Have a Laugh at a Comedy Club

As there is a large international community in Barcelona, there are several comedy clubs that have performances in English.  It’s a great way to spend an evening in Barcelona on a rainy day and have some laughs at the same time!

Language Exchange Meetups

MeetUp is a great website to look for events like language exchanges or casual networking in Barcelona, where you can meet locals and practice your language skills in a local bar.  It’s free to join and browse although most events have a small cost to attend.

Watch a Show at a Concert Hall or Theatre

Check for indoor performances at concert halls and theatres. Barcelona has a busy cultural scene, so you might find classical concerts, plays, or ballet performances as well as modern pop, rock and local and international bands.  The Palau de la Musica Catalana I mentioned above is a stunning venue so it is well worth checking their schedule to see if you can catch a show there!

Craft Workshops

Join a craft workshop or visit a craft store where you can create your own unique souvenirs.  I did an espadrilles workshop in the Gothic Quarter and loved creating my own espadrille shoes to wear.  It was a two-hour workshop and we were cozy and dry inside!

Some workshops in Barcelona are geared towards traditional crafts like ceramics, Gaudí-style mosaics or espadrilles, whereas others are more for creative fun.  Here are some options for you!

Things to do Outdoors when it Rains in Barcelona

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

If you don’t mind getting a little wet, watch the light and music show at the Magic Fountain. This outdoor attraction can be enjoyed even on rainy evenings, as the show continues in rainy weather.

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a fabulous light and water show that takes place in front of the National Palace. It’s a free event and is a must-see if you’re in Barcelona at night, and the shows have recently restarted after being out of action for several years due to drought.

Photograph the City

Wet weather can actually be a wonderful time to get photos of Barcelona, in particular the Old Town of the Gothic Quarter and El Born.  The narrow streets are deserted and reflections in the puddles add an extra dimension to your photographs.

Do Everything Anyway

It’s true that poor weather in Barcelona can dampen your spirits, and dark skies don’t always look as good on photos – but if you have the right waterproof clothing there is nothing to stop you doing almost everything you would have done in the sunshine.

Some attractions may close due to the weather, for example the Montjuic Cable Car won’t operate in high winds or torrential rain – and you won’t see much of the view on a rainy day anyway, but the majority of activities in Barcelona remain open in all weathers, so grab a coat and get out there!

More Tips for Enjoying Barcelona in the Rain

Preparation is the key to making the most of Barcelona rainy days, so here are a few more tips so you can make the most of it!

Check the Forecast

Before you travel to the city, check the Barcelona weather forecast for the duration of your visit so you at least have an idea of what to expect.  Forecasts change of course, and aren’t always accurate but if it hints at rain then you can plan ahead.

Bring Waterproof Jacket & Umbrella

Even if the forecast is good, I still bring an umbrella with me whenever I travel – and a colourful umbrella can always be used as a parasol too, I love using my bright yellow umbrella as it brings a bit of sunshine into a grey day!

Wear Waterproof Shoes

I hate having wet feet, and even if you have an umbrella to keep most of you dry, once your feet get wet it is hard to get them dry again.  Wet feet are more likely to rub in your shoes, and if you’re walking around a lot then prevention is much better than a cure.

Plan Your Route

Plan your route around the city to avoid being out in the rain as much as possible.  Make use of public transport if you have an Hola Barcelona Travel Card or other city card that includes unlimited public transport for the duration of the ticket, or a standard transport ticket, or consider calling a taxi if you want to get dropped off at the door.

Uber is available in Barcelona, and can be a good way to call a taxi if there aren’t any passing on the street.  Check the prices in the app to see if it is cheaper/quicker to request a standard taxi cab instead of an Uber.

Enjoy!

Barcelona is a special city, even in the rain.  I’m sure with these tips and ideas you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Barcelona when it rains so you won’t even care about the weather and just get on with enjoying your vacation!