Experience Barcelona: 10 Must-Do Experiences While at DrupalCon 2024

Authored by Nadiia Nykolaichuk.

The city hosting DrupalCon 2024 is as vibrant, welcoming, and diverse as the Drupal community itself. Barcelona blends modern flair with rich heritage just like Drupal combines innovation with a solid foundation of time-proven practices and tools. In addition to diving into the insightful DrupalCon 2024 sessions, attendees will undoubtedly want to experience the irresistible charm of the city’s lively streets, eclectic neighborhoods, and architectural marvels. 

For those heading to the event, the DrupalCon website has a great list of things to do in Barcelona. Here is our own version of 10 wonderful activities, featuring both iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

10 must-do activities in Barcelona for DrupalCon attendees

1. Feel Barcelona’s festive spirit at La Mercè

Passeig de Gracia (Carrer del Rosselló - Carrer d'Aragó)

The La Mercè festival is held in honor of the city’s patron saint, La Mercè, from September 20 to 24. The main day is the 24th which also happens to be the opening day of DrupalCon 2024! La Mercè ignites the city with parades, stunning fireworks, and traditional Catalan spectacles like “castells” (human towers) and “gegants” (giant figures). 

2. Wander through whimsical parks

• Park Güell

Carrer d'Olot, 5, 08024

Discover the fantastical Park Güell — the creation of Barcelona’s architectural genius, Antoni Gaudí. It features a long winding mosaic-covered colorful bench with stunning views of the city, “gingerbread houses,” fancy columns, and a signature whimsical salamander sculpture. The park is one of the city’s most photographed spots so book your tickets in advance. 

• Labyrinth of Horta

Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, 08035

One of the lesser known gems of Barcelona is Labyrinth of Horta Park (“Parc del Laberint d’Horta”) — a serene old garden with an enchanting maze of cypress trees, romantic sculptures, and beautiful fountains.

3. Get enchanted by La Sagrada Família

Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013

Never miss Barcelona’s visiting card — La Sagrada Família by Gaudí. The breathtaking basilica springs to the sky like intricate lace, captivating visitors with its towering spires, rainbow-hued stained glass, and the mesmerizing play of light inside. The construction of La Sagrada Família continues even after Gaudí’s passing. The basilica attracts 3 million visitors per year, so if you’d like to see its stunning interior, consider booking tickets.

4. Explore Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, and Casa Vicens

Take a tour of some of the most famous “casas” (“houses”) by Gaudí that are located on or near Passeig de Gràcia — a large open-air museum:

• Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

Passeig de Gràcia, 92

It has a wavy exterior, wrought-iron balconies, and a rooftop with chimney sculptures resembling warriors. It is known locally as the “House of Bones.” 

• Casa Batlló

Passeig de Gràcia, 43

This house is renowned for its colorful mosaic facade, intricate ceramic tiles, and unique window shapes.

• Casa Vicens

Carrer de les Carolines, 24

This “casa” features vibrant ceramic tiles and intricate ironwork, showcasing a blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Oriental influences. 

5. Feel the ancient vibe of the Gothic Quarter

Barri Gòtic, 08002

Immerse yourself in Barcelona’s historic charm in the Gothic Quarter (“Barri Gòtic”), a labyrinth of narrow medieval streets and ancient buildings. You’ll uncover hidden squares, centuries-old churches, and remarkable Gothic architecture. Key highlights include the breathtaking Barcelona Cathedral and the lively Reial Square (“Plaça Reial”).

6. Experience the street culture at la Rambla

La Rambla, 08002

Barcelona’s bustling central boulevard, La Rambla, is full of street performers, charming local shops, and inviting cafes. It also features notable landmarks, including the Christopher Columbus Monument. As in any popular tourist destination, be mindful of pickpockets.

7. Feel the passion of flamenco

Even though flamenco did not originate in Catalonia, you can enjoy this captivating show of passion and rhythm with haunting melodies of Spanish guitar. Here are some of the most authentic flamenco places:

• Tablao Flamenco Cordobes

La Rambla, 35, 08002

• El Tablao de Carmen

Ctra. de Montjuïc, 70, 08038

8. Savor the flavors of Barcelona

Take the taste of Barcelona home with you! You might enjoy:

• tapas (a variety of small savory snacks or appetizers)
• paella (a traditional Spanish rice dish often made with seafood, meat, or vegetables)
• croquetas (breaded and fried croquettes)
• jamón (cured ham)
• patatas bravas (crispy fried potatoes with a spicy red sauce)
• churros (long, thin, and fried dough pastries, often with sweet fillings)
• and other delicious dishes

A great idea is to order “menu del dia” (menu of the day), which will be affordable and diverse.

• El Born district

El Born, 08003

Although Barcelona is lively with excellent dining spots, one in particular stands out as a prime example — El Born, a vibrant neighborhood full of trendy bars, tapas restaurants, and artisanal shops. Sampling tapas in El Born can be a culinary adventure!

• Market of Boqueria

La Rambla, 91, 08001

The famous Market of Boqueria (“Mercat de la Boqueria”) is a historic market located off La Rambla. It’s full of enticing food stalls serving everything from fresh produce and exotic fruits to local cheeses and cured meats. 

• Market of Santa Catarina

Avinguda de Francesc Cambó, 16, 08003

There are local food markets that are not so full of tourists but very authentic. A great example is the Market of Santa Catarina (“Mercat de Santa Caterina”) located in El Born. It is known for its distinctive colorful and wavy roof.

9. Discover museums, art, and culture

• Pablo Picasso Museum

Carrer Montcada, 15-23, 08003

The Picasso Museum is a grand palace containing over 4,000 of his works including paintings, drawings, and ceramics. Pablo Picasso was born in Málaga but came of age in Catalonia and staged his first-ever exhibit in “Els Quatre Gats” (“The Four Cats”) cafe in Barcelona.

• Palace of Catalan Music

Carrer del Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003

The stunning building of the Palace of Catalan Music (Palau de la Música Catalana) has a famous main auditorium featuring a stained glass ceiling and inverted golden dome representing the sun and the sky.

• Frederic Marès Museum

Plaça Sant Iu, 5-6, 08002

Check out a lesser-known treasure — a museum founded by the sculptor Frederic Marès. It showcases an eclectic array of objects, from medieval sculptures to 19th-century relics.

10. Hit the beach

Barceloneta, 08003

Enjoy golden sands and inviting Mediterranean waters that are likely to still be warm at the end of September. Barceloneta Beach also offers a promenade with stunning views and a range of watersports.

Final thoughts

We hope this little guide of things to do in Barcelona helps you make the most of your time in the city during DrupalCon 2024. The event is approaching fast! As you immerse yourself in the vibrant Drupal community, take a moment to enjoy the charm of Barcelona. From its stunning architecture to its lively culture and delectable cuisine, the city offers endless exploration opportunities.