Barcelona is a city worth visiting all year round, whether you come during the hot summer months or the cooler months. Although the weather may be a little rainy towards the end of the year, there is still a lot of fun to be had! The city is filled with things to do and see, and no matter what the season, you're sure to fall in love with its charm.
Here’s our list of the best things to do when it rains in Barcelona.
Related reading: When is the best time to visit Barcelona?
An overview is as follows:
The best things to do in Barcelona when it rains
1.Visit MNAC
Visiting the National Museum of Art of Catalonia (MNAC) is one of the best options on a rainy day Things to do in Barcelona. Inside, you'll find an impressive collection of Romanesque art, one of the most complete in the world. The museum itself opened in 1990, but the National Palace in which it is located was originally built for the 1929 International Exhibition.
A visit to MNAC is not only a must-see for art and history buffs; It also rewards you with some of the best panoramas Barcelona view. From the hotel's terrace you can admire Plaça d'Espanya, Gran Via and even glimpse La Sagrada Família in the distance.
address: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, Sants-Montjuïc, 08038 Barcelona
Admission fee:
Adult: €12 (Buy tickets here)
Family: €8.40
Seniors (65+): Free
2. Take shelter from the weather at the iconic Els 4Gats restaurant
This restaurant is located in the Ciutat Vella district, one of Barcelona's most historic sights. It first opened in 1897, when three Catalan painters decided to create a unique venue inspired by the famous Parisian cabaret “Le Chat Noir”, a popular gathering place for artists during the modernist period.
The name “Els 4Gats” (meaning four cats) has an interesting origin. When the founders told friends they were opening a new restaurant, people joked that “only four cats would show up,” a Spanish expression meaning very few people. Amused by the comment, they decided to take the phrase and use it as the name of the restaurant.
Today, Els 4Gats is known for its homemade cannelloni and rice dishes, all made with local ingredients and inspired by traditional Catalan cuisine.
You'll find it in the heart of Barcelona, just a few steps from the lively Portal de l'Àngel shopping street and close to Barcelona Cathedral, an architectural gem well worth visiting.
address: Carrer de Montsió, 3. 08002 Barcelona
Related reading: Autumn dishes in Barcelona: 7 must-try local delicacies
source: restaurant website
3. Enter the Sagrada Familia
This is another place you definitely can’t miss Visit Barcelona. Besides being Gaudi's most famous masterpiece, what fascinates most visitors the most is the time of its construction. Work began as early as 1882 and continues to this day, Sagrada Familia It's not over yet.
It is truly a unique building unlike any other church in the world. The project was initially initiated thanks to a private donation from the Spiritual Association of the Oblates of Saint Joseph, and the first architect was not Gaudí, but Francisco de Paula del Villar. After several disagreements, he stepped down and Gaudí took over, completely changing the design.
A fascinating detail is that each facade tells a different chapter of Christ's life, as if the church were a story carved in stone: the facades of Jesus' birth, crucifixion and glory. If you look closely, you will find that graphics, symbols and geometric shapes are all inspired by nature, which was one of Gaudi's main sources of inspiration.
With this design, Gaudí aimed to create a connection between man and the divine, filling every corner with meaning and symbolism. Thanks to donations and ticket sales, the project has continued over the years, allowing new generations to continue his vision.
If you climb one of the towers, you'll get a stunning panoramic view of Barcelona, a view that will make you want to come back again and again. On a rainy day, the soft light filtering through the stained glass creates a magical, almost ethereal atmosphere inside the cathedral, perfect for slowing down and soaking in the details. Plus, with fewer crowds, you'll have more space to quietly explore and admire the architecture.
address: Carrer de Mallorca, 401, L'Eixample, 08013 Barcelona
4. Explore Las Arenas Mall
Another great option to do in Barcelona when it rains is to visit this shopping mall. But Las Arenas is more than just any mall, it has a fascinating history. Originally built as a bullring, it hosted events until 1977, and this past can still be seen in its circular shape and architectural details. After major renovations, it reopened in 2011 as one of the city's most impressive shopping and leisure centres.
One of its highlights is the rooftop terrace, a large circular observation deck offering a beautiful panoramic view of Barcelona, especially Plaza de España and Montjuïc. While the patio is best enjoyed on sunny days, the rest of the center is perfect for keeping dry and entertaining when it rains.
The center is located in Plaça d'Espanya, one of the most accessible areas of the city. From here, important avenues such as Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes and Avinguda del Paral·lel start, making travel easy. Inside, you'll find fashion and jewelry stores like Mango and Pandora, as well as great restaurants for a rainy day meal. Here you can easily spend a few hours browsing, shopping, and relaxing without having to worry about the weather.
Just steps away is Montjuïc, where you can explore green spaces and iconic landmarks such as Palau Sant Jordi and the Magic Fountain. If the rain stops, or if you're lucky enough to see a rainbow, Montjuïc awaits you with open skies and stunning views.
address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 385, L'Eixample, 08015 Barcelona
Related reading: The most affordable stores in Barcelona
5. Try Petritxol Xocoa’s churros with chocolate
Rainy days in Barcelona are usually accompanied by cooler weather, The perfect excuse to enjoy classic hot chocolate with churros. There's no better place than Petritxol Xocoa, a beloved place that has been dedicated to the art of chocolate for over 20 years. You can be sure it won't let you down!
The café is located in the Gothic Quarter, on one of the city's most iconic streets, Carrer Petritxol, affectionately known as “Chocolate Street.” The nickname comes from the fact that some of Barcelona's oldest “granjas” (traditional cafes) first opened here, serving hot churros and thick chocolate that locals still love today.
While you're in the area, take some time to wander the narrow, historic streets of the Gothic Quarter and explore the many small local shops that add to the neighborhood's charm.
In addition to the famous chocolate and churros, Petritxol Xocoa also offers handcrafted candies, cakes and milkshakes, making this a sweet spot you don’t want to miss.
address: Carrer de Petritxol, 11, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
source: Petriso website
6. Enjoy watching movies in the cinema
There are a variety of cinemas in many neighborhoods of Barcelona, so a rainy day becomes the perfect excuse to explore a new area and end the day watching a movie on the big screen.
Here are some of the most popular options:
verdi cinema
Located in the lively Gràcia neighborhood, this cinema is perfect if you want to wander around one of Barcelona's most characteristic areas. It's renowned for its original film screenings and warm local atmosphere – a true community gem.
address: Carrer de Verdi, 32, Gracia, 08012 Barcelona
Balmesdo Cinema
Located in the heart of the Eixample district, this cinema has 12 digital screens showing a variety of original films. Public transportation here is also very convenient, whether you come by bus or FGC train, it is a relaxing and comfortable choice on a rainy afternoon.
address: Carrer de Balmes, 422–424, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08022 Barcelona
malda cinema
Tucked away in the Gothic Quarter, this small but charming cinema offers a more intimate and cozy experience. It's perfect for those who enjoy independent films and a relaxed environment. All screenings are original subtitled versions, ideal for English and Spanish speakers.
address: Carrer del Pi, 5, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
Zumzeg Cinema
A non-profit cooperative cinema focused on independent and thought-provoking films. It offers original versions of multidisciplinary programs and frequently hosts cultural and social events such as debates, seminars and lectures. This is a great choice for those who want to combine a movie with a community feel.
address: Carrer de Béjar, 53, Sants-Montjuïc, 08014 Barcelona
Beautiful rainy day in Barcelona
Here you have it!
Even when the sky is overcast, Barcelona never loses its charm. Its museums, restaurants, cinemas and historical corners invite you to enjoy the city in a calmer and more authentic way. Sometimes, a rainy day is the perfect excuse to explore the cozier, more intimate side of Barcelona. So grab your umbrella, get out there and let Barcelona surprise you – come rain or shine!
