Barcelona is a city that truly rewards your curiosity… Beyond Gaudí’s masterpieces and crowded highlights and touristy spots, there’s another Barcelona that’s hiding somewhere in the quiet courtyards, forgotten tunnels, local squares, and places you often simply just stumble upon by accident.

This list isn’t about ticking off the famous sights, you probably done that already…
It’s about discovering the Barcelona that reveals itself when you slow down and just wander around …. – Some of these spots are historic, some might be a bit strange, but they are beautiful and so so very local…
…and quite easy to miss if you don’t know where to look – …duh.

To make your exploring easier, I linked each place name in this guide directly to its location on Google Maps, so just click on the name, and you can save, plan, or navigate. – … yeah, I know… you’re welcome!

So, anyway… Here are 20+1 hidden gems in Barcelona that show a different side of the city – more local, personal, and pretty unforgettable.

Hidden Corners of the Gothic Quarter

Plaça del Rei

A14th-century medieval square that feels frozen in time. It’s a perfect place to imagine how Barcelona looked centuries ago…

Plaça de Sant Felip Neri

This small square is home to a church, and it still bears visible scars from the Spanish Civil War in 1938.

El Pont del Bisbe

If you look up under the bridge, you’ll notice a skull and a sword. According to local legend, if the dagger were ever removed, the city would collapse.

Santa Maria del Mar

Built in the 14th century, survived a devastating fire in 1936 and an earthquake in 1428 – …if you look closely at the rose window, you can still see where it was rebuilt.
It also became world-famous thanks to the novel La Catedral del Mar and its Netflix mini-series, Cathedral of the Sea.

Temple d’August

Hidden at Carrer del Paradís 10, four massive Roman temple columns stand inside a medieval courtyard. This is what remains of the Temple of Augustus, dating back more than 2,000 years.

Font de Sant Jordi

The fountain features Sant Jordi slaying the dragon – a symbol deeply tied to Catalan identity and celebrated every year on Sant Jordi’s Day. It’s a simple spot, many people even walk past it without noticing, but it connects everyday Barcelona with its legends and traditions.

• The Handprint of Sant Jordi

On the main doorway of the Palau de la Generalitat, there’s a handprint carved into the stone – … or at least, that’s what legend says…
According to local stories, Sant Jordi left the mark while protecting the building. In reality, it’s likely the result of centuries of wear, but locals still treat it like a mysterious relic.

• Porta de Sant Jordi

A modern bronze gate featuring geometric and figurative elements about Catalan history and identity, created by Catalan sculptor Josep Maria Subirachs in 1975. He is also known for his bold, expressive work on the Sagrada Família Passion façade.

MUHBA Domus Avinyó

Under the streets of the Gothic Quarter, MUHBA Domus Avinyó reveals the Roman roots of Barcelona. This underground museum preserves the ruins of ancient houses and mosaics from 2000 years ago. It’s a crazy reminder that the city’s history runs deep – … sometimes literally under your feet.

Carrer Petritxol

Carrer Petritxol is a very narrow street known for art galleries and traditional xocolateries. It’s one of the best places in Barcelona to stop for thiiick hot chocolate and churros.

• La Pallaresa Xocolateria Xurreria – my favourite place e-v-e-r. There is no better chocolate con churros in the whole wide world. While you’re at it, might as well try the crema catalana too…

Curious Places in Barcelona

Plaça Reial

Plaça Reial isn’t exactly hidden anymore – … but it was when I first found it by accident, wandering around looking for La Boqueria. Palm trees, parrots, late-night bars, and quiet morning cafés all co-exist here.

Les Galeries Maldà

One of Barcelona’s oldest shopping malls that feels frozen in time. It opened in 1943 and was the first of its kind in the city, inspired by Parisian arcades. Today, it’s best known for funky shops, including one dedicated entirely to Rubik’s cubes, and stores dedicated to pop culture and geek interests from Harry Potter and Game of Thrones to manga and fantasy collectibles.

Refugi 307

A preserved air-raid shelter from the Spanish Civil War, hidden under the streets of Poble-sec. Guided tours take you through long underground tunnels where thousands of residents once sought refuge during bombings.

El Rei de la Màgia

One of Europe’s oldest magic shops and a small museum dedicated to illusions, stage magic, and historic tricks.

Museo Egipci de Barcelona

Near Passeig de Gràcia, you’ll find the Egyptian Museum of Barcelona, where you can explore authentic artifacts up close – from mummies and statues to everyday objects.

Museu de Carrosses Fúnebres

One of Barcelona’s most unusual museums is located inside Montjuïc Cemetery. It’s an eerie, fascinating, and surprisingly peaceful glimpse into how Barcelona once viewed death, ritual, and social status.

Cementiri de Montjuïc

The Montjuïc Cemetery feels more like an open-air museum than a cemetery. Ornate tombs, sculptures, and many paths lead to stunning views over the sea.

Green Escapes in Barcelona

Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera

One of Barcelona’s most unique gardens, filled with cactuses and Mediterranean plants.

Parc del Laberint d’Horta

Barcelona’s oldest garden and home to a beautifully maintained hedge maze. It’s one of the most underrated green spaces in the city.

Parc de la Creueta del Coll

A former quarry turned neighborhood park, especially nice in spring and summer, when locals bring books, snacks, or a beer and sit along the edges of the pool. Quiet, local, and very photogenic

Viewpoints in Barcelona

Tibidabo undoubtedly offers the best panoramic views over Barcelona – and I’ve written a full guide about it separately.
Buuut if you don’t want to commit to a half-day trip or just feel like discovering something closer to the city, Barcelona has plenty of quieter viewpoints that are just as beautiful, easy to reach, far less crowded, and perfect for a slow walk, a sunset pause, or a break from the busy streets below.

Salts – Terrassa Bar Montjuïc

Salts – Terrassa Bar is a relaxed bar near Montjuïc offering great views over the city.

Bunkers del Carmel

The Bunkers del Carmel are no longer a secret, but still worth visiting – …especially at sunrise or sunset. Originally anti-aircraft bunkers, they now offer 360-degree views over Barcelona.

Mirador de l’Alcalde & Mirador del Migdia

Okay, so this is probably my favourite spot in the city.
This park is overlooking the port, the sea, and the city skyline, plus it’s free and far less crowded than the more famous viewpoints nearby. Greenery, fountains, palm trees… And there’s a bar… What else you need?

Well, if you’re willing to walk a little, Mirador del Migdia is on the other side of the hill. Reaching it involves a short, easy hike through quieter paths on Montjuïc with multiple viewpoints along the way.

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And that’s it – … a side of Barcelona that most people miss. I hope exploring these 20+1 hidden gems will give you a more personal, authentic side of the city rather than the one in the guidebooks…

📍 Tip: Honestly, just use the Google Maps links included with each spot to plan your own walking route or save your favorite discoveries. Happy exploring…

… just go slow, take your time, and let the city surprise you. You might end up finding your own hidden gem along the way….

Aaaanyways,

See you at the next one,

Noémi

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