When people ask about romantic things to do in Barcelona, so many exciting ideas come to mind. This isn’t a surprise, given that I spent a lot of time in this gorgeous city as a young student.
I used to live in the picturesque Eixample quarter, with its glorious facades, cute cafés and exciting nightlife. But Barcelona provides so much more, and is especially attractive when it comes to activities for couples; offering pastimes such as sunset cruises and cooking classes, to simple romantic walks.
Whether you’re looking to admire Barcelona’s attractive architecture, try out the delicious food scene, or romantically watch the sunset from the sea, this post covers it all.
Here are 15 of the most romantic things to do in Barcelona.
1. Stroll Through The Picturesque Parc Güell
I can’t even say how many times I walked through this beautiful park.
Be it early in the morning when the only other people you encounter are joggers or dog-walkers, or right before sunset to catch that perfect postcard picture of the city with the glistening sea in the background, Parc Güell is, in my opinion, one of the most romantic places in Barcelona.
Antoni Gaudí created this little paradise in the early 1900s to mimic English gardens, whilst also integrating the natural landscape, and his vivid architectural style, into the concept.
Parc Güell used to be a public space open to everyone, however, the city needed a system to limit the crowds and number of people entering at once, and so nowadays, you have to purchase a ticket with a time slot for certain areas of the park.
This doesn’t make it any less romantic, it just requires a bit more organisation. The best way is to book your ticket to the Parc Güell in advance, so you can plan your day accordingly.
If this sparked your interest in Gaudí’s work, don’t miss out on a guided walking tour to Gaudí’s masterpieces to learn even more about this incredible artist.
2. Take a Cooking Class (One of My Favourite Romantic Things To Do in Barcelona)
I took part in this specific cooking class at The Paella Club with my partner during one of my last visits to Barcelona, and it was one of the most romantic things we’ve ever done!
Imagine deliciously smelling, fresh ingredients, a little glass of classy cava, (or a non-alcoholic beverage), talented chefs to guide you with a pinch of humour, and a resulting dish that – according to the teachers – varies greatly on “the amount of love” put in.
Although it’s technically a group cooking class, couples have their own station and work closely together on the same dish, so you can really turn your romantic vibes on.
The best part? You get to eat what you cooked, and share it with the chefs and the other participants whilst getting to know each other, and sample one another’s creations. Absolutely recommended.
3. Try a Tapas & Wine Walking Tour
How does tapas and wine sound as a couple’s activity?
Pretty amazing I say!
To spare you the trouble of looking up each restaurant separately, you should definitely book an organised walking tour. You can choose for it to be just the two of you with a guide, or in a very small group, to keep it intimate. Luckily, there’s this particular tapas and wine walking tour that ticks all the boxes.
You’ll get to know the history behind the places you admire during the walk, and stop along the way at some of the best restaurants for a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.
Plus, the areas the tour takes you through, called “El Born” and the “Barri Gòtic“, are a must-visit with their labyrinth of crooked streets, impressive medieval churches, and the cutest little shops to see.
4. Sail Into The Sunset Along Barcelona’s Coastline
Sitting arm in arm with your loved one on the hull of a sailboat, staring into the descending sun is such a dreamy experience, and it sounds incredibly romantic, doesn’t it?
It definitely is!
Feeling the soothing movements of the waves underneath the boat, the light breeze and invigorating salty air, all whilst looking at an amazing cityscape of Barcelona bathed in the golden light at sunset. It doesn’t get much more romantic than this.
Here’s a very well-rated tour that offers such a situation, with an experienced sailor who is very passionate about his work.
If you do fear you might not stomach a sailboat, there’s an alternative option that is every bit as romantic, but on a catamaran instead. These types of boats let the waves pass through their double hulls, which provides a much smoother experience, with fewer ups and downs. This particular tour even offers live music if requested, and is suitable for couples and families alike.
5. Marvel At The Colourful Font Màgica De Montjuïc
This is one of the most romantic spots in Barcelona that I love to revisit as a couple, with family, or even alone.
The “magic fountain”, with the jaw-dropping Palau Nacional and the Montjuïc throning behind, offers an admirable sound and light show that invites you to stay and savour some truly magical moments.
Keep in mind that the show times vary according to season. Here’s an overview, but make sure to check beforehand, as these may be subject to change:
- April 1st to May 31st: every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, from 9pm to 10pm
- June 1st to August 30th: from Wednesday to Sunday, 9.30pm to 10.30pm
- September 1st to October 31st: every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, from 9pm to 10pm
- November 1st to March 31st: every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, from 8pm to 9pm
There aren’t any shows between January 6th, and February 16th, but even then, the fountain and the whole Plaza de España is incredible.
Even though I’ve seen the show several times already, it still wows me, and it constantly figures on the must-do list I share with family, friends and readers.
Oh, and did I mention? It’s free! Just be sure to get there early enough, especially during high season and on weekends, as it can get super crowded. Everyone wants the best spot to watch the show, of course.
The magic fountain can be found here.
6. Dare To Take a Dance-Lesson
If this isn’t isn’t one of the most romantic things to do in Barcelona, or anywhere else, I don’t know what is.
Depending on the dancing style, this is something you could easily do by yourself as well, but moving in unison with exciting, swinging, or slow music tends to keep that spark in a relationship alive.
You could have a go at Flamenco, though having followed a course for two years myself, I can tell you that it’s not something you’ll learn in a day!
It’s an entirely different story when it comes to Tango, which I also had a go at myself. Learning just a few basic steps goes a surprisingly long way.
Granted, it might not look very professional in the beginning, but the strong connection that forms between two partners during this passionate and touchy-feely dance style is undeniable.
Add to that a rooftop “classroom” location that overlooks Barcelona, like this one, and the experience is unbeatable.
7. Head Up To Mount Tibidabo For Breathtaking Views
Mount Tibidabo is THE best spot for breathtaking views over the city, with a gorgeous backdrop of the blue sea behind it. Talk about a photogenic place.
To reach mount Tibidabo, you can either hike, or ride the blue cable car – which in itself is an experience that couples can enjoy.
Once up top, a quirky retro-style amusement park, and an impressive white basilica, await. The white basilica is visible from almost anywhere down in the city so it’s great to see it up close!
Definitely visit the church, but the main reason to take the trip is to sample a bocadillo with fresh ham, and a glass of cava from Enrique Tomás, whilst enjoying the spectacular view.
8. Try To Visit On Sant Jordi, Barcelona’s Most Romantic Day of The Year
One of the best romantic things to do in Barcelona – if your travel plans allow it – is to schedule your visit to coincide with April 23rd, the Diada de Sant Jordi.
Sant Jordi is Barcelona’s patron saint, and on this particular day, you will find little stalls selling books and roses everywhere in the city. Why? Well, in 1931, it was decided to hold the then newly established “World Book Day”, on the same date, and ever since, it’s become tradition for men to buy their beloved a red rose, whilst the women return the gesture by gifting them a book.
The red rose stems from the legend of Sant Jordi, or Saint George, who gifted the princess that he saved from being sacrificed to the dragon, a red rose that had grown in the dragon’s blood.
Be it as it may, the people of Barcelona firmly believe in traditions, and this is a very important one.
I have enjoyed Sant Jordi’s day more than once and, yes, I was gifted a red rose every time, (swoon…).
9. Marvel Together At Gaudí’s Incredible Sagrada Família
I suppose it is clear by now that I am a huge Gaudí fan. His work might not be to everyone’s taste, but there’s no doubt that his absolute masterpiece, the Sagrada Família, remains a must-visit spectacle in Barcelona.
The romantic element here is that couples will likely be equally as speechless when looking at the amount of detail the architect put into this incredible building. I visited this church on almost every occasion I came to Barcelona, and seeing this still unfinished work of art evolve over time gets me very emotional.
It’s hard to describe, but even with hundreds of people all around, (it’s one of the most visited attractions in the whole city), there’s a kind of serenity surrounding the place. Especially when you get down to the crypt where the master was laid to rest after tragically dying without completing his vision.
The love he had for his city, and the admiration he got from the people of Barcelona, are palpable in this special spot.
10. Get The Ultimate Couple-Pictures Taken By Professionals
Ever wanted to get professional photos of you and your significant other, but didn’t want to book an expensive studio that uses the same old standard backdrops?
Then this particular activity for couples, friends, family members, or just yourself, in Barcelona’s iconic El Born and Barri Gòtic is worth checking out.
These local professional photographers will take you to the best corners, all whilst sharing some secrets about the city, their favourite eating spots, and of course, taking beautiful pictures in a way you’ll admire.
11. Escape The Crowds For a Wine Tasting Experience Outside of The City
If you ever get sick of the noisy city – we all do, no judgement here – there are some fun activities for couples outside of busy Barcelona.
One of them is this excellent wine-tasting experience in nearby Vilafranca del Penedès, which is experienced by bike, (either electric or mountain bike), allowing you to take in the attractive vineyards and the magnificent Montserrat mountain range all around you. This is a perfect opportunity to get to know the process of winemaking, and to taste some authentic, regional products.
I don’t know about you, but wine tasting always feels like a very romantic experience when enjoyed as a couple, especially when the surroundings are so beautiful.
12. Stroll Through The Beautiful Parc de la Ciutadella
It’s not surprising that locals consider the beautiful Ciutadella park as one of the most romantic places in Barcelona.
Inspired by the iconic Jardins du Luxembourg in Paris, (another very romantic city), the Parc de la Ciutadella got its name due to its location being on the ancient citadel of Barcelona, which was torn down during the 19th century.
Inside this green oasis, you’ll find a splendid monumental fountain, (the Cascada de Fontseré I Mestre), a picturesque lake, Barcelona’s zoo, and a few remnants of the ancient fortress.
The lake is especially nice as it has several small islands, pleasing exotic flowers, and plenty of water animals. You can even rent yourselves a rowboat to add a flowery touch to your visit.
13. Enjoy The Best Flamenco Dancers in The City
Watching a Flamenco show isn’t relaxing, at all. Even when seated, you can feel the sparks flying off of the stage, and you will certainly wish to move with the music.
Did you know that with Flamenco, it’s not the dancer who moves to the music, but the other way around? The dancer dictates the tempo, the rhythm and the style, whilst the singer and guitar player adapt to him, or to her.
The singer and guitar players have some solos too, but only when the dancer gives them the signal that they are allowed to take the limelight.
This makes this dancing style so unique! Every show is different, and every music is different, as it all depends on what the dancer feels, and wants to express, in that very moment.
The best shows can be found at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes, set inside a historic building right on the famous Rambla de Catalunya. Having witnessed a few shows here myself, I can confirm that they are incredible!
14. Enjoy The Landscape From (Very!) High Up
Of all the romantic things to do in and around Barcelona, this one could be considered a bit over-the-top, but this Morning Hot Air Balloon flight for two is an incredibly unique experience that you certainly won’t regret, or forget!
Breathe in the crisp air of the early morning, whilst slowly rising with the sun above the amazing Catalonian landscape where you’ll spend at least an hour floating above the city. Once your dreamy balloon ride is over, enjoy a delicious breakfast of regional products back on land.
The good thing is, this particular experience can be shared with others, (if you want to save a bit of money), but it can also be a private, cosy and intimate ride for just the two of you, (and the guide, of course).
15. The Romantic Activity in Barcelona To (Literally) Top Them All
If a hot air balloon isn’t high enough for you, a helicopter ride above the city might be.
This particular couple’s activity has you flying along Barcelona’s coastline, allowing you to see the city from an unforgettable angle. It might not be the most relaxing experience, but it is probably the most momentous one.
Seeing Gaudí’s cathedral from high above, or genius urbanist Cerdà’s very strange grid pattern of the Eixample quarter from a bird’s-eye view, must be brilliant.
Unless of course you’re scared of heights or flying in general, then you should probably stick to one of the other couples’ activities in Barcelona I suggested.
FAQs About Barcelona
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Barcelona.
Is Barcelona good for couples?
Given that I spent a lot of time with my partner in Barcelona, I can honestly say that the city is great for couples. There are so many fun activities to do, pretty little corners for romantic getaways, and restaurants serving the most delicious food.
It doesn’t matter which kind of couple either as Barcelona is known to be very modern, open, cosmopolite, and LGBTQ+ friendly.
What can you do on a date in Barcelona?
As well as the above activities I’ve suggested, there are so many options! Go for a lovely walk through picturesque streets, stroll along the beach in the evening, admire the architecture together, or share some amazing food in one of Barcelona’s amazing restaurants.
What are some romantic restaurants in Barcelona?
One of my favourites – although not technically a restaurant – is Pinotxo Bar, right at the entrance of Barcelona’s famous Boquería, the colourful roofed market. You get to taste the freshest produce as instead of having a set menu, they adapt according to the ingredients they get that day. Plus, service comes with a side of Juanito’s smile!
Any of the better tapas bars can be considered romantic, as you get to share the delicious food together. Here are some of my favourites: Bar Lobo, on a side street of the Rambla, Agua, right on Barcelona’s beach promenade, and Marcelino 1968, in the lesser known but charming quarter of Grácia.
Now You Know What Romantic Things To Do in Barcelona
I might be slightly biased when it comes to Barcelona, but I can assure you, it’s one of the coolest, yet most romantic, cities I’ve ever visited.
The fact that there’s such a huge variety of things to do makes it easy for anyone to find what they are interested in. Tastes differ, but I’m sure you’ll find just the activity you desire.
I hope that I could spark your interest in a romantic visit with your significant other to the city that’s had my heart ever since I came as a young student.
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