Picnics in Barcelona: our favourite places for a rustic meal
As we mentioned in our article: 10 top tips to eat well on a budget in Barcelona, there’s nothing like a good picnic to save time without spending a lot of money.
Our advice: stock up on fresh seasonal products at the city’s markets and discover our favourite places to eat in the fresh air.
The most central: Picnic in the Parc de la Ciutadella
If you are coming to Barcelona for just a short trip then you will almost certainly spend most of your time in the old city. A picnic in the Parc de la Ciutadella is a great way to see some greenery without leaving the centre.
And it’s also a very nice park, with a large lawn, palm trees, a lake, a fountain and entertainment.
Why? For its rustic charm
How much? Free
When? Every day of the year from 10am until dusk
Where? Passeig de Picasso 1, Born (metro: Arc de Triomf, L1 or Vila Olímpica/Ciutadella, L4)
The sunniest: On Barcelona’s beaches
Generally seaside restaurants are not cheap. If you want to eat cheaply by the sea then the best solution is a picnic. Spread your blanket, your towel or your sarong, and enjoy the view!
- Warning: equip yourself with sunscreen, bring a hat and look out for pickpockets!
Why?
For a beautiful view (but also sand in your teeth)
How much? Free
When? Every day
Where? On the beaches of Barcelona
The most romantic: In the Horta labyrinth park
If you’re looking for an unusual and romantic picnic spot then Horta Labyrinth Park is exactly what you need. Its wonderful garden, sculpted fountains and cypress labryinth cannot fail to seduce. The picnic area is just outside the park.
Why? To discover one of Barcelona’s hidden treasures.
How much? Full price: 2,23€ and reduced price: 1,42€, free on Wednesdays and Sundays
When? Monday to Sunday 10am to dusk.
Where? Paseo Castanyers 1, Hortà-Guinardo (metro: Mundet, L3)
The best view: Mirador de baterías antiaéreas
If you like to get off the beaten track then Mirador baterías antiaéreas (also known as Bunkers del Carmel) is a great place to set your picnic basket.
During the Spanish civil war many families came to shelter in this historical site and the mosaic floors bear witness today. The viewing point also has an anti-aircraft firing zone and bunkers.
Today its different terraces offer a breathtaking view of Barcelona: the city is at your feet. But you have to earn it as the place is not easy to find…
- Advice: Study its location carefully before setting out and don’t hesitate to ask directions from the bus driver or passers-by.
Why?
To see another side of Barcelona
How much? Free
When? Every day of the year
Where? Carrer de Marià Labèrnia, Hortà-Guinardo (bus nº24, 28, 92, 86, 119)
The most flowery: Parc de Cervantes
If you happen to love the smell of roses then there is nothing quite like a picnic in the Parc de Cervantes, where there are 10,000 rose bushes of around 2,000 different species. No less than 150,000 roses. Which might just overwhelm your sense of smell.
The Parc de Cervantes is also a great place to come as a family as it has a playground and ping pong tables. Its picnic area is located in the shade of the pines.
Why? To picnic, especially in rose season.
How much? Free
When? Every day from 10am until dusk.
Where? Avinguda Diagonal 708-716, Les Corts
The most lively: Brunch In the park
From the beginning of June to end of September you can picnic to an electro beat at an annual event called Brunch in the park. Families are very welcome and the organisers arrange heaps of games and activities for children.
Why? For an original and musical picnic
How much? Around 13 euros
When? Sundays from June to September from 1pm to 10pm.
Where? Parc Joan Brossa, Montjuïc (funicular: Montjuïc from the metro: Paral·lel, L2 or L3)
- An alternative for evenings in July is to picnic on the lawn of Montjuïc castle, just a few feet from Brunch in the park. As a bonus you will also be treated to a concert and open air film projection. More information in our article on Sala Montjuïc: open air cinema in the Barcelona hills.
