Finding hidden gems within your host city while studying abroad is truly what makes your experience transition from a trip to feeling like you’re at home. From go-to spots for study abroad students to cultural events that let you experience life as a local, Barcelona, Spain, truly offers everything you could wish for.  

During my time in Barcelona, there were what seemed like an endless number of fun spots, and I will continue to look back on them when reminiscing about my study abroad experience. Here is a list of four must-visit places while studying abroad in Barcelona!  

1. Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys 

Football is a massive part of Spanish culture, making it impossible to miss during your time abroad in Barcelona. While FC Barcelona’s Spotify Camp Nou stadium is under construction, you can catch a game at the breathtaking Olympic Stadium atop Montjuïc. Not only will you catch an amazing game with Barça chants & an indescribable crowd environment but being inside of the stadium used for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics makes this experience next to none.  

If football isn’t your thing, Barcelona’s Olympic Stadium is a host for many other events! Seeing the inside of this beautiful building is a must-do while abroad.  

Celebrating a Barça win at the Olympic Stadium!  

2. L’Ovella Negra 

If football tickets are impossible to get your hands on, or a bit too pricey for you, many bars and pubs around the city of Barcelona offer a similar experience to catch a game. Out of these options, L’Ovella Negra stands out by a mile!  

L’Ovella Negra, which translates to “the Black Sheep,” is a large beer hall-styled building that is a popular destination for study abroad students. The massive building is filled with long picnic-style tables and seating, creating a social setting where you are bound to meet and chat with other people. L’Ovella Negra has massive projector screens that will play not only every FC Barça match, but basically all the major soccer games you could desire.  

Be sure to arrive at L'Ovella Negra early, as this is THE spot and fills up quickly!  

Catching a match at L’Ovella Negra.  

2. Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus 

For breathtaking views of the city of Barcelona, visit the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on Tibidabo hill. While in the city center of Barcelona, it isn’t hard to spot this temple located very elevated opposite of the sea. After spotting this building from my rooftop, I made it a mission to somehow make it to the top! Conveniently enough, the commute to this was made painless and free with my T-mobilitat transportation card.   

This temple is stunning architecturally, but the surprises that come along with giving it a visit make the trip so worth it. With a mix of the metro and funicular, you will see stunning views of Barcelona on your way up Tibidabo.  

Upon arrival at the top of the hill, you will be surprised to see a fully functional amusement park! This park has thrilling rides like a Ferris wheel, as well as a plane-designed ride that brings you soaring over the city (and is replicated after the first plane that flew from Barcelona to Madrid—fun fact for you!). 

View from Tibidabo hill.  

Stunning architecture of the Temple.  

3. Parc de la Ciutadella 

While Barcelona is a very urban city, there are still ample green spaces to utilize as an escape. Parc de la Ciutadella is a massive park located near Arc de Triomf in Barcelona that offers many walking trails, spots for picnics, and more!  

Parc de la Ciutadella is commonly recognized for its waterfall and mammoth monuments! This park was the city's only green space for decades. 

My number one recommendation for Parc de la Ciutadella is to rent a small boat! This inexpensive activity is so much fun and is an amazing way to get some fresh air in the city while basking in the warm sun.  

Rowboat rentals in Parc de la Ciutadella!