Barcelona is popular for many things such as traditional Catalan gastronomy, a mild climate and famous architecture. However, it is also great for fitness-conscious people as well as those who want to keep a little active during their stay. If you enjoy running along the beach, having a cycle ride around nature or doing Pilates in a chic studio, there are so many options for you here! In this article, we have put together a list of a few of the many ways you can get your blood pumping and stick to your fitness routine. And, obviously, all while still savouring your getaway in the Catalan capital!

Running

To start with, we have Parc de la Ciutadella. You can take a morning run while being surrounded by nature and amazing architecture. An example is the 20th Century Castell dels Tres Dragons or the Cascada Monumental.

If you want to push yourself, the city also organises incredible races throughout the year. One that we should mention is the Barcelona Marathon, which attracts runners from all over the world and gives you the opportunity to discover the whole city while attempting to beat your personal best. 

Finally, to experience a truly unique run, head to Gaudí’s Parc Güell, which has many steps to test your agility, and also great architecture to admire. Who fancies enjoying its colourful mosaics and panoramic views, while getting the blood pumping?

Walking

Want to stay active without even thinking about it? Just walk! Barcelona is a city made for walking. The best way to discover it is to just wander without a plan and get lost in its charming streets. At some point, you’ll come across attractions like the beautiful Casa Amatller or the renowned Sagrada Família. Isn’t that amazing?

 If you feel like escaping the hustle of the centre, head towards the coast. The seaside promenade stretches for 4.5 kilometres, dotted with golden-sand beaches. You’ve probably heard of Barceloneta, but Nova Icaria and Mar Bella are quieter and have a more local vibe – we love them for that. And when the sun gets too hot, there’s nothing better than a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean. 

For something completely different, swap the city streets for the stunning trails of Montserrat – the views will take your breath away. It’s a major pilgrimage sight, located just about an hour’s drive away from Barcelona. In this beautiful and religious place, you can visit the Black Madonna and the Benedictine Monastery, as well as try some challenging hiking routes. There are a variety of mountainous peaks, so you will always be pushed to your hiking limits here!

Pilates

A new and up-and-coming way to work out is pilates. Lucky you, recently, many studios are popping up all over Barcelona. A few we must mention are Barrefit Eixample, Dona10 and Active Pilates. If you are new, don’t worry! There is surely an option for you! All of them offer a variety of classes and levels, which won’t push your body too much, as they are low-impact exercises. Which studio would you choose to visit first?

Cycling

Here in Barcelona, cycling has become very trendy amongst locals and visitors. Thanks to the city’s flat streets and its Mediterranean weather, it is a simple and great way to keep fit. We suggest the Carretera de les Aigues for beginners who want a relaxing and peaceful workout. You can find it on the Collserola mountain, just above the city. It’s only accessible to pedestrians and cyclists, so it’s perfect for those who have just got into this activity! 

However, if you want a true challenge, try out the 86km ride to the Costes de Garraf. Starting at Plaça Catalunya, you will set off on your 26km ride to Turó de la Cova Fumada. Make sure to admire the stunning views of the sea while cycling. You should definitely be proud of yourself when finishing this difficult adventure! 

Watersports

The final one on our list is none other than watersports. Barcelona’s long coastline provides great chances to experiment with different water sports to help keep you fit and active. Dozens of rental services can be found for paddleboards and surfboards at Nova Icaria, Port Olímpic or Barceloneta. With so many options, you may have a hard time deciding what sport to try. We recommend going to Barceloneta beach, as there are lots of surf schools that have both lessons and rental equipment. All of them will help you with on-water instructions, whether you are a beginner or an advanced surfer. 

Fancy experiencing an extremely thrilling activity? You should definitely not miss surfing in autumn and spring! During peak season, you will avoid windier months that tend to have bigger waves. This water sport not only improves your endurance, but also your core and balance.

Overall, Barcelona has endless options to do sports that will keep you fit and active during your holidays. Whether you are an avid biker wanting to cycle the most gruelling climbs, or keen on water sports, or you just simply want to take a relaxing walk through the beautiful city streets, in Barcelona, there is something for everyone! Make sure to try out at least one of these activities while on your city break. We promise you won’t regret it!

Beyond renowned architectural sights, beautiful Mediterranean beaches and the incredible food scene in Barcelona, a more peaceful, quieter and greener city is waiting to be discovered. The perfect place to relax and escape from the bustling town is in the beautiful botanical gardens that the city offers. These stunning gardens are filled with trees, plants, and architecture with carefully designed features. For those wanting to explore Barcelona while surrounded by greenery, the city´s botanical gardens are an unforgettable addition to any trip. Let’s look at some of the botanical gardens in and around Barcelona.

In Barcelona

Jardí Botànic de Barcelona

Situated on Montjuic Hill, Jardí Botànic de Barcelona is one of the most impressive green spaces is Jardí Botànic de Barcelona. This garden provides visitors with a tour of the diverse ecosystems of the Mediterranean climate. When walking through the 14-acre garden, there are thoughtfully divided zones filled with olive groves, aromatic herbs and eucalyptus forests from California, South Africa, Chile and Australia. Jardí Botànic contributes to biodiversity efforts, as it houses many endangered species. Visiting this garden is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of preserving ecosystems.

Location: Carrer del Doctor Font i Quer, 2 (Montjuïc Hill)

Jardí Botànic Històric

Just a short walk away is a lesser-known botanical garden, Jardí Botànic Històric, founded in 1930. Here, you will find towering sequoias, laurels and ferns, all rare sights in Barcelona due to the garden’s unique microclimate, which is cooler and more humid. The beautiful water features, moss-covered stone and shaded paths, this garden offers the perfect escape from the vibrant city centre.

Location: Carrer dels Tarongers, (Montjuïc Hill)

Parc de Cervantes

Near the University of Barcelona, in the district of Pedralbes, the Parc de Cervantes is home to a vast rose garden with over 10,000 roses and approximately 230 varieties. There are also shaded pathways and endless green spaces, which are perfect for a relaxing walk or a quiet afternoon. Every May, the park hosts the international New Roses Competition, during which the park is filled with fresh roses that attract experts and flower enthusiasts from around the world.

Location: Avinguda Diagonal, (Pedralbes)

Parc de la Ciutadella

Urban park, Parc de la Ciutadella, originally designed in the 19th century, is both a botanical garden and a recreational area. One highlight of this popular park is the Umbracle, a glass structure home to tropical species in a humid and shaded environment. Around the park, you will find tropical palms, ficus trees and colourful flower beds, just to name a few. 

Location: Passeig de Picasso, 21, (Ciutat Vella)

Outside of Barcelona: Perfect for a day trip

Marimurtra Botanical Garden

In the town of Blanes, an hour’s drive from Barcelona, the Marimurtra Botanical Garden is arguably one of the most stunning gardens in the Mediterranean. Created by botanist Carl Faust in the 20th Century, it is located on the cliffs overlooking the sea, it offers stunning views of Costa Barva’s coastline. With over 4,000 plant species divided into three sections, Mediterranean, temperate and subtropical, this garden truly represents different climates around the world. There is also a centrepiece, Linnaeus Temple, a perfect place to enjoy the sparkling waters below.

Location: Passeig Carles Faust, 9, (Girona)

Jardí Botànic Pinya de Rosa

Another gem in the Costa Brava, just a short distance from Marimurtra, is the Pinya de Rose Botanical Garden. Founded in 1945 by Ferran Rivière de Caralt, this garden is home to succulent and tropical plants. With one of Europe’s largest private collections of cacti and agaves, a visit to Pinya de Rosa is an unforgettable experience, with plants from South Africa, Mexico and other regions. The proximity to coves and beaches also adds to the relaxing seaside experience.

Location: Carretera Blanes a Lloret, (Girona)

Parc Samà

Located in the South of Barcelona, near Cambrils, Parc Samà, built in the late 19th Century, covers acres of canals, exotic areas, lakes, pavilions, staircases and bridges. This family-built park is inspired by colonial gardens from Cuba, and it shelters a small wildlife reserve with several free-roaming peacocks. The calm atmosphere is the perfect spot to unwind and relax as you wander down shaded paths, walk through open lawns and marvel at the beautiful water features.

Location: Carretera de Vinyols (Tarragona)

Why explore these botanical gardens

If you are a lover of nature, a photographer, or are simply enjoying some quiet time away from the bustle of the city, the botanical gardens of Barcelona and the gardens along the Catalan coast are truly worthwhile visiting. These gardens are not just green spaces; they are living museums that promote biodiversity, sustainability, and good landscape design. With plants and trees representing Mediterranean species in the hills of Montjuïc and difficult to find succulents located high on cliffs, each garden is a perfect spot to slow down, relax and see the region in a more tranquil way. So, whether you plan to spend just a quiet afternoon visiting the grounds or spend the day, add these gardens to your travel list. You’ll return home renewed, invigorated, and with a profound sense of appreciation for the green heart of Catalonia.