Sports & Activities
Barcelona’s warm Mediterranean climate leaves the avid sportsman or amateur enthusiast utterly spoilt for choice. With hot summers and mild sunny winters, bad weather is rarely a viably reason for avoiding sport. What the city lacks in green, open spaces, it makes up for in beach and mountain pursuits. During the summer months, water sports…
Aerobics & Fitness Classes
Aerobics is excellent for improving circulation, burning fat, reducing cellulite and feeling healthy. Aqua aerobics, is often wrongly assumed to be less of a workout when in fact, the combination of water resistance and muscle-toning exercises work muscles just as hard. Most gyms offer a wide range of aerobics classes that can range from Spin…
Art Classes
Art in Barcelona is omnipresent. From street art to high-brow galleries, caricaturists on La Rambla to independent galleries in the Barri Gòtic, it seems to be everywhere. Art classes are no different, with a veritable buffet available. Almost all community centres have art courses in some form or another, costing between €50 and €100 for…
Ballet Classes
Many are put off ballet by the tight, flesh-coloured leggings and tutu, but it is an excellent activity for toning the lower body and improving poise and elegance. In Barcelona, there are a number of dance schools that offer ballet lessons (often referred to as clásica or danza ballet). For information on where to find…
Basketball
Spain are currently ranked number one in the world after the national team won the FIBA World Championships of 2006 (www.fiba.com). This win has given basketball a much-needed boost in Spain, and caused something of a basketball fever. It first began to appear in Barcelona in the early 30s, and today many sports centres in…
Birdwatching
Studies made by the Institut Català d’Ornitologia (ICO – www.ornitologia.org) show that in total, nearly 400 bird species are found in Catalonia. The region’s broad variety of biotypes, including high mountains, rocky coastal areas, headlands, wetlands and sierras, are rich in year-round birdlife. As a result, Catalonia is a favourite spot for keen twitchers from…
Bowling
In Spain, while bowling is popular, it has not taken on the same proportions as in the USA. In Barcelona, though, it is an increasingly popular pastime. Bowling Pedralbes (www.bowlingpedralbes.com, 93 333 03 52) is the biggest indoor bowling centre in the city, open from 10:00 to 02:00. Many of the city’s shopping centres have…
Camping
Catalunya's mild climate makes for a pleasant camping experience but avoid winter months - from November to February - if you’re sleeping in a tent. Temperatures can often drop below 0°C at nightfall. The best time to go is from April to September, avoiding the sweltering summer months of July and August when temperatures can…
Canoeing
You will find that most rafting companies and water sports clubs offer kayaking (piragüismo / piragüisme). River kayaking is particularly popular along the Noguera Pallaresa rapids near Lleida. On average, a half-day excursion should cost between €35 and €45, depending on the distance covered and the level of difficulty. ROCROI and Rafting Llavorsí both offer…
Canyoning
Canyoning is an extreme sport that is often practised in remote and rugged settings. The sport is particularly popular in the French and Spanish Pyrenees because of the numerous caves, potholes, gorges and unusual rock formations. The Spanish website www.barranquismo.net lists all of the caves in the region with weblinks provided for each. Canyoning is…
Castelling
Castells (human castles) originated in the eighteenth century. The ancient tradition embodies the essence of what it means to be Catalan – solidarity, fraternity, and strength - stirring feelings of pride among locals and disbelief among foreigners. Essentially the castell is divided into three parts. The pinya (pineapple) at the base of the castle, provides…
Caving
For extreme sports junkies who enjoy the thrill of trying something new, caving is the adrenaline-filled answer. Known in Spanish as espeleología (l’espeleologia in Catalan), caving combines physical endurance, mental strength and exploration of underground geographical wonders. It is important to take necessary health precautions and first-timers should seek out a guide. The Catalan Caving…
Chess
Barcelona has more chess clubs than any other city in the world. It is not surprising then, to find that it is an avidly followed game here, played by all ages. You often see chess played in squares and outdoor terraces, but if you prefer a livelier atmosphere, there are bars that keep a games…
Climbing
Rock climbing is a hugely popular sport in Catalonia, because of the fantastic formations and optimum climbing conditions. With over 3,500 climbing routes, covering all levels of difficulty, Montserrat is the prime spot for aficionados. All climbing vias (pathways) are universally graded in terms of difficulty, much like ski pistes. Within the city itself, climbing…
Cookery Classes
To Catalans, gastronomy is synonymous with the region’s culture. Barcelona prides itself on the quality of fresh goods and the upholding of market shopping. Lunch and dinner are appreciated as sociable activities. There is no finer example of this than calçotadas – a semi-primal culinary experience in which families, friends and whole villages feast on…
Cricket
Barcelona is poorly equipped with pitches and large spaces to play and it is extremely difficult to find clubs. The Pakistani and Indian communities keep cricket alive in the Raval, and you often seen groups of men and boys playing in the street or on council tennis courts. Not much help if you want to…
Cycling
Some 50,000 people use the healthy, two-wheeled form of transport for getting around the city. By cycling, you avoid traffic jams, get fit and save money. This is precisely why the Ajuntament has recently launched a new form of public transport called Bicing. The cycling system aims to promote the use of bicycles as a…
Dance Classes
There are many booty shaking options in Barcelona. Community centres are the most reasonable (€50 per trimester), often offering an extensive selection of classes. Funk, contemporary dance, belly dancing, flamenco, salsa, tango and African dance are all available at Drassanes and Barceloneta community centres (centros cívicos / centres cívics). Consult the Ajuntament’s website (www.bcn.es) for…
Diving
Exploring the mysteries of the Mediterranean, with fish swimming inches from your face is a mind-blowing experience. It can also be rather daunting and slightly claustrophobic at times, which is why training is required before plunging into the big blue. Open Water Diver is the standard course that first-time divers opt for: it involves theory…
Drama Groups
Barcelona is thriving with drama groups. Finding English speaking ones though, is not so easy. Most of those that do exist are listed below. However, if you feel your Spanish or Catalan is up to the challenge, don’t hesitate to sign yourself up to one of the many theatre courses offered in local community centres.…
Environmental Groups
Spain suffers heavily from drought and desertification. The most recent campaign to reduce traffic pollution is Bicing and it is expected to encourage people to adopt greener methods of transport while getting fit at the same time. For those who want to be actively involved in environmental campaigns, there are many organisations to join. Greenpeace…
Fishing
In Spain, to go fishing inland or in the sea you need a license (permiso de pesca). These are obtainable through the Generalitat de Catalunya (www.gencat.cat). Available to anglers aged 16 and above, general licences for free waters (non-private areas) are valid from one to four years, include a sea fishing license, and cost around…
Flamenco Classes
The origins of flamenco are steeped in myth and mystery, making it such a fascinating art form. An accepted truth is that flamenco originated in southern Spain in the late 1700s. ‘Invented’ by gypsies (gitanos) in Andalusia, its character reflects the history and cultural evolution of the region itself, which is hugely influenced by Muslim…
Flower Arranging
Flower arranging is not common here and non-professional courses are hard to find. It is always worth checking with your local church or community centre to see if they have one-off activities. Also, Barcelona International Women's Club (93 204 02 31, www.iwcbarcelona.com) may be worth a look. An interesting alternative is the Bonsaikebana school (93…
Football
Football is king in Barcelona: the beloved Barcelona FC (‘Barça’, see) winning or losing a match can determine the atmosphere in the city. The sheer size of Camp Nou stadium - the third largest in the world, with a 110,000 capacity - speaks for itself. And for social players, the sport is played as passionately…
Golf
With the mountain backdrop, beautiful coastal coves and mild climate, golfing in and around Barcelona is a pleasure. Whereas in southern Spain many of the plush golf courses are in holiday colonies, golf in Catalonia is appreciated by both Catalans and foreigners. Most clubs allow non-members to play and green fees average €70 on weekdays…
Handball
Handball is a popular sport in Spain, and is played both indoors and on the beach. Catalonia has two of its teams in the top ten of the national handball league, ASOBAL. F.C. Barcelona (93 496 76 05, www.fcbarcelona.com) and Club Balonmano Granollers (93 879 28 62, www.bmgranollers.org). FC Barcelona only has three teams, for…
Hiking
Hiking, known as senderismo (senderisme in Catalan), is a popular activity in Barcelona and Catalonia. There are a number of hiking options available in the form of guided day trips, multi-day group excursions and self-guided, marked trails that you can navigate yourself. The most extensive and well-marked trail near to Barcelona is Montserrat. Consult the…
Hockey
Hockey on grass and Astroturf is popular in Spain. Catalonia is a leader of the national hockey scene, and boasts a fair number of grass hockey clubs. Most of these also have hockey sala- indoor seven-a-side hockey. Clubs are usually members only, rather than ‘turn up and play’. Hockey clubs tend to be affiliated to…
Horse Riding
Horse riding in Spain is immediately associated with Andalusia, conjuring up vivid images of Carmen, flamenco and beautiful white stallions. While Andalusia is home to some of the finest pure breed horses and riding schools, Catalonia must not be overlooked. Equestrian activities are hugely popular here, hence the exhaustive number of riding clubs and schools.…
Ice Skating
Ice skating rinks are not a common sight in Barcelona. Although around Christmas time, when decorations are up in full glory, many of the shopping malls install ice rinks. La Maquinista shopping centre (902 248 842, www.lamaquinista.com) houses the biggest outdoor ice rink in winter. The indoor ice rink at Pedralbes Centre (www.pedralbescentre.com, 93 410…
Kayaking
Inland kayaking (on rivers and lakes) and coastal kayaking are both possible in Catalonia. Most rafting companies and water sports clubs offer kayaking (piragüismo / piragüisme). River kayaking is particularly popular along the Noguera Pallaresa rapids near Lleida. On average, a half-day excursion should cost between €35 and €45, depending on the distance covered and…
Kids Activities
Barcelona is one giant playground for children and teenagers, not only because of the sea and the mountains, but also because of the numerous clubs and teams in each area. Most sports centres have a range of teams, with swimming and football being the most popular. In summer months, the most popular way for kids…
Language Schools
Arriving in a foreign city and not understanding the language can be a nerve-wracking experience. Luckily, Barcelona is full of language schools. Consult the Spanish language courses directory - www.europa-pages.com/spain - for a listing of those in Barcelona. If you are looking for private classes, conversation groups or a tandem exchange pal, community centres and…
Libraries
There are hundreds of public libraries in Barcelona, but you need to be a member to borrow books. Non-members are free to use books on a reference-only basis. For general information on your nearest public library, you can find contact details on the Ajuntament’s website (www.bcn.cat/biblioteques). Some of the municipal libraries are very small and…
Martial Arts
There are many martial arts disciplines available in Barcelona and it can be overwhelming deciding which one to follow. It's best to attend a trial class, something that is offered by most schools. Taekwondo, ju-jitsu, karate, kickboxing, judo, aikido, hapkido, jeet kune do (a variation of kung fu) and kung fu are the most common…
Mother & Toddler Activities
It isn’t easy to find English-speaking mother and toddler groups in Barcelona, which is why there is a certain solidarity among foreign resident mums. Groups provide an outlet for mums to vent frustrations on the Spanish birthing system, which has a tendency to favour caesarean methods over natural birth. Hospitals do not use TEN machines…
Motorsports
Catalans love motor sports, as evidenced by the number of professional racing drivers the region produces. The Centre d’Alt Rendiment (CAR) in Sant Cugat is where the most promising talents from across Spain receive specialised training, in the hope that one day they will reach the Circuit de Catalunya (www.circuitcat.com). The prestigious circuit in Montmeló…
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking or BTT (bicicleta todo terreno) as it is known in Spain, is a thriving activity, and fans have the Pyrenees mountain range, numerous national parks and beautiful coastal routes to explore. Popular cycling spots near Barcelona include El Montseny, Collserola and Ribera d’Ebre. Most adventure companies that organise rafting, climbing and other activities…
Music Lessons
Music is everywhere in Barcelona. With the highest number of public holidays in Europe, you can always find a free concert somewhere in the city. Percussion lessons are available in most community centres and many run musical interpretation classes, which are basically free-for-all jamming sessions where you bring along whichever instrument you play. If you're…
Paintballing
Paintballing involves firing balls of paint at friends, siblings, work colleagues or complete strangers. It is an invigorating way of relieving stress, hilarious fun and appeals to all ages. Paintballing is good for any celebration that calls for childlike tomfoolery. Most centres are on the outskirts of the city or further afield, so make sure…
Photography
Perhaps because it is such an incredibly photogenic city, where avant-garde fashion, architecture and artwork catch the eye, Barcelona has become one of the most important European centres for photographic studies. The city is bursting with talented young snappers trying to get their break. There are hundreds of different photography courses in the city, ranging…
Polo
The origins of polo are thought to trace back to China and Persia, some 2,000 years ago. It was only in the 1850s that British tea planters first discovered the game in Manipur on the Burmese border with India. Today, the game is played in over 70 countries. While polo clubs are more frequent in…
Rafting
Rafting is popular because it involves teamwork and is considered one of the ‘softer’ adventure sports (in comparison with diving or canyoning, for example). The best place to go rafting is the Noguera Pallaresa river near Lleida, known as ‘Aguas Bravas’ (brave waters), because of the strong rapids. Considered one of the best rafting spots…
Roller Hockey
Roller hockey (hockey patines in Spanish and hoquei patins in Catalan) is rapidly gaining on traditional field hockey in terms of popularity. It is much like ice hockey (and can be just as boisterous). Catalonia - the region where the sport is most rigorously played and followed - is home to most Spanish roller hockey…
Rollerblading & Rollerskating
Rollerblading is becoming popular as a fun alternative to cycling. Every Friday night, hordes of rollerbladers take to the streets with the group ‘Rollerbladers of Barcelona’, and every day more people can be seen using blades as a means of transport. Unfortunately, rollerbladers are in a bureaucratic no-man’s land: they are considered pedestrians, which mean…
Rugby
Spain has never been thought of as a rugby-playing nation. But, rugby fans will be pleased to know that Catalonia is an exception. It is a region that avidly follows and plays rugby together with the Basque Country. Perhaps it is to do with Catalonia’s proximity to the rugby-mad French south west, where world-class teams…
Running
Barcelona is full of idyllic places to go for a jog. First and foremost, there are the main parks: Ciutadella, Montjuïc and Parc Güell. The latter is the most challenging to run, due to the steep uphill slog, but the view from the top is an exhilarating reward. The many jogging tracks in Montjuïc are…
Sailing
Spain is famous for its boating scene and Barcelona is no exception. Sailors and travellers flock from all over the world to enjoy the calm Mediterranean water and many residents enjoy nautical activities like jet skiing, motor boating or sailing on a yacht. These are available for rent at many beaches along the coast, as…
Scouts & Guides
Sir Robert Baden-Powell, former Lieutenant General in the British Army, founded the scout movement in 1907 in England. Today, scout and guide organisations are in 216 countries around the world. And in Spain, particularly in Catalonia, scouting and guiding are popular. The names for scouts and guides can vary quite dramatically: ‘exploradores’, ‘guías / guies’…
Skateboarding
Barcelona is a skater’s paradise. Smooth pavements, ramped walkways, beachfront promenades, granite benches and graded banks have earned the city a reputation as one of the hottest skateboarding destinations in Europe. Skateboarding over street furniture is technically illegal, being caught can land you a fine of up to €750. Rarely does it come to this…
Skiing & Snowboarding
Comparisons made between the Alps and the Pyrenees often sell the latter short. The Pyrenees do not quite have the nightlife or variety of slopes, but they are accessible and good value for money. Their proximity to Barcelona makes weekend breaks easy. Most of the ski and snow resorts (estaciones de esquí / estacions d’esqui)…
Skydiving
Skydiving was only recognised as a sport in 1950, even though the first jump was successfully carried out in 1897, by an American, Tom Baldwin. Today, skydiving is not just for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers. Many people enjoy it as a stress busting hobby, however counter intuitive this may sound. But, once you are in…
Social Groups
An inability to speak Spanish or Catalan makes it harder to socialise, network and meet new people, but there are a number of expat societies to help counter these lost feelings. Language is the key to integrating, although the Catalan versus Castellano play-off can sometimes make this harder. Finding a tandem language partner or group…
Special Needs Activities
Barcelona is not an easy city for people with disabilities to navigate. There are narrow streets, small doorways, endless flights of stairs and few ramps. Newer hotels and the more expensive restaurants are usually equipped for wheelchair-users. Equally, most museums, buses and some metro stations are wheelchair-friendly. Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (www.tmb.net) has information on…
Squash
Squash received yet another blow in its campaign to be recognised as an Olympic sport when it was denied inclusion in the 2012 Olympic Games in London, its city of origin. While squash loses out in terms of recognition to other racket sports, like tennis, it remains hugely popular. Most centres and health clubs have…
Swimming OD
Swimming is a popular pastime in Barcelona and the city has many indoor and outdoor pools. The city's gyms and sports centres tend to have swimming pools attached to them, and some of the quiter beaches are good, as lifeguards are present, even when crowds are not. The Club Natació Catalunya in Gracia is a…
Team Building
Bridging cultural differences is fundamental in Barcelona. Muddling Catalan and Spanish words in the same phrase is a grave insult to defiant Catalan nationalists, and knowing whether to kiss or shake hands with business acquaintances can be daunting. Team building activities are an increasingly popular way to break the ice between work colleagues. Barcelona is…
Tennis
Spain has a long tradition of tennis stars; Rafael Nadal being the most recent example. In Catalonia, the Federació Catalana de Tennis (FCT - www.fctennis.cat) has worked hard to change perceptions of tennis as an elite sport. They have tried to encourage universal access with initiatives like tennis sessions in local schools. With 275 courts…
Triathlon
The first triathlon race (swimming, cycling and running) was called an ‘ironman’ and took place in Hawaii in the 70s. It remains, for many, the most challenging of all international triathlon competitions. The sport made its first Olympic appearance in 2000 at the Sydney games. For the Olympics, the ironman distances (a 3.8km swim, 180km…
Volleyball
There are two forms of volleyball played here: indoor volleyball (volei de pista) and beach volleyball (volei de platge). While it is a popular hobby in Barcelona, it tends to be played in informally, among friends or colleagues. Vila Olímpica beach volleyball club (www.geocities.com/voleyplayabcn) is a friendly international group of enthusiasts. The group don’t take…
Watersports
Windsurfing (surf a vela), body boarding, wakeboarding, waterskiing and kitesurfing are all popular. There are water sports centres within the city where you can hire equipment or take lessons, but the better centres, offering a wider range of activities, can be found along the Costa Brava (particularly around Empuriabrava, Sant Pere Pescador and L’Escala). If…
Wine Tasting
Catalan wines are sometimes unjustly overlooked. Over the last 10 years the region has increased wine exportation and Catalan wines are now present in many countries, including Germany, Holland, Britain, Scandinavia and Japan (the French are yet to be convinced). A tip when buying: check that all wines have the Empordà - Costa Brava DO…
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