Barcelona boasts way more sunny days than it does rainy ones. It's a city known for its beautiful boardwalk, picturesque beaches and favorable climate almost year-round. Even when it becomes chilly during winter, it's usually quite tolerable.
However, every now and then, the clouds congregate and the city sees a few rainy days or weeks (depending on the time of year). Therefore, in order to keep entertained while it pours, it's always a good idea to have some go-to indoor options up your sleeve.
On a rainy day in Barcelona, a great thing to do is visit a couple of museums. Even if you're not an art enthusiast, the Picasso Museum (in the Born neighborhood) houses an excellent display of Picasso's classics. Although it's small, the museum touches on the different eras and takes you through the evolution of his creations.
The museum often has special exhibits, so check online in case there's an extraordinary showing while you're in town. Also, you can skip the long line at the entrance if you visit the museum’s website and reserve tickets in advance.
A few other museums that are worth checking out are the MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art), the Historical Museum of Catalunya and the Chocolate Museum, which is especially ideal if you have kids. You can book a private or group class and make your own chocolate designs, or just opt for a tour and satisfy your sugar cravings at the end.
Yummy treats at the Chocolate Museum — Photo courtesy of Oh-Barcelona.com
If you're not in a museum mood, perhaps you would rather relax and watch a movie 'Spanish style' on the big screen. If so, head to one of a few theaters that feature films in their original voice (voz original); Icaria or Verdi Cines are both excellent options. Verdi Cines is located in the heart of Gracia neighborhood, so once the movie is over, there are plenty of trendy shops, cool restaurants and wine bars to check out.
If it’s pouring outside, there’s no better excuse to cozy up in one of the many bars and restaurants throughout the city, and enjoy Barcelona’s famous tapas, sangria, cava and very cheap wines. Meals in Barcelona are usually leisurely, drawn out affairs. You could easily spend a few hours savoring ‘pan con tomate’ (bread with tomato), cured hams, or manchego cheeses, while sipping vermouth or a hot Carajillo (coffee with Baileys).
The best thing about the rain in Barcelona is that it never lasts very long. So, if you can find something to keep you busy for an hour or two, you should soon be greeted by sunny, blue skies and maybe even a rainbow.
