by Lori Zaino Why go? Barcelona’s eclectic architecture, sandy Mediterranean coastline, and relaxed Spanish way of life make it the perfect city for exploring, tasting tapas, and sangria-fueled nights out on the town. Best of all, you can lazily nap off your hangover on the beach the day after.
Best ideas: Go on an electric bike tour to take in all the historical and cultural sites, hit up a soccer game — FC Barcelona is one of the most popular teams in the world — or try your hand at raunchy poker from the depths of a Catalonian castle. Barcelona is full of quirky bachelor party surprises.
Good to know: Barcelona is notoriously heaving with tourists, so it’s best to visit during the shoulder seasons (May/June or September/October) where you can enjoy beautiful beach weather but avoid higher prices and crowds during the busy summer season. Although winter is relatively mild and you won’t see snow, rain is possible and it likely won’t be beach weather from November to April, save for a random day or two of warm sunshine.
Barcelona is part of Spain, but Catalan is the main language, followed by Spanish — we’ll list the Catalan names of places followed by the Castilian in parentheses upon first reference in this guide. You can expect most locals to speak some English, though, especially in the service industry or more touristy areas. This Catalonian city is one of Europe’s most beloved spots for bachelor parties for Europeans, especially among British and German visitors. The Mediterranean lifestyle, cuisine, weather, and, of course, no-holds-barred party scene seem to make Barcelona an easy and affordable place to have the ultimate last hurrah.
Barcelona, simply put, is beautiful. From the whimsical, colorful Gaudí architecture to the golden sands of Barceloneta Beach, the city has the best of both worlds: a laid-back, Mediterranean vibe and all the cosmopolitan airs and amenities of a large, European city.
Traveling & Getting Around in Barcelona
Arriving in Barcelona is fairly easy from various U.S. hubs like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles. Once there, getting around the city is best done via the Metro, though taxis are readily available. While you can pay for just one stand-alone journey, getting an Hola Barcelona Travel card may be your best bet as these passes are good for unlimited journeys for two, three, four, or five days, starting at 15.20 euros (about $17) for the two-day pass.
Weather between early May through the end of October is usually warm and sunny, so people often dress casually, especially closer to the beach. If you plan to hit a nicer restaurant or club, make sure you have pants, closed-toed shoes, and a shirt with sleeves, otherwise you may be denied entry.
Barcelona is a large city with many different neighborhoods worth visiting. If you plan to do a lot of tourist activities, stay central around the Barrio Gotico (Gothic Neighborhood), Plaça Catalunya (Plaza Catalunya) and Las Ramblas. Barceloneta is the beach area, and Port Olímpic (Puerto Olímpico) is the port area, where many tourists also like to hang out (and party), visiting its many waterfront restaurants and clubs. For a more local vibe, the Born and Poble-Sec districts see fewer tourists. If you decide to venture outside Barcelona, Ibiza is less than an hour’s flight away. Check out our Bachelor Party Guide to Ibiza if you plan to go.
There are some important things to consider when visiting the city. Groups of drunken bachelors are not looked fondly upon by locals, so be respectful and keep things in check, especially in public places — you can blame tourists running around in the nude in residential neighborhoods for some of this bias. And no matter how drunk you get, don’t jump off the balcony into the swimming pool. For some reason, “balconing” is a favorite for visiting bachelor groups, and several people have died in the region from this foolish activity. Avoid mentioning, discussing, or debating the Spain-Catalonia independence issue with locals. It’s a complex situation, and outsider opinions can easily offend residents quickly. Barcelona is also notorious for pickpockets, so leave your passport and any unnecessary valuables in the hotel safe or hidden away in your vacation rental. Be very aware of what you do carry on you at all times and avoid leaving personal items in full view out on the beach, leaving your phone on restaurant tables, or putting backpacks on chairs or on the ground at restaurants and bars, especially in touristy areas like Las Ramblas.
While it is possible to get meals almost 24 hours a day, be aware that local places will offer lunch and dinner later. Lunch usually runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and dinner from 8:30 p.m. to 12 a.m., though most locals won’t show up until 10 p.m. or 10:30 p.m.. This can make early dinner reservations a breeze, as restaurants are typically devoid of locals before 9 p.m. Some small shops, pharmacies, and family-owned businesses may close midday.
Pros and Cons of a Bachelor Party in Barcelona
Pros:
- You can fly here nonstop from the U.S.
- Although pricier than Madrid or Lisbon, it’s still one of the most affordable larger European cities.
- It’s the best of both worlds: beach and city.
- The city is popular for bachelor parties, so there’s plenty to do for groups.
Cons:
- Pickpocketing and petty theft are extremely common.
- Barcelona is very touristy, especially in the summer.
- Locals don’t look kindly upon large groups of drunken men.
Best Attractions and Activities in Barcelona
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Bubble Football
Passeig de la Ribera, 24, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Barcelona Bubble Football)
If you want a day filled with laughter, consider a game of bubble football with Barcelona Bubble Football, where you and your group will play a game of soccer enveloped in giant plastic bubbles. It’s one of the more affordable activities on this list, with prices start at around $17 per person.
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Go to a Soccer Game
C. d'Arístides Maillol, 12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of FCBarcelona)
If it’s real fútbol you’re after, plan your trip to see an FC Barcelona game. Of course, it’s essential you purchase tickets well in advance, especially for some of the most important and popular games, like when the team plays rival Real Madrid. Season tickets can run from around 130 euros ($145) all the way to about 1,100 euros ($1,225).
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Take a Stadium Tour
C. d'Arístides Maillol, s/n, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of FC Barcelona)
Major soccer fans can do a stadium tour and visit the Barça museum at Camp Nou. Experiences range from a basic stadium tour to the Players Experience tour, which gives access to additional VIP spots like FC Barcelona’s changing rooms and the press room. It also includes taking professional photos, which can be a great memory for your group. It’s cheaper to buy your tickets online (53 euros for the guided tour, or $60), so plan to do so in advance.
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Tour Barcelona by Bike
Carrer de Marlet, 4, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Fat Tire Tours)
Barcelona’s architecture is magnificent, and even if you don’t want to spend all day long being a tourist, Fat Tire Tours has a number of tour options to choose from, including both day and night bike tours, e-bike tours, and Segway tours. Private tours just for your group are also available.
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Indulge in a Booze Cruise
Carrer de Sant Josep, 13, bajos, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Booze Cruise Barcelona)
Sail around the Mediterranean for a few hours on a two-story catamaran with Booze Cruise Barcelona. Options range from Saturday afternoon barbecue cruises to Champagne-sunset and Spanish-tapas cruises to wilder evening party cruises, complete with a DJ and dance floor. Dates are seasonal, but sailings usually happen Fridays, Saturdays, and some Thursdays. Booking online is essential.
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Have a Beach Day
(Photo courtesy of Destination Barcelona)
While Barcelona’s city beach, Barceloneta, isn’t the most epic stretch of sand Spain has to offer — Costa Brava is known for its hidden beach coves and long stretches of white sands, not to mention the nearby islands of Ibiza, Mallorca, Menora and Formentera — it’s an amazing spot to spend a sunny afternoon. Just watch your belongings and be aware that it will get very crowded on weekends and during the high season. If you’re not in the mood to get sandy, stroll the boardwalk along the beach, but watch out for rollerbladers and bikers.
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Watersports
Carrer de Meer, 39, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Moloka’i SUP Center)
Surf or stand-up paddle board in the Mediterranean Sea. Moloka’i SUP Center in Barceloneta rents boards and offers classes so you can decide which is best appropriate for your group — you can also rent skateboards if you’d prefer to “surf” the boardwalk instead.
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Take a Beer Tour
Carrer de Bergara, 3, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Original Europe Tours Barcelona)
A Barcelona Craft Beer Tour is the perfect way to enjoy the up-and-coming craft beer scene in the city. This particular tour lets you taste six beers, visits various bars and gastropubs, and ends with a tour of one of the most popular mini-breweries in Barcelona.
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Take a Spin on a Beer Bike
Carrer de Rafael de Casanova, 1, 08930 Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of hirenpancholi)
For those wanting a true bachelor party spectacle, hop on the beer bike with Party Bike Barcelona. Bikes include beer, sangria, and soft drinks; come with a driver; and fit up to 16 people.
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Create Your Own Cava
Masia Can Batlle s/n, 08793, Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Elteucava)
For those who prefer bubbly over beer, you can learn about the famous Catalonian sparkling wine and its elaboration with Art Cava. The workshop includes a tasting of at least three different varieties and a winery tour. You can even cork your very own bottle and make a label to take home as a souvenir.
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Play Raunchy Poker
Carrer de la Boqueria, 27, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Travel Bar)
Poker, drinks, and strippers in a private castle make for the ultimate bachelor fiesta. The outing includes pick-up and drop-off between the city and castle in the Catalonian hills, a barbecue dinner, stripper show, and of course, plenty of poker, complete with a topless dealer.
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The Best Hotels, Resorts & Airbnbs in Barcelona
Barcelona has an endless number of hotel rooms and apartment rentals for every budget. The city center, especially near Las Ramblas, can get noisy at night, so keep that in mind when booking your accommodation. Larger groups will find many Airbnb options, but note that hosts are getting stricter about rules, especially when it comes to making noise after a certain hour.
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W Barcelona
Best Views Plaça Rosa Del Vents 1, Final, Passeig de Joan de Borbó, 08039 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of W Barcelona)
Vibe: This Marriott property is a little far from the city center, but its beachfront location offers prime views and the Eclipse Bar on the 26th floor is always raging.
Price: Rates for a king room at the W Barcelona start at about $250 or 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. For the ultimate party experience, the penthouse is a three-bedroom connecting suite with three separate terraces overlooking the city and Mediterranean. Prices are around $7,000 per night for this luxurious top-floor suite.
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Hotel Arts Barcelona
Best for Art Lovers Carrer de la Marina, 19, 21, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Hotel Arts)
Vibe: One of Barcelona’s most iconic properties, this 483-room hotel is set right on the beach, but is located much closer to the city center than the W. Hotel Arts is famous for its fish-shaped sculpture designed by Frank Gehry.
Price: Rates for a deluxe room at the hotel, which is managed by Ritz-Carlton, start at $375 or 70,000 loyalty points per night.
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Hotel DO
Best Boutique Hotel Passeig de Gràcia, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Hotel DO)
Vibe: If you’d rather have a shot at taking over most (or at least part) of the hotel with your group, a boutique hotel like Hotel DO is your best bet — the property has just 18 rooms and overlooks the palm-lined Plaça Reial (Plaza Real). The rooftop pool and terrace is a relaxing place to hang out while enjoying gorgeous views of the city.
Price: Rates start at $175 per night for a double room.
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H10 Marina Barcelona
Best Location Close to the Clubs Olympic Village, Av. del Bogatell, 64, 68, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of H10 Marina)
Vibe: A perfect fit for those looking to party hard in the Port Olímpic (Puerto Olímpico) area, the H10 Marina is chic and comfortable, complete with a rooftop pool and views.
Price: Room rates hover around $175 per night for a double room.
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Generator Barcelona
Best Value Carrer de Còrsega, 373, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Generator Barcelona)
Vibe: Budget-minded bachelor groups should stay at the fun and funky Generator Barcelona, located near La Sagrada Familia. The colorful hostel has six-bunk rooms, eight-bunk rooms and private double rooms.
Price: Beds in the bunk rooms start around $40 per night, while double rooms are over $100.
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Airbnb: Spectacular Penthouse
Best "Go Big or Go Home" Splurge Port Olímpic, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Vibe: An Airbnb rental that can sleep up to 10, this spectacular penthouse in Port Olímpic features a private terrace and a shared swimming pool, and is within walking distance of the beach
Price: Rates hover around $700 per night.
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Airbnb: Amazing Apartment
Best for Large Groups Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Vibe: This Airbnb rental is ideal for two groups meshed into one: It’s two independent apartments next to each other, each with its own kitchen.
Price: The space, which runs about $1,100 a night, can sleep 12 in total and has a gorgeous terrace. Note that there are noise restrictions, especially for the terrace, so it’s best for those wanting to party outside the apartment.
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Airbnb: Three-Floor Penthouse
Best for Bachelor Parties Plaça d'Espanya, 08004 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Vibe: For those wanting a more local, less touristy Barcelona experience, this Airbnb rental is located near Plaça d’Espanya (Plaza España). With two separate terraces and a huge, L-shaped sofa in the living room, this is the place for groups wanting to hang out and bond.
Price: Rates start as low as $330 per night.
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Airbnb: Ramblas Boqueria
Best Location Close to Tourist Attractions La Rambla, Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Vibe: Those wanting to be right in the middle of all the tourist attractions should stay in this Airbnb rental, which gives you a double bed, sofa bed, and six single beds so you and the guys can spread out a bit.
Price: It’s perfect for groups on a budget, with prices starting at just $330 per night.
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Luxury Motor Yacht
Best Splurge if You Love Boats Port Olímpic, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Airbnb)
Vibe: For a completely unique way to experience Barcelona, stay aboard a luxury yacht that can sleep up to 10. With four bedrooms, six bathrooms and, of course, outdoor space directly over the water, staying here would make for a truly memorable bachelor party.
Price: Rates run around $1,100 per night.
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Best Restaurants in Barcelona
It’s best to make reservations at restaurants in the city center, especially if you’re dining on weekends or with a larger group.
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Metric Market
Best Place for Live Music With Your Meal Avinguda Diagonal, 505, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Metric Market)
This trendy, vivacious cocktail bar and restaurant has a menu with vegetarian options and live music on the weekends. The Iberian pork shoulder with apple compote costs around $14.
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Llamber
Best Upscale Spanish and Catalonian Food Carrer de la Fusina, 5, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Llamber)
Located in the cool Born district, Llamber has a contemporary take on traditional Spanish and Catalonian foods. With 30 different wine options by the glass, you’ll have plenty to pair the food with, too. Main courses range from about $13 to $28.
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Flax & Kale
Best Vegan, Vegetarian, and Pescatarian Option Carrer de Sant Pere Més Alt, 31, 33, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Flax & Kale)
With vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian options, Flax & Kale will reboot you back into your healthy self after a weekend of partying. Healthy breakfasts and weekend brunches are also available, as are takeaway, delivery, or options to reserve a table and eat in house. Be sure to stop by the kombucha lab or try one of their gluten-free pizzas, which range between $11 to $16.
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7 Portes
Best Hangover Cure Passeig d'Isabel II, 14, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of 7 Portes)
An emblematic spot to enjoy hearty Spanish and Catalonian cuisine, 7 Portes has a long history in the city of Barcelona, welcoming past guests such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí, so book ahead. Diners will be pleased to know this spot stays open from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. in case you want an early 6 p.m. snack or midnight meal. Paellas start at about $20 per person, and if you know your group wants to order a large pan of the famous rice dish, organize it ahead of time with the restaurant to ensure your choice is available.
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The Venue Steakhouse
Best Steakhouse Carrer del Rosselló, 365, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Andrea Loi)
If it’s a perfectly cooked cut of beef you’re after, The Venue Steakhouse is your spot. It’s certainly not fancy, but the right choice for a solid steak-and-potatoes kind of night. Expect to spend between $20 and $25, depending on the cut of meat.
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Boca Grande
Best Fresh Seafood and Mediterranean Cuisine Passatge de la Concepció, 12, 08008 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Boca Grande)
Known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, Boca Grande specializes in seafood, with menu items like fresh octopus, tuna tartar, and king prawns. Expect to pay $16 for a plate of fresh prawns — you can see all the fresh seafood set out upon ice at the bar, so choose accordingly.
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Cervezería Catalana
Best Value Carrer de Mallorca, 236, 08008 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Marina Lmn)
Walk into Cervezería Catalana day or night for breakfast or tapas and beer and think plates filled high with cured Iberian ham, Spanish cheeses, croquettes, razor clams, and fresh prawns. Breakfast comes in the form of cafe con leche and churros, or toasted bread with a delightful tomato spread (pa amb tomàquet, or pan con tomate, a cherished Catalan comfort food). Plan to spend under $5 for breakfast and under $20 for lunch or dinner.
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Croq & Roll
Best Croquettes Travessera de Gràcia, 233, 08012 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Croq & Roll)
For easy, affordable tapas and a variety of unique croquettes (little fried balls of everything from ham to mushrooms to seafood), visit Croq & Roll. If you just want a snack or two, croquettes are sold by the unit, starting at about $1.50 each. Make sure to try specialties like the gorgonzola pear or chicken Parmesan croquette. If you get the late-night munchies, keep in mind the kitchen is open until midnight.
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La Oveja Negra
Best Old-School Tavern Carrer de Zamora, 78, 08018 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Ovella Negra)
This old-school tavern is a staple in Barcelona’s bar scene. Head over to sip sangria or beer with your group, or reserve a table for a special fixed-price dinner menu that includes items like patatas bravas, prawns, manchego cheese, spicy chorizo and a half liter of beer or sangria per person for just $18.
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Best Bars and Clubs in Barcelona
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Opium Barcelona
Best Place to Go Dancing All Night Long Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 34, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Opium Barcelona)
One of Barcelona’s wildest beach clubs, the name may seem familiar because the Opium group also has locations in Marbella and London. Plan to spend some cash here, and it’s best to buy your entry or reserve a VIP setting for your group table ahead of time online. Dress to impress.
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Ice Barcelona
Best Ice Bar on the Beach Carrer de Zamora, 45, BAJOS, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Ice Barcelona)
Located in the Port Olímpic area, Ice Barcelona may be one of the world’s only ice bars on a beach. Experience fire and ice with the indoor, freezing ice bar and outdoor beach terrace.
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The Coconut Club
Best Outdoor Terrace Carrer de Ramon Trias Fargas, 2, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of The Coconut Club)
This tropical joint also serves food, but we recommend just heading there for that fruity, tropical drink you may be craving after a few days of beer with the guys. Sipping sangria on The Coconut Club’s outdoor terrace all day on a sunny afternoon is also perfectly acceptable.
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La Terrassa de les Indianes at 1881 per SAGARDI
Best Skyline Views Plaça de Pau Vila, 3, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of 1881 per SAGARDI)
This bar is the place to be at sunset for cocktails and ambient beats, as it overlooks Barcelona’s skyline. The outdoor terrace is part of the 1881 per SAGARDI restaurant, located within the History Museum of Catalonia.
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Espit Chupitos
Best Shots Carrer d'Aribau, 77, 08032 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Espit Chupitos)
With several locations in Barcelona and all over Spain, Espit Chupitos is a shots bar, where you can order entire trays of shots. Before you panic, it’s not a tray of tequila — you can, however, take lone shot or two of the heavier stuff if you desire. Instead, fruity shots with much lower alcohol content are served in creative flavors, that’s more how they do things at Espit.
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Carpe Diem
Best Beach Club Experience Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 32, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Carpe Diem)
This lounge-cum-club (which also serves food) is a luxury spot for those wanting a more sophisticated beach club experience. Relax with a drink on one of the cabana beds or dance the night away to house music.
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Macarena
Best Place to Party Hard on a Weeknight Carrer Nou de Sant Francesc, 5, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Macarena)
Situated in what used to be an old Flamenco tablao, Macarena is a smaller, more intimate club with DJs spinning mainly house music. It’s open every night of the week from 11:59 p.m. to 5 a.m. (6 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays) for those looking to party hard on a weeknight.
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Jamboree
Best Place to Hear Live Music Plaça Reial, 17, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Jamboree)
For those looking for a more relaxed vibe (read: no dress code) and an escape from the EDM that most clubs in Barcelona play, Jamboree has live musical acts that include jazz, rock, and indie among other genres.
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Marlowe Bar
Best Creative Cocktails Carrer del Rec, 24, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Marlowe Bar)
This dark, inviting cocktail bar has a unique spin: If you can’t select a cocktail from one of the creative drink options on the menu, just tell the bartender your brief life story and he’ll prepare a unique drink just for you.
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Wild Rover Irish Pub
Best Irish Pub Carrer de Santa Mònica, 2, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Wild Rover Irish Pub)
The spot for bachelor-filled, beer-loving groups on a budget, Wild Rover Irish Pub is your typical Irish pub with several TVs blaring the current soccer games. There’s live music every night starting at 11 p.m. and 16 different draft beers to choose from with prices starting as $3.50 per pint.
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Best Strip Clubs in Barcelona
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Darling
Best Strip Club Carrer de Blesa, 34, 08004 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Darling)
This strip club has a main room with a pole plus 10 private suites where you can enjoy private dancers — with names like the Moscow Suite and the Bali Suite, the entertainment offered inside matches their themes. If you call ahead and reserve, Darling will provide free transportation to the club.
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Pussy Cat
Best Adult Entertainment Carrer de Sagués, 21, 08021 Barcelona, Spain
(Photo courtesy of Pussy Cat)
This strip club provides offerings beyond traditional dancers to things like mud wrestling, strip poker, and body sushi. Book online for packages.
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Bottom Line
A Barcelona bachelor extravaganza means you can have it all: sunny days exploring the city’s gorgeous streets by bike, live soccer games, wild nights out on the town, and lazy beach mornings to sleep off that hangover. Plus, who can say no to nonstop tapas and sangria?
