Barcelona Hen Do on a Budget: Free & Cheap Ideas

Editor's Note (December 2025): This guide has been updated with the latest free and budget-friendly tips for 2026.

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a top-tier hen do destination. It is a mix of iconic nightlife and world-class shopping, with beaches and a rich history stretching back to the Romans.

If there is one thing Barcelona isn’t, it is cheap! However, there are still plenty of fun, free things to do on your Barcelona hen weekend if you know where to look.

1. Stroll Along Las Ramblas (Free)

No Barcelona Hen do would be complete without a stroll along Las Ramblas. This tree-lined boulevard runs for 1.2 km through the centre of Barcelona. It makes for great sightseeing as the city bustles past and various street performers entertain passers-by. It is completely free to stroll, but be careful of the price of food and drinks in the tourist cafes!

2. Sunset at Sagrat Cor (Free)

The famous church of Sagrat Cor is located at the summit of the 512-metre high Tibidabo hill. It provides a spectacular sunset spot over the city. This landmark Basilica is actually two churches, one on top of the other. The views across the city and beyond are breathtaking and cost nothing to admire from the outside.

3. Explore the Gothic Quarter (Free)

The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic) dates back 2000 years. It is characterised by labyrinthine medieval streets full of bars, restaurants, and shops opening out into squares. In the daytime, this beautiful historic district is perfect for a stroll to admire the architecture. It is totally free to visit and comes highly recommended for soaking up the atmosphere.

4. Hit the Beaches (Free)

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, one of the most popular free things to do is go to the beach. Barcelona boasts 4.5 km of sandy beaches. Bogatell Beach is great for a more relaxed vibe, while Sant Sebastia and Barceloneta (next to the port) are lively and fun. Just grab a towel and top up your tan!

5. Free Museum Sundays (Free)

If you are at a loose end on a Sunday, visit a museum! Unlike the UK, state-owned museums in Barcelona charge for admission, BUT after 3 pm on Sundays, many cease charging. You can enter the Picasso Museum, the City History Museum, or the Barcelona Botanical Gardens for free.

6. Santa Maria Del Mar Cathedral (Cheap/Free)

Even if you are not religious, the Santa Maria Del Mar Cathedral is worth a visit. This outstanding example of Catalan Gothic Architecture conveys an impression of sublime width and airiness. It was built by the people of the port area, and it has a unique atmosphere compared to the grander (and more expensive) Sagrada Familia.

7. Magic Fountain of Montjuic (Free)

Built in 1929 for the World Fair, the Magic Fountain offers a light and music show choreographed to dancing waters. It is one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions. The soundtrack includes everything from Spanish classical music to contemporary pop. It uses 3,620 water jets and is a spellbinding spectacle that costs absolutely nothing.

8. Window Shopping on Passeig de Gracia (Free)

Passeig de Gracia is a Parisian-style boulevard paved with snowflake-shaped tiles. It is regarded as Spain’s most expensive street, home to exclusive boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants. Even if you can't afford to buy, window shopping here is a must-do activity to see how the other half lives!

The Verdict

You don't need a massive budget to enjoy Barcelona. By mixing these free activities with one or two big paid events (like a boat party), you can create the perfect itinerary.

Ready to book? Check out our Barcelona Guides for more infomration about activity and accommodation options which offer great value for money.