April is hands down one of the best months to visit Barcelona. Spring is in full bloom, the days are getting longer, and the city’s streets come alive with unique cultural events. If you’re looking for things to do in Barcelona this April on a budget, we’ve rounded up the very best free plans for you. Hola Barcelona takes you there!
Make the most of the great weather and discover a Barcelona that’s buzzing with activity. From deeply rooted traditions to quirky parades, April offers a unique chance to experience local culture without spending a dime. Hop on public transport and don’t miss a single one of these free April plans with your Hola Barcelona Travel Card.
Sant Jordi: The Festival of Books and Roses
April 23rd is the most anticipated day of the year for locals. Barcelona transforms into a massive open-air bookshop and florist. The best thing to do? Simply get lost wandering down Passeig de Gràcia or Rambla de Catalunya and soak in the vibe. Plus, many iconic buildings like the City Hall or the Palau de la Generalitat hold open houses for the public.
How to get there:
Metro: L1 / L3 - Catalunya or L3 / L5 - Diagonal.
Bus: H12, V15, V17, 47, 7, 22 i 24.
Move between book stalls all over the city with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card.
Passejada amb Barret: Elegance Hits the Streets
Save the date: April 12th at 12:00 PM. This festive gathering has become a local tradition, inviting everyone to head out for a stroll wearing their favorite hat. The meeting point is at the intersection of Rambla de Catalunya and Diagonal, the starting point for a parade showcasing hats of every era and style imaginable.
How to get there:
Metro: L3 / L5 - Diagonal.
Bus: 6, 7, 33, 34, H8, V15 and V17.
Sagrada Família Neighborhood Festival (Festa Major)
From April 17th to 26th, the Sagrada Família neighborhood celebrates its main festival with a program that’s free and open to all. Experience authentic Catalan folk culture at its best with gegants (giant puppets), castellers (human towers), correfocs (fire runs), and outdoor concerts.
How to get there:
Metro: L2 / L5 - Sagrada Família.
Bus: V21, D50, 19, 33 and 34.
Save time getting to neighborhood festivals with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card..
Gaudí Year 2026: Architectural Routes
To mark the centenary of Gaudí’s death, the city is offering special activities to rediscover his legacy. Throughout April, you can follow free digital itineraries and attend talks revealing the hidden symbols and details of his work, from the Eixample district to Gràcia. It’s the perfect time to discover a less touristy side of the modernist genius.
How to get there:
Metro: L3 - Liceu (Palau Güell), L3 / L5 - Diagonal (Casa Milà), L2 / L5 - Sagrada Família.
Bus: V13, V15, V17 and H10.
Character Markets: From Els Encants to Flea Gaudí
Barcelona is a city of markets, and April is the perfect month to go treasure hunting outdoors. On April 6th, don’t miss Flea Gaudí, a charming second-hand market located right next to the temple.
You can also visit classic markets like Els Encants Vells (open Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays) or the Sant Antoni Market, the ultimate Sunday spot for book lovers and collectors.
How to get there:
- Els Encants: Metro: L1 - Glòries / Bus: 7, H12, V23 and V25
- Sant Antoni: Metro: L2 - Sant Antoni / Bus: D50, V11, 13, 55, 120 and 141.
- Flea Gaudí: Metro: L2 / L5 - Sagrada Família / Bus: V21, 19.
Explore every market in the city with unlimited trips on the Hola Barcelona Travel Card.
Barcelona’s Feria de Abril at the Fòrum
Toward the end of the month, Parc del Fòrum fills up with casetas (tents), music, and Andalusian cuisine. Entry to the venue is free, allowing you to enjoy the joy of sevillanas, colorful dresses, and live dance performances.
How to get there:
Metro: L4 - El Maresme | Fòrum.
Bus: H16, V29, V31, V33 and 7.
Explore April’s plans with total freedom
To make sure you don’t miss any of these free events in Barcelona this April, the Hola Barcelona Travel Card is your best bet. It gives you unlimited travel on the metro, bus, FGC, and Tram (Zone 1). You can go from the Sant Antoni market in the morning to the Sagrada Família festival in the afternoon without worrying about transport. Plan your route and enjoy the best of spring! Hola Barcelona takes you there!
