The secret places in Barcelona you must know

Barcelona is a city full of hidden corners and surprises to discover beyond the most touristy spots. If you enjoy exploring and experiencing unique adventures, we encourage you to wander through its streets and uncover these five secret places that will captivate you. And best of all: you can easily reach them by public transport, Hola Barcelona takes you there!

20/02/2025
The secret places in Barcelona you must know
1. The Roman Temple of the Gothic Quarter

Few people know that, right in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, inside the headquarters of the Centre Excursionista de Catalunya, lie the remains of a Roman temple over two thousand years old. This is the Temple of Augustus, built in the 1st century BC, of which four impressive Corinthian columns are still preserved. This relic of Roman Barcelona is a true journey through time and a must-visit for history lovers.

How to get there? Take metro L4 to Jaume I or L3 to Liceu.

2. The Passatge de Sert

Located in the Born district, this passageway is an oasis of tranquility. With a Parisian charm, its stone facades and balconies full of plants transport you to a hidden corner of the city. It's the perfect spot for a quiet break or to take magical photos.

How to get there? Take metro L1 to Urquinaona or bus 19.

3. The Tower of the Besòs Waters

A nearly unknown architectural gem. This 19th-century tower, located near the Besòs River, was once used to supply water to the city. You can climb to the top and enjoy a different perspective of Barcelona.

How to get there? Take metro L4 to Besòs Mar or tram T5.

This ancient 19th-century tower was used to supply water to the city / Photo: Metrópoli
4. The Tamarita Gardens

On Tibidabo Avenue hides this small garden, unknown to many Barcelonans. A perfect space to disconnect, surrounded by greenery, fountains, and classical sculptures. A true green refuge in the middle of the city.

How to get there? Metro L7 to Avinguda Tibidabo or bus H4.

5. The Poblenou Cemetery

If you love history and art, this cemetery will impress you. With over two centuries of history, it's filled with funerary sculptures and fascinating stories. It’s an open-air museum where you can discover another side of the city.

How to get there? Metro L4 to Llacuna or bus 136.

This year, to celebrate the centenary of the Barcelona metro, special visits will be held to places usually closed to the public, like the mysterious ghost stations. Some of these stations, like Gaudí (never inaugurated) or Banc (closed for decades), hide fascinating stories and an enigmatic atmosphere worth discovering. It will be a unique opportunity to explore Barcelona’s underground in a different way.

The Tamarita Gardens are a true green refuge in the middle of the city / Photo: barcelona.cat

These are just a few of the many hidden treasures Barcelona has to offer. You can reach them with your Hola Barcelona Travel Card and enjoy more time to explore at your own pace, letting yourself be surprised by everything that hides behind every corner. What will your next discoveries be? Hola Barcelona takes you there!