Performing arts school trips to Barcelona

The symbol of Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia is a must-visit when staying in this Catalan city. Arguably one of the most spectacular basilicas in the world, Gaudi’s original design is still unfinished to this day. Though breathtaking from the outside, the inside of the church doesn’t disappoint either – we’ve seen students gaze in awe at the colourful stained glass windows and towering columns.

Boasting a vast history dating back several thousand years, the 213-metre hill of Montjuic features several attractions, from its Spanish Village and Magic Fountain to the MNAC (Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya) – one of the city's most important museums. Explore the beauty of the local botanical gardens or exhibition rooms – excursions we know have been popular with student groups.

One of the best-known features of Barcelona, this magnificent mile-long boulevard was originally a mountain stream that ran alongside the 13th century second wall of the city. Now, flower stalls and street art line the pavement, between dozens of shops, restaurants and human statues that we know your students will love exploring.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, this architectural masterpiece is located in the centre of Barcelona. The tour takes you on a journey through the stunning halls, stairways and auditoriums that have played host to exceptional musical concerts for over a hundred years.

Stroll around the stunning natural area of Parc Güell – a public area full of exquisite mosaic sculptures and buildings – and discover the earlier works of Antoni Gaudi, which are reminiscent of his naturalist phase. An outdoor space where students can enjoy both the architecture, the sun’s rays and a snack, we think the park is a great pitstop between the city’s sights.

Devoted to the influential Spanish artist, this museum offers students a deeper view into Picasso’s formative years. The Picasso Museum is housed in five adjoining medieval palaces, inside which more than 4,250 pieces make up the museum’s permanent collection. During your visit, we expect students to be intrigued by the museum’s vast collection of his earliest works, as well as the tale behind his prized Las Meninas series.

It may take years to perfect the dance form of flamenco, the folkloric music tradition of southern Spain, but students can learn the basics with an evening of culture in a welcoming Barcelona dance centre. We’ve seen student groups immerse themselves in the spirit of the dance, encouraged by friendly flamenco musicians and their atmospheric guitar accompaniment.

The perfect excursion after a long day of exploring, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a spectacle that should be experienced by all of your students. Through its 3,620 jets, the fountain sprays an impressive 700 gallons of water each second, accompanied by an extravagant light and music show for the breathtaking full effect.

One of the oldest districts in Barcelona, we recommend exploring the city’s charming Gothic Quarter – where narrow, cobbled streets are filled with trendy shops, artisan market stalls and Catalan restaurants. Don’t miss the Plaça Reial – one of the city’s most beautiful squares – as you explore the quarter’s architectural and retail wonders. We know your students will love experiencing this side of Barcelona.

It may take years to perfect the dance form of flamenco, the folkloric music tradition of southern Spain, but students can learn the basics with an evening of culture in a welcoming Barcelona dance centre. We’ve seen student groups immerse themselves in the spirit of the dance, encouraged by friendly flamenco musicians and their atmospheric guitar accompaniment.

A seaside neighbourhood favoured by locals and punctuated by its huge glass W hotel building, La Barceloneta offers an idyllic spot where students can watch surfers ride the waves on Sant Sebastià Beach, dine al fresco in its many seafood and tapas restaurants, and explore the glitzy marina. We recommend pairing this excursion with visits to Montjuïc, which you can get to directly using the port’s cable car.

There’s no end of things to do on Barcelona’s vast waterfront, which stretches across more than five kilometres of the eastern Spanish coast. Join the local joggers as you stroll along this beautiful palm lined promenade, taking in the street art, sculptures, and laid back atmosphere along the way.