Being an Erasmus student in Barcelona is a unique experience. The city is home to internationally renowned universities, countless events taking place every day, the Mediterranean Sea just minutes away, and a fantastic climate that lets you make the most of every plan.
Unihabit’s student residences are located in Ciutat Vella and Gràcia, giving Erasmus students the opportunity to enjoy life from the very heart of Barcelona with everything they need close at hand.
After many years of experience welcoming international students, we’ve learned which places and activities every Erasmus student should experience during their stay in Barcelona.
Grab your phone or notebook and take note of these three must-do recommendations for your Erasmus in Barcelona.
Discover Barcelona from Its Best Viewpoints
Barcelona is home to some of Europe’s most impressive urban viewpoints. They’re the perfect places to relax after class, take unforgettable photos, or simply enjoy a sunset with friends or family.
The Carmel Bunkers
Any Erasmus student in Barcelona will quickly discover that the Carmel neighbourhood involves quite a climb. You’ll also soon realise that the views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. At Unihabit, we recommend climbing even higher to the Carmel Bunkers, where you can enjoy spectacular 360º panoramic views of the entire city surrounded by nature and friends.
Originally part of an anti-aircraft battery during the Spanish Civil War, the bunkers have become one of Barcelona’s favourite meeting spots for students and young people.
It’s the perfect place to:
- Watch the sunset
- Organise a picnic
- Listen to music with friends
- Take incredible photos
- Enjoy one of the best free panoramic views of Barcelona
Take a picture and send it home—or post it on Instagram! Your friends and family will definitely be impressed.
Tibidabo
Tibidabo is much more than an amusement park. From the top, you’ll enjoy a completely different perspective of Barcelona.
You can visit the Temple of the Sacred Heart, climb up to the viewpoint, or enjoy the various attractions for an unforgettable day with friends and loved ones.
If you enjoy hiking, there are several walking routes leading to the summit. Once there, you’ll be able to visit the church and capture stunning panoramic photos you’ll want to show everyone.
Montjuïc Castle
Montjuïc Castle combines nature, history, and breathtaking views, making it the perfect destination to spend a day discovering Barcelona’s past and traditions.
Besides visiting the castle itself, you can also explore:
- Mossèn Costa i Llobera Gardens
- Barcelona Botanical Garden
- Olympic Ring
- Joan Miró Foundation
- Montjuïc Cable Car
It’s the perfect plan for spending an entire morning or afternoon with friends or family while discovering one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks.
The Best Beaches to Enjoy Barcelona’s Great Weather
One of the biggest advantages of doing an Erasmus programme in Barcelona is living by the sea. For most of the year, you’ll be able to enjoy the city’s beaches, whether you want to sunbathe, play sports, or simply relax after university.
Getting to the beach is also incredibly easy thanks to Barcelona’s excellent public transport network, including trams, buses, the metro, bicycles, and car-sharing services.

Barceloneta Beach
Barceloneta Beach is Barcelona’s most famous beach and one of its liveliest. Besides the beach itself, you’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink, and enjoy outdoor activities.
Here you’ll find:
- Beach bars.
- Restaurants.
- Beach volleyball courts.
- Paddleboard rental.
- An international atmosphere.
It’s one of the most popular meeting places for Erasmus students during weekends.
Bogatell Beach
If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, Bogatell Beach is an excellent choice. It’s common to see groups of students playing volleyball, practising yoga, or exercising by the sea.
There are also wide promenades for walking, running, and cycling, making it easy to spend the entire day enjoying different activities with friends.
Experience Catalan Culture During Your Erasmus
Barcelona hosts events almost every month, giving you the chance to discover Catalan traditions in Barcelona and enjoy a much more authentic experience through its festivals, nightlife, culture, and gastronomy.
Sant Jordi in Barcelona
If you’re an Erasmus student in Barcelona, make sure to keep 23rd April free. That’s when Catalonia celebrates Sant Jordi’s Day, one of its most important traditional festivals.
Give someone a rose, buy yourself a book—or do both! Walk along La Rambla, explore the streets of Gràcia, or wander through Plaça del Raval. If you love literature, history, and romance, this is a celebration you simply can’t miss.
La Mercè
La Mercè is Barcelona’s biggest annual festival and takes place every September. During these days, the entire city comes alive with celebrations, including:
- Free concerts.
- Drone shows.
- Castellers (human towers).
- Giants and big-head figures.
- Correfoc (fire runs).
- Sporting events.
- Food festivals.
Many Erasmus students arrive in Barcelona around this time, making it the perfect welcome to the city.
Museum Night: Free Culture During Your Erasmus in Barcelona
CCCB, MACBA, MNAC, the Museum of Music… Barcelona is filled with iconic cultural institutions that tell the story of the city’s rich history and identity. Every Erasmus student should take the opportunity to visit these museums during their stay.
One of the best opportunities is Museum Night, organised to celebrate International Museum Day. During this special evening, many museums across the city open their doors free of charge.
In addition to free admission, many venues organise exclusive activities such as:
- Guided tours.
- Cultural workshops.
- Concerts.
- Live performances.
- Activities for families and young people.
- Night-time tours of historic buildings.
For Erasmus students, it’s the perfect combination of culture, entertainment, and the chance to explore Barcelona alongside other international students.
Find out which museums you can visit in May 2026 while staying at Unihabit’s student residences in Ciutat Vella and Gràcia.
Let Your Journey Begin!







