The Barcelona of sport

Barcelona is mainly known for its architecture, history and culture but it is also an ideal destination for sports enthusiasts. Whether for those who prefer football, athletics, water sports or simply want to immerse themselves in Olympic history, in Barcelona it is possible to enjoy a most complete experience.

For the most runners , “ running tours ” are organized , organized routes of between 5km and 21km to discover the most important points of tourist interest, history, some of the most emblematic neighborhoods or even Montjuïc mountain while running. For those who prefer the bike, there are also all kinds of “ bike tours ” to discover the city on pedals.  

If we relate the city to sport, inevitably, the 1992 Olympic Games come to mind, the great event that significantly transformed the Catalan capital, since it not only left an indelible mark on the history of sport, but also revitalized the city creating new spaces and modernizing all its infrastructure. We invite you to discover some of the most emblematic places of the “Olympic Barcelona”:

1. Anella Olímpica

It is the monumental complex that brings together the main buildings of the Olympics:

Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium

Located on the Montjuïc mountain. Originally built in 1927 and renovated for the 1992 Olympic Games, this stadium was the epicenter of the opening and closing ceremonies of the Games. Barça currently uses it as a stadium for its matches, since the Camp Nou is undergoing renovations. In addition, the largest concerts that take place in the city are also held.

Palau Sant Jordi

This modern multi-purpose pavilion was one of the main venues for the 1992 Olympic Games. Designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, the Palau Sant Jordi is known for its innovative design and its ability to host sporting events, concerts and stage shows. great scope.

Calatrava Tower

The Montjuïc communications tower was built by the Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava. It is made of steel, and its base is covered in trencadís in a clear tribute to the modernist architect Antoni Gaudí. Furthermore, due to its shape, the tower is also designed to act as a sundial, as the shadow of its central spire is projected onto the Plaza de Europa.

2. Olympic and Sports Museum Joan Antoni Samaranch

A few steps from the Palau Sant Jordi, we find the Olympic and Sports Museum. This interactive museum offers a wide collection of objects, videos and exhibitions that tell the history of sport and the Olympic Games, with a special focus on the 1992 edition.

Currently, in the Museum you can find a special exhibition: “ Paris 2024: Games Wide Open ” which aims to bring the Olympic Games closer to Paris and make known all the curiosities of its idea of opening the Games to the streets and the most significant places in the city.

3. Bernat Picornell Swimming Pools

The Bernat Picornell Swimming Pools are another of the Olympic venues that are still in operation. These outdoor pools offer spectacular views of the city and were the venue for swimming and water polo competitions during the Olympic Games.

4. Vila Olímpica

It is located in the coastal area and was the old residential complex built to house athletes during the Games. Today, this area has become a modern neighborhood with apartments, shops, restaurants and the beach just a stone's throw away.

5. Port Olímpic

Located next to Vila Olímpica, it is another of the great legacies of the Games. This marina has become one of the most popular places for leisure and gastronomy in Barcelona. Here you can enjoy a walk by the sea, practice water sports or relax in one of its many bars and restaurants.

Leaving aside the Olympic Games, the most football fans will not be able to avoid thinking about FC Barcelona, popularly known as Barça. The most famous and emblematic soccer team in the city. To discover the Camp Nou, the Barça stadium and the entire history of the Club, the best plan is to visit its Museum . You can buy tickets through their official website, they have different experiences so that their visitors can get the most out of their visit.

We hope you enjoy the Barcelona of sports. Explore every corner and experience the city's sporting passion!