10 Things to Do in the Born Neighborhood of Barcelona

This blog post was originally posted on December 4, 2015, and was updated on September 27, 2017.

One of Barcelona’s most historic areas, the Born, has in recent years also become its most charming.

Narrow and winding streets, medieval palaces, hidden corners, the Born is one of the locals’ favorite neighborhoods, and it’s no wonder why! Whether you’re in Barcelona for a day, a week, a month or a year, your time would be well-spent exploring the streets of this gorgeous area! Read our suggestions for 10 things to do in the Born neighborhood of Barcelona.

Indulge Your Senses at the Market

We’re foodies, so obviously we will beeline it straight to the local market! The Born’s market, Santa Caterina, is one of the city’s most famous. Built atop an old convent, it was one of the first covered markets in the city and recently received an impressive makeover in the market revival program. Its colorful, wavy roof is just another reason to visit this beautiful market, though we also recommend the restaurant inside, Cuines de Santa Caterina.

Address: Av. de Francesc Cambó, 16

Get Inspired by the Santa Maria del Mar

Undoubtedly one of the most jaw-dropping churches in Barcelona, Santa Maria del Mar is the heart and soul of the Born neighborhood. Stepping inside is enough to make anyone gasp, with its infinite pillars and bright stained glass windows.

Local’s Tip: You can visit for free before 1 p.m. and after 5 p.m.

Address: Plaça de Santa Maria, 1

Treat Yourself to the Chocolate Museum

The Born is home to Barcelona’s one and only Museu de Xocolata, a wonderful and historical experience outlining the arrival of chocolate to Europe as well as the important role Barcelona played in its production. It is one of the best things to do in the born for chocolate addicts, also don’t miss the collection of famous monuments. They are all made out of chocolate, of course! Who wouldn’t want to see a chocolate version of the Sagrada Familia? Looking for the best things to do in the Born? Look no further than this great place!

Address: Carrer Comerç, 36

Have a Picnic in the Park

The Born has strong ties with Barcelona’s central city park, the Ciutadela, the neighborhood was greatly oppressed by the citadel that stood there during the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, it’s a beautiful park that buzzes with activity, from neighbors walking their dogs to outdoor yoga sessions and bohemian musical jams. Furthermore, don’t miss out on other parks and gardens worth visiting in Barcelona.

Shop Independent Barcelona Designers and Artisans

The Born is also home to many of Barcelona’s independent fashion designers and artisans. Lost in its labyrinth of narrow streets, you can find some of the best made-in-Barcelona shopping. Check out our full post on where to shop in Barcelona, including some tips for around the Born!

Immerse Yourself in Barcelona’s Medieval Past

The Born Cultural Center opened up in 2014, showcasing some of Barcelona’s most well-preserved ruins from its medieval era. It’s free to take a walk around inside and learn a bit about how people lived in the Born in the past. Plus, the building that houses the ruins is one of the first modernist iron structures of the city, and is worth seeing on its own!

Address: Plaça Comercial, 12

Relax in a Leafy Square

Barcelona is filled with tree-lined, leafy squares, and the Born is no exception. One of our favorite ways to pass the time is having a coffee and soaking up the relaxed Barcelona lifestyle on one of the many terrazas around the Born. Some of our favorite squares include Plaça Sant Pere, Plaça de Jaume Sabartés and Plaça de Sant Agusti Vell.

Eat Well!

Looking for where to eat in the Born? The neighborhood boasts so many wonderful tapas bars, pastry shops, restaurants and cafes that it can be quite intimidating sometimes! We thought it deserved its own post, so make sure to take a look at where to eat in Barcelona’s Born neighborhood.

Chill-out in an Ancient Bathhouse

The ancient Arab bathhouse, Aire de Barcelona, is a unique and relaxing experience, and one that won’t break the bank. Prices start around 30 euros to visit the several different temperature-varying baths. Perfect for a cold winter morning, or even after a long day at the beach.

Address: Passeig de Picasso, 22

Visit the Picasso Museum

This museum is without doubt one of the best things to do in the Born. Furthermore, if you go to just one museum in Barcelona, it should be the Picasso Museum. Housed in five different medieval palaces, the museum boasts the largest collection of this artist’s work. Be sure to book tickets online to skip the queue!

Address: Carrer Montcada, 15-23

Any other suggestions for things to do in the Born? Leave them in the comments for our readers! If you would like to see it for yourself, why not take a look at this great little video?