Doing sport

Barcelona, an Olympic and sports city

Barcelona hosted the 1992 Olympic Games, an event that further consolidated its sporting tradition and drove improvements to its facilities.

Since then, participation in sports has not stopped growing, with Barcelona residents of all ages participating in a wide range of events, from community sports to high-level competitions.

The city boasts sports clubs with a rich heritage and international prestige, many of which have over a century of history, including FC Barcelona, the Royal Barcelona Tennis Club, the Barcelona Swimming Club, the Royal Yacht Club, and the Ramblers’ Centre of Catalonia, among many others.

Thanks to its world-class facilities, Barcelona now hosts a wide array of competitions: football, sailing regattas, tennis, equestrian events, athletics, action sports, motorsports, and so on. For those in good shape, the city offers thrilling challenges throughout its annual sporting calendar, attracting local and international athletes to events like the Barcelona Marathon, the Triathlon, and the Jean Bouin Race, the oldest in Spain.

Sport your way

Barcelona enjoys a Mediterranean climate that allows for outdoor sports throughout the year. Public spaces also have resources and facilities for exercising. Don’t miss out and get in shape.

If you enjoy walking or running, there are two particularly special spots: the seafront and the popular Carretera de les Aigües in the foothills of the Collserola range. You can enjoy one of the best views of Barcelona from the hills while running along a dirt track.

In addition, there are various walking and running circuits spread throughout the city in parks, avenues, and other open areas. They are signposted with information and practical tips, and they require no prior booking.

Another outdoor exercise option is the fitness circuits, which allow for toning and stretching exercises. Some are specifically designed for older adults. These spaces, located throughout the neighbourhoods, are equipped with fitness conditioning apparatus.

If you are into sports on wheels, you can enjoy free access to urban sports parks designed for action sports. Street skateboarders, BMX riders, and other urban sports enthusiasts will find familiar elements like benches, stairs, terraces, platforms, and ramps – all adapted for these activities and suitable for various skill levels.

If you enjoy walking, staying healthy, and exploring Barcelona in-depth, Barnatresc, an annual calendar of urban hiking routes, is for you. It is supported by the Barcelona Institute of Sports and the Association of Hiking Organisations in the Barcelonès (AEEB) county. No prior booking is required, but you will need to apply for the Barnatresc Card.

Sport at the beach

Barcelona's nearly five kilometres of beaches are woven into the daily lives of its residents and rank among the city's most popular spots. They make up the largest recreational area in Barcelona, so there is always a lively atmosphere and plenty happening there.

You often see people walking, jogging, or cycling along the seafront promenade. On the sand, designated areas allow for activities such as volleyball, exercise, yoga, or tai chi. Meanwhile, the waters are perfect for swimming, open-water training, surfing, paddleboarding, fishing, and other water sports.

Given the increased visitor numbers during the summer months, certain restrictions are in place to ensure everyone can enjoy the beaches. For example, the areas designated for volleyball are reduced, fishing is restricted to certain times, and surfing must take place outside the swimmers-only zone, which is marked by buoys.

At Mar Bella Beach, you will find the Base Nàutica Municipal de Barcelona sailing school, a public facility that promotes and provides beach and water sports activities. These include paddleboarding, windsurfing, and navigating watercraft like kayaks, catamarans, Optimist dinghies, and the Catalan skiff. The Base also offers courses and training for children and adults of all skill levels.

At Barceloneta Beach, you will find the Espai de Mar, a municipal sports facility that organises various sports activities and offers several services, such as changing rooms, showers, lockers, and equipment rentals throughout the year. For more information, visit: Sport at Barcelona's beaches.

Sport accessible for everyone

The city has around one hundred public sports centres and swimming pools spread across its districts. These facilities, together with private facilities, enable city residents to participate in a wide variety of physical activities and sports. They offer numerous guided classes and are also available for individual exercise.

The civic centres across Barcelona's neighbourhoods provide a diverse range of courses and workshops, including sports activities such as yoga, fitness, Pilates, Zumba, etc. The selection is extensive. To find what suits you best, choose ‘sports’ under the ‘speciality’ section in the civic centres’ activities search engine for courses and workshops.

Physical activity helps to improve everyone’s quality of life, positively impacting key areas such as health, inclusion, and social cohesion. This is the reasoning behind Barcelona Esport Inclou, a programme specifically designed for city residents with physical, intellectual, auditory, or visual disabilities and those with mental health conditions. The goal is to ensure that sport is inclusive and that no one is left behind.

Another interesting programme is Activa't, which offers physical exercise and health activities particularly suited to those over 40, though it is open to everyone. It primarily features two types of activities: oriental exercises, and motor skills and memory training. These activities are held outdoors in parks, gardens, squares, and beaches. If you would like to participate, simply contact the organising body, who will guide you through obtaining your programme ID card.

All these options are detailed on the Barcelona City Council Sports website.