Nightlife Activities In Barcelona

Barcelona's Nightlife and Underground Bars

You're probably not aware, but Barcelona is swarming with an underground subculture, that's full of secret parties and bars, most of which are strictly on a hush hush, nod nod basis. This secret bar culture provides a completely different aspect (a thrilling one at that) to the Barcelona nightlife. The underground bars are promoted strictly by word of mouth and only a select few are lucky enough to experience the hype of these illegal nightlife activities. Many of the bars are in the most inconspicuous of places, and the exact whereabouts are especially important as they are very rarely sign posted. The location can vary widely from abandoned flats to warehouses in the middle of nowhere.

Alex, a creative consultant from Manchester UK, is a regular member in this underground Barcelona nightlife. "The first time I ever went to one of these secret bars I was really nervous, which is what can be expected I suppose. I found out about the fact that there was an underground Barcelona nightlife from a local. We was told about a newly opened secret bar in the Las Ramblas part of the city. We arrived at this fairly inconspicuous looking residential building. A very apprehensive tap on the door later and a whole other story unfolded." Like many of Barcelona's underground bars, it was only a bar by night, by day it was home to some city worker.

"The bar was pretty much like any other bar really, apart from the more upbeat vibe of course. The kitchen area was converted into a bar area, which was also complete with barmen. The remainder of the house was complete with tables, chairs, and areas for chilling out in. The only resemblance to a place of residence was the fact that the bathroom was... well, pretty much a bathroom." Alex stresses the point of the importance of knowing when and where you are going. "I have ended up in some pretty dyer situations.. But now I know Barcelona's underground like the back of my hand. I now know exactly where to go and where not to go."

Open up, pleeeaaase!

As all these bars are illegal, they often don't stay open for long. The ring leaders are often apprehensive about the people who they let into their bars, so a sort of secret code is in operation. Visitors tend to have to wait a certain time before gaining access to the bars, and on some occasions passwords may be asked for. When you have to leave the bar you need to ask the doorman, who then checks to see if the coast is clear and then you can leave. Appearing to know this unwritten code of conduct is a must if you wish to be accepted into these clubs and secret parties.

If Barcelona's thriving underground is something you fancy trying out, I suggest you don't go looking for the lesser bars and clubs of the ahem, or kosher. I have added some of the best secret nightspots for you to check out. All of these hush hush spots have been visited and tested by previous travelers, so you can be sure that there is nothing to be too wooried about :). These underground hot spots aren't advertised in your favorite holiday brochures, or your tourist guides, so be sure to leave your bum bag and your sandals at home.

• FonFone Escudellers 24, Barcelona
  
  If you want a younger vibe and a more upbeat style of music then FonFone is the ideal place.



• Bar Virreina Placa de la Virreina, Barcelona
  
  Bar Virreina is kept real hush hush and the locals are desperate for it to remain that way. The bar is located in the Gracia district, and it's ideal for people watching. Appear part of the crowd by ordering a "claras", which is a concoction of beer and lemonade.



• The Cava Bar C/Montcada 22, Barcelona
  
  This is pretty much well known to the more savvy of tourists, and yes you guessed it, it only serves cava. It's alarmingly cheap and if you fancy a nibble of tapas it's ideal.



• La Pipa Club Placa Reial, 3 pral, Barcelona
  
  This bar is frequented by old men smoking their pipes. This may not be the place to be for you, but for those of you that like the rustic charm of the city then this could be the place for you.

Secret hotels

If you would like to experience the cloak and dagger side of hotel getaways, you may want to try some of these hotels that are situated in Barcelona's clandestine underbelly.

Hotel Flor Parks encompasses a charmingly antiquated design with other-worldly touches. Beautiful and ethereal.

The Hotel Princess Sofia is the sort of classical yet unique hotel where love interest meet in Hitchcock films. A sort of stately air can be felt throughout. Ideal for an illicit encounter!

The Hotel Pere IV's decor is a contrast of primary colours. They are bold, in your face, and strangely enough, childlike. It's not for the light hearted of individuals that's for sure. This one of a kind hotel decor is how the future was imagined to be in the 60's. A vibe and architectural design like no other. There's even small pods which have personal dvd's and allow you to eat your meals.