Barcelona is a top European destination for art and culture. The majority of tourists automatically look at the MACBA (Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona) and consider Miro and Picasso as the giants of modern art, but many are not aware of the lesser-known and charming treats in the way of unique and unusual museums.
Quirky museums in Barcelona are found off the beaten track, along the charming side streets of the city. Many of the Barcelona luxury apartments are close to these special, lesser-known art-filled destinations. If you choose to pamper yourself and stay in these luxurious accommodations, why not take advantage of the opportunity to visit these hidden treasures that so few tourists are familiar with?
The best excursions are always those that are based on insider tips about the best local entertainment, activities and curiosities. Every gem listed below will be well worth your time. It is easy to add them to your itinerary no matter how tight your schedule may be.
Be sure to take tons of photos and videos. You will definitely want to document every single amazing sight that you experience during your visit to what’s considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You can share the pics and vids all over your social media. Your friends will get a contact high and be sure to thank you for turning them on to the following cultural treats.
El Rei de La Magia is Barcelona’s museum devoted to magic
Museu El Rei de La Magia
Do you love magic? Have you ever considered becoming a magician? If so, you’ll want to explore the fascinating history of magic. El Rei de La Magia is Barcelona’s gallery of enchanting tricks and posters of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The museum also offers sleight of hand crowd-pleasers. Be sure to book reservations for magic shows well in advance as tickets disappear fast. Some shows are not in the English language but no worries. Words aren’t necessary to watch and be wowed.
Museu del Perfum
Museu del Perfum is a fascinating Barcelona attraction that even many locals don’t know about. In the Regia perfumery back room you can find 5,000 cosmetic flasks, scent bottles, and objects related to fragrance. You’ll receive access to a collection that is divided into two sections. The first collection displays unguent vases and essence jars, all meticulously displayed in chronological order, starting with black eye make-up tubes from Egypt, to Marie Antoinette’s double-flask pouch.
The second museum exhibition features perfumes from brands like Dior and Guerlain. Many are presented in rare bottles, including a Dali creation meant for Schiaparelli and a Vigny Paris flask. Recently, Museu del Perfum added a collection of perfumed boxes and powder bottles from the nineteenth century.
Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum
This cannabis museum houses an impressive collection of over 6,000 pieces. They are all related to cannabis plants and a multitude of derivatives. You will experience exhibits related to awe-inspiring ancient rituals and learn about the use of hash, marijuana and help used currently in modern medicine. You’ll be mesmerized by everything you about culture and cannabis. It’ll be a highlight of your trip!
Museu de L’Erotica
Museu de L’Erotica is close to the famed red-light district. You are going to be excited by the airbrushed paintings and Kama Sutra illustrations and unique exhibits of sculpted Victorian walking sticks, studded chastity belts, and other titillating treats. Rarities that you can feast your eyes on include detailed Japanese drawings, the “pleasure chair” of the past and brothel photos from the 1930s in Barrio Chino.
Museu de Carrosses Funebres
The most obscure museum that Barcelona has to offer is the Museu de Carrosses Funebres. It is open Wednesday to Sunday and only in the mornings. Those who have a macabre side will not want to miss seeing the largest worldwide collection of hearses and funeral carriages that date back to the eighteenth century and all the way up to the 1950s.
Your visit will include Baroque ornate carriages, functional landaus and berlins, and a silver Buick that was used as a hearse. White carriages designed for virgins and children are close to mourning carriages for mistresses—to guarantee discretion through anonymity. Every carriage and hearse is manned by ghoulish-looking dummies clothed in period gear. Their creepy gaze adds to the thrilling chills of the spooky visit.
Museu de Cera
This museum is not quite at the level of Madame Tussauds but it is still worth the time. It’s a great addition to any rainy days that require a quick change in schedule. You’ll enjoy the time, while also keeping any young tot engaged and entertained at the “Underwater” section.
The Museu de Cera exhibits offer a mix of historical and modern characters. It’s an odd juxtaposition of composers from the nineteenth century near Star Wars characters. You’ll see ET, Lady Di, and more.
Museu de la Moto de Barcelona
This former convent, Sen Felipe Neri, is where you can see displays of motorbikes, including venerated relics. The design of the museum is also attention grabbing and displays will appeal to anyone—motorbike fanatics or not. Part of the exhibition belongs to Mario Soler, a reputable restaurateur and you can find many interesting classics, like Derbi, OSSA, Bultaco and Montesa. There is even a prized Villalbi.
Be daring and inquisitive in Barcelona. Check out these unusual artistic delights in one of the most beautiful and cultural cities in the world.