Music Festivals and Concerts in Barcelona

Visit Barcelona and you’ll find an excellent music scene. At venues across the city you can see some of the world’s biggest stars, the next big thing, or you can visit one of the city’s festivals and see them all together

The NH Bellboy’s Tips

One of the world’s biggest bands is deeply linked to Barcelona

Concerts in Barcelona don’t get much bigger than Queen. The band, who are on tour with singer Adam Lambert assuming the role of Freddie Mercury, already have a musical connection to the city: Freddie Mercury duetted with Barcelona native Montserrat Caballé for a song - and then an album - titled ‘Barcelona’, so it's no wonder that the group brought the house down during their recent performance at the famous Palau Sant Jordi.

A night of class in Barcelona

The breathtaking Palau de la Musica Catalana music venue is the finest spot in the city to catch a live performance. The stunning interior, with its stained glass and grand stage, is a treat whether music is playing or not, but it’s at its best when there’s great music reverberating off the walls. Concerts are held on most nights of the week, and generally focus on piano and orchestral pieces, as well classic Spanish guitar and opera. Booking in advance is recommended.

2016's Barcelona Festivals

Barcelona is well regarded as one of Europe’s best festival-going cities. Great weather and big bands contribute to an energy and atmosphere that just can’t be beaten.

In early June, Primavera Sound takes over the city. This year sees some of the world’s biggest alternative bands delight the crowd at Parc Del Forum. Headliners include Radiohead, LCD Soundsystem and Sigur Ros; other highlights include Brian Wilson performing the seminal Beach Boys album ‘Pet Sounds’, and bands such as The Last Shadow Puppets, PJ Harvey, and Animal Collective are also performing, among many other well-known artists.

Also in June is Sonar Barcelona, which is spread over three days and features some superb electronic music talent. There are two venues for Sonar - one for the day, and one for the night. New Order, Skepta, Fatboy Slim, James Blake, Boys Noize, and Bob Moses are some of the big names playing during this festival in Barcelona, among many others. 


Not all concerts in Barcelona take place among the metropolitan landscape. Vida Festival is held about a 50-minute drive from the city in a wooded, secluded beach area. The chilled out musical atmosphere is aided by some of the world’s best laid-back artists, including Wilco, The Divine Comedy, Nada Surf, and Rodrigo Amarante.


Besides the musical events on offer, Barcelona allows you to enjoy a variety of main attractions such as Barceloneta beach, Tibidabo mountain or iconic places surrounding the city that will make the most of your break in Spain.

Concert Barcelona 2016

It’s already been a big year for concerts in Barcelona, and that looks set to continue right through the year, with world’s biggest stars bringing their musical talents and stomping shows to the city.

In August, the biggest musical talent on the planet will be playing the same venue. Beyonce’s The Formation World Tour received rave reviews from fans and critics alike, who celebrated the dance moves, anthemic songs, and the strength of her vocals. It is an all out spectacle that is sure to bring Barcelona to its knees.

The final star attraction of the year is Justin Bieber, who will be bringing his Purpose World Tour to Palau Sant Jordi on November 22. Join thousands of screaming fans as Bieber struts, dances, and sings his way some of the most iconic pop songs of the past 10 years. 


Planning your trip to Barcelona? Check out our favorite downtown hotels in Barcelona.

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