Street art is everywhere in Barcelona, but real street art lovers visiting the Catalan capital can’t miss out on the neighborhood of Poblenou. Meaning ‘new village’ in Catalan, Poblenou may be the coolest of all Barcelona’s barrios This area was traditionally known as an industrial area full of factories, but over the last 20 years, Poblenou experienced a huge metamorphosis.
Not surprisingly, many urban artists are attracted by the walls of the old Poblenou factories, that potentially serve as a perfect canvas for their project. However, since street art in Barcelona is regulated quite strictly, only the best artists are allowed to paint here.
By far the most fun way to discover street art in Poblenou is by bike. Rent one in the city center and head towards the hip 22@ district, where Torre Glòries, the Design Museum and the Encants market are must sees for lovers of modern architecture.
Afterwards, cross the Avinguda Diagonal – the longest street of Barcelona – and enter the former industrial neighborhood via Carrer de la Llacuna. Turning right, you’ll enter Carrer del Perú, where you will find a wall full of amazing pieces.
The wall at Carrer Selva de Mar 127 is also worth a look and make sure to have a stop at the former factory located at Carrer de Emilia Coranty 5.
Then head to Diagonal again and cross the street to Carrer de Roc Boronat. In the area of Roc Boronat, Pujades, Bilbao and Pallars there’s also lots of awesome work to see.
For a complete street art experience in Barcelona – with not just visiting Poblenou, but also other neighborhoods like El Raval – you can also book a street art tour on a bamboo bike.
Cycling and art make hungry, so here’s some tips for a nice break during your Poblenou street art tour:
- For one of the best brunch places in town, have a stop in Can Dendê (Carrer de la Ciutat de Granada 44).
- Els Pescadors (Plaça de Prim 1) may not be the cheapest option for lunch or dinner, but it’s heaven for seafood and fish lovers.
- For great sandwiches and fantastic cakes and pies, Carrot Café (Carrer Tanger 22) is the place to go.
