Barcelona is a vibrant city, a cultural epicenter where art and creativity merge in every corner. If you’re planning your visit or already enjoying the Catalan capital, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in its richness is through the exhibitions in Barcelona. From classical art to the most avant-garde proposals, there’s always something fascinating to discover.
At HCC Hotels, we know that every trip is an opportunity to learn and explore. That’s why we’ve prepared this comprehensive guide so you don’t miss the city’s most interesting art shows and cultural events. Get ready for a cultural immersion that will perfectly complement your stay in Barcelona. Discover them!
A Tour of Barcelona’s Exhibition Scene: Beyond the Conventional
Barcelona is synonymous with art. Its world-renowned museums, independent galleries, and cultural centers offer an constantly evolving exhibition program. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking for things to do in Barcelona beyond the usual tourist circuits.
The offer is so varied it can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve researched the main proposals and trends to help you plan your cultural itinerary in Barcelona. Whether you’re passionate about historical art, photography, design, or interactive installations, Barcelona has an exhibition waiting for you.
Great Names and Timeless Themes
The city’s major museums are must-visit stops for any art lover. The Picasso Museum Barcelona, for example, offers a unique perspective on the early years of the genius from Malaga. Although its permanent collection is a jewel, it often hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into specific aspects of his work or his relationship with other artists. In 2025, the museum will feature exhibitions honoring Claude Picasso and exploring the legacy of Alfred Jarry.
The MNAC (National Art Museum of Catalonia), located in the impressive Palau Nacional de Montjuïc, is another giant that spans from Romanesque art to the early 20th century. Its temporary exhibitions often focus on key figures of Catalan modernism, rarely seen collections, or dialogues between different artistic periods.
For those interested in modern and contemporary art, the MACBA (Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art) in El Raval and the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB) in the Gothic Quarter, are beacons of innovation. Their exhibitions are dynamic, challenging, and address current social, political, and technological themes. They are perfect places for reflection and experiencing new forms of artistic expression. For its 30th anniversary, MACBA will offer a new collection exhibition honoring the museum’s trajectory over these three decades, “Project a Black Planet. The Art and Culture of Panafrica.”
Discover Photography in Barcelona
Photography holds a privileged place in Barcelona’s cultural agenda. The Palau de la Virreina Centre de la Imatge, an impressive building on La Rambla, is a benchmark for photography, design, and contemporary art exhibitions. Its shows are often free and present works by national and international artists, as well as documentary and experimental projects.
Other spaces such as the Fundación Foto Colectania or the Fundación Mapfre Casa Garriga Nusi also offer high-quality programming focused on imagery, with exhibitions ranging from photography classics to the latest trends in the medium. If you’re a photography enthusiast, these places will provide you with a deep perspective on visual art in Barcelona.
Design and Architecture: The City’s Essence
Barcelona, the cradle of Modernisme and an avant-garde city, also dedicates significant space to design and architecture. The Museu del Disseny de Barcelona (Design Museum of Barcelona), in Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes, is a meeting point for lovers of fashion, graphic, product, and spatial design. Its exhibitions address the evolution of design, its impact on society, and new innovations. It’s a fascinating place to understand how design has shaped and continues to shape our daily lives and Barcelona’s urban landscape.
Also, various galleries and architecture foundations regularly present exhibitions on the work of iconic architects or on current trends in urban space design.
Cultural Agenda: Featured Exhibitions in Barcelona for This Year
To make your planning even easier, here are some of the most anticipated and relevant exhibitions you can find in Barcelona throughout this year and next. Please note that dates may vary, and it’s always advisable to consult the website of each museum or cultural center to confirm the latest information.
IDEAL Centre d’Arts Digitals – Leonardo versus Michelangelo
Starting September 17, get ready to immerse yourself in a fascinating duel of geniuses at the IDEAL Centre d’Arts Digitals with the ‘Leonardo versus Michelangelo’ exhibition. This digital art space offers a unique immersive experience where the works of two of history’s greatest artists come to life through large-scale projections, virtual reality, and surround sound. Discover the similarities and differences between their creative universes in a completely new and spectacular way. It’s a must-see for those seeking a fusion of art, history, and technology.
TITANIC: THE OFFICIAL EXHIBITION at Espai Immersa
Open until September 28, this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the famous transatlantic liner. Explore replicas of cabins, recovered artifacts, and testimonies to understand the magnitude of this historical event. An emotional and immersive experience that will transport you to the early 20th century.
Paradox Museum Barcelona
This museum invites you on a fascinating journey through the world of optical illusions and mental challenges. Put your senses to the test with interactive exhibits that defy reality and will make you doubt what your eyes see. It’s a perfect plan for the whole family and for those looking for a different and fun experience.
Banksy Museum Barcelona at Espacio Trafalgar
This exhibition immerses you in the enigmatic and provocative universe of Banksy, one of the world’s most influential and mysterious urban artists. Discover some of his most iconic works, exploring the social and political messages hidden behind his art. A must for lovers of urban art and social commentary.
UNIVERSO GOYA. ENTRE LA LUZ Y LA OSCURIDAD at Centre d’Art Amatller
Until August 17, this exhibition delves into the complex work of the master Francisco de Goya. A journey through his genius, from his most luminous portraits to his enigmatic black paintings, that will allow you to understand the evolution of one of the greatest painters in the history of Spanish art.
Petra: The Glory of the Nabataeans – VR Experience at Reial Cercle Artístic de Barcelona
Until September 9, this virtual reality experience will transport you directly to the ancient and mysterious city of Petra. Explore its rock-cut temples, monumental tombs, and fascinating landscapes as if you were there, in a technological immersion that combines history and avant-garde.
Fundació Joan Miró – Celebrating its 50th Anniversary
Throughout 2025, the foundation will celebrate its half-century anniversary with various exhibitions honoring the legacy of Joan Miró. One of them, “Pintar el cel. 50 anys d’històries de la Fundació Miró” (Painting the Sky. 50 Years of Stories from the Miró Foundation), invites visitors on a journey through its history, highlighting its impact on art and culture. A unique opportunity to connect with the artist’s vision and the institution’s history.
Museu Tàpies – Antoni Tàpies’ Personal Universe
This exhibition will explore the intimate world of Antoni Tàpies, one of the most important Catalan artists of the 20th century. The exhibition will delve into his literary, philosophical, and musical influences, revealing the connections between his life and his work. Ideal for those seeking a deep understanding of abstract and conceptual art.
CCCB – Featured Exhibitions
The Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB) will offer three major exhibitions. One of them will be dedicated to the acclaimed comic artist Chris Ware, exploring his unique style and narrative. Another exhibition, inspired by Federico García Lorca, will explore the power of emotions as a transformative force, offering a fresh and moving perspective on the human experience.
How to Make the Most of Barcelona Exhibitions from HCC Hotels
Our hotels are located in privileged locations that will facilitate your access to the city’s main cultural centers and galleries.
HCC Regente: Situated on Rambla de Catalunya, you’ll be just a stone’s throw from art galleries and very well connected to Eixample and Passeig de Gràcia, where cultural events often take place.
HCC St. Moritz: Also in Eixample, its proximity to the main avenues makes it easy to get to museums like the MNAC or MACBA using public transport.
HCC Montblanc: Its central location, near the Gothic Quarter and Plaça Catalunya, makes it the ideal starting point for exploring the Palau de la Virreina, the CCCB, and the Picasso Museum, all within walking distance or a short public transport ride.
HCC Taber: Strategically located, this hotel puts you half a block from the Museu Tàpies, facilitating access to its exhibitions. Additionally, you can reach the Paradox Museum in just 15 minutes on foot or with a short transport ride. Its excellent connection will allow you to comfortably explore other galleries and cultural centers in Eixample.
Tips for an Optimal Cultural Experience:
Plan ahead: Many museums offer online ticket sales, which will save you queues. Some, like those included in the ArticketBCN, allow you to access several important centers with a single pass.
Check opening hours and closing days: Some museums have free entry days or special discounts.
Combine your visit: After a cultural morning, enjoy the local gastronomy. Our hotels offer options for eating or snacking throughout the day.
Take advantage of public transport: Barcelona has an excellent metro and bus network that will easily connect you to any cultural point.
Exploring exhibitions in Barcelona is an enriching experience that will allow you to get to know the city from a different perspective, beyond its iconic monuments. From HCC Hotels, we invite you to plan your cultural trip and enjoy all that the Ciudad Condal has to offer. After a day of intense cultural activity, return to the comfort of your HCC Hotel. Our facilities, services, and hospitality await you so that your rest is as rewarding as your discoveries. Go ahead and explore the fascinating world of exhibitions in Barcelona and make your stay an unforgettable experience!
