our blog

Barcelona, through our eyes.

The stories your hostel roommate didn’t have time to tell you. This is more than a blog — it’s our corner to talk about nightlife, culture, and weird little moments that don’t fit on a postcard – And of course a couple reasons why this city is the best

10 Things That Happen on Every Pub Crawl (and Why We Love It)

What makes a night unforgettable? These moments.

No two nights are the same in Barcelona — but if you’ve ever been on a pub crawl, some moments just seem to happen every time. Here’s what to expect, whether it’s your first or your fifth:
  1. The “I’ll just have one drink” person — who ends up leading the conga line.
  2. Two solo travelers click instantly. By drink #2, they’re planning their next trip together.
  3. A hat is lost. A new one appears. And somehow, it fits better than the first.
  4. The group starts slow… then one icebreaker turns into a full-blown party.
  5. A welcome shot brings nervous smiles and unites people who met just 10 seconds
    ago.
  6. There’s a language mix — English, Spanish, German, and “charades.”
  7. A birthday gets celebrated, whether it’s real or invented.
  8. That one 2010 banger drops and suddenly everyone’s screaming the chorus like it’s
    their anthem.
  9. A new country gets added to someone’s travel list.
  10. A random group photo becomes someone’s profile pic.

At Los Patos, it’s not about how many bars you hit — it’s about how those bars turn strangers into stories.

Where to Catch a Sunset in Barcelona

Golden hour goals? We got you.

There’s something magic about watching the sky change colors over Barcelona. It’s not just the view — it’s who you’re with, what you bring, and how the city feels in that moment. These are our favorite spots to catch the sunset, whether you’re flying solo, with new hostel friends, or on a Los Patos meetup.

Bunkers del Carmel
An iconic viewpoint with 360° views of the city. It’s a little hike to get there, but absolutely worth it. Expect music, cheers, and people sharing drinks and snacks. We bring our crew here once a week — it’s one of our most chilled and social meetups

Montjuïc Viewpoints
Start from the steps of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya. There’s often a live pianist playing as the sun sets — seriously. The atmosphere is more romantic and less crowded than Bunkers. Great for golden hour pics and conversations.

Barceloneta Beach
Classic and easy to reach. Bring a towel, maybe some wine or a vermouth from the corner shop, and kick back on the sand. No need to plan much — the vibe is built-in.

Bonus? Many of our free evening activities end at these sunset spots. We’ve seen solo travelers meet here and spend the rest of their trip together. Just enjoy the sun, community, and sea breeze.

Solo in Barcelona? How to Make Friends Instantly

Your people are one meetup away.

Landing in a new city alone can feel exciting — and a little intimidating. The good news? Barcelona is made for solo travelers. It’s social, walkable, and full of ways to connect. Whether you’re in town for a night or a week, here’s how to go from “just arrived” to “I’ve got plans tonight” in no time:

Join a Los Patos event
From free walking tours to our nightly activities and pub crawls, we make it ridiculously easy to meet people. Everyone shows up solo or in small groups — and we handle the rest with games, local tips, and good energy.

Choose a social hostel
Not all hostels are created equal. Pick one with a shared kitchen, daily activities, or a bar downstairs. Bonus: we partner with a few that host our events — check our map for recs.

Arrive early to meetups
Being early means you’re more likely to meet other solo travelers just arriving too. And trust us — those first 5 minutes lead to the best convos.

Use your curiosity
Ask for food recommendations. Offer one in return. Ask where someone’s been or where they’re headed next. Everyone loves to share a tip — it opens the door.

Join a WhatsApp group
Once you book with us, you get access to our WhatsApp group where people post plans, meetups, and random city questions all day. It’s a social hub for travelers like you.

At Los Patos, most of our guests arrive solo. And by the end of the night? They’re laughing,dancing, and planning their next stop with their new crew.
This is your invitation to show up as you are — and leave with more than just photos.

Surviving a Night Out Like a Local

Stay late, snack early, and look sharp.

Barcelona’s nightlife isn’t just famous — it’s a marathon. The locals do it differently: they don’t rush, they don’t stress, and somehow, they always make it to sunrise looking cool. Want to blend in and not burn out? Aquí va el manual:

Start late — really late
Dinner at 9PM, drinks at 11PM, clubs at 2AM. Sound wild? That’s just a Thursday here. If you’re going out with Los Patos, you’re in sync — we handle the timing for you.

Tapas before tequila
Eat. Always. Our Friday Tapas Night is the perfect pregame. You mingle, snack, and line your stomach the Spanish way.

Dress to impress
Barcelona bars and clubs don’t do flip-flops or sportswear. Think casual chic. If in doubt, dark jeans and a confident smile do the trick.

Metro is your best friend
First trains run at 5AM. Night buses are an option too, but if you’re with us — odds are we’ll
all ride together at sunrise.

Pace yourself
This is not a sprint. The best nights here build in waves. Start slow, enjoy every stop, and keep something in the tank for the last dance.

Come with locals (or us)
The easiest way to avoid tourist traps? Roll with a crew that knows. Los Patos hosts know
where to go, what to skip, and how to make it feel like you belong.

A night out here isn’t just about drinks — it’s about rhythm, people, and moments that stick. Go in like a local, come out with a story.

Best Spots by the Beach

Sun, sea, and a cold one — or not.

Barcelona’s beach scene is a whole vibe — and it doesn’t always need to include alcohol (though we won’t stop you). Whether you’re in the mood for a chilled afternoon or want to end your day with a view, here are the best beachside moments — Los Patos-style.

Barceloneta Sand Meetups
We host relaxed daytime meetups right on the sand — think beach volleyball, card games, speaker sessions, and spontaneous swims. It’s low-pressure, high-connection energy. Sometimes the best thing to drink is just coconut water.

Sunset Sit-Downs
Golden hour by the waves hits differently. We often wrap our free activities with group hangs on the beach — grab some snacks, lay out a towel, and let the city fade into the sea.

Beachside Bars (select days)
Depending on the vibe, we might end up at one of our favorite low-key beach bars after an activity. No need to overdo it — sometimes it’s a sangria, sometimes just a soda with new friends.

Skinny dips & sunrise
No pressure, but hey — more than one Los Patos crawl has ended with a night swim. These are the moments people remember

Optional, not expected
This isn’t about drinking all day. It’s about community, sun, and the kind of freedom that only happens near the sea.

Bring sunscreen, leave your plans behind, and meet us by the waves. There’s always something happening — especially if you’re with the right people.

Barcelona on a Budget: Free Things To Do (That Don’t Suck)

Cheap thrills, rich memories.

Barcelona is stunning, vibrant — and surprisingly kind to your wallet. You don’t need a big budget to have a good time here. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a while, here’s how to keep your days full and your costs low (without compromising the experience):

Free Morning Walking Tours
Yes, we host these! Every morning, our team gathers small groups to explore the city’s neighborhoods, share stories, and give you a crash course in culture. It’s tip-based, so you give what you feel.

Sangria-Making Nights
One of our signature nightly meetups includes a chill sangria class — also tip-based. You learn the actual recipe, make your own batch, and share it with fellow travelers. Simple, tasty, and social.

Beach Hangouts
We organize free daytime meetups at Barceloneta or other beaches. Bring your towel, join a game of volleyball or cards, and watch the day unfold. Sometimes music. Always community.

Sunset Hikes
We love an evening trek up to Bunkers del Carmel or Montjuïc. We go slow, we talk, we take in the view — and no, you don’t need hiking boots.

Explore the Gothic Quarter
Grab your camera or your sketchbook. Get lost in the alleys, find hidden squares, and stumble into street performances. No plan is the best plan.

Tapas Meetups
While the tapas aren’t free, the meetup is. We guide groups to local spots where you can share plates, split a jug of sangria, and pay at the bar — no fees, just connection.

Local Events & Pop-ups
Barcelona always has something going on — from free museum days to rooftop music jams. We keep track and often include these in our WhatsApp updates.

Just Join Us
Whether it’s for a walk, a game, or a sunset — our meetups are built so you don’t need to think too hard. Just show up, say hi, and everything else takes care of itself.

You don’t need to spend much to feel like you’re part of something here. In fact, some of the best memories are the ones that cost nothing at all

The Actual Sangria Recipe

No more secrets held back.

Let’s be honest — everyone says they have “the best sangria recipe.” But most of them are either way too sweet or just red wine with fruit and a prayer. This one? This is the one we actually use at our weekly Los Patos sangria nights, and trust us: it hits just right.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 bottle of red wine (cheap is fine — Tempranillo or Garnacha works great)
  • 1 orange (sliced)
  • 1 lemon (sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • 1 shot of brandy (or triple sec for a citrusy twist)
  • Splash of orange juice or lemon soda
  • A handful of ice

Optional add-ons: apples, strawberries, cinnamon sticks, or a dash of bitters if you’re fancy.

How to Make It:

  1. Mix the wine, fruit, and sugar in a pitcher. Stir until the sugar starts to dissolve.
  2. Add the brandy and splash of juice or soda. Give it a taste — adjust if needed.
  3. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (an hour is better).
  4. Pour over ice and enjoy with friends.
This isn’t just a drink — it’s a vibe. A ritual. And if you want to make it even better, join one of our nightly Los Patos meetups where we make it together from scratch. We chat, chop fruit, stir things up, and share laughs before the real night begins.
Making sangria with strangers might not be in every guidebook — but it probably should be.

Top 5 Bars in El Raval That Locals Actually Go To

Dive into El Raval’s bar scene and discover why locals keep coming back.

El Raval is a neighborhood that feels like the pulse of Barcelona. It’s gritty, colorful, chaotic, and alive—and its bars reflect exactly that. Whether you’re on your first visit to the city or looking to venture off the beaten path, these are the spots where locals and long-time expats actually go out. No tourist traps here (okay, maybe one, but it’s worth it):
  1. Nevermind – Grungey, skater energy with graffiti, low lighting, and the scent of popcorn in the air. Cheap beers, good music, and a chill crowd make this a staple.
  2. Bar Marsella – The city’s most legendary absinthe bar. The vibe is antique and a bit haunted. It’s not for everyone, but if you like a story with your drink, this is your spot.
  3. 33/45 – Retro furniture, indie tunes, and a local art crowd. This place feels like someone turned their living room into a bar.
  4. Casa Almirall – Timeless and classy. This bar dates back to the 1800s and still serves up charm, vermouth, and atmosphere.
  5. San Jordi Cervecería (Donde Don) – One of our own Los Patos Pub Crawl stops on select nights. We love it for the upbeat staff, nice tables to mingle, and the kind of music that always gets the group moving.
  6. Red Garter – Though closer to the Gothic Quarter, this karaoke + sports bar hybrid is a crowd favorite, especially for high-energy nights.
El Raval doesn’t pretend to be polished. It just is what it is—raw and full of character. Want to experience it with people who know the scene? Book a night with Los Patos and we’ll take you straight into the action.

Why Barcelona Nightlife Isn’t Just About Clubs

Because vibes > venues.

Here’s what we mean:

  • Pre-drinks in hostel lobbies – You show up for the free sangria and end up with five new friends and plans for the night.
  • Bar crawls with a twist – It’s not about the drinks. It’s about the walk between bars, the games, the music, the inside jokes forming with every stop.
  • Beach afterparties – Once the clubs close, the beach stays open. Drum circles, barefoot dancing, and deep convos under the stars.
  • Balcony hangouts – Sometimes the best “venue” is someone’s 5th-floor apartment, a Bluetooth speaker, and a shared bottle of wine.
  • Spontaneous live music – You’re walking through the Gothic Quarter and suddenly, a jazz trio appears. You stay. You vibe.
At Los Patos, we’re not here just to get you into clubs. We’re here to connect people, spark stories, and help you find your kind of night — even if that means skipping the club completely.
Barcelona nightlife isn’t about where you are — it’s about who you’re with, and how it makes you feel. And we’re all about that.

Where to Stay in the Heart of Barcelona: Our Full Review of Malacuna Hostel

Looking for the perfect base in Barcelona? Here’s why Malacuna is one of our favorite places to stay (and party).

When it comes to finding a place that’s social, central, stylish, and traveler-friendly — Malacuna Barcelona hits all the right notes. It’s not just a bed for the night. It’s part of the Barcelona experience. Here’s why we love it (and why it’s the official Los Patos homebase):

Rooms for Every Vibe

Whether you’re flying solo, arriving with your crew, or crashing in town before continuing your Euro trip, Malacuna has something for you.
Choose between:

  • Cozy double rooms with private or shared bathrooms
  • Female-only 4, 6, 8, or 10-bed dorms (yes, privacy matters)
  • Social, spacious shared rooms (up to 10 beds!) for those who love meeting new people
Every room includes heating, comfy beds, and clean showers — plus a layout that makes it easy to talk… or sleep, if that’s your priority.

Location, Location, Location

Malacuna is literally 50 meters from Las Ramblas — yeah, that close. You step out and you’re in the buzz of Barcelona.
From there, you’re walking distance to:

  • The Gothic Quarter
  • El Raval (our nightlife playground)
  • Plaça Catalunya
  • And of course, Barcelona’s beach in under 20 minutes]

Need to know where our meeting points are? Spoiler: You’re already close.

Services That Actually Matter

Forget the boring “we have towels” pitch — here’s what you get at Malacuna:

  • 24-hour reception (because hostel stories don’t happen on a 9-5)
  • Bar open all day & night with drinks and snacks
  • Game room with TV, XBOX, foosball and billiards
  • Free Wi-Fi that actually works
  • Self-service laundry so your backpack doesn’t smell like last night
  • Luggage storage (for those late check-outs and early flights)
  • Airport transfer service if you want smooth landings

And yes — there’s a rooftop terrace. You know what that means: sunset drinks with your
new crew.

The Breakfast? Optional. The Energy? Mandatory.

If you’re into breakfast, they’ve got a solid basic option for just €6 with pastries, churros, cereals, coffee, and juice.

Not bad before a walking tour or a day of… recovery.

But let’s be honest — what really makes Malacuna special isn’t the toast. It’s the energy.

Meetups + Pub Crawl = Community

Every night, Los Patos hosts social activities and pre-games right inside the hostel.
Think:

  • Tapas & drinks
  • Drinking games
  • Sunset meetups
  • Icebreaker games before the crawl

Then, we hit the bars — and trust us, it’s always a good time.
The best part? Guests of Malacuna get insider perks and quick access to our events, plus discounts for groups of 4 or more.

Flexible & Friendly

Plans change — that’s travel. Malacuna lets you:

  • Cancel for free up to 2 days before arrival
  • Change dates once for free
  • Book with member discounts up to 12%

Final Word

If you’re coming to Barcelona and want to stay somewhere that feels like part of the journey — not just a stop on it — Malacuna is your place.

And if you’re coming solo? Even better. Come for the bed. Stay for the vibes. Leave with friends.

Want in? Book your stay, and we’ll see you at the next crawl. Just look for the yellow duck.

https://tinyurl.com/3en7c5wx

Best Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties in Barcelona (That Aren’t Lame)

Whether you're the bride, the groom, or the chaos coordinator — here’s how to make your last single night the best one yet.

So your best friend is getting married. You picked Barcelona — excellent choice. And now it’s your job to throw a night (or a whole weekend) that actually hits.

Let’s make this easy and unforgettable.

Why Los Patos? Because We Do This All the Time.

We’ve hosted hundreds of celebrations, from low-key evenings to full-blown blowouts. The key? Flexibility, fun, and local hookups.

Through our trusted partnerships with local bars, clubs, breweries, and event providers, we can help you build a night that’s totally yours — without the planning headache.

You can include:

  • Boat parties during the day (music, drinks, views)
  • VIP table service at some of Barcelona’s best clubs
  • Karaoke night (we know where it’s good)
  • Reserved tables at cool bars or beer halls (including our craft beer partner, Cerveza Sant Jordi)
  • Sunset toasts with custom drinks
  • Pub crawl with fast-track entry and a personal guide

And yes — group discounts apply for 4+ people.

For the Bridesmaids & Maids of Honor

Planning this in a chaotic group chat? Deep breaths.

You want fun, not cringe.
A little glam, but not tacky.
And the bride needs to feel like the ✨main character✨ — every step of the way.

Whether it’s a champagne moment at golden hour, karaoke after dinner, or a dance floor takeover — we’ll help make it magic.

And you won’t be running around trying to manage the group. That’s our job now.

For the Groomsmen

No complicated itineraries. No boring group dinners.

Just a custom night with:

  • A solid pub crawl or boat party.
  • Cold local craft beer (we’ve got partners ready for your group)
  • VIP club access or private bar bookings
  • Optional extras like karaoke or sports bar stops
  • A group experience that feels big, fun, and personal

We’ll keep the good chaos flowing — without the stress. You bring the energy, we’ll handle the rest.

How to Book Your Group Night (or Day)

Option 1: Personalized Plan (Most Popular)

Tell us your group size, the date(s), and what vibe you’re going for. We’ll get back to you with:

  • A custom itinerary
  • Available venue options (beach, boat, club, bar)
  • Group discounts
  • Calendar recommendations for the best energy
Option 2: Start with a Ticket and Keep it Simple
Book the Los Patos Pub Crawl on our website, then send us an email and we’ll unlock extra perks for the night.

Quick Tips to Make It Even Better

  • Dress the part — themes are optional, but photos last forever
  • Tell us if you’re celebrating — we’ll make sure it’s known
  • Add a daytime event (boat party, beach hangout, or wine session) for the full
    experience
Barcelona is one of Europe’s top destinations for a reason. But this isn’t just any weekend — it’s your crew’s last big adventure before the wedding.
We’re here to help you celebrate loud, laugh harder, and create memories that outlast the hangover.

Plan once. Celebrate right. Make it iconic.

info@lospatosbarcelona.com

VIP & Groups Booking

Planning something bigger?
Whether you’re organizing a birthday, reunion, bachelor(ette), or just rolling deep — we’ve got custom plans, the best perks, and dedicated host options for groups.

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ALSO CHECK

Boat/Rooftop parties & surprises beyond the crawl.

Planning something bigger?

Whether you’re organizing a birthday, reunion, bachelor(ette), or just rolling deep — we’ve got custom plans, the best perks, and dedicated host options for groups. Need inspo? Check out our blog. Best Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties in Barcelona

Just Ask!

Talk to us like it’s 3AM at the bar.
General questions, wild ideas, or just saying hi — we’re here for all of it.

Hand by Hand

Let’s do something cool.
Are you a hostel, content creator, local brand, or project with good vibes? Tell us your idea and let’s make it happen.

New Blogs for All

Got a story to tell or a topic to suggest?
Share a wild night, travel tip, or hostel moment worth writing about. We feature real voices from our community — yours could be next.