Live music venues in Barcelona tend to be located outside the city centre, due to the increasing legislation against noise pollution. Some venues offer a daily agenda of live music, from local rock bands to jazz sessions, whilst other venues stick to one style of music. Hardly any bars and pubs are licensed for live music performance, although many will risk the fine for the occasional acoustic set or cheeky Dj session. You can catch regular live sets in some of the larger Irish pubs. There are also some restaurants with live music in Barcelona, perfect for a romantic evening meal.

Many international artists come to Barcelona as part of their international tour. The most popular large venues are the Palau Sant Jordi and Estadi Olimpic, where the superstar bands play. You’ll find several medium-sized venues around Poble Nou and Bogatell. Live music events are advertised on posters around the city, and you can also find up to date information in the events section of this website.

Live music is central to the local festivals celebrated by each Barcelona district every year, which give you the opportunity to listen to plenty of live music performances. La Mercé in September, and the Festa Major the Gracia are the annual highlights. Music festivals are also organised all year round, from huge established events like Primavera Sound, to various jazz, blues, rock, independent, and metal festivals.