Camp Nou in Barcelona isn’t just seen, it’s lived. It’s true that its renovation is still underway, but that doesn’t stop matches being played on its pitch, nor the experiences that can be booked for each visit. For example, you can visit its museum (temporarily located in a space of over 4,000 square meters next to the stadium) to immerse yourself in the club's history.

And there are also activities that elevate the visit to epic status: you can book the RoboKeeper Challenge, where you’ll test your aim against the world’s fastest robot goalkeeper; or try Barça Virtual Dream, where you literally enter the world of the team and try to become one of its players or discover what’s in their lockers. Ask about their tours, which include experiences like seeing Camp Nou from the sky by helicopter, visiting the sports city, or experiencing a match from inside the stadium.

We’ll start our recommendations with the Barça Café (carrer d'Arístides Maillol, 12), where you can enjoy the gastronomic offerings by the Iglesias brothers while your eyes wander to the team memorabilia that decorates the entire place. It’ll almost feel like you’re in another Barça museum.

If you prefer something more central, no sports bar list would be complete without a visit to My Bar (carrer de Ferran, 8), very close to La Rambla. It’s an Irish pub that might seem a bit touristy, yes; but think about the added experience of stopping by the Canaletas Fountain, where Barça celebrates its titles. For something more local and with more history, we recommend La Taverna de Barcelona (Ronda Universitat, 37), a quirky mix that alternates old-school décor with big screens and classic tapas alongside hamburgers.

From watching a match on screen to starring in one yourself, but without leaving the sports bar atmosphere. That’s what L'Ovella Negra Marina (carrer de Zamora, 78) offers, where you can switch from watching a match on one of their giant screens to getting competitive in a foosball game. Great atmosphere, lots of craft beer, and a menu full of tapas, sandwiches, and burgers. So, get ready to work on your wrist skills because here, it’s not just about watching, it’s also about playing.

The bond between Barcelona and sport is undeniable, and even though it’s been quite a while, the 1992 Olympics are still fondly remembered. A prime example is the Juan Antonio Samaranch Olympic and Sports Museum. Located next to the Olympic Stadium on Montjuïc, this space lets you learn how sport is a tool for culture, education, and integration. And since it’s interactive, it allows for hands-on experiences. And here’s the fun part: you can compete against Usain Bolt, compare your sneakers with those of great basketball players, or see how much weight can be lifted in weightlifting.

If after all that football you fancy a change of sports, don’t forget that Barcelona is home to one of the most important circuits in the country. Located in Montmeló, just half an hour’s drive from the City of Condal, you won’t mind the drive when you consider the activities waiting for you. And beyond the races it hosts, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya offers guided tours to learn how its facilities work (including restricted areas); the chance to ride on its track with your own motorbike or car; try off-roading at Rocco’s Ranch, which is also located at the Circuit; or jump on a bike since the Montmeló track is also open to cyclists.

In this case, we could ask you, ‘tell us what you’re after for your getaway and we’ll tell you which Sercotel hotel in Barcelona or its surroundings you should stay at’. From the one that’s pure art, like the Sercotel Ámister Art Hotel, through to the one with the best views of the Sagrada Familia (Sercotel Rosellón) and the one that’ll make you feel like a local (Sercotel Caspe). Come on down to reception, we’re waiting for you.