4 Best Performing Arts Venues in Montjuic and Poble Sec, Barcelona

An old flower market converted into a modern performance space, theater, and dance school, the Mercat de les Flors forms part of La Red (the Spanish public theater network) and is set on lovely, expansive grounds at the foot of Montjuïc. Modern dance is the Mercat's raison d’être, and it remains one of the few theaters in Spain that is exclusively dedicated to contemporary dance. The on-site bar-restaurant, La Soleá, is ideal for pre- or postperformance drinks and tapas. 

Large tour groups come to this venerable flamenco dinner-theater venue in the Poble Espanyol named after, and dedicated to, the legendary dancer Carmen Amaya. Die-hard flamenco aficionados might dismiss the ensembles that perform here as a tad touristy, but the dancers, singers, and guitarists are pros. Visitors can enjoy one of the two nightly performances over a drink or over their choice of a prix-fixe meal, with prices ranging from €48 to €154. Reservations are recommended. Dinner shows are held daily at 6 pm and 8:30 pm.

Arata Isozaki's immense domed venue, built for the 1992 Olympic Games, has hosted superstar performers such as Bruce Springsteen and Beyoncé. Also presented are Disney specials, Cirque du Soleil, and other musical events.

Since 1892, this (now state-of-the-art) theater has had many incarnations; today, its focus is a social one–giving emerging musical acts, particularly from local neighborhoods, a space to perform. Don't underestimate the talent, though: there's capacity for 1,450 spectators, and the diverse schedule spans music, DJs, dance, and circus.