Bars with live music

Barcelona has its own distinct melody. It sounds of the sea, of terraces full of people, of the wind blowing down from the mountains, of crowds and the Mediterranean. But if you want to hear its most lingering melody, you won't find it in the streets… you'll have to step inside one of the thousands of bars that resound with the sound of guitars, drums, basses and as many instruments as there are groups in the city.

Here's our brief overview of five unmissable venues where you can sample Barcelona's live-music scene. There are many, many more… all you have to do is tune up your five senses and let the music transport you.

Harlem Jazz Club
If you're into jazz, blues, soul, funk, Afro music… this concert venue in the Gothic Quarter is the place for you. Many Barcelona locals say that it's one of the city's oldest clubs and this is certainly true. It has been staging live concerts every day since 1987. It isn't just a true survivor… it's the perfect place to see a concert and, afterwards, dance until dawn. There are always DJ sets after the live performances.
Address: Comtessa de Sobradiel, 8
How to get there: Liceu (L3)

Big Bang
If you want to catch a local live act, blaring guitars and a giant dose of rock and roll, this quirky venue in the heart of the Raval will be music to your ears. We recommend you walk through the bar area and stand by the stage at the back. You'll hear the acoustics improve.
Address: Botella, 7
How to get there: Sant Antoni (L2), Liceu (L3), Paral·lel (L2, L3)

Heliogàbal
The alternative. Much more than a venue, Heliogàbal is a small cultural centre set up with the aim of promoting and staging musical and poetry projects as well as painting and photography exhibitions. Since it started life more than 15 years ago, it has become a meeting point for artists in the Gràcia district and one of the city's main cultural hubs.
Address: Ramón y Cajal, 80
How to get there: Joanic (L4)

Sidecar
Known as the "basement of the Plaça Reial" (you'll understand why when you go down the stairs), this legendary venue has played host to some of the most famous local bands. The rhythms of grunge, indie, rock from Spain and around the world come together here. And after the concerts, it is packed to the gills with people who want to get away from electro music and dance to the rhythm of guitars.
Address: Plaça Reial 7
How to get there: Liceu (L3)

Jamboree
Across the Plaça Reial, you'll find the cradle of black music in Barcelona. Here, blues, soul, funk, hip-hop and R & B take centre stage. This venue is housed in a former cave and that's why its acoustics are so special. And its jam sessions, where the musicians improvise together to the latest sounds, come 100% recommended.
Address: Plaça Reial, 17
How to get there: Liceu (L3)