Barcelona faces intense heat as the Cruïlla festival draws crowds. Residents turn to immersive exhibitions and renowned gelaterias for relief. New VR experiences and classic horchata spots see increased interest.
Barcelona is experiencing a surge in temperatures just as the Cruïlla festival brings thousands to the city. With the heatwave intensifying, many residents are searching for ways to escape the oppressive conditions. While some choose to brave the festival atmosphere, others are opting for air-conditioned venues offering immersive journeys far from the city’s asphalt and sun.
One of the most popular options this weekend is Eclipso, located atop the Centro Comercial las Arenas. Here, visitors can step into a cool, darkened room and experience life aboard the International Space Station through the virtual reality installation Space Explorers: The ISS Experience. The 360º visuals and VR headsets allow participants to see the Earth from orbit and imagine themselves as astronauts, providing a striking contrast to the heat outside.
For those who prefer to travel back in time, the Palacio Victoria Eugenia in Montjuïc is hosting Los últimos días de Pompeya. This hour-long immersive exhibition, temporarily relocated from Ideal Barcelona, uses VR headsets and large screens to recreate the final hours of Pompeii. Visitors can ride a chariot through the ancient city on the day Mount Vesuvius erupted, and even have their photo taken as a Pompeian citizen—though artificial intelligence, not personal choice, determines their social status in the image.
The city’s cultural offerings extend beyond virtual travel. The Macba contemporary art museum has launched El gesto de filmar. El vídeo en la Colección Macba, a new exhibition focused on video as an artistic and social tool. The show features three projects that explore the evolution of video art, including works from Spain’s transition to democracy and experimental pieces from the Han Nefkens Foundation. A dedicated section pays tribute to filmmaker Pere Portabella, highlighting his influential role in Spanish visual culture.
For those seeking a more traditional respite, Barcelona’s renowned gelaterias are seeing increased foot traffic. Italian-style favorites like Delacrem and Paral·lelo remain popular, while newer spots such as El Gelat and Vibra attract those looking for something different. Horchata, a classic summer drink, is also in demand at Sirvent on Parlament, La Valenciana on Aribau, Verdú on Bruc and Passeig Sant Joan, and Tío Che in Poblenou.
As the city adapts to the ongoing heatwave, the search for relief has become a defining feature of daily life. The growing popularity of immersive experiences and cool treats reflects a broader trend in how urban residents respond to extreme weather. According to recent analysis of Barcelona’s heatwave challenges, access to air conditioning and alternative cooling options remains uneven, highlighting the importance of public spaces and cultural venues in providing comfort during peak temperatures.
Barcelona’s approach to coping with heatwaves is shaped by its dense urban environment and vibrant cultural scene. The city’s investment in immersive exhibitions and the enduring appeal of traditional gelaterias offer both practical and psychological relief. As climate patterns continue to shift, such adaptive strategies may become increasingly vital for residents and visitors alike.
