What to do in Barcelona on a rainy day
Why a creative workshop is the best rainy-day plan in Barcelona
When the rain arrives in Barcelona, the queue for the Sagrada Família stretches further than you want to stand in the wet, and the covered arcades along the Ramblas fill up fast. The smarter move is to step inside somewhere that does not just shelter you for an hour but gives you something to show for the afternoon. A tufting workshop in Barcelona at TUTU Studio does exactly that — you spend 2 to 3 hours making a small handmade rug and leave with a plan to collect a finished piece.
What is a tufting workshop?
Tufting is the craft behind many of the rugs you have sat on without giving a second thought. A tufting gun feeds coloured yarn through a canvas frame, loop by loop, building up the texture and pattern you have drawn out. You choose your colours at the start of the session, sketch a simple design onto the canvas, and work through it with guidance from one of our instructors. No experience is required — the technique takes about ten minutes to pick up.
The result is a small, handmade textile that is entirely yours. Pieces are easy to clean. They are ready to collect from the studio 14 to 20 days after your session, once the edges have been finished and the backing secured.
How long does it take?
Sessions run for 2 to 3 hours. That is long enough to settle in, learn the process properly, and complete something — not so long that it eats the whole day. If the rain has passed by the time you finish, you still have an evening ahead of you.
What does it cost?
Prices start at 35 euros per person for a 30 x 30 cm piece. Larger formats include a 50 x 50 cm piece at 55 euros and a 100 x 130 cm rug at 129 euros. All materials — yarn, canvas, and tools — are included in the price. There is nothing extra to pay on arrival.
Who is it best for?
A tufting session works well for most groups and occasions:
- Couples looking for an afternoon together that is a little different from another museum visit
- Groups of friends, hen parties, and birthday celebrations (groups of 2 or more are welcome)
- Solo travellers who want to make something and meet people in a relaxed setting
- Families with older children or teenagers who have run out of patience with the rain
The studio is at Carrer de la Diputació 341, in the Eixample neighbourhood — easy to reach by metro. Sessions are guided in English and Spanish.
How to book
Slots fill up quickly on weekends and during bad weather, when more people are looking for covered indoor activities. The easiest way to secure your place is to book your session online. If you are trying to find something for the same day, get in touch directly before booking and we will let you know what is available.
Other indoor options in Barcelona
If our workshop is fully booked or you would like to plan a full rainy day, here are a few other covered options worth considering:
- MACBA (Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona) — striking building, good permanent collection, free on certain days
- Palau de la Música Catalana — guided tours of the Modernista interior run throughout the day, no concert ticket required
- A cooking class or olive oil tasting — several reputable options operate in the Eixample and Born neighbourhoods
Any of these pair well with a morning workshop if you want to fill the whole day indoors.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a tufting workshop a good rainy day activity in Barcelona?
- Yes. Sessions are indoors, guided, and last 2 to 3 hours. You leave with a handmade piece in progress — a much better souvenir than waiting out the rain in a café.
- Do I need to book in advance?
- Yes. Book your session online at tutustudio.es. Same-day slots can sometimes be arranged — contact us first to check availability.
- How much does it cost?
- From 35 euros per person. All materials are included.
