Activities
The Barcelona International Summer School (BISS) is far more than just a series of courses. It is an opportunity to learn about exciting topics of your choice and also to engage with the BISS community beyond the classroom, to meet other students from a variety of backgrounds and to explore the city and UPF.
Our evening programme offers exciting social and cultural activities to enjoy Barcelona with fellow local and international students. The activities explore issues such as science, wellbeing, sustainability and social impact, and promote the exchange of ideas across disciplines and subject areas.
Make sure to join our social programme and become part of the BISS community!
All evening activities are open to BISS students and lecturers and are included in the tuition fee and are free of charge. Each activity has limited spots and will be assigned on a first come first served basis.
Programme of activities of the Barcelona International Summer School 2023 (for reference only, varies yearly).
1. Barceloneta Walking Tour & Local Food Taste
Join us for an evening of history, culture, and local delights around vibrant Barceloneta neighborhood.
Discover the secrets and rich heritage that shaped the vibrant soul of Barceloneta. Our knowledgeable local guides will unveil the hidden historical traces and captivating stories of this charming old fishing quarter. As the sun sets, we'll conclude our tour at a delightful local bar, where you'll savor the taste of authentic Catalan cuisine.
📍 Location: In front of the main entrance at Museu d'Història de Catalunya
Museu d'Història de Catalunya, Pça. de Pau Vila, 3, 08039 Barcelona
🗓️ Date: Tuesday 4th July, 2023
🕖 Time: 5:30PM -5:45PM
2. Sustainable Tour in Poblenou
Discover Barcelona's Poblenou District and learn about its sustainable transformation with members from the Erasmus Student Network, offering an authentic local insight into the community's initiatives for positive change.
Besides its main focus on large technology companies, this part of Poblenou also includes superblocks, green zones, and inspiring local initiatives that are shaping a more sustainable and socially responsible neighborhood.
Engage with our student guides who will lead you through the streets, introducing you to local businesses and community projects that prioritize sustainability and social value.
📍 Location: Poblenou Campus
🗓️ Date: Tuesday 11th July, 2023
⏰ Time: 6PM
3. Film Screening and Discussion
Audiovisual and digital communication are the languages of our generation. Film and television remain powerful tools to narrate stories, to spread messages and to shape identities.
Participants will watch the screening of a movie, which will be followed by a discussion led by UPF faculty to analyse the shaping of an image through audiovisual languages.
📍 Location: Poblenou Campus
🗓️ Date: Wedneday 12th July, 2023
⏰ Time: 6PM
4. Making Music with AI : Creative Workshop
No previous knowledge or experience is required. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, this workshop is designed to engage and inspire individuals from all backgrounds.
Immerse yourself in the world of artificial intelligence as our expert instructor Rafael Ramirez, leader of the Music and Machine Learning Laboratory of the Department of Information and Communication Technologies at Pompeu Fabra University, unravels the secrets of creating music using cutting-edge AI tools and techniques.
Preferably bring your own laptop to the event.
📍 Location: Àgora at Ciutadella Campus (meeting point)
🗓️ Date: Thursday 13th July, 2023
⏰ Time: 6PM
5. UPF Campus Art Track and Photography Challenge
Join us on a fascinating journey through the emblematic buildings of the Ciutadella campus, where you will enjoy the artworks donated to the University by internationally renowned contemporary artists and discover the architectural value of our Social Sciences and Humanities campus.
Through a team photographic challenge, you will uncover stories and curiosities you didn't know about the campus and will have the opportunity to explore areas that are usually inaccessible and capture them through your lens.
Don't forget to bring your fully charged phone or camera so you don't miss the perfect photo!
📍 Location: Àgora at Ciutadella Campus (meeting point)
🗓️ Date: Tuesday 18th July, 2023
⏰ Time: 6PM
6. Mind and body: yoga at sunset
Join us for a relaxing Yoga Session in the heart of the city! Take a break from your busy student life and prioritize your well-being in a serene outdoor setting where locals gather to stay active and enjoy the beauty of nature in a 5-minute walk from our campus.
Experience a blissful yoga practice led by an experienced instructor from the UPF community, designed to help you unwind, and connect with fellow students who share your passion for health and fitness.
📍 Location: Àgora at Ciutadella Campus (meeting point)
🗓️ Date: Thursday 20th July, 2023
⏰ Time: 6PM
7. Post-Election Debate and Analysis on Spain's Politics
Join us for an insightful Post-Election Debate and Analysis on Spain's Politics and Society.
Engage in a lively discussion with Marc Sanjaume, a professor of Political Theory who will unravel the significance and implications of the unexpected general elections held before the official date. He will provide a comprehensive analysis of at the election results, political parties and the broader socio-political context.
Whether you're a political enthusiast or simply curious about the democratic process, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights into the reasons behind the early elections and their potential impact on Spain's future.
📍 Location: Àgora at Ciutadella Campus (meeting point)
🗓️ Date: Monday 24th July, 2023
⏰ Time: 6PM
8. Beach Clean-Up & Paddle Surf
Since its foundation as a Roman colony, Barcelona has had a long-standing relationship with the sea. During the Middle Ages, the city developed its maritime outlook and became the capital of a Mediterranean, despite the fact that it didn’t have a proper port yet. The beach functioned as the natural space for shipbuilding, trade and collective leisure. Later, the city turned its back on the sea during the industrial revolution and today Barcelona has re-encountered its beaches and has made them an essential part of its citizen’s life. Preserving the beaches for the next generations is, therefore, a social responsibility and a commitment with nature.
Join us as we clean up the coastline, removing litter and promoting a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone to enjoy. After the clean-up, let's dive into some fun-filled paddle surfing activities!
Celebrate your last week on campus with a Beach Clean-Up & Paddle Surf event that combines environmental stewardship and outdoor adventure!
📍 Location: UPF Ciutadella Campus (meeting point)
🗓️ Date: Tuesday 25th July, 2023
⏰ Time: 6PM
9. Farewell Concert & Party
This event brings together the entire summer school community, providing an opportunity to express our gratitude to each other for the meaningful connections and knowledge we've gained throughout the BISS 2023 program.
Don't miss this Farewell Concert and Party, where students, lecturers, and staff come together for an evening of music and celebration to remember!
📍 Location: Àgora at Ciutadella Campus (meeting point)
🗓️ Date: Thursday 27th July, 2023
⏰ Time: 6PM
Registration available after completing course enrollment
This activity is open ONLY for students enrolled in the UPF BISS 2023 program.
Spots will be filled a first-come, first-serve basis.