Home to Anthony Gaudi’s surreal landmarks, a laid back atmosphere and lots of tasty Catalan dishes, Barcelona feasts the eye more than one could imagine as you find yourself immersed in art, taste and architecture. Aside the ever popular quest for their independence, Catalans are an interesting bunch putting all of their energy in whatever they do. As you stroll around the city during your next city-break escape, take note of the below tips to keep away from the touristic path.
La Sagrada Familia under everlasting construction
El Raval, Barrio Gotico and El Born Home to the famous La Rambla, a wide street boasting lively stand-up impromptu acts and hoards of tourists. During the day it’s nice to catch a glimpse of it, if only for the nicely set Mercado de la Boqueria. At night it gets even busier and more trashy thanks to the booze and other substances Barrio Gotico is the old town of Roman influence, offering a picturesque walk through the medieval history of the city and the small alleys. Early in the evening, impromptu fiestas are set up so make sure you pass by. If you’re after some authentic espadrillas (alpargatas in their original name) visit La Manual Alpagatera – they may not speak English at all but they sell stylish pairs for both women and men at just 12 EUR each!
El Born is almost adjacent to the port, this neighbourhood was revived in the last decade or so, now filled with many options for drinks and restaurants. During the day it also offers the attraction of Park de la Ciutadella, home to famous music concerts. Lively attraction and tasty eats at the Santa Caterina market. At night, Passeig del Born is a nice small square filled with many options – the place to go. For the sweetooth, go grab some of their confectionery at Farggi.
The restaurant space at Santa Caterina market Barceloneta, Montjuic and the Olympic Complex White sand, vibrant seafront restaurants and beach tourists flock this area to catch a glimpse of the sea or for a bite of the famous paella, a specialty in the area. Famed as the ideal Olympic city for its reuse of the Olympic sites after the games, Barcelona has sustained a good use of the Olympic village that offers great 360 views around the city. Montjuic is definitely a must see destination with a diverse mix of nature art and fun. Those that love art would definitely have to stop at Fundacio Miro. The cable car up to the Montjuic top is also good but the walk down through the Palacio Nacional leading to Plaza Espanya is even better!
Famous Catalan specialty of Seafood Paella in Barceloneta
Gracia, Eixample and Diagonal Gracia has a nice feel around this old village feel neighbourhood with small streets and rustic storefronts. For the brave ones there’s also Parc Guell that albeit small, offers a pleasant break from the busy streets around the city. Diagonal is one of the most central avenues of the city, featuring many options for shopping but also good eateries. Probably the busiest monument of the city, along with other famous Gaudi creations, La Sagrada Familia is a must. Interesting walk up to the top through the narrow and steep stairways of this gothic architecture church offering great views around. One last stop at Casa Batlló is a must, to witness one of the greatest Gaudi creations. A colourful apartment block with a surreal curved designed roof!
Fried eggs with Jamon Iberico at Auto Rosellon
Details of Park Guell and its fantastical mosaic arrangements
Colourful decor at Gallito restaurant
Fancy bar at El National restaurant See
- La Sagrada Familia – one of the most visited landmarks of the whole world, this is Antoni Gaudí’s renowned unfinished church, featuring a museum and magnificent city views. The walk up can be tough if you’re not used to low ceilings and narrow staircases but it’s definitely worth it!
- Park Guell – colorful park for a great stroll around the mosaic buildings and Gaudi’s museum
- Mercado de la Boqueria – on the busy and touristic street of La Rambla, probably the only spot you need to see. Great atmosphere in this lively market where you’re surrounded by fresh produce and a colorful setting!
- Fundacio Miro – modern colorful art by the great artist Joan Miro
- Museu Picasso – classic stop if you’re into art or not. A medieval mansion housing many important pieces of the Spanish cubist era
- Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art – modern and contemporary Catalan art from the 1940s onwards
- Montjuic – gorgeous hill overlooking the bay of Barceloneta, featuring Palacio Nacional, the Joan Miro Foundation and some Olympic sites
Stay
- Casa Bonay – located on the borders of Eixample, this hotel has been passionately shared on Instagram. Features beautiful and colourful aesthetics
- Margot House – located close to Casa Batlló, this is an elegant hotel more than what you could ask for
- The Corner Hotel – stylish NY-style hotel in Eixample with a lively lounge and a nice compact swimming pool on the rooftop
Cooks busy at Tapas 24 Eat / Drink
- Bodega 1900 – the Adria brothers are back in action in this lovely rustic tapas and vermut bar, featuring great dishes. Read our full review here
- Auto Rosellon – old garage that turned into an all-day coffee place; perfect for breakfast and brunch too! Read our full review here
- Boca Grande – high-priced restaurant in the fashionable district of Diagonal, serving delicious food to a very international crowd
- Villa Viniteca – located in the trendy neighbourhood of El Born, this wine specialty shop also features rare produce of cheese and cured meats. Sources wine from the best regions in Spain and abroad
- Cupcakes Barcelona – great place for brunch; try the blue spirulina smoothie bowl for something different!
- Gallito – nice lunch place in Barceloneta with a great view to the sea; great tapas and cocktails! Fresh tuna tortilla and fried kalamari with lemongrass mayonnaise are a must
- El National – fantastic decor and tasty food! Have your camera ready!
- Toto – old fashioned open kitchen style restaurant!
- Cecconi’s – a must when in Barcelona, especially if you’re looking for a classy Italian menu
- Nømad Coffee Lab & Shop – great specialty coffee (including their signature Nitro coffee!) in a small alley in the Born district
- Satan’s at Casa Bonay – great espresso joint outlet that recently opened at Casa Bonay
* Special thanks to Thetis Georgiadou
