Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s destinations The 30 best countries, cities and regions to visit in 2025 Plan your trip with Elsewhere, by Lonely Planet See where a Lonely Planet Membership takes you Subscribe to our weekly newsletters to get the latest travel news, expert advice, and insider recommendations Explore the world with our detailed, insightful guidebooks Stay ahead of the curve with our guidebooks Uncover exciting new ways to explore iconic destinations Every month, we release new books into the wild Search Search Close search menu Explore Best in Travel 2024 Africa Close menu Countries Antarctica Antarctica Close menu Regions Asia Asia Close menu Countries Australia & the Pacific Australia & the Pacific Close menu Countries The Caribbean The Caribbean Close menu Countries Central America Central America Close menu Countries Europe Europe Close menu Countries Middle East Middle East Close menu Countries North America North America Close menu Countries South America South America Close menu Countries Gràcia is one of Barcelona's prettiest neighborhoods The enduring appeal of Barcelona comes not just from its landmark sights and experiences but from the ease with which travelers can wander between the city's fascinating neighborhoods While overtourism is gripping the headlines it's possible to enjoy the Catalan capital without adding to the crowds if you know the right corners to explore Barcelona's golden-sand beaches and fashionable shopping districts are firmly on the travel radar but you'll get a deeper feel for the city if you step away from Antoni Gaudí's Modernista masterpieces and dip into surrounding neighborhoods where streetside bodegas (wine bars) and plazas ringed by market stalls and tapas restaurants offer a taste of authentic Spanish life By all means, take time to admire the Sagrada Família and stroll along tree-lined La Rambla but be ready to roam beyond the hubs where cruise-ship passengers gather neighborhood parks and dishes from family-run restaurants and cafes Here's our guide to the best neighborhoods to visit in Barcelona Gràcia has been swallowed by greater Barcelona but an independent spirit lives on in this cool district the neighborhood is a tick-list of trendy spots where you can soak up the vibe of modern Catalonia Beyond the organic food stores and yoga studios there's plenty of traditional Catalan culture to discover including popular events that fill neighborhood bars Gràcia's squares fill with market stalls which are then removed in the evening as locals gather for drinks from around 7pm Gràcia is packed with places to eat, from local tapas joints to Michelin-star fine dining, and it's a great neighborhood for pre-dinner strolling, bar-hopping, and generally absorbing the atmosphere. Cafè del Sol in lively Plaça del Sol is a good place to start an evening out You can also find architectural gems designed by Modernista architect Antoni Gaudí – be sure to check out Casa Vicens and Park Güell Gràcia is ideal for those wanting to be close to the city center without being part of the hustle and bustle A year-round vacation spot, Barceloneta ("Little Barcelona") is the preferred neighborhood for many tourists thanks to its glorious necklace of beaches though this is one of the quarters where the volume of visitors to Barcelona is most apparent Founded in the 18th century and originally a fishing community Barceloneta later became a working-class neighborhood as industries expanded around the city harbor but you can still get a sense of the area's industrial roots as you stroll along the district's narrow lanes While Barceloneta's buildings lack the patrician facades that characterize other parts of Barcelona they have their own character and today house numerous tapas bars and nightclubs luring fans of late-night parties and beach action Just be ready for crowds and a bit of noise El Born competes with Gràcia for the title of Barcelona's trendiest neighborhood but instead of vegan restaurants and urban gardens art studios and a distinctly international vibe an early 20th-century music hall full of Modernista flourishes El Born enjoys a prime location between Barceloneta and the city center within walking distance of most city landmarks making it one of the most popular neighborhoods for accommodations L'Eixample (meaning "expansion district" in Catalan) was constructed between the 19th and 20th centuries as Barcelona swelled beyond the boundaries of the Old City. Its strict grid pattern of streets is crossed by wide avenues, making it easy to navigate You may have seen its street layout from above as aerial photos of  L'Eixample are often used to promote the city In Right Eixample, you can explore some of the city's most important historic sites, such as Gaudí's still unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Família, and the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau UNESCO-listed hospital now repurposed as offices and cultural spaces The neighborhood is well-connected to other parts of Barcelona and it has the most extensive range of accommodation options in the city where vendors sell (and cook with) some of the best quality ingredients in the city El Raval is also the most multicultural neighborhood in Barcelona with lots of residents (and restaurants) from the Middle East the Indian subcontinent and the Mediterranean Check out the nightlife here for a more local vibe than in Barceloneta – be sure to stop into Bar Marsella on Carrer de Sant Pau a late-night institution that first opened its doors in 1820 Best neighborhood for historic buildings and new bars The Gothic Quarter is a must-visit district for history buffs and first-time visitors to Barcelona and some parts of the district are known for late-night parties so keep this in mind when looking for somewhere to stay enticing restaurants and cute squares hidden down Barri Gòtic's narrow alleyways Rambling the labyrinthine lanes is a delight Barri Gòtic is within walking distance of most tourist attractions Barcelona is hardly a city you can experience in one day but this action-packed itinerary provides an introduction to the variety of activities on offer — a taster that will keep you coming back for more This iconic Spanish city holds some of the country's most important cultural sites architectural history and culinary spots.Photograph by Margaret StepienByDuncan CraigJuly 1 2024This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).When it comes to the visitor experience This Spanish icon has some of the country’s most important cultural centres and fabled architecture; access to hilltop views and beaches alike; and a culinary scene that straddles the inventive and the traditional Here’s an itinerary for a day that takes in a bit of it all — from an early-morning hike to a visit to an art museum and from sunset by the Mediterranean to a mandatory tapas dinner On the ungroomed slopes of the nearby Pyrenees skiers talk of earning their turns; in Barcelona the same might be true of cocktails Blow the cobwebs off the previous night’s indulgence and set yourself up for another day of the same hour-long hike along the trails threaded through the foothills of Mount Tibidabo Depart on the trail that starts at the Tibidabo Funicular base station then ride the train back to your starting point With its hillside perch on the flanks of Montjuïc hill, grand sweep of steps, and domes and towers inspired by St Peter’s in the Vatican and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya isn’t exactly a model of restraint That exuberance extends to a collection of (mostly Catalan) art as dazzling as an Iberian sunset Fortify yourself with a tallat (espresso with a splash of steamed milk) in the cafe tucked in one corner of its vast Sala Oval banqueting space The site has morphed into an informal open-air bar with a loyal local following order a walnut and goat’s cheese salad or jamón ibérico sandwich and take your place in the banked seats from which the crowds once cheered The two pools below open during the summer Behind triple-height crimson doors on a quiet lane a short walk from the centre of the lively neighbourhood of Poble-sec, this is the city’s most sought-after tapas bar. It’s standing-room only in a high-ceilinged room decoratd wall-to-wall with wine and vermouth bottles. The faux bickering between sixth-generation brother and sister Quimet and Neus is a delight, as are the heaped montaditos (open sandwiches); salmon, yoghurt and honey is the pick. As the name suggests, this is a tapas haven. Complete with a long bar and modern décor, Tapeo hosts wonderful chefs who combine tradition with creativity to deliver delicious tapas made from the highest quality produce Spreading the flavor of Barcelona through their wide variety of tapas dishes from Spanish omelet to glazed beef cheek stew presentation and taste alike are truly impeccable at Tapeo This tapas bar is a popular place to enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine in one of Barcelona’s trendiest areas Get a real taste of Barcelona by booking a spot on one of these delicious food tours For a taste of Barcelona and its magic, heat to El Bosc de Les Fades. This fairy tale restaurant offers a unique and magical dining experience far from anything else you will find in Barcelona or Tucked away in the bustling tourism hub of Las Ramblas Not a detail has been spared when it comes to the fairy tale-like interior decoration the novelty of the décor itself is enough to warrant a visit Enjoy the many surprises of El Bosc de Les Fades whilst feasting on the hot sandwiches Located on the Plaza Real, this is an elegant and formal restaurant with a traditionally Mediterranean focus guests can enjoy everything from old favorites to slow-cooked meals made to perfection and using fresh market produce offering guests a comfortable and relaxing the restaurant’s main key to success is that it offers style on a budget and is very reasonably priced Learn to cook some of your own Spanish dishes by joining one of these cooking classes Warm, friendly, and welcoming, El Salón was founded in 1995 as the first French style diner bistro in this area of Barcelona. Serving home-made Mediterranean cuisine with specific Catalonian and French influences El Salón ensures they serve top quality dishes from an extensive menu it oozes charm with its recycled furniture Not only does its antique interior offer guests a unique dining experience the restaurant also has a terrace on the Plaça Traginers with a Roman wall backdrop Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips See privacy policy Explore the city beyond the restaurants with these cultural tours Among the most famous places to eat in Barcelona stands El Quatre Gats (or The Four Cats). Famous for being one of Picasso’s haunts, El Quatre Gats prides itself on being the host of Picasso’s first ever exhibition as well as playing host to numerous musicians artists and architects alike including Albéniz and Gaudí with their impressions scattered all over the walls of El Quatre Gats an unusual and artistic place to gather and eat Today its rich and inspiring history has made it a popular dining spot from grilled duck’s breast to a variety of fish dishes it is well worth visiting El Quatre Gats to enjoy a tasty meal whilst basking in the historical charm Find the best wine in Barcelona by joining one of these tasting trips. Starting life as a friendly cafe, the now large and successful Set Portes is one of the classic places to eat in Barcelona it also offers a variety of other seafood and rice dishes Try the monkfish stew with crayfish and potatoes Getting its name from its seven public doors this bustling restaurant is one of the must-visit eateries in the Gothic Quarter Seafood pasta | Photo by Adolfo Félix on Unsplash A place where attention to detail is of utmost importance, the chefs at Restaurante Ferran finalize every single detail of each dish to deliver a beautifully presented creative meal with a perfect blend of traditional influences and contemporary methods Serving delicious dishes true to Mediterranean roots Restaurante Ferran offers a high-style Barcelona food in a classic and elegant environment for guests to enjoy its tapas and seafood dishes Find some of the best beer and breweries in the city with these beer tours From her first ever trip to Spain at 10 years old This passion for Spanish has since developed into a love for all things language and travel related and has inspired her dream of working for the Foreign Office Now studying for a degree in Spanish and Arabic studying and teaching in the historic and cultural heart of Morocco Rebecca hates to be stuck in one place for too long she loves to spend time with her friends and supportive boyfriend and metaphorical rock Ayman See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Autumn See & Do Top Things to Do Around Las Ramblas Food & Drink The 5 Best Food Markets in Madrid Guides & Tips How to Spend the Perfect 24 Hours in Santander See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Summer Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in December Architecture Spain’s Most Impressive Bullrings See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in September Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in November See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in October Guides & Tips How to Attend a Bullfight in Spain See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in July US: +1 (678) 967 4965 | UK: +44 (0)1630 35000 tripssupport@theculturetrip.com © Copyright 2025 The Culture Trip Ltd. All Rights Reserved. With so much to see and do, Barcelona is a city you’ll want to get right, says Paul Stafford With so much to see and do, Barcelona is a city you’ll want to get right, be it staying at a centre-of-the-action hotel, a memorable restaurant experience or another tick on your world monument bucket list It’s not presumptuous to label Barcelona (aka Barna, not Barca) one of the world’s great cities. To witness the self-assured sense of identity, borne by an effortless style, debonair dining scene and embarrassment of cultural riches, is to know you’re experiencing a special place. Shades of Spain are evident but Barcelona is painted a Catalan red and yellow the capital of a distinctive and individualistic region It’s wise to plan ahead to make the most of your time, particularly when narrowing down the exhaustive lists of modernista (Catalan modernism) masterpieces, characterful neighbourhoods, art-jammed museums and scene-stealing restaurants that are commonly booked up in advance a flurry of otherworldly buildings and urban spaces You’ll leave with Barna’s vivaciousness etched into your memory along with the wish you didn’t have to waste time on sleep the undisputed champion of Catalonian attractions Ungainly yellow cranes indicate that it remains incomplete The interior is a sylvan sanctuary of stone and stained glass Completion is targeted for the centenary of Gaudi’s death in 2026 Plenty of smaller Gaudi cosmoses dot Barcelona’s streets. Casa Batllo (general tickets from €29/£24, buy well in advance, daily) is considered peak Gaudi. The “magical house” is an immersive confection of fantastical concepts. If Casa Batllo is from a fairytale, Palau Guell (general tickets from €12/£10 dark and brooding – although the rooftop mosaics hint at the swirling levity of his later works Read more: How to afford a family city break in one of Europe’s biggest tourism destinations If your thirst for Catalan modernism remains unsated, the densest cluster of modernista buildings is around the Passeig de Gracia in L’Eixample. Here, you’ll find Josep Puig i Cadafalch’s outstanding Casa Amatller (general tickets €19/£15.84) sited beside Casa Batllo vehicle-light streets and broad strokes of pedestrian-friendly city planning make exploring on foot a preferred method Nothing epitomises this better than La Rambla a wide thoroughfare that accommodates al fresco cafes street artists and kiosks purveying all manner of goods Saunter is 1.3km (0.8-mile) stretch southeast from Placa de Catalunya towards the Columbus Monument Delve down any street north of La Rambla and you’ll find yourself in the tight mesh of claustrophobic veins that form the Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter), the pulsating core of the Ciutat Vella (Old Town). Many streets lead to the 13th-century La Seu (from €9/£7.50 The medieval neighbourhood has Roman roots; look out for surviving portions of its ancient city wall or temple columns Read more: The best things to do in Barcelona Barcelona is a major repository for some of Spain’s finest paintings and you could spend your entire trip strolling its cavernous galleries. Picasso spent his teenage years in the city whose modernista wave had a formative impact on the young artist’s sensibilities. The Picasso Museum (from €14/£11.67 closed on Mondays) houses more than 4,000 works by the great Cubist painter particularly from his early years through to the start of his 1904 ‘rose period’ plus an exhaustive collection of Catalan works spanning eight centuries The Design Museum of Barcelona (general tickets €6/£4.98, closed on Mondays) is a perfect place to gain a keener insight into the city’s globally recognised style across fashion, interior design and decorative arts. And talking of art, the beautiful game often reaches its zenith at Camp Nou The museum (basic ticket from €28/£23.27) includes immersive experiences and an exhibition on the club’s history Read more: On the trail of Picasso in Barcelona, Catalonia’s art-loving capital The doyenne of Barcelona’s accommodation scene El Palace Barcelona sports lavish public spaces and an old-school approach to refined service The hotel’s six decadent art suites are a sumptuous humblebrag of the glamorous former clientele who made El Palace Barcelona their home for weeks or even months at a time while Ronnie Wood of the Rolling Stones helped design the music suite Barri Gotic and El Raval are the best central spots for boutique hotels that aren’t budget breakers Casa Camper is one such example in the hip Raval area which is another way of saying the neighbourhood was quite seedy in recent memory quirky hotel sign and bicycles hanging from the ceiling are indicative of the Raval’s spiffy new image it’s no surprise that there are plenty of hotels decked out in the city’s defining style Serras Hotel’s restored modernist facade overlooks Port Vell at the seaward edge of the Gothic Quarter Pablo Picasso had an artist’s studio in this building with their own pop-up art gallery showing a range of exhibitions in conjunction with Madrid’s We Collect gallery Floor-to-ceiling windows allow for unbroken vistas over the coastline and city particularly higher up the hotel’s 33-floor span Read more: Best boutique hotels in Barcelona - Where to stay for fine dining, location and sea views yoghurt and truffled honey montadito (small sandwich) El Quatre Gats derives its name from an old expression in Catalan that the artists who dared to be different such as Pablo Picasso Retaining an air of that era through refined yet rustic decor there’s often a pianist playing smooth jazz with generous wait staff on hand to mix you up a refreshing jug of sangria Read more: The best beaches in Spain where classic Mediterranean dishes get a meat-free makeover From designer buildings to designer dishes, Barcelona’s artistry on the plate has not gone unnoticed by the folks at Michelin. Twin brothers Javier and Sergio are the maestros behind Cocina Hermanos Torres which has three regular stars plus a Michelin green star awarded to restaurants committed to sourcing ingredients locally and seasonally you’ll pay a premium; tasting menus start at €310/£258 Youthful, artistic El Raval is, quite naturally, the place to go for trendsetting bars, and nowhere does it weirder than La Cobra it’d be the black widow – gin and tonic with anise and a dash of absinthe – because the closer you look at the whimsical brick-a-brack adorning the walls For all of Raval’s spotlight theft, L’Eixample remains the coolest place to grab a drink, with a string of classy cocktail bars, such as Tandem where besuited mixologists perform acts of alchemy with the spirits Custom mixes to suit each patron are the way of things here If you’re looking for a side of whimsy with your coffee, El Bosc de les Fades (Forest of the Fairies) is a great way to maintain the sense of magic you may have experienced in the streets while boosting your caffeine levels The faux forest interior gives you a canopy under which to sup while other areas of the space feel like the set of a fantasy film Read more: The best cities to visit in Spain: Where to stay and what to do Passeig de Gracia is Barcelona’s busiest shopping street for a reason this is the haute couture epicentre of Catalonia alongside homegrown talent such as Santa Eulalia El Raval is best for vintage clothing stores and you’ll find plenty of small fashion up-and-comers in El Born All manner of handmade gifts and homewares are sold at stores along La Rambla and within Barri Gotic. Cereria Subira is rumoured to be among the oldest shops in Barcelona The shop at the Centre d’Artesania Catalunya sells hand-selected highlights from local artisans hunks of cheese and overflowing fruit pots are appealingly presented Read more: The Canary Island you might not have thought of for wine – and running Adding 5-10 per cent to the bill is always appreciated although at bars and over-the-counter cafes Spain is one hour ahead of the UK and daylight savings changes fall on the same dates Barcelona’s extensive Metro system is regular and dependable Tickets start at €2.55/£2.13 for a single fare Trains run from 5am to midnight Monday to Thursday 5am to 2am on Friday and continuously from 5am Saturday to midnight on Sunday If you plan to make more than four trips on the city’s bus which allows 10 trips in Zone 1 from €12.15/£10 across the city’s entire transport network All places mentioned in this article fall within this zone There are expansive views over Barcelona from the various hills and mountains cradling the city Views from the terrace at MNAC and the battlements of Montjuic Castle at sunset are captivating have free admission on the first Sunday of every month MNAC offers free admission every Saturday from 3pm too while the Picasso Museum additionally offers free admission (prior reservation required) on Thursday afternoons between the start of November until the end of April and Thursday Friday and Saturday evenings between the start of May and the end of October While this occasionally means larger crowds planning your trip around these days is a great way to lighten the burden on your wallet check online to see if advance reservation is required Fast trains connect the UK to Barcelona. Grab a Eurostar from London’s St Pancras International station to Paris’s Gare du Nord then get across Paris by Metro to Gare de Lyon where the high-speed TGV service to Barcelona departs at least once a day easyJet and British Airways all fly direct from the UK to Barcelona Read more: Spain’s warmest places for winter sun Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies {"adUnitPath":"71347885/_main_independent/in_travel/in_europe/image/gallery_mpu_sb","autoGallery":true,"disableAds":false,"gallery":[{"data":{"title":"iStock-875273240.jpg","description":"Church of La Sagrada Familia from Antoni Gaudi at golden hour. Barcelona. Spain","caption":"The Sagrada Familia is one of the top attractions in this Spanish city The Sagrada Familia is one of the top attractions in this Spanish city shop and stay in the Catalan capital","description":"With so much to see and do Barcelona is a city you’ll want to get right The Gothic Quarter is usually first on the list for those new to Barcelona; it takes its name from the architecture for which the city is famed the Barri Gòtic is where the Romans began their settlement in the city It’s one of the liveliest parts of Barcelona although peaceful pockets can be found among its labyrinth-like lanes Here are the most impressive places to stay in the beautiful Barri Gòtic this mansion house on the Passeig de Colom was the home of a nobleman making the most of local wood and stone in the decor Rooms come with welcome cakes and chocolates and Nespresso coffee machines Dine on tapas dishes in the restaurant or on the rooftop terrace (where you’ll also find its two open-air pools) Take light night drinks in the monochrome cocktail lounge and have a tinkle on its grand piano — snacks and pastries are provided here during the afternoons * All the properties and products we feature are independently selected by our editors and contributors If you buy something we may earn a commission ShareSaveLifestyleCars & BikesWalking Through History: Barcelona's Gothic QuarterByTanya Mohn S.L.) Side view of Barcelona's cathedral an intimate square behind the 14th century church Santa Maria del Pí My family and I were part of a group of about 20 English speakers who earlier this month wandered through the warren of winding cobblestone streets for almost three-hours The free walking tour covered the Spanish city’s history from its Roman beginnings to modern times and visited a wide array of places -- the square where Columbus reported about the New World to King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella An early stop was a tiny shrine nestled above one of the narrow pedestrian-only walkways to honor Saint Eulalia an early Christian who was just 13 when she was killed by the Romans in the early 4th century for her beliefs in front of Barcelona’s medieval cathedral (dedicated to the young martyr) we witnessed townspeople who gather each Sunday to dance the traditional Catalan Sardana our group saw the church where Gaudi prayed (and was headed when he died which still bares marks from when it was bombed during the Spanish Civil War) and a high-end hotel that was the setting for a scene from Woody Allen’s recent film “Vicky Cristina Barcelona.” Those expecting to be bored by the recitation of hard, dry facts will be disappointed by this tour, offered by Travel Bound a German-born Swede who moved to Barcelona in 2006 But “I talk about things that I’m interested in myself and what I would be interested in if I came and visited a new city.” an early fast food restaurant that pre-dates McDonald’s and an essential modern-day survival skill: how to avoid pick-pockets on Las Ramblas One favorite story is about the time Picasso tried to demonstrate how Miró’s talent was inferior to his own by showing how easily he could mimic Miró’s style Picasso made his copy on a tablecloth; a reproduction of that drawing now graces the façade of a Franco-era building “Everyone loves and laughs about this story.” But three hours was not enough time to take-in everything Matthias suggested some “must-see” gems to do on our own: Museu d'Història de Barcelona  (Barcelona’s City History Museum) where an elevator takes visitors below ground level to view Roman ruins at the site of their discovery considered an excellent example of Catalan Gothic architecture was the inspiration for "Cathedral of the Sea" (Penguin Group) an epic family saga set in Medieval Barcelona “is so beautifully structured that the last sixty pages detonate like a string of firecrackers.” Several reviewers called the author “Free walking tours are a relatively new concept,” said Chris Govers the manager who oversees Travel Bound’s tours “the market has tended to exclude backpackers and others on a budget.”  The beauty of the free-tour concept is that it makes tours accessible to everyone and people tip what they think it is worth at the end of the tour Travel Bound's tours in English are offered three times daily For a review of El Jardí, a hotel in the heart of the Barri Gòtic where we learned about the tour, click here Helen Van Berkel explores Barcelona to unearth the city’s many charms from hard-to-miss Gaudi masterpieces to tiny walkways and tiled plazas All Kiwi eyes will swivel to Barcelona’s Port Vell in the coming weeks as we rediscover our patriotism and get behind Team NZ in its fight to retain the America’s Cup The sailors are already in place at the Barcelona port that lies at the foot of one of Europe’s most historic downtowns And within walking distance is a city that offers sailors and their hangers-on an extraordinary spread of attractions to visit before Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is pretty much across the road from Team New Zealand’s base it’s a labyrinth of narrow laneways and crooked little streets where once marched the feet of centurions This is where the Romans first built a settlement on this Mediterranean shore – the remains of which are still visible I plunged into the labyrinth late on a spring afternoon and went where my feet took me Dominating the waterfront is a 60-metre statue of Christopher Columbus who returned to Barcelona after he set out for India in 1492 and accidentally stumbled across North America on the way I walked along the Moll de la Fusta and crossed the red bridge (Puente móvil rojo) to enter the Gothic Quarter Much of the Gothic Quarter was renovated in the early decades of last century and it is a fascinating meander through historic streets now lined with chic stores and restaurants I particularly loved the over-arching stone bridges linking the two sides of the narrow laneways In the middle of the Gothic Quarter is the Barcelona Cathedral the cathedral originally was pretty non-descript but a neo-gothic facade was added in the 19th century The cathedral is a tribute to Barcelona’s patron saint Eulàlia which can be explored for as little as 14 euros But a feast of architecture and history awaits: the Basilica de Santa Maria Del Mar is another beauty Running through the centre of the gothic quarter La Rambla is a 1.5km tree-lined avenue worth a wander on its own Street performers offer a distraction and jostle for space with stalls selling artworks and souvenirs I crossed the shaded avenue for my first introduction to the great Antoni Gaudi whose colourful architectural legacy is the beating heart of Catalonia the autonomous community of which Barcelona is the capital Gaudi designed the Palau Güell for industrial tycoon Eusebi Guell in the 1880s in the La Raval neighbourhood just off La Rambla was completely renovated about a decade ago and is now open to the public It is one of Gaudi’s earliest works and is a more restrained version of his later explosions of almost unhinged creativity seen in the Sagrada Familia and the Park Guell The lower floors of the Palau are still tied to the symmetry and order that is hidden in his later masterpieces by riotous tiled towers and fantastical shapes his imagination also runs in a contained riot through Palau Guell heightened during our visit by a backdrop of an opera-house style pipe organ filling the empty spaces with dramatic notes Jump aboard the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus to visit the Park Guell Gaudi’s artistry is again on display during a walk through tiled plazas and twisting walkways that curl around gardens and courtyards Booking is suggested although a friendly guard who had loved his time in Christchurch and recognised my accent waved me in when it was supposedly full Park Guell was going to be a housing development but did not take off I could not see how this was ever going to be somewhere that people could live the end result is a park where the creativity of Gaudi is given free rein Imagine giving someone who is unrestricted by budget to express himself and that is Park Guell I took shelter from the pouring rain at the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria Among the covered stalls selling cured meats fresh fruits and vegetables and a bar offering by-now welcome sangria I stopped for warming tapas amid the enticing smells of tomatoes and seafood being prepared into paella Barcelona Turisme has offices here – an invaluable stop for information on where to visit and how to get there There are Barcelona Turisme booths around the city and I found them absolutely brilliant when it came to finding out “how do I get to ...” and “what’s the best way ...” The iconic Sagrada Familia cathedral is within walking distance of the central city or catch the Hop on Hop Off Turistic Bus that stops outside You don’t need to be religious to admire the engineering and architectural feat that is the Sagrada Familia (translation: Sacred Family) It’s like a concrete bouquet of stupendous creativity and imagination; an explosion of towers and doors and sculptures and mosaics in a glorious challenge to the senses I walked around it and stood at its foot several times before finally entering the doors on a Sunday morning and found just as much gloriousness within Below the church are workshops where you can see progress photos of how the church was built over the past century or so and learn the story of the great church Montserrat offers a break from the heat and busyness of downtown Barcelona Armed with a route map from Barcelona Turisme and an entry ticket that cost less than most offered online I joined the day-trippers on a crowded train that snaked inland to the spectacular Benedictine monastery in its equally spectacular mountain eyrie From the foot of a weirdly bulbous mountainside a pair of bright yellow cable cars cross each other on their parallel lines up the mountainside to dock at the monastery I got off the cable car and felt like a kid in a candy store I set off on the walkway carved into the side of the mountain curving downhill and then doubling back and up to the Santa Cova shrine carved into the rock The day alternated between hot sun and shade provided by trees and the curves of the mountain It’s hard to understand the effort that has gone into building the way stations of Montserrat from the perspective of today’s secular society but attempting to understand that passion is what will make Montserrat stay with you long after you have returned home leave Barcelona for a few days and make the most of the Meditteranean in breaks between the racing Barcelona famously struggles to balance the needs of locals with the swarms of tourists attracted by its charms the news was all about a local bus route that was removed from Google search because locals trying to commute home after work were crowded out by tourists I never felt anything but warmth and welcome from locals wherever I wandered in the city Fly from Auckland to Barcelona with Singapore Airlines The Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup takes place between August 22 and October 27 spain.info/en catalunya.com/en barcelonaturisme.com Kiwis can book seats on the newly announced flights from today The 38 Best Restaurants in Rome, Italy The 18 Best Louisville Restaurants The 38 Best Restaurants in Mexico City With the state of tourism fundamentally altered the picturesque heart of Barcelona tourism has changed too — and even become more exciting in some ways Most trips to Barcelona start with a visit to the Old City — “Ciutat Vella” in Catalan The historic center is home to the area’s main tourist attractions like La Rambla shaded alleyways and medieval architecture that many foreigners associate with the Catalan capital these very charms and the tourists they would draw had begun to keep away many actual Catalonians for fear of succumbing to the sea of T-shirt shops Savvier travelers were already spending more time in the northern neighborhood of Gràcia — and then came the COVID-19 pandemic which predictably hit the Old City hardest of all Visitors disappeared overnight and left an eerie quiet Barcelona’s renewed enthusiasm for much-missed visitors and the closure of many eyesore for-tourists-only places has once again refreshed the Old City’s status as an absolute These rambling passages boast a uniquely quirky mashup of family-owned businesses that have been passed on from generation to generation and of course loads of memorable places to eat and drink Locals think of the Old City as containing three distinct neighborhoods: the Gothic Quarter where Barcelona as we now know it began to unfold in 230 BCE; El Born with a comparatively high concentration of good spots for eating and drinking in the Old City; and El Raval where some of the streets and buildings date back to the 12th century has a high concentration of architectural gems: the remains of the Roman walls; the stunning Cathedral of Barcelona its facade teeming with sculptures and buttresses; and the Plaça del Rei a reminder of Barcelona’s medieval wealth and splendor there’s a lot of stuff less rooted in local history to be found here — things like toddler flamenco dresses The larger streets still have some remnants of the large tourist targeted laminated menus But take a turn onto a quiet square like Placeta de Manuel Ribé swirl your vermouth so that the large ice cubes clink — and you won’t want to be anywhere else the tree-lined Passeig del Born used to host jousting matches and was once home to the city’s largest fruit-and-vegetable wholesale market which is now the El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria The Passeig del Born leads up to the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar an example of Catalan Gothic architecture (identifiable by its hexagonal belfries and lack of flying buttresses) built with stones from the quarries of Montjuïc by the merchants that once lived here Much of the neighborhood is pedestrian-only and some of the cafes and restaurants offer outdoor seating which can be fully enjoyed without the interruption of car traffic the majority are small and independently owned Once known as a dangerous part of town for tourists these days El Raval is finally gaining appreciation thanks in part to its status as one of the most culturally diverse areas of the city and third-wave coffee shrine all inhabit the same block This is where you’ll find hard-to-source ingredients like frozen curry leaves or Moroccan preserved lemons beneath balconies heavy with colorful laundry and dangling plants is a guide to making the most of each distinctly delicious neighborhood Suzy Taher is a Barcelona-based writer and founder of the blog Foodie in Barcelona Take a breath and step off the street and into this green oasis A gravel-filled courtyard is shaded by ancient trees surrounding a water feature that looks like a large meteor covered in green moss and the soundtrack is wood pigeons serenading each other under the trickling fountain And that’s just one of the beguiling spaces here a popular quick snack of ham and cheese on toasted Barcelona only discovered brunch within the last decade a number of places are vying to be the top spot Caravelle was one of the first and maintains its elite status because the Australian chef-owner and burgers make an appearance from lunchtime onward A post shared by Caravelle Restaurant (@caravelle31) When you want a break from Spanish and Catalan fare try a burger joint with a good pulled-pork sandwich They care about sourcing and making things from scratch The fries with cheese and bacon might make you forget all about your burger; it’s hard to stop picking at them A post shared by Chivuo’s American Specialties (@chivuos) quirkier offshoot of the much-lauded Xemei in Poble Sec on one of the side streets that leads to la Boqueria but there is more than enough creativity coming out of this Italian kitchen to make up for it like tender homemade gnocchi with wild asparagus smothered in shaved katsuobushi A post shared by BACARO BARCELONA Italiano (@bacarobcn) as well as some top bars to eat in among the stalls but there are some good hacks for getting the most out of a trip Go early in the morning to avoid the tourists or approach it from the back to find the most interesting stands A telltale sign that this is still a locals’ market are the netted bags of snails sold at poultry stalls identifiable by its wrap-around yellow slates at the top of the stall and fried egg logo Quim has all the classics and some specials like chipirones (small squid) with a fried egg or saffron milk cap mushrooms that bleed blue in season When everything was shut down during Spain’s brutal first COVID-19 wave Quim Márquez was one of the chefs who stepped up to cook for Barcelona residents who needed a meal — that’s reason enough to pull up a stool The freshest news from the food world every day This tiny fusion restaurant flanks La Boqueria, from which it sources its ingredients daily. The door practically brushes diners’ backs when it opens; that there are just eight seats wrapped around a kitchen bar hasn’t stopped this place from gathering accolades, starting with a 2018 Chef of the Year designation for Arnau Muñío from the Fòrum Gastrònomic Girona The matcha cheesecake will ruin all forerunners: The size and shape of a small Camembert with a generous layer of matcha powder on top spooning into it will release a glossy ooze of white just like when you score a perfectly ripe specimen — except this one is sweet and inexplicably light opened and run by Manolo and Mari from Sevilla serves the most-refined tapas you will ever eat high-collared white jackets serve from behind the large bar Dishes are an education in the best of Catalan produce or clams so fresh they spit water at each other in the refrigerated display Though the bar is the best seat in the house A Japanese restaurant with a robata as its focus pairs excellent local products such as vibrant red shrimp from Palamós encased in coarse salt with a lick of heat from the grill looking into the kitchen or across from other diners and then let yourself be guided by what you see being cooked in the kitchen although the eggplant with miso shouldn’t be missed A post shared by Laura Climent (@lauracliment) all the better to look out onto the quiet Placeta de Manuel Ribé there is a constant play of light and shadow between the abundant plants and the sun streaming in Cafe tables paired with iconic bentwood chairs make the whole affair feel Parisian which is filled with food in the Ottolenghi mold like eggplant drizzled with tahini and scattered pomegranate A post shared by Levante (@bistrotlevante) A beautiful modernist-style restaurant you will fall in love with The open kitchen serves up Catalan and Spanish classics large hollow noodles filled with shredded meat and topped with bechamel A post shared by Grill Room Bar Thonet (@grillroom_barthonet) old-fashioned restaurant inside the Santa Caterina market in nearby La Ribera appeals to locals for its well-priced The ceramic trays displaying cooked snails or white beans and pork sausages are indicative of what’s on offer: hearty fare a house specialty of beef head and feet cooked long and slow Breakfast here is the best as they specialize in the local Catalan “esmorzar de forquilla,” literally a breakfast you have to eat with a fork try one of their many tortilla francesas (fried potato omelets) served on bread A post shared by BAR JOAN (@bar_joanbcn) A Catalan market restaurant that liberally uses French cooking techniques from a Venezuelan chef who’s done the rounds at some of the best kitchens in Barcelona a rice dish with botifarra comes with a shallow layer of rice so that there is abundant “socarrat,” the much-coveted crispy rice that forms around the edges of the pan A post shared by Capet restaurant (@capetrestaurant) the wine bar Can Cisa emphasizes natural wines Bar Brutal opens in the afternoons and evenings with a sharing-plate menu that uses lots of fish and local produce Here you’ll find edgy preparations like the tuna heart with beetroot and raspberry as well as familiar dishes like monkfish paired with white asparagus A post shared by (@xemeibcn) This is the Barcelona outpost of a Madrid collaboration between three chefs with distinct backgrounds who all worked in the kitchens of El Bulli The giant space nods to the Nordic influences on its menus in the blue-tinted windows and large jars of pickled vegetables Mediterranean ingredients get some Northern European tweaks exemplified in dishes like semi-cured sea bream with slivered almonds and red grapes sliced to the size and shape of a penny so don’t be afraid to ask for a half portion A post shared by fismuler (@fismuler) Tapas with a twist: Think shaved mushrooms with wasabi sauce and strawberries next to thumb-length croquetes four) sommeliers here have a particular interest in natural and biodynamic wines and have put together a selection of the ones they love most was the winner of the local Nas d’Or (Golden Nose) prize in 2014 this old-timer bar has been going for almost a century ingredient-first affairs like razor clams with olive oil and pepper like the fried eggplant with goat cheese and honey They do simple things like fried whitebait; eat it whole Also a good place to try drinking from a porrón You lift the porrón as far above your head as you dare and tip the contents into your open mouth Pro tips include opening your mouth as wide as possible A post shared by Bar La Plata (@barlaplata) A collaboration between Cafés El Magnífico and Canal, a high-end patisserie. Their croissant won the prize for best butter croissant of 2020 while the high-backed banquette and that Tiffany shade of turquoise will have you lingering over your coffee A post shared by Pastisseria Brunells (@brunells1852) Three generations have roasted single-origin beans since 1919 long before mainstream coffee culture was a thing They now offer all the newest brewing techniques; when ordering they’ll ask you to specify your method and grind accordingly When father Salvador and daughter Claudia are not in the shop they are either visiting plantations or judging cupping competitions around the world Recently decamped to Barcelona from Buenos Aires where it was always on the Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurant list with a self-built wood-fired oven as the focal point As you might expect from a kitchen run by Argentinians but vegetables charred into submission are equally good you must start with the sourdough and end with the dulce de leche flan — which was the most Instagrammed dessert in Barcelona A post shared by Proper BCN (@properbcn) Primarily a wine store with one of the best gourmet shops in the city There are a few tables where you can sample the best of Catalunya and Spain from Joselito jamón ibérico de bellota to one of the city’s top cheese boards A post shared by ABEL (@vilchezwine) Facing the long nave of the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar this place specializes in both Catalan food and that of the Northern Spanish region of Asturias Try cider poured from a height to aerate the drink the menu is a celebration of well-made charcuterie and cheese like the one with botifarra sausage and trompetes de la mort (literally “trumpets of death,” or black chanterelles) A post shared by Bodega La Puntual (@grupovarela_bodegalapuntual) Across from what was formerly Barcelona’s main fruit-and-vegetable market with fair prices that allow for plenty of flair: Roasted mushrooms are served on a ceramic log to look like they are growing on it while a vegetarian dish of black rice studded with tiny vegetables looks like a miniature garden A post shared by Llamber Restaurant Barcelona (@llamber_restaurant_barcelona) Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Barcelona This Secret City Trail across Barcelona’s Old City is a playful and immersive adventure where you can experience the city in a different way You will solve 11 cryptic clues via a web app simply using your unique link (which you receive via text message after payment) in your smartphone’s browser The clues range in difficulty from easy to medium – they're set up to help you have fun not keep you trying to solve something impossible for ages you discover the secrets of the Barri Gòtic seeing well-known sights from a different point of view and being guided to lesser-known spots The trail starts in front of the fountain on Plaça Reial you and your group can begin anytime between 10am and 5pm any day of the week except Monday (it's recommended you don't start too late as some of the venues may close before you finish) You'll finish approximately one to two and a half hours later (though there is no time limit) near Plaça Comercial having explored approximately two kilometres The app and all clues and instructions are in English Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! facebooktwitterspotifytiktokAbout us Contact us Time Out Worldwide Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience a guide to the very best rooftops in the city — the spots that crown Barcelona’s spectacular Key hotels Book Mandarin Oriental Barcelona with The MICHELIN Guide → Book Monument Hotel with The MICHELIN Guide → From listening bars to neighbourhood restaurants explore all the top recommendations from Chishuru’s Adejoké Bakare One of the most prominent chefs serving Indian cuisine talks India and his New York these splurge-worthy hotels have the design and prestige to rival even that most historic of city landmarks The first hotel on this list is just 20 minutes from Florence From vineyards to infinity pools and farm-to-table restaurants every one of these 14 Tuscan classics is within two hours of the city the best hotel rooftops are a go-to when you touch down From Texas Barbecue to Mexico City's cutting-edge dining these new MICHELIN Guide hot spots promise unforgettable vacations and world-class cuisine These are the best lake vacations for a summer break from Lake Tahoe in the US to Lake Como in Switzerland and the MICHELIN-recommended restaurants and bolt holes to bed down in when you visit The MICHELIN Guide Inspectors have already added hundreds of hotels to the MICHELIN selection in 2025 we’re highlighting a special list of 10 that thrive in the sunny season where do fashion’s biggest names retreat for a bite and a bed We imagine the post-Gala sanctuaries of the chicest attendees From tartan fabrics and stag antler furnishings to rare Scotch whiskies and castle views you'll have no doubt which country you're in when staying at these Michelin-Key hotels Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a core value embraced by some of North America’s most design-forward hotels explore some of its best MICHELIN Guide dining spots and uncover its hidden gems From exquisite cuisine to artisan treasures get to know the Tuscan city like a local with our handy guide for a curated taste of Florence’s finest Marseille is a crossroads of culture and cuisine shaped by 2,600 years of migration and maritime trade From its Greek founders to waves of immigrants from Italy each community has left an indelible mark on the city’s dynamic food culture Croatian cuisine boasts a strong identity that reflects both the land and the sea Non-members can add the privileges at checkout through our 30 day free trial By continuing I accept the Terms & Condition and Privacy Policy. I would like to receive Newsletter from MICHELIN Guide Save lists of your favorite restaurants & hotels a rooftop amenity is somewhat of a novelty \u2014 not unheard of by any means it\u2019s hard to find a notable hotel that doesn\u2019t have a pool on the roof let alone a bustling cocktail bar and a selection of extremely comfortable chairs Barcelona\u2019s climate makes rooftop spaces a sound the only motivation that matters is keeping up with the competition You\u2019ve got to give the people what they want and in Barcelona they want amazing spots for a sky-facing soir\u00e9e the rest of the hotel needs to be just as impressive as the scene upstairs each hotel below has a wonderful rooftop space Book Mandarin Oriental Barcelona with The MICHELIN Guide \u2192 Book Monument Hotel with The MICHELIN Guide \u2192 Top image: Mercer Hotel \u2014 Barcelona This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).Along the Passeig de Gràcia the tour groups flow, guidebooks in hand, smartphone cameras poised. The masters of modernista architecture crafted some of their greatest works on this elegant, tree-lined thoroughfare, which a century and a half ago led Barcelona from its congested medieval core into a new era of space, order and creativity. Antoni Gaudí’s wonderfully elaborate Casa Batlló, with its iridescent glass-mosaic facade, and sprawling, limestone-hewn Casa Milà are two of the biggest prizes. The properties stand out, as indeed they were intended to, commissioned by wealthy families in fits of early 20th-century one-upmanship. I’m in this affluent corner of the Eixample neighbourhood in search of artistry of a different sort. Away from the hedonism of some of its more downmarket spots, Barcelona takes its bar culture very seriously indeed. With its strident innovation, non-conformity and profusion of detail, it could be said to be keeping the spirit of modernisme alive. But there’s a crucial difference: this is a world that prizes the clandestine over the conspicuous. Three blocks west of Passeig de Gràcia, hidden by day behind a graffitied steel shutter and on a bland residential street, is The Alchemix. The last rays of sunlight are filtering through the silver maples outside as I arrive, and there’s already a small queue of people. They’re smartly dressed, patient, as if waiting outside a theatre. In a sense they are. Inside, owner Ignacio Ussía and his Estonian barman Erik Bagmet are concocting elaborate creations: spinning cocktail shakers, long-pouring, mixing, performing. A row of appreciative customers sits at the polished, spot-lit bar, entranced. Nearly a dozen customised cocktails are on offer. Dressed in a smart khaki apron, with a powerful build and piratical beard, Ignacio asks me for a “frame of reference” before guiding me towards the white truffle pisco sour: a richly aromatic, creamy-yet-sweet blend of pisco quebranta, lemon juice, white truffle honey, Amargo Chuncho bitters and white chocolate served in a broad, stemmed glass. Entering Bobby’s Free, I’m ushered into a thick leather barber’s chair and spun round to face the mirror. Clippers, combs, shaving brushes and other props line the counter. The glint in the flat-capped hairdresser’s eye is the only sign that something might be afoot. He raises his eyebrows expectantly. “Godfather,” I say, a touch hopefully. He nods his approval at the password, which I’d wrangled from my hotel concierge earlier, and reaches forward to activate a switch. The entire mirrored unit — draws, counter and all — swings open, and I step into the 1930s. A century ago, speakeasies emerged in response to the vice-like grip of Prohibition in America, with both bar owners and patrons living in constant fear of detection. Today, the danger is long gone but the frisson of the illicit lingers. This ‘underground’ establishment is precisely that: a short flight of steps leading down to a low-lit bar that’s absolutely bouncing. Staff in red braces and trilbies glide between tables, delivering G&Ts and customised cocktails, one of which is served, with splendid illogicality, in a portable safe. Ray Charles and his Wurlitzer electric piano ooze from hidden speakers. A young man with a can’t-believe-I’ve-found-this-place smile slaps along on his thigh, too caught up in the moment to worry about anything as trivial as rhythm. Behind the bar, Sofia D’Agnano is mixing up a storm. A photographer by day, the young Italian is in her element, feeding off the energy in the room and creating plenty of her own. As the music ramps up, a fellow bartender charges the length of the bar, pushing each of its domed, pendulous lights, which strafe the room with milky light. All the illuminated faces are beaming. Shouting to be heard over the music, Sofia explains that what she loves about the bar is true of the wider city. “It’s all a question of good vibes.” Allow gravity to coax you down towards the city’s coastal fringe and the order of New Barcelona quickly gives way to the agreeable tumult of the Ciutat Vella, or old town. Here in the labyrinthine streets of Barri Gòtic (the Gothic Quarter) and El Born, it’s not just light but progress that can be kept at bay. Dating from 1945, La Plata is a tiny corner bar tucked just out of sight on the seaward edge of Barri Gòtic. Its hand-painted sign, silver on blue like a flash of mackerel in the shallows, contrasts with the weathered Montserrat stone of the building’s thick-set walls. Ornate blue tiles frame a broad L-shaped bar where Pepe Gómez is orchestrating proceedings — as he has for 52 of his 67 years. As he serves a regular ensconced with her tiny dog in a favourite spot at the bar, Pepe reviews the decades for me. In the 1970s and 1980s, the bar catered mostly to locals, but after the Olympics in 1992 — as with the wider city — visitors took on a more international flavour. Demand has never abated. “I think it’s the simplicity people love,” he says. “As we say, it’s a bar de toda la vida [for life]. Unchanging, traditional.” That’s certainly not a charge that could ever be levelled at Paradiso, a few hundred yards away on the periphery of El Born. Since it opened in 2015, the speakeasy masquerading as a pastrami deli has bagged the world’s best bar accolade, staged pop-ups around the world and spawned an outpost in Dubai. Never mind the paradox of a secret bar that’s globally renowned; befitting its surreptitious portal — an enormous fridge door adjacent to the deli counter — it’s still effortlessly cool, with a honey-hued, grooved-wood interior and a stylish crowd enjoying a soundtrack of smooth beats. Once settled in, I ask about the inner bar. There are a few exchanges and then the head bartender, Federico Lombardi, smiles and says, “Come with me”. Past the loos, turning right at the kitchen and into a tiny storeroom we go. “Ready?” Federico performs some sleight of hand on the basin and a secret door springs open. 85% of ingredients and spirits used in the cocktails-only Dr Stravinsky's are homemade.Photograph by Margaret StepienIf Paradiso’s main bar evokes the inside of a whisky barrel, then this inner sanctum is more copper still, with candlelight reflecting off the low, amber-metallic ceiling. There’s barely room for a dozen people and access is both discretionary and sought-after; when Mick Jagger was in town, Federico tells me proudly, this was where he ended up. Time for one more? In Barcelona, always. Exiting Paradiso, I allow myself to be drawn back into the web of El Born, where suddenly every flaking door is infused with the tap-and-whisper possibility of a speakeasy. For centuries this quarter was the engine room of the city, home to a melee of artisans, craftsmen and workshops. Lanes assumed the name of the craft or industry concentrated there; hence Carrer dels Mirallers — street of mirrors — where I make my final and best discovery. Dr Stravinsky sits inconspicuously on a dimly lit corner, with an arched window and dark wooden doors. Enter into the high-ceilinged burgundy-and-green space and you might fancy you’ve happened upon a laboratory or a cabinet of curiosities. Hundreds of unmarked bottles and glass jars, beakers and cylinders line the shelves of the bar’s three levels. Mirrors, mottled and distorting, add a flavour of the surreal. Aproned and smiling, Rita Allué guides me to the bar and then in the direction of a fatty paloma, a smoky and citrussy blend of mezcal, Cajun syrup, Padrón peppers and homemade grapefruit soda. Eighty-five per cent of the ingredients and spirits used in the bar are homemade. Branded bottles are outlawed. Only cocktails are served. If you want a beer or wine, some 1,400 other Barcelona bars await, thank you very much. “You come here for the full cocktail experience,” explains manager Cesar Montilla. Dressed in a dark shirt with a neat red tie, and his moustache twirled into Dalí-esque points, Cesar is never happier than when chatting maturation, maceration and distillation, or debating micro-adjustments to his latest creations. “It’s all about chasing perfection,” he says earnestly. An art form? “Totally.” He’s delighted that I’ve chanced upon the bar as I’ve strolled through the neighbourhood. “I always say we’re hiding but also not hiding,” he says. “Some people walk by, some discover us. We’re a treasure in Barcelona’s labyrinth.” This story was created with the support of Barcelona Tourism, the Spanish Tourist Office, Vueling and Nobu Hotel Barcelona. 'When you see that an ice cream parlour has more than 25 flavours and calls itself artisan They don't have time to make them.' Alessadro Gaetano a partner at OGGI (Officina Gelato Gusto Italiano) In 2016 he opened his first space outside of Italy and is proud to do it all from scratch using no pastes or ready-made ingredients 'The raw material used in the ice cream is what marks the quality We make the pistachio ice cream with Sicilian pistachios and that's it sugar and colouring.' Try them and you'll believe it: refreshing flavours like wild fennel mint and basil – a Sicilian classic – colour the palate in high definition. And if you need more convincing and OGGI are official suppliers to events in the Holy See sometimes the big city can just get to you It can be exhausting just walking along the streets in the Barri Gòtic it can be the best antidote to pounding the city streets the space is a cave out of an Arabian fable We're not talking about some prefab scenario either – this temple oozes authenticity because it actually has Arab roots Dive into the ocean of options on the menu which boasts the best teas in Barcelona (outside the doors of Caj Chai to see for yourself what Salterio really has to offer.The range of herbal teas is also eye-popping If you're looking for something a bit stronger the pastries are out of this world and obligatory to complete the full magical and relaxing Arabic experience right in the middle of the Barri Gòtic and recharge your batteries and revitalise your spirit The idea of setting up a cool café in a window was an invention of Marcos Bartolomé a native of La Rioja from a family of coffee-makers who wanted to continue what he'd learnt from childhood Now they've settled in the Barri Gòtic chosen by Bartolomé as a fine spot for expanding his business Bartolomé serves one of the best cups of coffee you'll get in Barcelona and he doesn't go around painting pentagrams on the ground The satanic name of his coffee shop aligns with his way of treating the freshly ground bean: 'Many customers have stopped adding sugar or maybe the espresso is already sweet enough,' he says I don't like when I'm trying to just enjoy a good beer but we'll only give it to you if you ask.' And they have a satanic philosophy: 'You'll leave satisfied and we won't break your balls,' Bartolomé says with a devilish laugh According to Bartolomé their newer water-filtration system 'remineralizes the water with the pH and the alkalines that our coffee needs specifically' Satan's blends of Right Side Coffee – among the best in the city – are in constant rotation They also serve the makings for a spectacular breakfast: 'Everything pairs well with coffee – I recommend the traditional Japanese breakfast 700) is open from 7am to 6pm every day of the week You can't beat the combo of a really good coffee and a delicious sandwich That's just what the Ascasos (pioneers of the express café in Spain) had in mind when they opened Black Remedy this is a 'concept store' of artisan fast food that connects Brooklyn with the Barri Gòtic: the breads are from Cloudstreet Bakery and when you get your mouth around the bomb of amazingness that is their pastrami sandwich – aromatic with a touch of delicate mustard – you know that few can match it and some items are smoked up to 15 hours (go ahead and ask) Their salads and coffee are also out of this world By The MUHBA (Museu d’Historia de Barcelona) is a museum dedicated to the history of Barcelona which comprises 10 venues across the city; located in the medieval district of Barcelona and adjacent to the city’s Cathedral the MUHBA Plaça del Rei is the oldest and most popular of such venues The museum complex accommodates a permanent exhibition of objects focused on the history and urban development of the capital of Catalonia from the 1st century BC to the 13th century AD; the visit to the MUHBA Plaça del Rei is a combination of an architectural journey through the historical buildings of the museum and a visit to the exhibition of the archaeological artifacts documents and videos on view in the galleries located in such buildings The MUHBA Plaça del Rei also hosts temporary exhibitions and organizes guided tours which is accessible to physically impaired persons views of the exterior and courtyard of Casa Padellàs a house dating to the 15th century and moved to the Gothic Quarter in 1930 now part of the MUHBA Plaça del Rei; photos © Inexhibit MUHBA Plaça del Rei; built in the 14th century the Saló del Tinell is a grand hall once part of the Great Royal Palace which housed the Royal Court of Catalonia and the seat of the Inquisition; photo Ajuntament Barcelona (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0) Cover image: view of Plaça del Rei and the MUHBA copyright Inexhibit 2025 - ISSN: 2283-5474 With so many choices in the Barri Gòtic Its cosy feel and near-spectacular décor the kitchen has no delusions of grandeur but focuses its efforts on the solid dishes it creates making this place expertly run by Juan Bernat quite attractive indeed The terrace is one of the most peaceful and busy The potatoes Bosco which come highly recommended are similar to patatas bravas that haven’t been fried Your best bet is to go with the idea of sharing and trying a bit of everything Chef Héctor makes up a tempting lunch menu turbot with red peppers and garlic or pork loin with aubergine dessert and bread are included in the price the standout tapas are the fried farm eggs accompanied by black sausage or ham and a dish that usually serves more than one is a house speciality: Bosco cannelloni stuffed with roasted hen A delectable offering with distinctive flavours that fight for the spotlight among your taste buds – in a good way and the beef cutlet is the pride of the chef "We have good suppliers and we are very picky about them The area has a lot of competition and you have to try to make your mark," says Bernat and not just with its ambience and terrace where you can hear the bells of the Gòtic pealing; there’s also room for the little ones at Bosco with their macaroni and cheese and chicken with chips explore the walled city of Girona and awaken your senses in Dalí’s heartland Where to eat (more) Where to eat Where to eat Where to eat Would you eat a meal dreamed up by a computer?AI v The Mind: We explore the world of food and ask if human expertise is the only way to deliver great flavour. Turkey's wild and rugged Black Sea regionFood writer Nick Kwek finds out how the wild landscape of Turkey's Black Sea region influences local cuisine. The blunder that changed chickens foreverHow this one simple mistake gave birth to the 50-billion-dollar US chicken industry. The hunt for the world's most expensive fungusReel takes you to Italy to explore how the world's rarest and most expensive ingredient ends up on our tables. What food and drink is good for your memory?What we eat, it turns out, can have an impact on how well our memory works. How safe is frozen fruit?A huge recall of frozen fruits is currently happening across the US due to contamination fears. The world's oldest drinkable champagneHow the discovery of the world's oldest drinkable champagne is inspiring new green solutions. The harmful legacy of poor nutritionWhat we eat, or don’t eat, can have a huge impact on us and the generations after us. The truth behind your favourite flavoursThe psychology and biology of flavour preference is some of the most fascinating science out there. Japan: Creating the first wagyu beef in a labWe meet the scientists creating wagyu beaf, a Japanese delicacy with a distinctive texture, from cells. How a vegan diet can affect your brainCan changing to a vegan diet impact the health of your brain? The fight to feed humanityA look at how the world's farmers responding to some of the greatest threats to global food security. The surprising role chocolate played for ancient humansWe discover why the use of chocolate is older than we think, and the role it played for ancient humans. How beetroot can enhance your performanceIn the past decade, new evidence has suggested that nitrates in beetroots can enhance athletic performance. The truth about drinking raw milkThe debate for and against pasteurisation across industries and seas is a passionate one. The Russian food obsession inspired by the USWhat thick, tangy, creamy white sauce links Stalin, French haute cuisine and American mass industrialisation? Why is cod so popular in Portugal?From kings to dictators, Portugal’s leaders have always used cod as a political tool. How sushi took over the worldThinly sliced raw fish on plain white rice. How did this Japanese staple become a global sensation? The truth about supplements and who should be taking themBy 2025 sales of vitamins and supplements are expected to reach an estimated 700 million USD - but do they work? Why we should treat food like medicineMore people than ever are expected to suffer from diet-related illnesses. The RNLI spoke to nearly 3,000 pupils about how to best stay safe on the beach. The RNLI and Surf Life Saving GB offer advice as they anticipate a busy weekend on the beaches. The white Ferris wheel on the Esplanade in Weymouth will stand up to 33m (108ft) tall. The wide path has been made using recycled materials and connects the forest and beach at Holkham. The volunteers say seven bags of waste were removed from the dunes after the recent warm spell. Brilliant Barcelona has a long list of top places to see Here’s a pick of the best attractions and things to do when you’re there Barcelona’s best tourist attractions are world-famous There are far too many things to see and do in Barcelona to fit into one single list here are the best places to soak up the city’s edgy vibe You can see Antoni Gaudí’s modernista architecture all across Barcelona. Without a doubt, his most famous creation is the iconic La Sagrada Família church Gaudi started work on the church in 1882 and it’s still not finished The latest estimates are sometime between 2026 (the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death) and 2040 which looks like candlewax dripped over soaring Gothic spires Park Güell is a fantastical place with bright mosaic columns which sits on a sunny terrace overlooking the park For detailed information on where to find buildings by Gaudi and other Modernista architects, see the Barcelona Modernisme Route website and other pieces by surrealist artist Joan Miró and his contemporaries If the walk-up seems over-facing, you can take a cable car to the top of Montjuïc from pre-adolescent portraits through his Blue Period and onto his Cubist paintings and beyond Picasso’s friend and secretary Jaime Sabartés used his own collection of Picasso’s works to establish the museum Highlights include the 58 canvases of Velázquez’s famous Las Meninas on display in the Great Hall Stroll around the cobblestone streets of the old Gothic quarter (Barri Gòtic) between La Rambla and the Via Laietana This is the center of old Barcelona where there are remains of Barcelona’s Roman settlement and medieval buildings Take a peep inside to see its spectacular domed ceilings The cathedral’s cloister is dedicated to St where the resident white geese were originally kept to ward off intruders La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous street running from the Plaça de Catalunya to the Columbus Monument by the port It lies between the Gothic quarter and el Raval The pedestrian boulevard runs down the middle sandwiched in between two narrow lanes of traffic and lined with trees living statues and pavement artists – and the occasional pickpocket too so hold onto your belongings while you gawk at the lively scene It still feels safe though as there are usually people milling around until the early hours of the morning Bustling La Boqueria Barcelona and Europe’s biggest food market There has been a market here since 1217 and it’s where the locals and many of Barcelona’s top restaurateurs buy their fresh produce which says a lot about the level of quality it’s a great place to pick up snacks for a picnic There are also tapas bars and pizza places all over if you want a meal on the go A little further away lies the Mercado de Santa Caterina famed for its wavy mosaic roof designed by Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue To see the rooftop artwork of some 325,000 tiles get up high or search for it from Barcelona Cathedral one of Barcelona’s first covered markets Its’ gleaming interior houses market stalls plus a couple of upmarket restaurants that serve the market’s fresh produce At Els Encants flea market on Plaça de les Glories Catalanes 500 vendors sell junk and the occasional treasure Relax on the beach after a day of sightseeing! Barcelona has some wonderful golden beaches within easy reach of the city all with the EU blue flag that denotes cleanliness which is a 20-minute walk from Poble Nou metro stop don’t leave any valuables in your car Keep an eye on your belongings on the beach as well Once a rough red-light district, El Raval west of La Rambla is now one of Barcelona’s coolest areas and some of the city’s hippest bars and restaurants cutting-edge studios and galleries – and Barcelona’s more interesting nightlife Football fans won’t want to miss Camp Nou (‘new field’ in Catalan), home to FC Barcelona and one of the most visited attractions in Barcelona There’s an interactive museum where you can find out about the club’s history You can also go on a self-guided tour that takes you behind the scenes to the players’ changing rooms You can get tickets for a game in the 100,000-seater stadium at the box office at Camp Nou Built between 1905 and 1908 by Luis Domènech i Montaner for the Orfeó Català choral society, the Modernista Palau de la Música Catalana is an ornate mash-up of brick there’s an allegorical mosaic of the Orfeó Català You’ll need to go to a concert or take a guided tour to view the auditorium The inverted stained-glass dome representing the sun bursts through the ‘sky’ muses seem to come out of the back of the stage and Wagnerian Valkyries gallop over a bust of Beethoven Learn how to find love on Spain's dating scene where casual meet-ups can spark genuine romantic connections Find out whether you need private health insurance in Spain in 2025 Want to send your child(ren) to an international school in Spain Find out everything you need to know about fees Alternative rock bar with excellent decor and cheap beer found in Barcelona's Barri Gòtic neighbourhood The background music takes you on a time trip back to when Guns 'n' Roses were the big thing You'll also find a life-size figure of Eddie sitting on a toilet that hangs from the wall And they always give you a free bowl of popcorn All 21st-century metal bars should be like this one The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers When you purchase through links on our site The best boutique places to stay in Spain’s cultural capital I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Barcelona is one of the world’s most visited cities, and for good reason. As the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, there’s much to see, from the breathtakingly beautiful Sagrada Familia and beaches to the world-renowned museums So, it’s no wonder that, in part thanks to its tourism boom back in 2016, we saw a rise in accommodation options across the board. We’re not just talking skyscraping business hotels either you’ll find everything from a new breed of savvy youth hostels to luxury resorts But where it really excels is with the particular combination of quirky and stylish stays that encapsulates the spirit of the city itself and needn't always break the bank To help you choose the best stay for you – whether you want to be beachside, stay in the Gothic Quarter, or shop ’til you drop – we’ve rounded up the ultimate pick of Barcelona's best boutique hotels Hidden away down the smallest alleyway imaginable this adults-only hotel has a cosy country-house feel with a roaring log fire and stacks of board games in the library such as old-school dial telephones and porcelain rotary light switches which does mean there’s no view to speak of – but there's a roof terrace with a diminutive pool and a vista over the Old City Millennial-favourite The Hoxton made its debut in the Catalonian capital for 2022 – one of the city’s coolest neighbourhood’s bougie brand of chic that’s now synonymous with the Hoxton: cool rattan floors chilled out rooms accented with mint and sea greens abstract hessian wall hangings behind the beds high-ceilinged restaurant and bar with bold pops of colour splashed across the walls brown leather banquettes and a buzzy outdoor terrace serving up insanely decadent deep-dish pizzas; head to the top for sundowners with fabulous views alongside the rooftop pool and bar The newest addition to Barcelona's stable of design hotels books and artworks that enliven the public spaces or you might choose to freeze your troubles away in a spa so cutting-edge it includes a cryochamber which serves up possibly the greatest steaks in town (and some of the spiciest sides) the Little Beach House is an easy 45-minute train ride away south of the city and close to the whitewashed seaside party town of Sitges plants and wicker that reflects both its location and a determination to avoid the networking buzz of the mothership – this is a place to kick back and listen to the waves (there is a ban on mobiles and laptops in the common areas) But note: you have to be a member of the Soho House Group before you can book a room Price: Membership from €45.83 per month (£40 per month) Book now Named after the revamped Mercat de Sant Antoni – a food market that takes up the adjacent block – this is an excellent budget option close to Barcelona's hippest area for wining and dining red lacquered cabinets and stone sinks are all enjoyably kooky for a budget three-star and the restaurant is supremely elegant (the food less so The bar is a relaxing place to hang out with a G&T after a day's sightseeing and the addition of terrace tables on a quiet pedestrian street is a welcome one Situated in a medieval building fused into a section of the Roman city wall the luxurious Mercer is a huge favourite with history buffs (ask if you can see the centuries-old frescoes in a private dining room built inside the former defence tower) is the roof garden with plunge pool – a small and quiet oasis filled with flowers and fragrant herbs but hidden from the crowds down a narrow sidestreet with only 22 rooms but immaculate levels of service and a superb restaurant Closely embedded as it is in the medieval fabric of the Gothic quarter but rooms are kept bright with a cream colour scheme and high ceilings The plant-filled rooftop area is beautifully peaceful for somewhere so central a short walk from some of Gaudí's finest buildings blends elegant turn-of-the-century architecture high ceilings and original features with exuberant Seventies-inspired wall designs and bold-coloured bedspreads and cushions It's low on facilities but does incorporate a small gym and computer for guests’ use and the patio is a peaceful place to work or read located just off Plaça Catalunya and close to all the main shopping arteries where you'll find a surprisingly wide pool with pinstripe fabric and a monochrome aesthetic Floor-to-ceiling vintage-style circus posters transform corridors into tunnels of colour and complement the colourful book-lined reception area navy-tiled bathrooms and an abundance of mismatched artworks A small garden off the sitting area gives the hotel its name and is an unexpected perk for a hotel of this size Read more of our Spain hotel reviews: Read more about Spain travel: location and sea views","description":"The best boutique places to stay in Spain’s cultural capital The Shadow of the Wind depicts a Gothic city with techniques typical of the audiovisual world The spirit of the city is raised to the universal on its pages for which great authors who had looked at Barcelona before act as models Carlos Ruiz Zafón put the great Barcelona novel on the best-seller map with The Shadow of the Wind Its merits: tying up with the realist narrative tradition to imagine a gothic city with the arts of the audiovisual The writer does not pursue historic rigour but rather creates unforgettable atmospheres La Rambla is conjured up as “dawn poured” over it in a “wreath of liquid copper” like the newspaper serial popularised by Antonio Altadill in the last third of the 19th century Wrought-iron modernist dragons: foggy stories of melancholy and unease Topography: the stone-clad Barri Gòtic; the brackish Ribera; the nocturnal Raval; the Gaudiesque Sagrada Família; sprawling middle-class houses in Pedralbes with its castle and cemetery overlooking the sea Ruiz Zafón points to titles written in Catalan by Narcís Oller: the Barcelona of financial ambition in the first great novel of a city shifting towards a modernity that spans 1892 to 1992; and also The Time of the Doves and A Broken Mirror by Mercè Rodoreda: post-war confidences whispered behind the curtains he confesses that the story that had the greatest impact on him was Nada [Nothing] because “it captures a certain air of the intangible Barcelona” that the winner of the first Nadal Prize was published in May ’45 and The Shadow of the Wind begins precisely in the summer of that same year The deep impression made on Andrea on reaching the Estació de França train station could be compared to Daniel Sempere delving into an enigmatic Barcelona; both perceive the dank atmosphere of mystery that is both startling and alluring The sensitivity of loneliness comparable to the heroines of Rodoreda and her particular way of metabolising colours scents and objects forgotten amid the shadows of the past his parodial sense of humour of the cryptic-critical detectives palpitates in the loquacious and picaresque Romero de Torres “bibliographic adviser” of the Sempere bookshop who struggles against the acid reflux of a brooding personal memory Ruiz Zafón also draws attention to the work of Juan Marsé and Mariona Rebull and El viudo Rius [The Widower Rius] El viudo Rius personifies the textile manufacturer of Barcelona whose days are frittered away amid the balances of economic protectionism – a topic also taken up by Oller – and his obsession with a woman We see him accompany his son Desiderio to the Piarist school in Sarrià: “It was as if they had moved to another city another world.” The Piarist school is very close to the Jesuits where the author of The Shadow of the Wind studied and wanted Julián Carax to study: “Its redbrick façade dotted with dagger-shaped windows winding street that led up from the boulevard peered over a group of plane trees like some Gothic cathedral.” In this middle-class school Ruiz Zafón conjugates family secrets with the “Mendozian” irony of haunted crypts: “In its heyday – say between 1880 and 1930 more or less … [it] … took in the flower of old established families with bulging wallets.” The passageways and cityscapes travelled by the nouveau riche Gil Foix of La febre d’or – Carrer Ample the Ciutadella of the 1888 Universal Exhibition and also the mountain of Montjuïc – provide the backdrop for the Barcelona of Ruiz Zafón and Eduardo Mendoza The former spins his plots in this cityscape and the Mendoza of the City of Marvels gives the name of Delfina – the same as Gil Foix’s daughter – to the girl from the hostel where Onofre Bouvila embarks upon his rise to financial success Taking these authors in Catalan or in Spanish as his references Ruiz Zafón seeks to share a “take” on a Barcelona which is only possible in literature; to have us relate to his characters’ sensations An exercise that should not be confused with a form of nostalgia that strikes him as dangerous and inexact beyond the Barcelona canon: Charles Dickens and Stephen King The connection with the newspaper serial and the “monstrous” mystery leads us to the Borgesian Cemetery of Forgotten Books in the gloom of the Calle Arco del Teatro; there the impulse of the treasure hunter drives Daniel Sempere towards the book signed by Julián Carax perhaps because I had been raised among books and booksellers I dreamed of becoming a novelist.” The spirit of that eternal and suggestive Barcelona flaps its wings Pingback: Torna Barcelona Metròpolis | Núvol Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Considered one of his best post-war novels, 'Incerta glòria' [Uncertain Glory] was first published in 1956, but his author extended and modified it until the final version of 1971 was reached. July 2014Save this storySaveSave this storySaveLove the idea of a beach vacation but not the prospect of spending every single moment on the sand staring out at the water But before you eschew a tropical getaway entirely—and who can’t use some sun and surf in the depths of winter?—take a second look at these cool sites that mix the best of the beach with the cultural offerings of a proper city three spots where you can squeeze in a swim between visits to art galleries and handcrafted cocktails to the beat of a live DJ Photo: AlamyFor Architecture FansWhere to go: Barcelona Photo: AlamyFor Design EnthusiastsWhere to go: Cape Town Photo: AlamyFor 24-Hour Party PeopleWhere to go: Tel Aviv who worked in the Moll de la Fusta and mentioned it in some of his verses the annunciation to the shepherds or the arrival of the Kings of Orient will be some of the many scenes represented in the traditional crib that measures eight meters wide If you are going to visit the crib on Saturday 14 or Sunday 15 December you can also visit the building of the Palau de la Generalitat in the Pati Gòtic of the Palau and from 17:00 to 21:00 h The visit to the crib is free and can be visited from November 29 to January 5 You may think I've gone mad – me, a defender of carnivorous eating who has a secret admiration for Hannibal Lecter – but I went once more to eat at a vegetarian restaurant, and didn't even give it a second thought. I'd heard good things about Rasoterra, and on their website I saw that they have a gift for communication, and that they don't need anyone's granny cooking in their kitchen. Their manifesto eight commandments where they lay out the restaurant's doctrine Rasoterra offers a set lunch menu that has good value for money and is a much higher quality than other vegetarian restaurants not to mention other restaurants that serve fish and meat cooked on automatic pilot I chose to start with a cold cream of beetroot and courgette and orecchiette pasta with cashew pesto as my main dish; both choices were perfect for a hot June afternoon as Rasoterra calls the dishes that fill the menu If I'd ordered the ravioli made with organic eggs and filled with provolone and onions caramalised with oregano butter and that's what going to eat in a restaurant is all about The yellow soy and buckwheat with red onion sauce I'll have to try another day – when I'm a gluten-free vegan There are some places where they don't put much thought or care into the preparation of their food and presentation of dishes a wholly recommendable vegetarian restaurant that uses local products (when possible from their own gardens) and is part of the slow food movement Even Hannibal Lecter would enjoy a flesh-free meal or two If you've had the chance to get a great meal at what is now Petit Capet (in Gràcia) you also might want to try the expanded and improved version in Capet which opened in the Barri Gòtic in spring 2018 Chef Armando and his partner Núria decided to start the whole process up again in a spacious quiet spot with a splendid open kitchen that takes over the surrounds Theirs is a cuisine with its own characteristics tasty and where each ingredient plays an important role in creating the final excellent result but the white asparagus cooked differently than usual makes it crispy and delicious and that's served with the exquisite combination of bottarga the main dish was one of those that are no longer offered because of its complexity: skate with black butter and cooked excellently and dressed with capers and a touch of vinegar We can also highly recommend the tomato tartare with smoked eel the star dish that Armando gets just right in Petit Capet we tried the chicken kimchi croquettes – a top way to start a meal Núria makes sure there's a good selection of original and well-priced wines on the menu where they can get firsthand suggestions from Armando a young chef who more than deserves a spot on any list of the best in the city The TimesThe landmark building in the thick of Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella (old city) might have centuries of history but stepping inside reveals a stylishly contemporary five-star bolt hole The neoclassical façade has been jazzed up with a thousand decorative “eyes” and oversized ceramic masks fill the moody while pared-back rooms provide a soothing retreat from the urban buzz The big highlight is the Michelin-star restaurant Caelis a creative celebration of Catalan and French flavours a bar with dreamy 360-degree views and a switched-on team keen to share all their Barcelona tips and the Ohla Barcelona lures both business and tourism guests as well as a local food-loving crowd Become a subscriber and along with unlimited digital access to The Times and The Sunday Times you can enjoy a collection of travel offers and competitions curated by our trusted travel partners MARCO PASTORIScore 8/10 Gazing at the building from the street below a feast of porcelain eyes designed by Barcelona-based artist Frederic Amat stares back down from every wall the hotel’s 74 smartly comfortable rooms feel surprisingly pared-back Each is thoughtfully designed to maximise space with warm wooden floors and a gentle white-and-grey palette Entry-level Essential rooms overlook a small garden out the back of the building while higher categories bring in views of Via Laietana JOAN MONFORTThe slightly larger Design rooms have glass-walled statement showers in the centre (admittedly not for everyone and full-sized organic bath products by Italian brand Prija in the black-tiled bathrooms There are also swish suites with luxuriously large baths in most rooms windows and terrace doors (understandably) cannot be opened Score 9/10The gold-hued restaurant Caelis is a destination in its own right where you can even dine bar-style overlooking the open kitchen Caelis has held a Michelin star since 2005 and it’s easy to see why with its unforgettably imaginative Catalan-French dishes like smoky roasted leeks with Maresme peas and acalçot vichyssoise served in a bowl made entirely of ice Along with three full-blown tasting menus (one of them vegetarian) Caelis has market-based £50 lunchtime menus that change weekly (a real hit with the locals) Catalan-rooted tapas and lunchtime set menus • Best hotels in Barcelona• Best things to do in Barcelona MARCO PASTORIScore 8/10 The sun-drenched multi-level rooftop provides a secluded haven high above the Barri Gotic’s lively streets with sprawling views across the cathedral’s spires to Montjuic and the Med The glass-walled pool here is particularly refreshing after a hot day roaming around the sights It’s guests-only on the roof throughout the day until the cocktail bar opens to the public each evening chatty reception staff welcome guests with crisp cava and Barcelona tips and the “Experience” team can organise everything from open-air workouts to rose-petal baths and a choice of pillows A range of spa treatments includes aloe vera-and-mint body wraps and aromatic-candle massages Score 9/10For visitors keen to be in the thick of Barcelona’s monument-filled historic centre The hotel is on the northeast edge of the fabled Barri Gotic (the city’s monument-packed medieval core) Within a five-minute stroll there are Roman-era walls tangled alleys and hidden-away plazas to discover along with Barcelona’s great Catalan gothic cathedral; you have taxis and public transport right on the doorstep too Just across Via Laietana sits the lively La Ribera district including headliners like the Museu Picasso (a ten-minute wander from the hotel) Price B&B doubles from £260Restaurant tasting menus from £101Family-Friendly YAccessible Y • Best boutique hotels in Barcelona• Best affordable hotels in Barcelona Isabella Noble was a guest of Ohla Barcelona ( ohlabarcelona.com) Sign up to the Times Travel newsletter for weekly inspiration, advice and deals here spainTapas are a dish meant to foster conversation and in no place does the quintessential Spanish cuisine make more of a buzz than in the capital of Catalonia Modern Where to stay the Gothic Quarter is brimming with stunning architecture Whether you want somewhere to catch up on the scores with a pint or a crowd of fellow supporters to watch the game with here are some of the best sports bars in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter Very much a case of ‘it does what it says on the lid’, the Sports Bar Italian Food is a sports bar serving Italian food technically it’s more like an Italian restaurant kitted out with numerous flat screen televisions so dinners will be able to watch the game from wherever they’re sitting The food offering is ample and includes pizzas salads and grilled meats – there’s even a selection of deep-fried pizzas to choose from © Eric Chan Another of the city’s most popular Irish bars, Dunne’s is a large pub located on the Via Laietana, between the Gothic Quarter and El Born cosy booths are great for groups and there are screens across the bar area with the possibility of screening two or three different games at the same time © Nico Nelson / Flickr Unsurprisingly for an Argentine restaurant, there are two things taken very seriously by the team at La República: football and red meat. Tucked away in the heart of the Gothic Quarter this is a great place to watch Barcelona play as you can be sure there will be a crowd of die-hard fans watching alongside you ‘You’ll never drink alone’ is this bar’s favourite saying and indeed it’s unlikely you will at Cheers, located just metres from La Rambla The football is what you can most often expect to find on the screens at Cheers this place is very popular with travellers but those who come here do seem to come again so there’s clearly something to be said for Cheers’ friendly atmosphere and bar food Tara is a travel writer and editor who lived in Barcelona for 5 years writing exclusively for Culture Trip She has a passion for sharing experiences around food and wine Sports The Most Epic Hiking Trails in Spain's Sierra Nevada © Copyright 2025 The Culture Trip Ltd The former bar for football club Espanyol supporters with a privileged location on Plaça Reial – is now a café called Philippines Club   Climb the black spiral staircase that winds up from the square to enter this open space with a majestic and unmistakably colonial air The café is owned by the Andilana group Puig is honorary consul of the Philippines including acting as the cultural headquarters of Filipino associations in Barcelona   You can also rent the space for a meal or a meeting A Jewish community lived in the El Call quarter between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries The end of the Jewish community in Barcelona begins with the anti-Jewish movement that spread throughout Europe at the end of the 14th century and that in Spain ended in 1492 when the Catholic Monarchs signed the decree thatmeant The Call is in the Gothic quarter of Barcelona and it is an area of narrow ​​which was restored and opened to the public MUHBA El Call is a section of the History Museum of Barcelona located in the heart of El Call (Placeta de Manuel Ribé This museum explains how the Jewish community of Barcelona lived and the splendor of its cultural legacy Metro: L3 Liceu / L4 Jaume IBus: V13, 59 and Tourist Bus (red route The Escursell brothers couldn’t have imagined that nearly 20 years after their firstborn (Petritxol) appeared it would have 15 siblings  throughout the city and beyond Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee drink some beer in the bottom room you hear some footsteps and Vincent Price appeared with a mojito.  The Alcoba Azul is a bar/house of horrors reminiscent of old horror movies from Hammer Films Here the only things you will find are stone just as if you were in a Transylvanian bar there is a well full of coins covered with glass some people say that down there is the professor Sebastian d'Arbois held in chains There’s a whole part of Barcelona that’s not immediately obvious and only accessible to the most perceptive Read on and you’ll become a member of that exclusive group One of Barcelona’s coolest hairdresser’s is located on the top floor of a clothes shop that stocks urban-casual pieces from Scandinavian labels that are not easy to find in this city. If you head to The Room Hairstyle, make sure you have your Visa on a tight lead, because temptation will pop out at you from all sides, in what is a truly trendy space, in the form of trainers, bags, T-shirts, sweaters, cosmetics and amazing hairstyles. What to do with a former gym called California Loop Gym that you come across by accident behind a hidden door in the premises where you’re planning to set up a cooking school who from the very beginning wanted to stay loyal to the California Loop Gym knew exactly what to do – organise gastronomic show cookings with two key protagonists: deli specialities (foie gras oysters) and entertainment in its purest form but the far superior quality compared to your average neighbourhood bar is well worth the premium It’s also worth noting that almost all speciality coffee shops in the city offer non-dairy milks Check out this list of the best coffee shops in the Catalan capital Be sure to book ahead for the best tours of Barcelona and make the most out of your trip Three Marks Coffee is serious about espresso | Courtesy of Three Marks Coffee The three founders of Three Marks Coffee not only share the same name (you guessed it it’s Mark); they also all have a deep passion for speciality coffee industrial-hipster chic café has a small downstairs area and coffee bar You’re likely to find at least one fixed-gear bike parked outside at any given time and its collection of quarterly culture magazines is impressive as is the love and care Three Marks puts into each shot of espresso pulled and every pitcher of milk steamed Take a look at the best food and drink tours of Barcelona and make the most of the delicious delicacies this city has to offer cosy and trendy | Courtesy of Syra Coffee This small coffee shop in the heart of the Gràcia neighborhood has just a few seats but that doesn’t stop the constant flow of customers ordering their flat whites and cold brews to go natural wood-adorned space is accented with house plants and shelves of vacuum-sealed coffee bags line the walls for those who prefer to brew their own bamboo to-go cups and tote bags all bear the Syra logo which fits Barcelona’s trendy graphic design obsession to a T – the founder of Syra came from the world of design before embarking on his coffee journey You can also check out its second location in Poble Nou (Carrer de Pujades 100) Cafés El Magnífico has been around for more than 100 years | Courtesy of Cafés El Magnífico The family behind Cafés El Magnífico has been roasting coffee in the El Born neighbourhood of Barcelona since 1919 Cafés El Magnífico is far from being an ancient relic; quite the opposite The range of beans that it sources and roasts has grown exponentially over the years to the point that in 2019 the brand created a catalogue of coffee from over 18 countries available for purchase by the bag The shopfront is mostly occupied by the roasting space with only a tiny area at the entrance where two baristas make drinks for the flow of people walking along the busy street rotating selection in the shop’s grinders each day Just one street in from the frenetic surge of people along the bustling Carrer de Joaquín Costa is Departure Coffee high-ceilinged space features work by local artists hanging on the walls and groups of friends chatting softly over their V60 pour-overs and matcha oat lattes There’s usually a modest selection of fresh pastries (always with vegan options) Try to snag one of the few high stools outside Morrow Coffee is the perfect breakfast spot | Courtesy of Morrow Coffee With most of the best coffee shops located downtown, in Poble Nou or in Gràcia, Morrow is the go-to spot for those in search of an excellent coffee near Plaça Espanya just one block from the Arenas shopping centre Morrow is a speciality coffee shop and roaster It has a limited number of seats but a loyal following for its breakfast menu and artful lattes The owner of the iconic shop ‘Espai Joliu’ that sadly closed a few years back also opened a second shop with a very similar style, called Orval (Carrer de Buenaventura Muñoz 31) Orval is now a staple in the Barcelona coffee scene and the owners have put their all into making this little spot a gem for coffee lovers Hidden Café is true to its name – located in Les Corts, it’s far away from the city’s major landmarks. Les Corts is part residential and part commercial, and other than the legendary Camp Nou stadium there’s no better place for an expertly poured latte breakfast bowls and sandwiches if you’re feeling peckish SlowMov is a popular coffee shop and roasting outfit | Courtesy of SlowMov On a quiet street in the lower part of the Gràcia neighbourhood you can find SlowMov production and ethics of the beans it sources the coffee on offer changes often and with the season SlowMov also offers coffee and chocolate tastings barista training and coffee consulting to other cafés in the city Stop by for a sip and peruse its collection of trendy magazines Prepare to taste the most heavenly baked goods of your life at Caelum They are are made by monks and nuns from different parts of Spain Situated in El Barri Gotic (the gothic quarter) this little cafe has an atmosphere you cannot find anywhere else but you’re coming here to enjoy the pastries and the ambience Nabbing a decent cup of coffee can be tricky in the touristy area of Barceloneta La Roseta is a beach-front cafe and bakery specializing in modern pastries like cronuts It’s a small spot but it often isn’t very crowded While you’re wandering through Raval, continue another half kilometre to the Rambla del Raval (map here) – the newest of the ramblas developed in 1995 to give a green lung to one of the densest communities in the city Just off Rambla del Raval is the not entirely successful Plaça de Vasquez Montalban (map here) with its elipitcal hotel a small plaza and home to the new Filmoteca de Catalunya filled with the Barcelona version of hipsters I’m glad that skateboarders have found Meier’s otherwise dreadful and dead placa There is a reason large buildings aren’t usually white in the bright Mediterranean sun We simply baked trying to traverse the placa and also had difficulty finding the museum’s entrance It’s no wonder that PPS includes this space – not place – in Its Hall of Shame Check our Patreon page for stylish coffee mugs Thank you for helping shape this place we love The TimesCatalonia’s capital is home to one of Europe’s most thrilling hotel scenes A wave of wildly creative design-led properties has landed in recent years many of them taking inspiration from Barcelona’s Mediterranean landscapes designer havens and personality-packed B&Bs mingle with landmark grande dames and reimagined Modernista mansions Staying within the Ciutat Vella (Old City) puts you in the medieval heart where narrow lanes are crammed with monuments and museums the Barri Gotic has some gorgeous hotel conversions of historic buildings Neighbouring La Ribera has a more creative vibe; great restaurants and major sights including the Museu Picasso and the Parc de la Ciutadella Registered in England No. 894646. Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, SE1 9GF. Read Culture Trip’s guide to the very best places to stay in the area Courtesy of H10 Madison / Expedia Just three minutes on foot from the 13th-century Barcelona Cathedral guests at H10 Madison would be better off viewing this towering structure from the comfort of the hotel’s sun-drenched rooftop pool While most of your time will likely be spent poolside rooms are bright and spacious with high ceilings and marble-clad bathrooms Be sure to make your way down to breakfast come morning for a spread of deli-style delights Courtesy of Mercer Hotel Barcelona / Expedia At this historic hotel in Barcelona the past quite literally stares you in the face Some of the rooms here are built into Barcelona’s original Roman defence towers with the brick tower walls used as features in the otherwise minimalist rooms The hotel itself is an elegant option for Spain’s second city – and you should put aside a night or two to sample the laid back Le Bouchon tapas bar and the hotel’s main restaurant that serves traditional Catalan cuisine import PrebidBidService from "/v1/js/PrebidBidService.js"; import AmazonBidService from "/v1/js/AmazonBidService.js"; window.addEventListener('intersecting',async (e) => { const element = document.querySelector('[data-id="in_article_1"]'); const slot = element.getAttribute('id'); if(e.detail.slotName !== slot) { return; } let promises = []; if(window.canRunPrebid) { const prebidService = new PrebidBidService(); promises.push(prebidService.requestPrebidBids(null [slot])); } if(window.canRunAmazon) { const amazonService = new AmazonBidService(); promises.push(amazonService.fetchBids(null [slot])); } if(promises?.length) { await Promise.all(promises).then(() => { googletag.pubads().refresh([window.addSlot[slot]]); }); } else { googletag.pubads().refresh([window.addSlot[slot]]); } }); H10 Cubik Hotel Courtesy of H10 Cubik / Expedia A design lover’s haven, H10 Cubik’s decor is achingly modern. With a wall-to-ceiling art installation in the lobby, rose gold fixtures in the bathrooms, walls clad in vibrant artworks, views of the Sagrada Familia from some suites and a glass-fenced rooftop terrace overlooking the terracotta-topped homes a dip in the rooftop pool should be followed by tapas at the terraced Atik Restaurant Courtesy of Kimpton Vividora Hotel / Expedia For a slick stay in the middle of Barcelona’s storied centre There’s a large rooftop pool and some rooms have private balconies as well rub shoulders with locals at in-house restaurant Fauna or sample Catalan cheeses and charcuterie post-siesta at Cafè Got Courtesy of Hotel 1898 / Expedia Despite being plonked directly on Barcelona’s most famous street While summer is best spent taking a dip in the hotel’s rooftop pool those visiting in the winter don’t need to miss out – there’s an atmospheric indoor pool hidden in its spa where you can relax in the dry sauna and steam bath too you’ll want to make the most of your room – the deluxe rooms and suites have luxe private outdoor terraces Courtesy of Ohla Hotel / Expedia Located just off the Via Laietana the Ohla is a modern boutique hotel located in the former palace of one of the Counts of Barcelona This five-star hotel has been elegantly renovated and stylishly decorated offering guests the luxury of a modern hotel wrapped in a historic setting Guests are a minute away from major sites including the cathedral the modernist Palau de la Música Catalana and the major shopping street Portal de l’Angel Courtesy of Hotel Neri / Expedia This charming boutique hotel is located in the magical Plaça de Sant Felip Neri alongside the gothic cathedral and adjacent buildings Guests at the Hotel Neri find themselves at the very heart of one of the most historic areas of the town surrounded by the old Jewish quarter known as El Call The hotel is housed in a former Medieval palace and maintains all of its original charms while boasting elegantly furnished bedrooms with all the modern conveniences Courtesy of Hotel Serras / Expedia This luxury hotel is set against the enchanting streets of the Gothic Quarter while being just a minute away from the waterfront of the old port area known as Port Vell the Hotel Serras boasts a large rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy a drink or relax in the infinity pool The restaurant is run by local Michelin-starred chef Marc Gascons who serves up modern interpretations of French and Catalan classics perfectly in keeping with the spirit of the city itself import PrebidBidService from "/v1/js/PrebidBidService.js"; import AmazonBidService from "/v1/js/AmazonBidService.js"; window.addEventListener('intersecting',async (e) => { const element = document.querySelector('[data-id="in_article_3"]'); const slot = element.getAttribute('id'); if(e.detail.slotName !== slot) { return; } let promises = []; if(window.canRunPrebid) { const prebidService = new PrebidBidService(); promises.push(prebidService.requestPrebidBids(null [slot])); } if(promises?.length) { await Promise.all(promises).then(() => { googletag.pubads().refresh([window.addSlot[slot]]); }); } else { googletag.pubads().refresh([window.addSlot[slot]]); } }); Hotel Duquesa de Cardona Boutique Hotel Courtesy of Hotel Duquesa de Cardona / Expedia Situated on the waterfront of the old Port Vell the Hotel Duquesa de Cardona is a stylish boutique hotel offering guests superb views of the harbour The cocktail bar on the terrace is the perfect place to relax at the end of a busy day and soak up the last of the sunshine The decor is a blend of original period features dating to the former palace’s renovation in the 19th century alongside subtle touches of modernity for comfort and style Courtesy of H10 Montcada / Expedia This stylish three-star hotel is located on the Via Laietana stylish rooms at more affordable rates than its four- and five-star competitors The decor at the H10 Montcada includes cosy leather armchairs and touches of wood The rooms are comfortable and elegantly decorated and you can enjoy stunning views of the city from the privileged roof terrace import PrebidBidService from "/v1/js/PrebidBidService.js"; import AmazonBidService from "/v1/js/AmazonBidService.js"; window.addEventListener('intersecting',async (e) => { const element = document.querySelector('[data-id="in_article_4"]'); const slot = element.getAttribute('id'); if(e.detail.slotName !== slot) { return; } let promises = []; if(window.canRunPrebid) { const prebidService = new PrebidBidService(); promises.push(prebidService.requestPrebidBids(null [slot])); } if(promises?.length) { await Promise.all(promises).then(() => { googletag.pubads().refresh([window.addSlot[slot]]); }); } else { googletag.pubads().refresh([window.addSlot[slot]]); } }); Hotel DO Plaça Reial Boutique Hotel Courtesy of Hotel DO Plaça Reial Located on one of the most famous squares in Barcelona the Hotel DO Plaça Reial is a five-star boutique hotel with an elegant interior carefully crafted by local designer Lázaro Rosa Violán The hotel prides itself on its quality gastronomic experience inspired by the fantastic local food markets There are two terraces available to guests either amid the arches on the square itself or from the rooftop which has great views of the city’s skyline And while Barcelona’s popularity as a travel destination means many of its restaurants are tourist traps we’ve rounded up the best places to eat authentic paella in the Gothic Quarter Located on the iconic Plaça Reial Les Quinze Nits is surprisingly affordable given its prime location its dining room is modern and guests can opt to sit on the large outdoor terrace facing the square The paella here stands out for being made from rice rich in flavour and texture that’s grown in Valencia’s Albufera Natural Park Considered to be one of the oldest restaurants in Barcelona, Los Caracoles is located not far from the famous Las Ramblas avenue The dining area is full of rustic charm and lined with old-fashioned memorabilia and tiled walls While the restaurant serves a wide selection of traditional Catalan and Spanish dishes we recommend the Los Caracoles rice – a house speciality that comes generously garnished with fish and seafood This traditional Catalan eatery is located on one of the Gothic Quarter’s most famous streets, the Carrer d’Avinyó, after which the ladies in Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon are named (and not the French city of Avignon A reasonably priced restaurant that is popular with local workers at lunchtime during the week though lacking in the finesse of a rice dish from a fancier restaurant Considering that it’s located just off Las Ramblas La Fonda is another restaurant that’s been able to avoid pricing Barcelona’s locals out The restaurant’s high ceilings create a sense of openness and space although it also makes the dining experience a little noisier La Fonda’s menu has six different rice dishes to choose from a fish paella and a creamy black rice made with squid ink none of which costs more than €13.45 per person Most of its guests decide to perch on stools at the counter or gather around one of the barrels in front of the bar though there are also a handful of tables in the back of the bar The menu abounds with tantalising tapas – many traditional but some more contemporary and exotic – and the paella is a good old-fashioned dish served in generous portions Located on the street from which it gets its name, Ferran is a classic Gothic Quarter restaurant with an impressive dinning room reminiscent of a Renaissance palace with dark wood panelling and chandeliers hanging from the ceiling The head chef has been in the restaurant business for over 50 years and the kitchen’s speciality is its seafood and fish Be prepared to wait about 25 minutes for a paella as they are all cooked to order and definitely worth the wait if you want the rice to have the right texture