Late Summer in Catalonia: Barcelona, Girona, Costa Brava & the Catalan Countryside
Curated By
Jessica Gianelli
Curator’s statement
Catalonia holds a special place in my heart. Its rich history, delicious food, and varied topography provide a number of delectable experiences for a culture- and nature-filled trip. Be it the architectural marvels, local villages, museums, beaches or the array of palate-pleasers, Catalonia is a region full of incredible delights.
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Things to do in Catalonia
A piece of art from Fundació Joan Miró
Visit Park Güell at sunset: For a Gaudí masterpiece (that’s not a city block swarmed with tourists) head up to Park Güell for a sunset vermut before dinner.
Head to the Fundació Joan Miró: For nature, views, and art, head up to Monjuïc to visit the hilltop museum that features a number of works by and in honor of contemporary Catalan artist Joan Miró.
Have lunch or dinner at Ca l’Estevet in Barcelona: Whether for lunch with the Catalan businessmen or dinner with locals and tourists alike, a meal here will introduce you to a number of Catalan delicacies and incredible wines. And when the bill comes, you’ll be surprised in the best way.
Take a weekend trip along the Costa Brava: Visit Begur, Pals, and Palafrugell for beautiful beaches, medieval architecture, luxury eco boutique hotels, and local dishes.
Visit Girona’s Barri Vell: Walk the streets of the Old Town and marvel at the medieval buildings. If you have time, stop over at Can Roca, the family restaurant of the Roca Brothers from Michelin-starred El Celler de Can Roca.
Take a drive or train ride through the countryside: For a break from the hustle of the city and a change from gorgeous calas, rent a car and head toward the Montserrat Mountains. Stay at a winery in Escaladei for a night or two and spend the day hiking or visiting villages beside the mountains.
Places to eat & drink in Catalonia
A wonderful tomato dish from restaurant Diti i Fet
Ca L’Estevet: A local tavern in the Barcelona neighborhood of El Raval, highlighting delicious regional dishes in an intimate, yet casual setting.
La Pubilla: Market-sourced Calatan cuisine served in a cozy, casual atmosphere in Barcelona’s Gracia neighborhood.
Diti i Fet: A restaurant in Girona’s Barri Vell serving incredible locally sourced modern interpretations of Catalan cuisine.
El Celler de Can Roca: A powerhouse three-Michelin-starred restaurant run by Joan, Josep, and Jordi Roca, on the outskirts of Girona.
DeTres: A local restaurant in Palafrugell offering regional cuisine from both the mountain and sea.
Need to know
Because it’s such a massive region with so much to see and experience, I highly recommend going in early or mid-September (slightly outside of high season, but when the water is still warm), and staying for 10 to 14 days to really get the most out of all the region has to offer.
Start in Barcelona, head toward Girona, and work your way around the countryside and the coast.
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Jessica Gianelli
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