Curator’s statement
My husband and I visited Barcelona in the summer of 2025, and it was our favorite Europe trip to date. It offers incredible architecture, great cuisine, luxury shopping, and the people were so kind. Antoni Guadi’s imagination is sprinkled throughout the city, making the entire town feel like a bold art project. I’m not overly into art, but his work is unlike anything else in the world, and his designs make simply strolling the streets visually stimulating. Barcelona provides old-world charm, modern energy, and beaches. Eat and drink your way through the city with the best 3-Michelin star dining; cultural classics like vermut, paella, pan con tomate, and potatas bravas; and Penedes-region wine. It’s easy to see why Barcelona is consistently one of the top European destinations both for first-time visitors and repeat travelers.
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Things to do
Park Guell
Penedes private wine tour
Escape the city for a day and discover the Penedes wine region, where you’ll visit a variety of vineyards from family-owned wineries to acclaimed estates. Stroll through picturesque vineyards and enjoy guided tastings while learning about the region’s rich winemaking traditions and history.
Sagrada Familia
One of Spain’s most iconic landmarks, the Basilica de la Sagrada Famila has been under construction since 1882–but it is almost complete! Designed by visionary architect Antoni Gaudi, there is so much to see and absorb with this stunning masterpiece. I would not do this destination without a guide.
Casa Batllo
One of Antoni Gaudi’s most imaginative designs and easy walking distance from much of Barcelona; what makes Casa Batllo special is that Gaudi eliminated virtually all straight lines in the architecture (inside and out). He thought of every detail from the use of natural light to fixtures, such as doorknobs and windows. The audio guide version is plenty for this venue.
Park Guell
Another one of Gaudi’s artistic expressions, this UNESCO site includes a hillside garden overlooking the city. There are colorful mosaic designs, winding stone pathways, and a sweeping serpentine bench on the main terrace. My favorite elements are the gingerbread house and underneath the terrace. The entire design feels straight out of a children’s book.
Barceloneta Beach
No summer trip to Barcelona is complete without a beach day. Barceloneta is the most famous central bebeach; it’sach, it’s lively (lined with bars) and easy to access. If you are looking for more local-friendly beaches, I also recommend Bogatell or Nova Icaria for a less-crowded experience.
Paella cooking class
An engaging way to experience Spanish cuisine beyond the restaurant scene, these hands-on workshops walk guests through the process of creating traditional paella. Many of the classes include a visit to the local market, such as Mercat de la Boqueriea. I like the ones that include a wine tasting and instruction on pan con tomate. These classes appeal to everyone—food lovers, families, couples, and travelers who want to experience an interactive meal.
Places to eat & drink
Lasarte
Bodega Olivia
In a welcoming neighborhood, Bodega Olivia blends the charm of a traditional Spanish bodega with fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, quality ingredients, and wine list, it’s an excellent spot for authentic Catalan flavors away from the city’s more touristy restaurants.
Lasarte
Three Michelin-star dining experience unlike no other. It’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion or a memorable, splurge dining destination. The atmosphere is elegant. The service is precise and impeccable. The multi-course menu is artistic and innovative.
2254 Barcelona Restaurant
Tapas 2254 offers a creative twist on traditional tapas by blending Catalan, Italian, and French influences. The menu includes elevated plates of classic tapas, seafood, handmade pastas, and decadent desserts. This is perfect for travelers looking for a fun, modern dining experience without the formality of formal dining.
Taller de Tapas
A great spot for first-time visitors of Barcelona, Taller de Tapas, focuses on traditional tapas. This is a convenient spot for lunch or dinner. Pair your meal with sangria, local wine, or red vermouth.
Bar Canate
This restaurant has a lively, bustling atmosphere–yet it’s combined with polished dishes. The menu is designed for sharing and can accommodate couples, a friend group, or families.
Need to know
Everyone talks about the pickpocketing in Barcelona. I personally didn’t notice anything, but as long as you travel safely through crowded areas, you’ll be fine. Men should wear their wallets in their front pockets. Ladies should bring a small, zippered crossbody bag and wear it toward your front torso.
Be flexible with private transportation. In the heart of the city, many of the roads are pedestrian only. A private or Uber driver should be able to tell you where to meet for pick-up if you are in one of these areas.
Book major attractions in advance. Sometimes you can even book them on your walk to the destination. This beats waiting in line for 1–2 hours outside the venue.
Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll easily walk 20K steps (or more), but there’s so much to see. You can stop for tapas between destinations, so it doesn’t feel like too much walking—until your home that evening.
The dress code is generally casual, neutral colors. Evenings are for slacks and dresses, especially at the more elegant restaurants. Ladies wear wide pants, often linen or flowy material in the summer.
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Amber Krakowski
Amber Krakowski
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Barcelona page.