Curator’s statement
Barcelona has this irresistible energy — a mix of old-world charm and vibrant modern life that pulls you in the moment you arrive. I love wandering its bustling streets, where every corner feels like a postcard coming to life. The city is a dream for art lovers like me, with incredible museums, jaw-dropping architecture and creativity around every turn. From the colorful chaos of the markets to the unforgettable food (hello, tapas!), it’s a place that feeds all the senses and always leaves me inspired.
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Things to do in Barcelona
Bursting with color and flavor, La Boqueria is Barcelona’s must-visit market gem.
Get lost in the Gothic Quarter: Wander through narrow medieval streets lined with hidden boutiques, cozy cafes and centuries-old architecture — it’s the perfect place to soak up the city’s history and charm.
Visit the Sagrada Família: Gaudí’s masterpiece is a must-see — its surreal, dreamlike design and intricate details are even more breathtaking in person. Don’t skip the view from the towers!
Explore Casa Batlló: Step inside one of Gaudí’s most magical creations — a house transformed into a living work of art with its wave-like walls, kaleidoscopic windows and dreamlike design.
Stroll through Park Güell: Colorful mosaics, whimsical structures and panoramic city views make this iconic park feel like stepping into a fairytale.
Explore La Boqueria Market: This vibrant market is a feast for the senses — fresh fruit, jamón, seafood and sweets all under one buzzing roof. Grab a juice and a tapa or two while you wander.
Tapas Crawl in El Born: This artsy, energetic neighborhood is the perfect place to hop from bar to bar, sampling tapas, vermouth and cava like a true local.
Discover the magic of Montjuïc: Take the cable car up to Montjuïc for castle views, gardens, art museums and a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
Dive into art at the Picasso Museum: Set in a beautiful Gothic palace, this museum showcases Picasso’s early work and gives a fascinating glimpse into his artistic journey.
Watch the sunset at Barceloneta Beach: End your day with a golden sunset, a sea breeze and maybe a sangria in hand — it’s the laid-back Barcelona vibe at its best
Places to eat & drink in Barcelona
Savoring sizzling mussels and crisp cava at the iconic La Xampanyeria
El Nacional: A stunning, upscale food hall in a former industrial building, offering a variety of regional cuisines under one glamorous roof — perfect for grazing in style.
Bar Cañete: A classic and beloved tapas bar near Las Ramblas serving elevated traditional dishes with flair — expect melt-in-your-mouth jamón and incredible seafood.
Bormuth: A cozy, laid-back spot in El Born with affordable tapas, vermouth on tap and a buzzing local vibe — great for an authentic night out.
Disfrutar: For the foodies: this Michelin-starred restaurant delivers a playful, avant-garde tasting menu that’s part meal, part performance. Truly unforgettable.
La Xampanyeria (Can Paixano): A no-frills cava bar near the beach where you can sip sparkling wine and snack on jamón bocadillos while standing shoulder to shoulder with locals.
Mercado de la Boqueria – El Quim de la Boqueria: Inside the famous market, this counter-service eatery is a local fave for fresh seafood, fried eggs with baby squid and people-watching galore.
Federal Café: A stylish, Aussie-inspired café perfect for brunch, great coffee and a little work or reading break between sightseeing.
Casa Lolea: Famous for their artisanal sangria and stylish tapas, this chic little restaurant blends traditional Catalan flavors with a trendy, intimate atmosphere.
Tapeo: A tiny but mighty spot near the Picasso Museum with standout modern tapas — don’t miss the grilled octopus or oxtail cannelloni.
Paradiso: A hidden speakeasy disguised as a pastrami shop — walk through the fridge door to find inventive cocktails served in wild, whimsical presentations.
Need to know
Timing is everything: Barcelona truly comes alive later in the day — locals dine around 9–10 pm, and many shops close for a siesta in the afternoon. Plan a slower pace, and enjoy the rhythm of the city.
Watch your belongings: Like many big cities, pickpocketing can be an issue in tourist-heavy areas like Las Ramblas and the metro. Stay aware, especially with phones and bags.
Book in advance: Popular spots like Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Disfrutar restaurant can sell out fast. Make reservations or buy tickets ahead to avoid missing out.
Getting around is easy: Barcelona is super walkable, and the metro system is clean, safe and affordable. Grab a T-casual card for 10 rides and explore like a local.
Sunday quiet time: Many shops and some restaurants are closed on Sundays. It’s a great day for a beach walk, park picnic or lingering brunch.
Dress smart: Locals tend to dress stylishly, even for casual outings. Comfortable shoes are a must for cobblestone streets, but you can still look chic!
Say a few words in Catalan or Spanish: A little effort goes a long way! “Bon dia” (hello), “gràcies” (thank you), and “una cervesa, si us plau” (a beer, please) will earn you smiles.
Escape the city for a day: If you have time, consider a day trip to Montserrat, Sitges or the Costa Brava — they’re all beautiful and easy to reach by train.
Travel Advisor
Jessica Pennell
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Barcelona page.