This Barcelona guide is all you need to travel to BCN. Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s art-ful, hipster, open and addictive. It’s a nice city year-round and you will fall in love with its architecture, street art and all those tapas restaurants!  

Barcelona is the world’s most beautiful city. At least to me. Because think about it. A city by the sea yet encircled by wooded mountains, with gorgeous architecture, beautiful churches, and a pedestrian thoroughfare that is one of the prettiest you will ever see (La Rambla). It is one of the world’s leading tourist, economic, trade fair, and cultural centers and its influence in commerce, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science, and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the world’s major global cities.

Barcelona is the only recipient of the Royal Gold Medal for architecture. In 1999,  The honor has been awarded to individual, or groups of, architects since 1848. Barcelona is famous for its outstanding football team, stunning architecture, lively nightlife, sandy beaches, and world-class cuisine. Not to mention a vibrant cultural heritage and colorful neighborhood festivals that attract visitors from around the world. The city offers excellent aesthetics and there are so many reasons to love the city from its great architecture and galleries, to awesome food and music. With the abundance of historical and cultural artifacts, Barcelona is just about as romantic as another wonderful city of Paris. There are so many reasons: amazing weather; very walkable; incredible architecture; inexpensive; excellent public transportation; wonderful food; world class sports teams (força Barça!); safe and great for kids; fun activities; festivals; friendly people… But one of the most enticing elements of the city for English. Barcelona is an open, cosmopolitan city, where social cohesion is a reality. The Catalan capital is also ranked among the best cities in the world for quality of life, safety and equality. It is a city that is easy to live in, a healthy city with a Mediterranean climate, green spaces and locally produced food.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Safety–  I think the term safe can mean different things to different people. Like most big cities, you have to be cautious. We felt very safe, although we have heard about pick pocketing as a big problem. I would highly recommend you not staying out too late, keep your handbags in front of you and be aware of your surroundings. Sadly, pick pocketing is big here.  You should avoid walking around El Raval and the southern end of La Rambla late at night – although, I would say that when you are solo traveling, you should avoid walking around by yourself late at night anywhere, regardless.

Best time to visit Barcelona:

A mild Mediterranean climate means that the weather in Barcelona is relatively pleasant year-round, making any time a good time to visit. Barcelona’s peak tourist season is in the summer months (particularly June and July). This is when crowds are at its highest, and temperatures at its highest. I have heard that the crowds are absolutely miserable during these months, and that you must book tickets to the city’s most popular attractions weeks in advance.

A better time to go is during shoulder season – that is during the spring or fall.  We were there end of March- April. It was nippy and quite chilly. Different for this time, so the locales said. We needed a jacket and pants.

• Mild Summer: May – July   when balmy temperatures in the low to mid-70s mesh with a flurry of festivals that trumpet the advent of summer. The actual summertime is sticky with humidity – locals leave their beloved city in droves to catch a breeze somewhere else.e also the most popular months of travel, so expect lots of tourists. Bring a warm jacket as evening temperatures are really cold.
• Shoulder Season (Late March to April and Late September to October): The shoulder season can bring the best of both worlds, with a number of festivals held in the spring as well as the late summer/early autumn months, and crowds tend to be a bit thinner during this time as well, while the weather is often idyllic. Prices haven’t yet hit their peak in early spring, and they begin to drop again in September when kids are back in school and the crowds abate. The crowds are relatively less and it’s chilly, with a jacket you will be fine.

The lines to enter the city’s most popular sights and attractions, like the Basilica de la Sagrada Família in central Barcelona, are at their longest in the summer and on Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter. As the weather is fairly comfortable year round, it’s best to avoid the summer months and any period around a major holiday. The first half of March, the month of May and mid-September through October, are arguably the best times of the year for sightseeing, with thinner crowds, shorter lines and warmer, but not too hot, weather. Visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday can also help lessen the chance you’ll have to battle countless other tourists. Try to plan your sightseeing early in the day, starting with the most popular sight, for the best experience.

Visa: You do not need an entry visa to go to BCN if you are a US citizen. If you are travelling from India, you might need it. Check your country status.

Covid Test:  If you are travelling from US, a covid vaccination card is enough. When you return back to US, you need a 24 hr antigen test. Ask your hotel, they will give you the address or they may have someone to come and take the test at the hotel. It’s about 35euros for the test.

How many days to stay: 3 days is the shortest you need to browse the major attractions, but 5 days is ideal to soak in and really get the feel of beautiful Barcelona.

Getting There:

By Air

Most flights arrive at Barcelona’s main international airport, El Prat, which is served by many international carriers that connect it to major cities both in Europe and around the world. Barcelona is served by low-cost carriers such as Norwegian and Level, which offers transatlantic flights at an affordable price point. It is also a hub for airlines such as Iberia and Europa, which offer connections to many destinations around Europe.

El Prat is located about 17km (~10.5 miles) outside of Barcelona. An easy and economical way to get to city center is by taking the Aerobus, which takes passengers to Placa de la Catalunya, where you can easily find connections into other parts of the city. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes (depending on traffic), and also makes stops at Place d’Espanaya, Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, and Placa de la Universitat.

Aerobus A1 serves Terminal 1, and runs every 5-10 minutes. Buses depart from El Prat between 6am and 1am, and run from Placa Catalunya between 6am and 12:30am. Aerobus A2 serves Terminal 2 (A, B, and C) and runs every 10 minutes from 6am to 1am.

The fare is €5.90 one-way, or €10.20 return. You can purchase a ticket on the bus or from an agent at the airport. There are also self-service ticket machines, which accept credit cards.

There is no Uber in Barcelona, but the taxi service is great. They take credit cards. It is about 45Euros from airport to Gothic quarters. It will be about 5-10 euros to go around in the city.

Getting around Locally: The Metro and Tram in Barcelona. The metro network of Barcelona is very good and the trains go in a very fast pace. So you do not have to worry about timetables. Almost all attractions are within walking distance of a metro or tram station. The best thing is if you stay at a hotel in the gothic quarters, every place is walking distance or a metro ride away.

Tour Companies: I booked my local tours via Viator. 

Currency: The currency in Spain is the Euro.

Phone: Your phone coverage will not be there in Barcelona.  Virtually all modern smartphones (iPhone 7 and newer) are compatible with Europe’s mobile infrastructure and every major US carrier has international data plans — so your smartphone should automatically work once you arrive in Europe because the major US carriers have partnerships with local European carriers. I got a text the moment I landed to upgrade to roaming for $25 for 7 days and I chose that. You can use a sim, pay as you go for up to $5 a day.

Electric plugs: The type of plug you know best is the type C or sometimes called “Euro-plug”. This is the one used mainly in Spain and in most countries in Europe. Type C consists of two round parallel pins while the wall plug has two holes where it is connected.. This global adapter is perfect. Take your plugs.  Your hotel will be kind enough to give you one if you forget.

Weather: The best time to visit the Barcelona is from May to June when balmy temperatures in the low to mid-70s mesh with a flurry of festivals that trumpet the advent of summer. The actual summertime is sticky with humidity – locals leave their beloved city in droves to catch a breeze somewhere else. The best time to visit Barcelona is from April to July to enjoy the spectacular beaches of Barcelona and its outdoor events and festivals. However, if only sightseeing is your focus then March to May, and September to November is a good time as tourists are fewer and queues shorter.

Language: 

thank you –Merci! Gràcies/Gracias!

How much does it cost –Quant Costa Això? Cuánto Cuesta Esto?

Goodbye –Adéu! Adiós! 

Please – si us plau

I want – Bui

Where is the cathedral – On esta the cathedral

What clothes to take: Barcelona is a casual place. Barcelona is a breath of fresh air at any season. The city has an undeniable pulse–a vibrancy and style that regularly draws people back. Its popularity is in large part due to its proximity to the coast, its thriving culture of art and architecture, and excellent dining options in cafes, bistros, bars, and world-class restaurants.

I recommend packing for flexibility. Sunscreen and sunglasses, an emergency umbrella, and layers that you can add or remove depending on the temperature are all safe bets. When you’re spending the day exploring, you’ll want to dress in a style that’s a mix of comfortable and stylish. A typical day might find you taking the subway in the morning and visiting busy tourist attractions, walking across La Rambla, or stopping by multiple neighborhoods.

Then by afternoon you might be visiting trendy shops and speakeasy bars in back alleys. By dinnertime, you may be visiting a 5-star restaurant in a high-end hotel.

Women in Barcelona always look put together yet don’t only stick to neutrals–they’re not afraid to wear a vibrant color or rock a bohemian accessory.

Additionally, the beautiful locals and visiting Europeans tend to flaunt their fabulous style, particularly when heading out at night. If you plan to keep pace, expect to dress up in the evenings with fancier pieces, jewelry, and makeup.

Aim to pack a few glamorous accessories and a dressier pair of shoes that you can pair with a number of outfits throughout your visit.

March- April – the weather is chilly. Take jackets and boots.

May-July – Hotter months deserve cotton dresses, shorts.

PLACES TO STAY:

We stayed  at HOTEL COLON (pronounced like in Colombia) has been in Gothic Quarter since 1920, the Hotel Colon has drawn numerous celebrities and dignitaries through the years, having hosted everyone from former U.S. President Jimmy Carter to film director Francis Ford Coppola. Its dignified facade and classically furnished interiors make for a stately ambience, which is enhanced by stunning views of the iconic Barcelona Cathedral across from the hotel. Rooms are spacious and warm, though furnishings (think 1980s-style patterned bedspreads) could use some updating. The views are the real highlight, as some rooms have French balconies that face the cathedral. The property offers a formal dining room, elegant bar, and casual sidewalk terrace, but lacks amenities such as a pool or fitness center.

BOOK in advance and make sure to reserve a room with the cathedral view.

Pros:

• A stately hotel in a historic setting
• Great location across from iconic Barcelona Cathedral
• Fine dining restaurant and an elegant bar for drinks
• Sidewalk terrace for al fresco dining
• Rooms have flat-screen TVs, minibars and bathrobes
• Some rooms have French balconies overlooking the cathedral
• Free Wi-Fi throughout hotel

Cons:

• Hotel decor could use updating
• Pedestrian and street noise at night might be an issue
• No pool or fitness center
• Small room

A prime spot in the Gothic Quarter, right across from Barcelona Cathedral.

• 22-minute drive or 43-minute ride via public transportation from Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)
• 6-minute walk or 4-minute drive to Town Hall
• 15-minute walk to Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art
• 7-minute drive to Columbus Monument
• 9-minute drive or 13-minute subway ride to Placa Espanya public square and transportation hub
• 10-minute drive or 14-minute subway ride to Barceloneta Beach
• 11-minute drive or 16-minute subway ride to Sagrada Familia
• 13-minute drive or 28-minute subway ride to the National Art of Catalonia

Hostels: St. Christopher’s Inn, Generator Barcelona

Budget: Hotel Oasis, Chic & Basic Rambles, Retrome Barcelona

Mid-Range: Room Mate Pau, Leonardo Hotel, Hotel España

Splurge: Grand Hotel Central, Mercer Hotel, The Wittmore

PLACES TO SEE/MUST SEE

1. Sagrada Familia – must

The Sagrada Família is famous for being one of the most iconic examples of Antoni Gaudí’s unique style, combining elements of Art Nouveau, Catalan Modernism and Spanish Late Gothic design. The theme of nature figures prominently in Gaudí’s design, both in terms of symbolism and the use of organic shapes and forms. he Sagrada Família, Barcelona’s unfinished art nouveau masterpieceS will not be completed by the centenary of architect Antoni Gaudí’s death in 2026, as initially planned, as a result of the halt in construction due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Most important thing to remember is to reserve your tickets online few days before your travel. The lines to buy the tickets are long, try to avoid by getting your tickets ahead. You can get only the entrance ticket which comes with an audio guide. If you want a tour guide, you can mostly get one. We got the audio guide, was more than enough.

LINK TO BUY TICKETS(cheapest I found) – Sagrada Tickets

2. Park Guell – must

Park Güell is certainly one of the most famous sights of Barcelona. The with split ceramics decorated winding bank above the by Roman temples inspired market hall is world famous. Gaudí has created a fabulous forest with this park. The architecture of these buildings is unique and has employed the use of vibrant ceramic tiles. The architect of the park is none other than the famous Antoni Gaudi. Park Guell became of the most famous and iconic landmarks by Antoni Gaudí. If you are a fan of aesthetics and modern architecture, the place is most definitely worth visiting.

The entire Park Guell is free all day long except the Monumental Zone. This area is the most popular and most visited section of the park. This area of the park is roped off certain times of the day to control the number of people in the Monumental Zone. In order to guarantee access to Park Güell, we recommend advance reservation and purchase of tickets. This reservation can be made up to three months ahead of the visit, choosing the date and the time-band, up to a maximum of nine tickets per person for each purchase.

LINK TO BUY TICKETS – Park Guell tickets

3. Casa Batl0 – walk thru

At present, Casa Batlló is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an icon in Barcelona, a must see for those who want to discover Gaudí’s work and modernism at its finest. It is also one of the most highly rated cultural and tourist attractions, welcoming 1 million visitors every year. Casa Batlló is a breathtaking building on Passeig de Gràcia that looks like it’s been made from bones and skulls (they’re actually pillars and balconies). There’s an entrance fee to go inside, but you can take in the stunning exterior for free.

LINK TO BUY TICKETS –    Casa Batla tickets

4. Walk Las Ramblas – walk casually

La Rambla is a street in central Barcelona. A tree-lined pedestrian street, it stretches for 1.2 km connecting the Plaça de Catalunya in its center with the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. La Rambla forms the boundary between the neighbourhoods of the Barri Gòtic to the east and the El Raval to the west. The Ramblas is famous for street performers including human statues. Did you know there is a Miró on La Rambla? The famous painter Joan Miró actually created part of the Ramblas. Many thousands of people walk right over the Miró circle on the Ramblas every day and don’t even know it. In 1377, Construction began and extended the city walls, which diverted the water and left a street behind. It was this area that grew into the center of Barcelona life. It included large spaces that were ideal for festivals and sporting events.

A fun walk. BUT please avoid eating here. The food is not great and  it’s over priced.

5. Cathedral – must

Located in the center of the historic Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, the cathedral is particularly appreciated by visitors for its Gothic design. One of the city’s most remarkable landmarks, the ancient cathedral is located in the Gothic Quarter, the historic center of Barcelona. A functioning Roman Catholic cathedral which still acts as a place of worship and celebration, the cathedral is also a major attraction and a symbol of Barcelona’s status as an important Spanish city. Located in the center of the historic Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, the cathedral is particularly appreciated by visitors for its Gothic design. The most notable features include pointed archways, the ribbed vaults which are visible from inside the Cathedral and the many gargoyles which can be seen on the roof. What most people see when they arrive in front of the impressive building is none-other than an 19th century add on designed to replicate the distinctive Gothic features. The result is a rather intensified design, with a much more elaborate finish compared to the original 14th century Gothic features which can still be seen along the sides of the cathedral.

LINK TO BUY TICKETS – Catedral de Barcelona: Admission Ticket

6. Go for a half day to Montserrat- must

Visiting Montserrat is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. It’s easy to get to and gives you an opportunity to see the Spanish countryside. The views from the monastery are breathtaking, well worth a day of your time while you are in Barcelona. Known to the Romans as Mons Serratus (“Saw-Toothed Mountain”) and to the Catalans as Montsagrat (“Sacred Mountain”), it is famous for its unusual appearance and the Benedictine monastery of Santa María de Montserrat, which houses an ancient wooden statue of the Virgin and Child that was supposedly carved by St. On Sunday’s the prayer is on, so you might be able to go inside the cathedral, so try to book tickets other than Sunday.

LINK TO BUY TICKETS – Montserrat Monastery Afternoon Tour

7. Gothic Quarter – must

You can’t visit the Catalan capital without strolling through the famous Barrio Gótico. The cobblestone streets of the Gothic Quarter are home to the Cathedral of Barcelona, Picasso’s former haunt Els Quatre Gats and political hub Plaça de la Generalita. When exploring Barrio Gótico, you cannot miss the beautiful gothic Cathedral of Barcelona on Pla de la Seu. It was built between the 13th and 15th centuries. Highlights include the crypt below the Capella Major, which contains the sarcophagus of Santa Eulalia. Stroll among the orange trees and magnolias of the 14th-century cloister – or climb to the top and enjoy panoramic city views. Top tip: make sure you dress appropriately and cover your shoulders and knees. Take your time to walk around, look up and enjoy.

8. Barceloneta – for sure

La Barceloneta is one of the most authentic and popular neighborhoods in Barcelona. Located in the Port Vell district, it is an old fishing area full of magic and history.

La Barceloneta was practically uninhabited until the mid-eighteenth century. In 1754, fishermen living in neighboring areas slowly but surely began to populate this part of town due to its closeness to the sea. Although La Barceloneta has been renovated and is now rather modern, it has somehow maintained its unique charm. Its narrow streets and its darkened façades due to the air spiked with sea salt have made it one of the city’s most popular zones. Travelers that explore this area will breath in a peaceful atmosphere that smells of the Mediterranean Sea and will notice that it is unique compared to the rest of the city.

One of the main attractions in La Barceloneta are its beaches, which are the longest, most renowned and most visited in the city. They are extremely lively and have excellent services. The streets in La Barceloneta are singular, but pleasant. The neighborhood is packed with narrow alleyways that are flanked on both sides by old buildings, churches, stores and restaurants that look just as they did 200 years ago.

Take a small cruise to enjoy the views with a glass of sangria.

9. Picasso Museum – can skip

The collection is not as good as at MOMA in New York, but the building is well worth seeing, and the admission fee is waived on Sundays. he Museu Picasso, located in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. With 4,251 works exhibited by the painter, the museum has one of the most complete permanent collections of works.

LINK TO BUY TICKETS – Picasso Museum Tickets

10. Day trip to Besalu and Rupit – MUST

Visits to Catalonia are often centered around the marvelous Barcelona. But the region has more to offer than simply its capital. In fact, the region of Catalonia is famous for its well-preserved medieval villages. The majority of these are within an hour and a half drive of the city. Amongst them boasts the beautiful Besalú, the village of Pals on the Costa Brava, and the unbelievable village of Peratallada. Moreover, these villages are perfect for DAY TRIPS OUT OF TOWN, or even longer breaks from city life. Once upon a time, the town was a bustling market town and had huge power in its former glory. Further, the city became of great importance to the Jewish community. In fact, you can still see traces of the Jewish influence today. For a better understanding, you can pay the mikveh a visit for an in-depth explanation of Judaism in the town. A visit to the charming medieval town of Besalú will never go amiss!

LINK TO BUY TICKETS – Medieval Villages Visit Tickets

11. Flamenco Show 

You go to Spain and not visit a flamenco show is a disservice to the art form. Flamenco is not traditionally a Catalan dance it originated in Southern Spain. However, due to the steady migration of people from the South through the years, it is possible to experience authentic flamenco here in Barcelona. The dancers at the show displayed a natural skill that was innate and instinctive. They moved to the music with a passion and gusto that was emotionally moving. Some of the dances were tortured, and heartfelt whilst others were light-hearted and lively.

You can buy either one of the tickets. I prefer the second option because you can chose where to eat.

LINK TO BUY TICKETS – Flamenco show with food

LINK TO BUY TICKETS- Only Flamenco Show

12. Plaça de Catalunya, Montjuïc, Barcelona City History Museum, Parc de la Ciutadella

On the grounds of the Parc de la Ciutadella, there are several attractions: the zoo, the Catalan Parliament. The Museu d’Art Modern is situated in the building of the parliament. The Zoological Museum and the Museu de Geologia are placed in the area of the park.

13. La Boqueria

14.The World Begins With Every Kiss” Mural

Approaching the kiss of freedom mural in Plaça d’Isidre Nonell you’d be forgiven for assuming that it’s a large graffiti. As you get closer you’ll realise that it is in fact a mosaic made up of thousands of tiny ceramic tiles. Each individual tile is printed with a photo of a person, a place, a moment, an event or something which in some way represents an expression freedom.

WHERE TO EAT:

Food in Barcelona is good, just not a huge variety for Vegetarians. Do not go with high expectations, the food is good, it’s seasoned well, just did not blow my socks off. This is just my opinion, so please don’t come for me:).  The desserts are fabulous.  We basically ate at many restaurants and here are few options that is good.

Brunch 

Brunch and Cake $$

The most dramatic brunch I’ve EVER had. Food presentation is everything here. The pancakes with over the top presentation is a must try.
The scrambled eggs with avocado on multigrain bagel was so good. The fatteh hummus on the side was amazing. The Eggs Benedict was not bad.  The Avocado toast was creamy and generous portion. Avocado on everything! The coffee was as expected. Highly recommend this place.

Un Cafeto Barcleona$

Сharming local cafe. It seems to be geared towards serving locals, not tourists, so prices are low and food is delicious. We went to breakfast in another cafe, but when we met this on the way, we decided to stop by. It was a nice find. Delicious sandwich, delicious coffee, delicious croissant and apple puff.

Empada Club El Born $

If you like Argentine cuisine, come to Empanada Club El Born. This place may please you with mouthwatering empanadas, pies and laing. Taste perfectly cooked alfajores. The dough is light, the stuffing is perfect. Their vegan empanadas are BOMB.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Teresa Carles $$

Teresa Carles is a vegetarian restaurant that started in 1979. The restaurant offers dishes made from fresh fruits and vegetables that are locally grown. The menu changes weekly and includes some vegan selections. You can also find a salad bar at the restaurant. Teresa Carles aims to promote eating healthy food to improve the quality of life and the environment.

Story $$

If you want to remember MEAM Museu Europeu d’Art Modern, come to this bar first. You will be served Mediterranean and Spanish cuisines at Story. Enjoy nicely cooked veal, grilled squid and salmon tataki at this place when you happen to be near it. Try good chocolate sandwiches, vanilla ice cream and gelato. It’s a must while visiting this spot to order delicious vermouth, wine or whiskey. You will be offered great tonic, coffee or tea.

The warm atmosphere of this bar makes guests feel relaxed and have a good time. Visitors feel relaxed at Story because of the competent staff and the fabulous service. According to the reviewers’ opinions, prices are adequate. From the guests’ viewpoint, the decor looks homey here.

Barceloneta Sangri Bar $$

Hole in the wall kinda place. Cozy plant-based bar by the beach featuring a large variety of vegan Spanish dishes. House specialties include a variety of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic sangrias, tapas and paella. Also offers artisan bagels, and desserts.Has a unique selection of local organic wine. No reservations taken.  Seriously the best vegan paella I had in BCN.

Green Spot Diagonal $$

Seafood and Meat + Veg options

Caelis $$$$

Can Sole $$$

Seafood platters, paella & jugs of sangria in a long-standing, understated venue. Order the Beunolas and the Sangria.

LamFora Barcelona $$

Great vegetarian paella along with other seafood dishes. Catalan rice restaurant with stylish nautical decor, serving seafood paella & jugs of sangria. Mediterranean, Catalan, Contemporary. First time in Barcelona and wanted to try traditional paella. Based on trip advisor reviews selected this restaurant. Wow what a delicious dish! Such a delicious paella.. and the most beautiful wine which was recommended by one of the members of staff. Excellent service and the most delicious dining experience. Highly recommend to anyone who is looking for a perfect traditional experience in Barcelona!

La Alcoba Azul $$

Hidden Gem in the Gothic quarters.Mediterranean, European, Spanish, Catalan. Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options Great vegetarian food too.Fabulous tapas in the heart of the Gothic quarter. Fabulous ambience with exposed brick walls & candles. The food was gorgeous & so was the wine. The service was also excellent!

Bar Canete $$$

“When it comes to good taste, you can’t do better than Bar Cañete! With waiters dressed to the nines, and the chefs working wonders before your eyes, Bar Cañete is more than anything an experience! It also helps that their classic Spanish and Catalan tapas are top-notch delicious, too!” Cañete has deservedly maintained its reputation as a local joint. If you come early, you’ll be surrounded by tourists, but at Spanish dinner time (10 p.m.), most of your fellow diners will be speaking Catalan. What should we be drinking? The wine list is huge and varied, with plenty of options by the glass and by the bottle. Ask your server to recommend something from the nearby regions of Montsant or Priorat.

El Nacional Barcelona $$$

There are 4 restaurants inside and it is always crowded(make sure to book ahead). We went to the one with Tapas and enjoyed the food and we liked the atmoshere and the decor of the place, really recommend. This is a fun place to visit and eat. We went to the Mediterranean restaurant which was very reasonably priced with nice healthy options. They also serve Lolea sangria which is very delicious.

Rao Restaurant $$

Edgy, brick-walled space with a terrace, serving ceviche, seafood & innovative Spanish cooking. The food is amazing, tasty and well presented. Each dish served with an explanation from the waiter. Great wine and cocktail list too! So good we went twice in as many days! Perfect evening, will definitely return!

La Bombeta $$

Relaxed, no-frills space offering a wide array of meat & seafood tapas, plus sangria. Local tapas place with generous servings, cheap wine, extraordinary tapas, and helpful waiters. Much better than some meh spot with high prices by the water. Get the seafood salad and steamed mussels.

Desserts

Demaise

Heard it’s the best in town and it did not disappoint. Trendy modern bakery known for its vegan cinnamon rolls, oversized cookies & flavored coffees.

Dino

Lovely spot for ice cream, just near the beach so perfectly located. Ice cream flavours were rich and full of flavour, whilst also being good value for money. Try their tiramisu icecream, OH SO GOOD!!

Xurreria 

There’s always a que, but it’s absolutely worth it. You would not have seen this many varieties in churros before. The best in town, by the locales.

Churrería Laietana

Best original and fresh churros, with amazing hot chocolate (just right density to dip and drink). There are plenty of churros in Barcelona with lesser quality, this one tops all that I’ve tried so far.

La Pallaresa Xocolateria Xurreria

This historical place is so cosy! The churros are delicious, probably one of the bests in the city. The chocolate as well was creamy and the cream fresh”

BEST/MUST ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS/BARS TO VIST

Hotel Colon

You do not need to stay here to go to have a drink or two. Overlooking a pedestrianized square and the Cathedral of Barcelona, this upscale hotel is an 8-minute walk from Liceu subway station and 1 km from Casa Batlló, Gaudi’s dragon-roofed apartment block, which is now a museum.

Arye Hotel Roselyn 

Set on top of the design Ayre Hotel Rosellón, the Attic Terrace is somewhat a hidden Barcelona rooftop-gem, that comes with one really unique selling point. Located just a block from the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, this is the top spot if you want to see the spikes and turrets of Gaudi’s architectural wonder from a different perspective. While the 360-views from the Ayre Rosellón rooftop are fantastic overall, it is the close-ups of the Sagrada towers that makes it stand out. The spacious, wooden-decked and open-air terrace is quite simple in decoration, but still natural and stylish. Divided into solarium, with Jacuzzi and sun loungers, and chill-out area with more regular chairs and tables, it is a great rooftop for several relaxing hours.

Teleferic Barcelona

Mood Rooftop Bar & Restaurant $$$$

To be honest, we were looking specifically for fondue, and it seemed like a cool idea when this rooftop restaurant was suggested. It’s atop the One Hotel, and although it shares rooftop space with the hotel pool, they really carry off the 5-star restaurant experience quite well.
The menu is a bit limited, not a problem if you go specifically to seek fondue. The drinks are a bit pricey. The views are excellent (if you stand up and walk around, not so much from the table seated view).

Day 1. Get the feel of the city by walking around central Barcelona, Gothic Quarter, see the Arc, the park, Plaça de Catalunya, Montjuïc, Barcelona City History Museum, Parc de la Ciutadella,  Boqueria, Las Ramblas and the Kiss Mural. Your will take about 4-5 hours to see everything since it’s all close by. Evening you could go to any one of the restaurants or the flamenco show.

Day 2. Going early to  the Sagrada will be nice. You can see Casa Batlo and Park Guell. You can stop to have lunch and dinner.

Day 3. You can go full day to the Montserrat or 1/2 day tour.  The other half day you can visit the Cathedral and Picasso museum.

Day 4. Wake up early and go to the Medieval villages. It’s a 8 hour tour, worth every minute. YOU must do this.

Day 5. It’s chill day. Go to the beach, take a cruise, go to a restaurant in Barceloneta, have the best ice-cream at Dino there.

**Guadir!!! Gracias Por Leer/Thank you for reading!

Stay in touch for more travel details, and food on  Instagram  and Pinterest for daily doses of food.**

______________________________________________________________________________________________

****Pin for later********

______________________________________________________________________________________________