Curator’s statement
Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, is a city of endless possibilities. With its stunning architecture, vibrant culture and delicious food, Barcelona has something to offer everyone. But if you're looking to discover the city like a true Barcelonian, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
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Where to stay in Barcelona
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Things to do in Barcelona
Must-see attractions
Sagrada Familia: This iconic basilica is one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona and a must-see for any visitor.
Park Güell: This whimsical park is designed by Antoni Gaudí and offers stunning views of the city.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera): This unique apartment building is another one of Gaudí's masterpieces and is well worth a visit.
Casa Batló: This colorful building is another one of Gaudí's famous works and is a must-see for any architecture lover.
La Rambla: This lively pedestrian street is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona.
Hidden gems
Els 4Gats: This historic restaurant was once a favorite haunt of Pablo Picasso and other famous artists. Today, it serves traditional Catalan cuisine in a charming setting.
Mercat de la Boqueria: This bustling market is a great place to sample fresh produce and local specialties.
Museu Picasso: This museum houses the largest collection of Picasso's work in the world.
Fundació Joan Miró: This museum is dedicated to the work of Joan Miró, one of Spain's most famous artists.
Palau de la Música Catalana: This stunning concert hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for any music lover.
Things to Do
Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Catalan dishes in a cooking class. There are many different cooking schools available, so you can choose one that fits your interests and budget.
Visit a winery: Catalonia is home to a number of world-class wineries. There are many different wineries in the area that offer tours and tastings.
Go on a tapas crawl: Tapas are small plates of food that are perfect for sharing. There are many different tapas bars in Barcelona, so you can hop from one to another and sample a variety of dishes.
Attend a flamenco show: Flamenco is a traditional Spanish dance that is known for its passion and energy. There are many different flamenco shows available in Barcelona, so you can choose one that fits your budget and interests.
Shop for luxury goods: Barcelona is home to a number of high-end boutiques, such as Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton. These boutiques offer the latest fashions and accessories from the world's leading designers.
Day Trips
Tarragona
Additional tips for discovering Barcelona like a local
Get off the beaten path - Don't be afraid to wander away from the main tourist areas. You'll be surprised at the hidden gems you'll find, such as the charming neighborhood of Gràcia or the Gothic Quarter's narrow alleyways.
Talk to the locals. One of the best ways to learn about a city is to talk to the people who live there. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with a local barista or shopkeeper. They'll be happy to share their recommendations for the best places to eat, drink and shop.
Eat where the locals eat - Avoid tourist traps and opt for restaurants that are frequented by locals. You can usually spot these restaurants by the fact that they have no menu outside and are filled with Spanish speakers.
Don't be afraid to try new things - Catalan cuisine is so much more than just tapas and paella. Be sure to try some of the regional specialties, such as pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato), escudella i carn d'olla (a hearty stew) and crema catalana (a custard dessert).
Take your time - Barcelona is a city to be savored. Don't rush from one attraction to the next. Take your time to wander the streets, soak up the atmosphere, and people-watch. With its stunning architecture, vibrant culture and delicious food, Barcelona is a city that has something to offer everyone. By following these tips, you can discover Barcelona like a local and have an unforgettable experience.
Places to eat & drink in Barcelona
Restaurants
Tickets: This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its innovative tapas dishes.
ABaC: This three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers modern Catalan cuisine in a luxurious setting.
Lasarte: This two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers Basque cuisine in a stylish setting.
Moo: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative Mediterranean cuisine in a unique setting.
Els 4Gats: This historic restaurant was once a favorite haunt of Pablo Picasso and other famous artists. Today, it serves traditional Catalan cuisine in a charming setting.
Bars
Dry Martini: This sophisticated bar is known for its classic cocktails and elegant atmosphere.
Speakeasy: This Prohibition-era-themed bar offers a variety of cocktails in a unique setting.
Negroni: This historic bar is known for its Negroni cocktail and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
El Paradiso: This award-winning cocktail bar offers a variety of creative cocktails in a fun and lively atmosphere.
La Plata: This classic tapas bar is known for its delicious tapas and lively atmosphere.
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Nicola Mancini
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Barcelona.