Curator’s statement
Barcelona was the first city I visited in Spain, and it quickly became one of my favorites in Europe. The food scene is incredible — every meal was memorable — and the architecture is stunning, with unique designs around every corner. Walking through the city, I was struck by its mix of modern energy and historic charm, all while being impressively clean and easy to navigate. It’s a place where you can enjoy amazing sights, great food and a relaxed atmosphere all at once.
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Things to do in Barcelona
Explore La Sagrada Família
Marvel at Gaudí’s masterpiece, an iconic basilica still under construction after 140 years, but will be completed in 2026. Insider tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the lines.
Stroll through Park Güell
Discover colorful mosaics, whimsical structures and breathtaking city views in this enchanting park designed by Gaudí.
Wander the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)
Get lost in narrow medieval streets filled with hidden squares, charming cafes and centuries-old architecture. There’s plenty of restaurants, boutiques and shops to pop into. I personally loved ‘Handmade in Barcelona,’ which had pieces of local art and more.
Relax on Barceloneta Beach
Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this popular beach with golden sands, local seafood restaurants and waterside activities. Floating in the Mediterranean, if you’ve never done such a thing before, is a serene experience. The water is so blue and so relaxing, it’s such a different experience than the waves crashing onto the beach, that you would typically experience on the East Coast.
Visit the Picasso Museum
Dive into the early works of Pablo Picasso housed in a stunning medieval building. Free entry on Thursday evenings!
Shop and snack at La Boqueria Market
Savor fresh tapas, fruits and seafood in this vibrant market on La Rambla. This was one of my favorite experiences when I was in Barcelona. I was able to sample and try so many different foods. It was the first time I had eaten a mangosteen, a traditional South-east Asian fruit, and experienced eating the biggest oyster of my life, while sampling a variety of empanadas. Insider tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds.
Tour Casa Batlló
Step inside another Gaudí gem, a surreal home with organic shapes and bold colors. Opt for the evening visit with a rooftop concert. Insider tip: I also recommend reserving tickets for this ahead of time.
Day trips
Colònia Güell
Travel time: ~30 minutes by train
Why visit:
This small village is home to a lesser-known Gaudí masterpiece, the Church of Colònia Güell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a quieter alternative to Barcelona’s major Gaudí attractions.
Insider tip: Take the audio-guided tour to learn about the history of this unique workers' colony.
Figueres
Travel time: ~1 hour by high-speed train
Why visit:
Figueres is home to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, an eccentric and immersive tribute to Salvador Dalí’s life and art.
Insider tip: Buy your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Andorra la Vella
Travel time: ~2.5 hours by bus
Why visit:
Nestled in the Pyrenees, this microstate is great for duty-free shopping, outdoor adventures and relaxing in the Caldea thermal spa.
Insider tip: If visiting in winter, consider a quick ski trip in nearby resorts like Grandvalira.
Places to eat & drink in Barcelona
Tucked away in the Gothic Quarter, Brugarol is a low-lit, industrial-style gem offering a creative fusion of Spanish and Japanese cuisine. Their nine-dish tasting menu, paired with expertly curated wines, is a culinary experience not to be missed. Using local ingredients and Japanese techniques, every dish feels like a masterpiece. Insider tip: Make a reservation as far in advance as possible — this intimate restaurant only seats about 20 people, with just two dinner seatings per night.
Perched on Tibidabo Hill, Mirablau offers stunning views of the city alongside Catalan tapas and a great wine selection. It's the perfect spot for dinner with a view, whether you’re catching a sunset or looking down at the lights of Barcelona. Insider tip: Stay late and head downstairs to their lively club, where dance music keeps the energy high.
For a quick and satisfying late-night bite, Frankfurt’s Original delivers with its German-style sausage rolls. A casual and delicious spot to recharge during a night out in Barcelona.
Located on Bogatell Beach, this is the perfect place to eat fresh seafood and Spanish paella. With sea views and an open-kitchen, you couldn’t ask for a better beach atmosphere.
A small Argentinian empanada shop with so many flavor options to pick from. Located in the Gothic quarter, a great place to stop into for a snack while you’re wandering the streets during the day.
A hidden treasure for pastry lovers, this Argentinian café specializes in medialunas (croissants) and other sweet delights. Pair your pastry with a coffee for a perfect pick-me-up. Insider tip: São Medialunas is conveniently located near La Fábrica, making it a great follow-up stop after an empanada snack.
Step into this cozy, vintage-inspired tavern and discover an extensive menu of classic and creative cocktails. The brightly tiled bar, wood beams and retro decor make for an inviting ambiance to enjoy expertly crafted drinks.
Known for its extensive gin selection and innovative cocktails, Dux is a chic spot in El Born perfect for a relaxed evening. The welcoming vibe and high-quality drinks make it a local favorite. Insider tip: they have live music on weekends.
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Travel Advisor
Alexandra Ullrich
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Barcelona page.