Curator’s statement
Barcelona is a city that blends history, art and seaside beauty in a way that feels effortlessly alive. From the whimsical architecture of Gaudí to the lively tapas bars and golden Mediterranean beaches, it’s a place where every corner has a story — one that invites you to slow down, explore and truly soak in the magic.
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Things to do in Barcelona
Explore Park Güell: Wander through Gaudí’s colorful mosaic wonderland, with panoramic views of the city.
Visit La Sagrada Familia: Marvel at the breathtaking details of Gaudí’s masterpiece, a must-see symbol of Barcelona.
Stroll down La Rambla: Enjoy street performers, open-air markets and lively cafés along this famous boulevard.
Relax at Barceloneta Beach: Soak up the Mediterranean sun, try fresh seafood or take a sunset walk along the shore.
Discover the Gothic Quarter: Get lost in the narrow medieval streets, uncover hidden plazas and enjoy tapas at cozy local spots
Places to eat & drink in Barcelona
High-end restaurants
Disfrutar: A two-Michelin-star restaurant known for its playful, avant-garde Mediterranean cuisine and unforgettable tasting menus.
ABaC: A three-Michelin-star experience by chef Jordi Cruz, offering refined Catalan cuisine in an elegant setting.
Tickets: A vibrant and creative tapas bar from the Adrià brothers (of El Bulli fame), serving innovative small plates.
Paco Pérez: A two-Michelin-star restaurant inside Hotel Arts, specializing in seafood-forward Mediterranean fine dining.
Sentits: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a modern, seasonal take on traditional Catalan flavors with a focus on local ingredients.
Local & authentic spots
Can Culleretes: One of Barcelona’s oldest restaurants, serving classic Catalan dishes like seafood paella and roasted meats.
& Quimet: A tiny, no-frills tapas bar famous for its incredible montaditos (small sandwiches) and house-made vermouth.
El Xampanyet: A lively, traditional bar near the Picasso Museum, known for its sparkling cava and delicious tapas.
La Paradeta: A casual seafood eatery where you choose fresh seafood and have it cooked to order.
Bar Cañete: A must-visit for high-quality tapas and traditional Spanish dishes, with a lively, old-school atmosphere.
Need to know
Book major attractions in advance: Popular sites like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell sell out quickly, so reserve your tickets online to avoid long lines.
Watch out for pickpockets: Barcelona is generally safe. But pickpocketing is common in busy areas like La Rambla and the metro — keep your belongings secure.
Embrace the local dining schedule: Lunch is typically between 1-3 pm, and dinner starts late, often after 8 or 9 pm. Many restaurants close in the afternoon, so plan accordingly.
Use public transportation: The metro is efficient, affordable and a great way to explore the city. Consider getting a T-10 or Hola Barcelona travel card for unlimited rides.
Learn a few Catalan phrases: While Spanish is widely spoken, Catalan is the official language. A simple “Bon dia” (good morning) or “Gràcies” (thank you) is always appreciated by locals.
Travel Advisor
Melissa Pacheco
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