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Curator’s statement
Spain has a unique culinary history that blends its diverse influences into a truly unique food culture. From what Spainiards eat to when they eat, there is no other place in the world with such a distinct and exciting food scene. Each region of Spain brings its own flavors, all celebrating the tradition, innovation and passion for food.
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Barcelona
Le Méridien Barcelona
Situated in the heart of the city, this stylish hotel blends contemporary design with rich Catalan heritage. With its prime location on the iconic Las Ramblas, luxurious accommodations and exceptional dining experiences, Le Méridien Barcelona offers a chic and memorable stay for those seeking to explore the art, culture and gastronomy of this captivating city.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Casa Fuster
Catalan Modernist-style hotel with luxury rooms and a Mediterranean restaurant.
Fora Perks
- ★
Complimentary breakfast daily for two guests per room.
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Early check-in and check-out (when available).
The Hoxton Poblenou
Sleek upscale hotel in the heart of Barcelona with chic rooms and suites.
Unlock perks by contacting Brandy to book your trip.
Things to do in Barcelona
Local markets are a way of life in Barcelona. Touring them is a wonderful way to sample the foods of Barcelona, but also get a taste of the local life in the diverse neighborhoods. Don’t limit yourself to the tourist favorite La Boqueria, be sure to take in the more neighborhood driven markets like Sant Antoni, la Concepcio, Santa Caterina or la Barceloneta.
Dine in one of Barcelona’s 20 + Michelin Star restaurants. Disfrutar or Aleia, are two of my favorites. Be sure to make reservations well in advance.
Hora del Vermut: This is not your martini’s vermouth. This wonderful carmelly drink is actually a fortified wine spiced with herbs and botanicals. Traditionally, vermouth hour is just before lunch, but I could not resist sampling throughout the day. Try the vermouth from the barrel at Cala de Vermut for a traditional experience.
Take a food tour to learn more about the history of Barcelona while sampling different specialities. I especially enjoyed the Tapas, Taverns and Gothic Quarter History Tour because of the variety of food and drink offered while learning about the rich history of Barcelona. I also enjoyed the Made in Catalonia tour with Culinary Backstreets as it highlighted the diversity of Spanish food. It’s not all tapas and paella.
Learn how to make paella with the Barcelona Cooking Class & Market Tour La Bouqueria booked with Eat With. Eat With is a great resource to find unique culinary experiences like cooking classes, sangria workshops and special private dining events.
You simply cannot leave Barcelona without experiencing a ham tasting. Iberico ham is a true Spanish delicacy, and for US residents, you can’t get this at home, so be sure to indulge and have your fill here.
You have to take a break from all of that food at some point, and it’s just not a trip to Barcelona without a Gaudi architectural experience. I recommend the combination Park Guell and Sagrada Familia tour. If you have never visited the Sagrada Famila, please don’t leave Barcelona without a visit. The beauty is nothing short of breathtaking.
A note from Brandy
While everyone else is heading off to Montserrat, why not set off for Costa Brava for some wonderful seafood. Can Flores in Blanes is one of the most famous seafood restaurants in the region. Open since 1958, it’s a local fave and known for it’s paella.
Places to eat and drink in Barcelona
Best Tapas Bars
La Plata has been serving the same four tapas for nearly 80 years.
Bodega la Palma in the Gothic Quarter has been around since 1909 and is beloved by locals.
Bar del Pla has fresh local ingredients along side amazing wines.
Best Traditional Catalan
La Publilla is rooted in Catalan cuisine and is famous for its menu del dia.
La Cova Fumada, the “smokey cave” in the historical fishing district of la Barceloneta.
Cal Boter Traditional Catalan menu in the heart of Gracia.
Best Rooftop Bars
Tope at The Hoxton, el Poblenou has great views of Sagrada Familia and the Beach.
Terraza la Isabela enjoy drinks and tapas atop the Hotel 1898.
La Terraza at Hotel Pulitzer has great music and even better signature cocktails.
Need to know
There is no shortage of great places to eat in Barcelona. The choices can be overwhelming. Here’s my tip: If there are pictures of food on the walls, skip it. If they have someone standing outside soliciting patrons, skip it. If they have a menu written on a chalkboard that changes daily, your chances are better at having a good meal.
Travel Advisor
Brandy Cline
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Barcelona. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Gaya Vinay's guide, The Perfect 4-Day Barcelona Girls' Trip.