A city-meets-beach lifestyle, Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and tapas joints on every corner all make Barcelona the perfect destination for a year-round city break. Already ticked off the headline spots? We’ve curated an independent guide to exploring the city like a local, including the best boutiques, exciting new openings and word-of-mouth favourites. Sangria at the ready…
An Independent Guide to Barcelona
An Independent Guide to Barcelona
Where to Shop:
AIXŌ
@aixobcn
Això is one of Barcelona’s many hidden gems, filled with a curated mix of unique items and vintage finds, from Bloomingville and Normann Copenhagen to Tiptoe.
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CHANDAL
@chandalstore
Chandal is a hotspot for unique and beautifully designed pieces with a nostalgic, humorous touch. Think playful favourites HAY, Baggu and &klevering.
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LUZIO
@luzioconceptstore
Part boutique, part restaurant, this concept store is on a mission to revolutionise the city’s interiors scene, curating a stellar line up featuring the likes of Pols Potten, Serax and more.
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A Local’s Guide to Barcelona
A Local’s Guide to Barcelona
After you’ve browsed Això, discover the boutique’s buzzing neighbourhood. Owner Belén shares the best spots for people watching and getting your caffeine fix.
PLAZA DEL SOL
“The neighbourhood is known for its little squares like Plaza del Sol.”
CANDELACANELA
“I go here for Cinnamon rolls and really good specialty coffee.”
BAR CANIGÓ
“A classic in the area, this bar has been a hotspot since 1922.”
EL MUSEU MÉS PETIT DEL MON
“This is a very special project: the smallest museum in the world.”
Where to Eat:
TOPE
@tope_bcn
Tacos with a sunset view? Tope serves up fresh Mexican-inspired flavours at one of Barcelona’s best new rooftop spots.
CAL PEP
@calpepbcn
It doesn’t get more authentic than seafood and fish tapas at the counter seats of this bustling hotspot.
JULIETA’S
@julietasbcn
Great views, even better interiors and exciting rice dishes are waiting for you at Julieta’s.
Where to Drink:
BAR ALEGRIA
@baralegriabarcelona
Expect vintage decor, atmospheric outdoor seating and live music at this long-standing venue, lauded for its tapas.
PARADISO
@paradiso_barcelona
For a taste of Barcelona’s anything-goes nightlife, discover the secret bar hidden behind a fridge door in a pastrami shop in one of the city’s most fun neighbourhoods.
CÀMPING
@camping_bcn
Located just a few skips from the beach, this is where Barcelona’s cool crowd orders a sangria at sunset.
A Foodie’s Guide to Barcelona
A Foodie’s Guide to Barcelona
Eat and drink your way around the city with Chandal boutique owner Isabel’s guide to bakeries, bars and beyond.
BACARO BARCELONA
“The best Italian food in town with amazing service. The owners are incredibly fun.”
GRINGA ALL DAY
“A new opening which serves delicious food all day long.”
FUNKY BAKERS
“This wonderful bakery, bar and restaurant has two spots in the city.”
JARDINS DE MOSSÈN
“The best park in town to spend a day in nature with city views.”
Where to Stay:
The Hoxton Hotel
@thehoxtonhotel
A stay at The Hoxton’s newest outpost - located in the creative neighbourhood of Poblenou - is sure to give you a real flavour of local Barcelona life. Take a dip in the rooftop pool, complete with checkerboard tiles, enjoy design-led rooms infused with influences from the Med, and order tacos at the in-house restaurant.
What to See:
MUSEO DEL DISSENY
@museudeldisseny
This museum is a must for design lovers, exploring the history of design through everyday objects.
MOCO MUSEUM
@mocomuseum
16th century architecture meets modern-day art from the likes of Andy Warhol, Banksy and Basquiat.
MIES VAN DER ROHE PAVILION
@fundaciomies
Designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich, this impressive marble and glass pavilion celebrates the best of design.
