What to keep in mind :
The best time to visit Barcelona is during the spring and fall months. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild.
It's important to keep in mind that May marks the start of the high season, which means higher accommodation costs and long lines at attractions.
However, it also marks the start of beach season, so it's a good time to enjoy the city's beaches.
January is the least crowded and most budget-friendly month, with unique neighbourhood celebrations and sales.
A little tip before going to the city, be aware of pickpocketing, which is extremely common in tourist areas but nothing to be afraid of as long as you're cautious about your belongings.
- I recommend staying in El Born or Eixample.
- Take a picture of the QR code at Paradiso (day three) if you're planning on going back but don't feel like having to physically go scan it, it's a lifesaver.
- Keep in mind that some museums have free days !!
Museu Picasso : Free entry first Sunday of every month 10:00-20:00, and every Thursday 17:00-20:00. You should always book your ticket in advance on their website as it gets full by lunch.
- In Barcelona, dining times are quite different from what you may be used to in other countries. Lunch is typically served between 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm, while dinner is not usually served until 9 pm or even later.
It's not uncommon for locals to have a light breakfast, a mid-morning snack, a big lunch, and then a light dinner or tapas later in the evening.
Many restaurants and cafes close for a few hours in the afternoon, so it's important to plan accordingly if you want to dine out during your stay in Barcelona.
Now that we got all of that covered, let's get to the guide :
Día uno - Day one
Morning :
Introduce yourself to Barcelona’s urban landscape by exploring three of the main areas of the city’s centre.
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Lunch :
Take a break from exploring at Vinitus where you’ll find an array of typical and unique Spanish tapas.
Vinitus
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Vinitus in Barcelona is a culinary gem that left me wanting to go again and again when my friend Julia first brought me there in 2017.
They offer incredible tapas and seafood delicacies. The attentive staff, combined with the cozy ambiance, made it an unforgettable experience.
This was my third time in the last 6 years so I have to say it's a must-visit for any food lover in Barcelona!
Keep in mind they do not take reservations and are always full so go early or relax and have a drink while waiting outside !!
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Afternoon :
Explore some art and historical(ly chocolatey) museums.
Museu Picasso
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Stepping into the Picasso Museum in Barcelona was like entering the mind of a genius.
The collection showcased the evolution of Picasso's artistic journey, from his early sketches to his more recent masterpieces. The carefully curated exhibits allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of his groundbreaking contributions to the art world.
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Museu de cioccolata
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Indulge your senses at the Museum of Chocolate in Barcelona!
Not only was the entrance ticket an actual chocolate bar with a qr code on it, but as soon as I entered, I was immersed in a world of cocoa delights.
From sculptures crafted entirely out of chocolate to a mesmerizing history of chocolate-making, this museum is truly a sweet treat. Don't forget to sample some delectable treats at the end of your visit!
PS: They also have a wine and chocolate tasting activity that was fully booked but sounded amazing.
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Evening/night :
Unwind with a frozen sangria at an energy filled bar, Creps al Born, followed by a cocktail at the perfect place to meet people, Numero Nueve Bar.
Creps al Born
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This lively bar in the heart of El Born district serves up art-themed cocktails that are as delicious as they are Instagrammable.
The frozen sangria is a MUST-TRY, bursting with fruity flavors. The ambiance is electric, with swinging lights and a vibrant crowd.
It's a perfect spot for young travelers seeking an unforgettable night out in Barcelona.
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Número Nueve Bar
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Numero Nueve is an energetic bar offering a wide selection of drinks, lively music, and a vibrant ambiance. Their wine by the glass wasn’t my favourite but their margaritas are STRONG ;)
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Día dos - Day two
Morning:
A nice brunch and a shop are the perfect way to recover after a night out.
Whether you're looking for unique fashion finds, handmade crafts, or delicious local delicacies,
Barcelona truly has something for everyone.
The Green Spot
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The cozy and vibrant atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes. From their mouthwatering avocado toast to their refreshing smoothie bowls, every bite is to die for. The staff is very friendly, if not extremely busy, and the menu offers a variety of options to cater to different dietary preferences.
I found the outside seating to be the star of the show, with tables nestled in the walls on all sides of the restaurants it's the perfect place to unwind the morning after a night out, debrief and people watch. Be sure to come early to snag a spot outside, they're a very hot commodity as they are limited !!
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After a satisfying and relaxing brunch at The Green Spot, enjoy a stroll around town and check out some local shops in El Born!
El Born is a trendy neighbourhood in Barcelona with narrow streets and historic architecture. It's known for its artistic flair and popular attractions like the Picasso Museum and Gothic Santa Maria del Mar church.
The area's lively restaurant and bar scene serves up traditional Catalan cuisine and modern fusion dishes, making it a popular destination for foodies.
Whether you're interested in exploring the local art scene, shopping for unique souvenirs, or soaking up the atmosphere, El Born is a must-visit destination in Barcelona.
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Mostaza
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Mostaza is a trendy boutique located in the heart of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter.
The shop offers a carefully curated selection of stylish clothing, accessories, and home decor items.
With a focus on sustainable fashion, Mostaza is the perfect place to find unique and eco-friendly pieces to add to your wardrobe.
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For art lovers :
Galeria Maxó
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Galeria Maxó in Barcelona is a bright and modern space that showcases the works of emerging and established artists.
With a focus on contemporary art, the gallery features a diverse range of styles and mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography and installation.
Their wall art is, in my opinion, a great souvenir from Barcelona.
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For vintage enthusiasts :
Zoetrope Vintage & Local Designers
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Their collection ranges from unique vintage pieces to contemporary designs, all handpicked by the store's owner. Zoetrope's commitment to sustainability and supporting local talent makes it a must-visit for fashion lovers looking for something special.
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HUMANA Vintage
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Humana Vintage Store is a must go for vintage enthusiasts, there's three different locations right next to each other, each with so much choice.
Whenever I've been, I've always found unique and interesting pieces. The store has really affordable prices and extremely friendly staff.
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Evening/night :
Have a bite at el SET and a unique cocktail at Mariposa Negra to unwind.
el SET
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A culinary gem in Barcelona, where amazing flavors, artfully crafted dishes, and a great ambiance mix. My mum and I were instantlyyy hooked by the service and the intricate flavours of the dishes they offer.
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Mariposa Negra Cocktail Bar - Cocteleria artesana
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Mariposa Negra is a cocktail bar offering a really comfy atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails with the most unique tastes.
Their drinks are seriously so beautiful, anddd they make their own gin, order at your own risk !!
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Día tres - Day three
Morning :
La Sagrada Familia
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The Sagrada Familia is a breathtakingly beautiful basilica located in Barcelona, Spain.
Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, the church is still under construction and has been for over 100 years.
Its stunning towers, intricate facades, and mesmerizing stained glass windows make it an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Barcelona.
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Casa Battlo
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The facade of Casa Battló is adorned with vibrant mosaics and curvaceous balconies which instantly captivates the eye from the outside. It’s truly a must-see for any Gaudí fan.
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Lunch
Have a delicious meal at BarcelonaMilano !
BarcelonaMilano
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Barcelonamilano is truly a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Barcelona. I loved the warm and inviting ambiance the inside of the restaurant had.
The fusion of Spanish and Italian flavours was perfect and every dish was a work of art, beautifully presented. (I especially recommend the squid croquetas, they were divine).
The extremely attentive staff also really added to the overall experience.
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Afternoon
Explore the modern artworks of the Moco museum and stroll around the refreshing landscape of the park de la Ciutadella.
Museo Moco
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The exhibits were carefully curated, showcasing the works of both local and international artists at the forefront of the contemporary art scene. It was really like stepping into a world where creativity knows no bounds.
They have an incredible array of artwork that pushed the boundaries of traditional art forms. Paintings, sculptures, multimedia installations, and interactive displays all to engage with the art.
What struck me most about Moco was its dedication to thought-provoking themes and social commentary. The artists' expressions challenged conventional ideas and shed light on important societal issues.
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Parc de la Ciutadella
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Parc de la Ciutadella, nestled in the heart of vibrant Barcelona, is a haven for visitors seeking nature's embrace, we were feeling like sitting down and talking, we couldn’t have picked a better spot to spend that time together. With its greenery, lake, and fountains, the park has an energy that really uplifts the spirit.
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Evening/night :
Experience the best of Mexican cuisine in Barcelona at Oaxaca, and top off your evening with a drink as beautiful as it is strong at Paradiso for a truly memorable culinary journey.
Oaxaca Cuina Mexicana
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico in the heart of Barcelona.
Truly the most authentic Mexican restaurant I’ve been to in Europe. The dishes and drinks were fantastic.
The tuna tostadas and the mushroom tacos were insanely good but the guacamole being prepared tableside with fresh ingredients and personalised to your taste is truly the star of their menu 🥑
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Paradiso
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Voted 1st bar in the Top 50 bars in the world !!
Paradiso is a “hidden” gem of a cocktail bar, cleverly disguised as a humble pastrami sandwich shop. Behind a secret door, you'll find a stunningly designed space with an exquisite bar.
Known for its innovative and theatrical approach to mixology, Paradiso crafts imaginative cocktails that delight the senses. The ambiance is chic and inviting, with a touch of speakeasy charm. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a world of creativity and exceptional libations.
It’s truly a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts looking to discover a one-of-a-kind drinking experience in Barcelona.
EXTRA TIP: Make sure to scan the qr code at their entrance in the late afternoon to ensure you get a space there, their waitlist is only accessible that way and closes really early when they’re busy. Which is every single day lol
Remember to take a picture of it as well in case you feel like going back without having to physically go and scan it again.
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Día cuatro - Day four
Option 1 : Beach day in a nearby town :
If you have the time and resources, you should discover this hidden treasure and charming town near Barcelona.
The town :
Tossa de Mar
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Lose yourself in the narrow cobblestone lanes of this picturesque medieval town near Barcelona, explore the well-preserved castle walls, and soak in the timeless beauty of this hidden gem.
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What to do :
Muralles de Tessa de Mar
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Muralles de Tossa de Mar is a medieval castle located on the coast of Catalonia, Spain.
It was built in the 12th century and served as a defensive fortress against pirates and other invaders.
The castle is characterised by its circular towers, thick walls, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the town's rich history and culture.
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Es Codolar beach
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Hidden natural beach in the medieval village, absolute must-go. It's way less busy than the main beach and has so much more charm.
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Platja Gran
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Beautiful beach however it can get crowded so I recommend going to the smaller, enclaved beach further down the medieval town (see Es Colodar beach section).
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Where to eat :
Can Gol
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The restaurant offers a menu of traditional Catalan cuisine, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and homemade desserts.
With its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere, Can Gol is a great spot to enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends.
I especially recommend their squid ink Paella, it's truly delicious.
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Option 2 :
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Día cinco - Day five
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