Exploring the Cultural Kaleidoscope of Barcelona

Cultural Discoveries…

Eixample’s blend of historical heritage and contemporary flair makes it a captivating district to discover. While the emblematic landmark of Basílica de la Sagrada Família takes centre stage, elsewhere there is plenty to uncover by simply taking a stroll. 

For a cultured way to start the day, head to Passeig de Gràcia and discover the work of legendary architects along the way. Look up and admire the distinctive facades of Casa Batlló by Antoni Gaudí, Casa Lleó Morera by Domènech i Muntaner, and Casa Amatller by Puig i Cadafalch. An avant-garde enclave of modern Catalan art, the Fundació Antoni Tàpies gallery is also just moments away. After a morning of artistic discovery, a long afternoon awaits you at Joan Miró Park, the perfect place to enjoy a picnic under swaying palms. 

Meanwhile in Gracia, Gaudí’s work can be found once again in the multi-coloured gardens of Park Güell. Visit the park in the early morning and climb the Turó de les 3 Creus to avoid the crowds and enjoy uninterrupted views of the city, before heading to Mercat de la Llibertat for an afternoon spent soaking up its sights, smells and sounds, while tasting local delicacies from its specialist stalls. The district’s historic squares also beckon to be explored - the Plaça del Diamant, Plaça Virreina and Plaça del Sol have a distinct village feel, perfect for dining al fresco. 

For those lucky enough to be visiting in August, the true spirit of Catalunya is revealed at the annual Festa Major de Gracia, a week-long celebration with music, dancing and street performances. Join the locals to help decorate the streets with colourful streamers, and soak in the atmosphere of a tradition that dates back 200 years. 

‍

Culinary Delights…

As the sun rises over the Mediterranean sea, Barcelona’s streets are at their most peaceful. While the city slowly begins to awaken, coffee and croissant aficionados should head to Origo Bakery to start the day. One of Gracia’s best artisan bakeries, Origo’s baguettes and ancient grain loves are a weekend essential, perfect for stocking the pantry in your Pied à Terre. 

Those seeking a slower morning should take advantage of the city’s brunch scene, with lively, all-day breakfast venues popping up in every district. Thankfully, Eixample offers an abundance of choice, with August’s recommendations including Brunch&Cake for generous portions and uplifting interiors, and Hardware Société for Bloody Mary’s accompanied by breakfast classics with Australian influence.

By noon, Barcelona’s staple weekend activity, ‘vermut hour’ is already in full swing. Join the Eixample locals at a convivial bar, Senyor Vermut, where light tapas dishes are accompanied by ‘vermut de la casa’ and conversation late into the afternoon. In Gracia, Bar Casi, is another local favrourite - a family owned restaurant since 1978 offering an authentic, no-frills set lunch. 

Appetite satiated, dusk in the city wouldn’t be complete without a trip to one of many rooftop bars. Villa Emilia's La Terraza is August’s favourite, offering views across the rooftops and a warm atmosphere, void of crowds. On Thursdays and Saturdays, its barbecue nights see freshly grilled meats and vegetables cooked directly over charcoal - the perfect way to refuel after a long day exploring the city. 

In addition to its neighbourhood dining scene, Barcelona is also home to no fewer than 28 Michelin starred establishments, well-suited to more formal occasions. Montbar is our first recommendation. Its unique ambience combines the laid-back elegance of a Spanish wine bar with the gastronomic prowess of a Michelin-starred kitchen with innovative sharing plates accompanied by seamless service, perfect for either a celebratory occasion or simply a romantic dinner for two. 

Disfrutar is another one of our top picks for fine dining in the city, with its creative cuisine not only receiving three Michelin stars, but recognition as the second best restaurant in the world. Highly creative, renowned dishes such as the ‘living table’ and ‘solid bubbles’ make for an unforgettable evening, while the opportunity for homeowners to visit in shoulder season makes getting a table that little bit easier. 

Finally, no trip to Barcelona would be complete without tapas. For contemporary small plates, why not head for a late-night bite at Bar Mut, where plates of freshly fried, seasonal croquettes are best served with crisp bottles of sparkling Cava. 

‍

Artisanal Finds…

No city break would be complete without a little retail therapy, whether browsing the flagship stores of European designer brands or stumbling upon the vintage boutiques of narrow backstreets. 

In Eixample, the Passeig de Gràcia is a popular option, with many visiting to admire the sights of this central city avenue, and staying for the shopping. Nevertheless, off the beaten track lie bookshops and boutiques in abundance, with Llibreria’s Jaimes and Documenta among our favourites for picking up a new holiday read. To while away a summer’s afternoon, Carrer d'Enric Granados is a destination in itself. A semi-pedestrianised street, its pavements are lined with independent shops and al fresco bars and restaurants, all with a distinctly residential feel.

Further north of Barcelona’s centre in Gracia, the narrow streets of Carrer de Verdi and Carrer d’Astúries are home to some of the city’s oldest craftsmen and ateliers, some who have owned stores in the area for almost 100 years. Stock up on all-natural produce from Gra de Gràcia Astúries, discover eco-friendly homeware at concept store, Olokuti, or try your hand at dressmaking at Costuretas Social Club, where self-taught seamstresses both sell their creations and host sewing classes for budding creatives, the perfect rainy day activity for travellers of all ages.