Cal Pep
A legendary El Born tapas bar where you squeeze in at the counter and let the team feed you the day’s best seafood – no menu needed. Queues are part of the ritual; arrive early or late and go with whatever Pep recommends.
Barcelona
Montjuic & Magic Fountain
The Montjuic hill stacks gardens, museums, an old castle and city views, with the Magic Fountain putting on free light-and-music shows below on select evenings. Ride the cable car up and walk down through the greenery.
El Born & Passeig del Born
The effortlessly cool old quarter around the beautiful Santa Maria del Mar church – medieval lanes lined with independent boutiques, tapas bars and buzzing nightlife. One of the best areas in the city for an evening out.
Barceloneta Beach
The city’s most accessible beach, a lively strip of sand backed by seafood restaurants and summer beach bars. Great for a swim, a stroll along the boardwalk or a paella with your toes near the sand – mind your belongings.
Bunkers del Carmel
Old Civil-War anti-aircraft bunkers on a hilltop, now the city’s favourite free 360-degree viewpoint. Bring a picnic and a drink and join locals for one of Barcelona’s best sunsets over the whole city and sea.
Parc de la Ciutadella
Barcelona’s green lung beside El Born – shady paths, a monumental cascade fountain (with a young Gaudi’s hand in it), a rowing lake and the Catalan parliament. Perfect for a picnic or a lazy afternoon.
Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter)
A labyrinth of narrow medieval lanes, hidden plazas and the towering cathedral at its heart. Get happily lost among the stone alleys, artisan shops and tucked-away bars – the atmospheric core of old Barcelona.
La Boqueria Market
The city’s dazzling covered food market just off La Rambla – pyramids of fruit, jamon, seafood and sweets. It’s busiest and priciest at the front; head to the back-counter bars for a proper local breakfast or lunch.
Casa Vicens
Gaudi’s very first house, a jewel-box of tiled Moorish-inspired colour in Gracia and a UNESCO site. Far quieter than his headline works, it’s a rewarding stop for anyone who loves his style.
FC Barcelona Museum & Camp Nou
A pilgrimage for football fans – the FC Barcelona museum and tour of the legendary Camp Nou, packed with trophies and history. The stadium has been under redevelopment, so check the current tour arrangements before you go.