A Guide To 72 Hours In Barcelona
Barcelona is the place where under the exceptional circumstance of a global pandemic I spent most of 2020 so far. A cosmopolitan and modern - socially and environmentally - city buzzing with creativity and technology, Barcelona is what comes closest to a favorite city thanks to the sea, a truly laid back lifestyle, the exceptional climate, cycling to get anywhere, the surfers, the skaters, the late dinners and night outs and the list goes on.
So here is my guide of personal (almost local) favorites in this very touristy city that is simultaneously a real gem to live in.
DAY 1
As I already warned you this is an unusual guide to Barcelona, so we will purposely avoid the most touristy spot of the city aka Las Ramblas. Instead, head to El Gotico, the old center of Barcelona. Starting from historic Plaça de Sant Felip Neri pass through magnificent Santa Maria del Pi and have a look at Plaça Reial which is probably the only Spanish-style square of Barcelona (the street lights were designed by beloved Gaudí). Lose yourself in the tiny streets and set as your direction El Born, one of the coolest neighborhoods of the city.
Plaça Reial
By now you’re probably craving some caffeine and food so our next stop is Lulu, a brunch staple with great toasts right next to Parc della Ciutadella.
From there we’re going south towards the sea and my little neighborhood, La Barceloneta. Also known as the spot of surfers, runners and roller skaters all year long, it has a strange duality between tourists and locals.
If it’s summer go for a swim or rent an SUP in one of the many surf shops. Then, head to a xiringuito [name for the many bars by the sea] - I usually sit at Bo Kaap- and indulge on some sangria and patatas bravas.
If you’re visiting during winter your lunch spot will be Pez Vela under W hotel for amazing paella in a minimalist yet cozy atmosphere. From there, rent a public bike or walk along the promenade, all the way to Bogatell beach.
Bo Kaap
The Catalan cuisine has, undeniably, a great chapter on seafood so your dinner spot will be Bodega La Peninsular, a small and eclectic seafood restaurant with excellent shellfish. If you can, sit at the bar to observe the chef in action. The second stop of the night is Bar El Born for some exceptional cocktails. By now it's getting late and you’re in Barcelona so it’s time to dance!
A couple streets after Bar El Born you’ll find Dionisos, a greek street food chain that hides a true gem in its basement: Diobar, an expert in live salsa gigs or cumbia and afro-beats depending on the night (you might want to arrive early as the space fills up fast!).
DAY 2
For our second day in Barcelona we’re grabbing breakfast and amazing coffee at Nomad (Every Day) in el Raval. Apart from its excellent brand identity, Nomad’s trademark is its roasting so you’ll find it in two more spots in the city: the Roaster’s Home where the magic happens and the Coffee Lab for coffee worshipers. If you’re more into quiet spaces with great music (and plants, lots of plants), Robot House is the place for you. Their iced latte is a must!
Nomad Every Day
Within a short walk from both cafés you’ll find MACBA, Barcelona’s contemporary art museum. Not only is the building a stunner, but the usually political art exhibitions are extremely relevant and thought-provoking.
MACBA
For lunch I’m taking you to my favorite tapas place, Tapas 24, close to the busy Passeig de Gracia. Try the McFoie mini burgers, the bikinis with truffle, their signature oysters and chocolate dessert with olive oil, bread and salt. Thank me later.
Our cultural day wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Gaudi’s masterpiece, Casa Batlló.
By now it’s probably dinner time and you should head to hip Bar Brutal / Can Cisa renowned for its extensive organic wine-list and reinventive menu.
If you’re ready for some adventure, your last stop for tonight (the best is always for last) is El Bombón. Hidden behind the back door of the tacos joint Taqueria Machete, this salsa and reggaeton speak-easy is the place to witness some real dancing.
DAY 3
Day 3 of our trip to Barcelona starts with a small hike up towards the hill of Montjuïc. Famous for its castle and gardens, it is also the home of Fundació Joan Miró that we’ll be visiting.
Fundació Joan Miró
On you way down, stop by the Olympic pool and enjoy a cold beer with one of the most interesting views of the city, not towards the sea but towards the mountains!
For lunch I’m taking you to the very green neighborhood of San Antoni. Full of boutiques, bookstores and brunch spots it really exudes the high quality of life Barcelona is known for. Find a spot at Bar Calders, a staple of the neighborhood, famous for its vermouths and easy bites.
HeyShop
The guide wouldn’t be complete without a flavor of Barcelona’s growing creative scene. The city is full of fresh and ingenious creative agencies so follow me to HeyShop by Hey Studio, one of the most renowned graphic design agencies of Barcelona.There you’ll find, the studio’s bold and geometrical creations brought onto posters, T-shirts and tote bags (+ a great selection of books).
The next stop is for the music lovers. We’re going to Curtis Audiophile Cafe where you can enjoy a drink or coffee while attending one of their listening sessions.
Curtis Audiophile Cafe
As the sun goes down we’re going south the catch the sunset from the rooftop of beautifully curated Hotel Brummell. Have a drink, some food and enjoy Barcelona’s dichotomy in all its grandiosity.
Hotel Brummell