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Frommer's Favorite Experiences
Strolling along La Rambla: Barcelona's most famous promenade pulses with life. The array of street musicians, performers, hustlers, and eccentrics ensures that there is never a dull moment during your kilometer-long stroll.
Having a Drink at Sunset on the Beach: The Catalan capital's 6.4km (4-mile) stretch of new city beaches, whose promenade, jetties, and marinas are lapped by inviting Mediterranean waters, have been transformed from a once-neglected area into a round-the-clock international playground. Their atmospheric chiringuitos (waterside bars and eating spots specializing in seafood dishes) are perfect spots either for lunch or a relaxing end-of-day drink, often accompanied by the music of an in-house DJ.
Exploring the El Born Neighborhood: This compact medieval quarter, just inland from Barceloneta, was once one of its seediest corners. Now the "in" crowds converge on its narrow tangle of streets lined by renovated old mansions: by day to check out top museums like the Picasso and smart shops exhibiting the latest in cutting-edge fashion and design; at night to enjoy the many bars and restaurants offering the ultimate in New Catalan cuisine.
Attending a Concert at the Palau de la Musica Catalana: This masterpiece of modernista (Art Nouveau) architecture must be one of the most lavish concert halls in the world. All strains of classical and jazz are played, but even the most finicky music lover will be moved by the Palau's onslaught of decorative detail.
Eating Breakfast at the Boqueria: There are about a dozen bars and restaurants in the city's main food market. Rub shoulders with Barcelona's top chefs and gourmands over a coffee and croissant and watch the day's deliveries coming in.
Bar-Hopping in the Barri Gotic: With its iconic, smoke-filled tapas bars, Irish pubs frequented by expats, and cocktail lounges filled with minimalist furniture and minimally clad patrons, Barcelona's Old City is a watering-hole mecca. One of the best locales is Ginger, a comfy, classy tapas and wine bar with the feel of a private club.
Spending a Sunday on Montjuic: The mountain of Montjuic is the first sight that greets visitors arriving at the port. Behind its rocky seaside face are acres of pine-dotted parkland beloved by cyclists, joggers, and strollers on the weekend. Topped by a castle museum with stunning city views, it provides a tranquil alternative to the hustle of the city below and offers some welcome breathing space.
Going by Tram and Funicular to Tibidabo: The summit of the city's distinctive inland backdrop is reached in two stages: first by a "blue tram" (Tramvia Blau), which winds past Sarria district's elegant houses, and then by a creaky Art Deco funicular lift, which rattles its way up the mountainside to reveal increasingly breathtaking views of the city below. Both of these vintage forms of transport were built over a century ago to transport people to the church and amusement park on the mountain's peak. The exhilarating journey they provide is part of the fun.
Dining at Els Quatre Gats: The original served as a fraternity house for late-18th-century dandies. It later became a preferred hangout for the young Picasso and his bohemian contemporaries. While most of the art adorning the walls is now reproductions, this classic Catalan restaurant is still alive with history. The resident pianist and general formality only add to the atmosphere.
Taking Your First Look at the Sagrada Familia: Nothing quite prepares you for the first glimpse of Gaudi's most famous work, which erupts from the center of a suburban city block like some retro-futurist grotto. Draw your eyes skyward from a facade rich in religious symbolism to the temple's four towers. Then step over the threshold to the (unfinished) interior.
People-Watching at the Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA): The forecourt of the Museum of Contemporary Art is a snapshot of the new multicultural Barcelona. Spend some time at one of its outside bars watching Pakistani cricket players, local kids playing soccer, and Northern European skateboarders in a fascinating melting pot of recreational activity.
Staying Up until Dawn: A long dinner, a few drinks at a bar, on to a club, and then before you know it the sun is rising over the Mediterranean's party capital, throwing a warm glow over the city's palm-filled plazas and streets. Nothing beats a slow walk home at this magical hour (preferably through the Old City). If you manage to catch up on your sleep during the day, chances are you will repeat the experience that night.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
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