Barcelona

Our go-to tapas spot to take visitors who stay with us. Located in the centre of El Born, it is full of rustic charm, with delicious slightly less traditional options that has tolerated us drunk many times, including accidentally leaving without paying once (don't worry, we went back).

Unreal Italian food in the heart of El Born. We are absolutely obsessed with the sardine stracciatella, and have been many times to celebrate important occasions, including our engagement!

Firm favourite Mexican food in El Gótico, frequented many times with visitors. They don't accept reservations, but have never failed to find us space. Delicious tacos and margaritas are the main selling points.

100% the best ice cream in Barcelona, has ruined all other ice cream for us (even Italy wasn't as good). Located in Eixample. Also includes 1-2 amazing vegan options. If you order in a cup, you can also get a free mini cone filled with liquid chocolate (not vegan, sorry).

This isn't for group bookings or anything fancy. This is pure delicious, cheap and quick curry or samosa chaat for €2-5. We order from here almost every week as our cheeky takeaway, and it's located in El Raval.

Our favourite local wine bar, located in El Raval, with a broad range of options including natural wines. They have a seasonal menu that regularly changes, but is always super delicious. Definitely recommend booking in advance as it's often busy.

We used to insist this was the best patatas bravas in the city, but Chloe has recently gone off it. Still does amazing vermut (a must try in Barcelona) and is located in a great square in Sants, close to our first apartment.

A go-to spot for us to meet friends and enjoy a selection of tapas and usually copious amounts of alcohol (uno más?), close to Barceloneta beach. Not for reserving, but to rock up and hang out in a big square for a few hours.

A great option for big or small groups, with reservation recommended, close to El Born / El Gótico. Home of many wines and a decadent menu, including oysters and more up-market tapas options.

Our latest discovery in Barcelona but a firm favourite. Staffed by the very finest wine magician in all of Catalonia, and stocked with a vast selection of delicious wines.

One of our favourite activities is to tour hotpot places with friends, but this one is our reigning champion. Delicious broths (spicy is the only choice) and things to dip, but maybe don't order Chinese sausage unless you fancy disappointment.

Charming little hole in the wall in El Gótico that serves delicious cava and wines. No reservations, cash only, and bear in mind that they will make you a snack to accompany your drink (make sure to indicate any dietary requirements whilst ordering!).

Traditional Catalan food and tapas bar located in El Gótico, with loads of character. A good place to stumble upon during a tapas tour within the old town, or for una copita de vino or cava.

As an utterly pizza-obsessed human being, this is Tom's best local pick, especially for larger groups. Easy-going, good vibes, and delicious options.

Definitely our favourite local cocktail bar, only a 5 minute walk from our house. It has a speakeasy vibe with delicious curated and classic cocktails. On the bottom floor, there's a “secret” mirror door, often open at the weekend, which hosts an eclectic display of furniture and decor.

On our third day in Barcelona, this place in Poble Sec welcomed us and a friend with open arms as we navigated the new city, and got us completely hammered. Fun, ambient and slightly sophisticated atmosphere with great cocktails.

Home of arepas (traditional food from Colombia and Venezuela) and reasonably priced cocktails, located in Gràcia. This place is a great option for vegans and vegetarians, as well as big or small groups.

If you're here on a weekday, we absolutely recommend you come here and order a traditional Catalan menu del dia. It's good value and exactly what it says on the tin, in a super authentic atmosphere in the heart of the old town

This is our local churrería in El Raval where you can order coffee and churros for a low price. Recommend that you don't test your Spanish (Castellano) here, and favour either Catalan or English instead. Plus, the hostess is adamant that Chloe looks like Linda McCartney (we don't see it!).

Our favourite churro place in the city, close to our first apartment in Collblanc. Family vibes with the option of either regular churros (skinny) or porras (fat churros) for very good prices. Cash only, no reservations.

If you're feeling fancy, highly recommend here for an incredible tasting menu in the centre of El Gótico. They offer 9 courses for around €70 with the option for wine pairings. The cuisine is Asian-Mediterranean fusion underpinned with fermented goods. The best (and cheapest!) tasting menu we have had in Barcelona.

A great option for vegetarians and vegans to enjoy less conventional tapas options as well as natural wines, located in Eixample. Highly recommend booking in advance.

Our go-to brunch spot in El Raval that we have been to way more times than we care to admit. Great options for all typical diets, both for breakfast or lunch.

Hands down the best bakery in Barcelona, located 5 mins from our house. Caters to the local community as well as Michelin restaurants in and around the city. Excellent vibes! Tom has made good friends with the barista who is full of great culinary recommendations.

Our OG Italian restaurant, located close to our first apartment in Collblanc. Satisfies both lovers of pizza (Tom) and pasta (Chloe), with some very decadent options.

Our OG wine bar, located in Collblanc, that is Catalan through and through. Brimming with delicious small plates and wines, and close to the Mercat del Collblanc.

A spectacular jagged mountain range with a historic Benedictine monastery and stunning hiking trails.

The highest point in the city, featuring a historic amusement park and panoramic views of Barcelona.

Rugged coastline north of the city with crystal-clear coves, turquoise waters, and charming villages.

A bohemian, village-like neighbourhood known for its lively squares, independent boutiques, and local festivals.

The historic heart of Barcelona, with narrow medieval streets, ancient cathedrals, and hip bars.

A seaside city just north of Barcelona with excellent beaches and impressive Roman heritage sites.

Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece and an iconic symbol of Barcelona. A must-see for its breathtaking architecture.

A public park system composed of gardens and architectural elements on Carmel Hill, offering stunning city views.

A stunning Modernista concert hall, famous for its intricate stained glass and ornate architectural details.

An interactive science museum featuring a flooded Amazonian forest and a wide range of engaging exhibits.

A world-renowned museum housing one of the most extensive collections of artworks by Pablo Picasso.

A prominent hill featuring historic castles, beautiful botanical gardens, and the Magic Fountain.

Housed in a grand palace, this museum showcases a vast collection of Romanesque, Gothic, and Modern art.

Explore iconic markets like La Boqueria and Santa Caterina for fresh local produce and authentic tapas.

A former anti-aircraft fortification offering the best 360-degree sunset views over the entire city.

A massive natural park that serves as the green lung of the city, perfect for hiking and cycling.

Visit the nearby Penedès region to tour historic wineries and sample world-class Cava and wine.

Discover traditional Catalan estates and enjoy tastings of premium extra virgin olive oils.

A raw, intimate, and authentic flamenco experience in the heart of El Raval. Highly recommended for those seeking the real deal in a historic, no-frills setting.

An iconic cabaret-theatre recently reopened as an intimate concert club, featuring world-class jazz, soul, and funk performances in a historic Paral·lel setting.

Spain's oldest and most beautiful dance hall. A stunning ballroom with a modernist interior and an incredible atmosphere, hosting everything from live orchestras to club nights.