Illustrated map of Barcelona highlighting neighborhoods like Gracia, El Born, Gothic Quarter, Poble Sec, and Barceloneta, with icons representing local attractions, food, and drinks

We visited Barcelona in December and it is, in my opinion, the best time to explore this wonderful city. From the enchanting decorations and lights in the Gothic Quarter to the festive Christmas market stalls along the waterfront, there is so much to see and do—all without the crowds that flock to the city during the summer season. We spent seven delightful days eating and drinking our way through the city over Christmas break.

Facts about Barcelona

Ancient Roots: Barcelona can be traced back to Roman times. It was founded as a Roman colony in the 1st century BCE and named "Barcino." Remnants of Roman walls and structures can still be found in the Gothic Quarter, one of the oldest parts of the city.
Medieval Period: During the Middle Ages, Barcelona was a significant political and economic hub as part of the Crown of Aragon. It was a center of trade and maritime activity in the Mediterranean.
Catalan Identity: The city has long been the capital of Catalonia, a region with its own language and distinct culture. This identity remains strong and shapes the city's cultural and political landscape.
Urban City: Barcelona has a population of approximately 1.6 million people within the city proper. The metropolitan area is much larger, with around 5.5 million residents, making it one of the most populous urban areas in Europe. It’s grid layout is considered a pioneering example of urban planning.
1992 Summer Olympics: Hosting the Olympics transformed Barcelona, revitalizing its infrastructure, boosting tourism, and enhancing its global reputation. The beaches currently in Barcelona are artificial and were created specifically for the Olympics.
Modernism and Gaudí: Modernisme movement flourished in the late 19th and early 20th century, with architects like Antoni Gaudí. He left an indelible mark on the city through iconic works such as the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. The Sagrada Família has been under construction since 1882 and is still not finished.
Food and Drink Destination: Barcelona is home to more than 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a top destination for food lovers. This along with Catalan cuisine, their love for tapas, coastal access, and vibrant food markets, you are sure to find something you love. Barcelona is also known for their Vermouth culture. It’s a beloved aperitif and you will find most bars have their own “house” vermouth.

How to get around Barcelona

We love to walk whenever we can as we feel this is the best way to get a feel for the city. But, there are many options for transportation and you do not need a car unless you plan to do excursions outside the city.

Walk Many of Barcelona’s attractions, especially in neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter, El Born, and Eixample, are within walking distance. The city’s compact layout and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking a great way to explore.

Bus/Metro/Tram/Train Barcelona’s public transportation has an integrated fare system which makes it easy to switch from Bus to Metro, Tram, or Train. The metro is the quickest way to navigate the city while the bus system hits neighborhoods not easily accessed by the metro. You can buy various types of tickets depending on how often and how many days you plan to use the system.

Uber / Bolt / Cab Uber, Bolt, and Cabs are available in the city if you prefer to use this method of transportation. We took a cab from the airport because we had checked bags we didn’t want to lug on the bus. It cost us about $30 to get from the airport to our Air BnB in El Poble Sec. Taxis can be hailed or booked via an apps like Free Now.

Where to stay

There are plenty of neighborhoods to choose from in Barcelona, each with its own unique vibe. From the Gothic Quarter (very touristy and pricey) to Gràcia, Barceloneta, and Poble Sec, there’s something for every budget and travel style. We stayed in Poble Sec and found the location ideal for what we wanted to do. Personally, I’d avoid the Gothic Quarter—it’s incredibly busy and packed with tourists. However, if you want to be right in the middle of all the attractions and action, it could be the perfect spot for you.

Poble Sec

This is the neighborhood we stayed in and I loved it. It was easy to get around but was still quiet. We stayed in this Air B&B. I also liked this one, and this one. Pros:

A quieter, more laid-back area with excellent tapas bars and trendy eateries - Blai street is located here and known for their tapas bars.
Close to Montjuïc Hill, where you can explore attractions like the Magic Fountain, Montjuïc Castle, and the Joan Miró Foundation.
More affordable accommodations compared to the city center.

Cons:

Less central than neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter or Eixample.
Limited nightlife options compared to areas like El Born or El Raval - but it’s an easy walk to enjoy these.

Gothic Quarter

Pros:

Oldest part of the city, a maze of narrow, charming streets filled with history.
Walking distance to major attractions like La Rambla, Plaça Catalunya, and the Barcelona Cathedral.
Plenty of restaurants, tapas bars, and boutique shops.
Great for experiencing the city’s medieval and Roman past.

Cons:

Can be very crowded, especially with tourists.
Some areas may feel noisy, particularly at night.
Hotels and accommodations can be on the pricier side for the size.

El Born

Pros:

Trendy and vibrant with boutique shops, art galleries, and a buzzing nightlife scene.
Close to attractions like the Picasso Museum, Santa Maria del Mar, and Ciutadella Park.
Offers a mix of historic charm and a hip, modern vibe.
Excellent for foodies, with many local tapas bars and innovative restaurants.

Cons:

Can be busy and noisy, especially at night in the main streets.
Accommodations might be limited compared to larger neighborhoods.

Gràcia

Pros:

A bohemian and local vibe, with charming plazas, narrow streets, and an authentic Catalan feel.
Ideal for those seeking a quieter, more residential area.
Close to Park Güell and offers plenty of independent shops and cafes.
Excellent for visitors looking to immerse themselves in local culture.

Cons:

Slightly farther from the main tourist attractions (though easily accessible by public transportation).
Not as many large hotels; accommodations are often smaller boutique stays or apartments.

El Raval

Pros:

Edgy, multicultural, and artistic, with many independent shops, quirky cafes, and street art.
Home to the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA) and close to La Rambla.
Accommodations are often more affordable compared to other central neighborhoods.

Cons:

Some streets, particularly at night, may feel less safe or well-lit.
The area can be a bit grittier compared to others.

Barceloneta

Pros:

Perfect for beach lovers, with easy access to Barcelona’s sandy coastline.
Great seafood restaurants and beach bars.
A lively and fun atmosphere, especially during summer.

Cons:

Can feel very touristy and crowded, particularly in high season.
Limited cultural or historic attractions compared to other neighborhoods.

Barcelona’s neighborhoods offer something for everyone, so you can pick based on your travel style and priorities!

Where to Eat and Drink

Barcelona is a foodie’s dream. There are so many incredible places to try! We only booked one restaurant (Maleducat), and it was absolutely worth it. Everywhere else we ate or drank was unplanned, which is how we love to discover new spots. Below are our favorites, and don’t forget to check out the map at the end of this post, which marks all the places we visited as well as others that came highly recommended.

FOOD

La Plata - This tiny tapas bar in the Gothic Quarter is always busy, and for good reason. Arrive early if you can—we lucked out and snagged a spot at the bar. Don’t let the crowds scare you off; people tend to come in, grab a quick bite and drink, and leave. Patience pays off! Be sure to try the fried fish (pescadito)—we devoured three plates of these little guys. The pincho de butifarra was also amazing.

Blai Street - You really can’t go wrong with any tapas bar on this pedestrian street in Poble Sec. Pick one, hop from bar to bar, and enjoy.

Billy Brunch - A fantastic spot for brunch or breakfast. One thing I didn’t know about Barcelona? They love brunch. There are so many options, which was a treat for us because good breakfast spots are hard to find back home in Sweden.

Cactus Cafe - Another solid choice for breakfast. Simple, cozy, and delicious.

Bodega La Palma - This cozy tapas bar serves up traditional dishes that hit the spot. Try the canelone (Catalan-style cannelloni) and the crema catalana—both are fantastic.

Maleducat - The one place we made dinner reservations—and it was 10000% worth it. The menu features small plates designed to be shared, with a focus on local ingredients. Every dish was beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. A must-visit!

The Benedict Brunch - As the name suggests, this spot specializes in eggs Benedict, and they did not disappoint. Another great option for a leisurely brunch.

El Desvan Bakery - Quite possibly the best cookie I’ve ever had. Truly. The coffee was fantastic too, making this the perfect snack stop.

Be Chocolat - I had churros here, and they were incredible. I’ve heard their hot chocolate is equally amazing, so it’s worth a visit if you’re in the mood for something sweet.

Conesa entrepans - We walked past this sandwich shop multiple times and always saw a massive line of 50+ people. On our last day, we finally caught it during a quieter moment and decided to give it a try. OMG. One of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had. If there’s a line, it’s probably worth the wait!

DRINK

V de Vermut - If you’re new to vermouth, this is a great place to start. Their menu doesn’t list all their vermouths (it focuses on cocktails), but we chatted with the server, and she brought out a few different ones for us to try. Highly recommend this spot!

Dr. Stravinsky - This was hands-down my favorite bar. It feels like a science lab, with amazing craft cocktails made from fat-washed liquors. My favorite was the Fatty Paloma, which had a cheddar cheese fat wash and Cajun spices. Super creative and delicious.

La Confiteria - Another excellent cocktail bar. Try to snag a seat at the bar for the best experience.

Salts Montjuic Terrassa Bar - A fantastic outdoor terrace bar on Montjuïc, perfect for a sunny day. Grab a drink, some snacks, and take in the breathtaking city views.

Bar del Pi - A quaint little bar ideal for cava, vermouth, and tapas. Simple, charming, and quintessentially Barcelona.

La Alcobita - A cozy tapas bar in the Gothic Quarter. We only had drinks here, but the food looked amazing, so it’s definitely worth considering for a meal.

Liberia Quera - A hidden gem in the Gothic Quarter! This cute wine bar is tucked inside a travel bookshop. If you didn’t know they served wine, you’d walk right past it. We enjoyed some excellent local wines and light snacks in this unique spot.

Zona d’Ombra - Part wine shop, part bar, this place is perfect for sampling a variety of wines and cavas. Everything we tried was excellent, and the cozy ambiance made it even better.

What to do in Barcelona

Explore the Gothic Quarter
Get lost in the winding maze of streets in the oldest part of the city. This area is full of charm and history, with narrow alleys, hidden squares, and Roman ruins. Enjoy Gothic architecture like the stunning Barcelona Cathedral and soak in the atmosphere. Stop for tapas and vermouth at a cozy bar, and don’t miss Plaça Reial, a lively square with restaurants and palm trees.
Visit the Works of Gaudí
Gaudí’s masterpieces are a must-see in Barcelona. Just make sure you book tickets in advance - they sell out quickly!
- Sagrada Família: The iconic basilica is still under construction but breathtaking nonetheless.
- Park Güell: A colorful, whimsical park with incredible views of the city.
- Casa Batlló: Known for its vibrant façade and ocean-inspired interiors.
- La Pedrera (Casa Milà): Famous for its wavy stone exterior and unique rooftop.
- Palau Güell: One of Gaudí’s earlier works, located near La Rambla.
Go to the Beach
Head to Barceloneta Beach for a mix of relaxation and fun. Whether you’re sunbathing, strolling along the waterfront, or enjoying a meal at a seaside restaurant, it’s a great way to unwind. Rooftop bars in the area also offer fantastic views. For a quieter beach experience, consider Bogatell or Nova Icària beaches nearby.
Take a Food Tour
A food tour is a perfect way to dive into Barcelona’s culinary scene while exploring the city. You’ll get to sample local favorites like fideuà, paella, and crema catalana. We enjoyed our tour, but there are plenty of great options to choose from at Get Your Guide.
Walk La Rambla
No visit to Barcelona is complete without a stroll down La Rambla. This famous pedestrian boulevard stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to the Port and is lined with shops, restaurants, street performers, and more. Be sure to stop at La Boqueria Market, a vibrant food market filled with fresh produce, tapas, and artisan goods.
Visit the Picasso Museum
Located in the El Born neighborhood, this museum houses an extensive collection of Picasso’s early works, offering a fascinating glimpse into his artistic evolution. The historic building itself is worth exploring.
Take the Cable Car to Montjuïc
Montjuïc Hill offers stunning views, lush park space, and a variety of attractions. You can catch the cable car from Barceloneta for a scenic trip across the bay or climb the hill from Poble Sec and take the tram back across for a different perspective.
- Montjuïc Castle: A historic fortress with panoramic city and sea views.
- Joan Miró Foundation: Showcasing the works of the famous Catalan artist.
- Magic Fountain: A free light and music show (check the schedule).
Spend a Night Out in El Born
El Born’s charming streets are perfect for an evening of tapas and drinks. Wander from one bar to the next, sampling local dishes and sipping cava or vermouth. This was one of our favorite areas for food, drink, and a lively yet laid-back vibe.
Take a Day Trip
If you have the time, Barcelona is surrounded by incredible destinations. You can book day tours through platforms like Get Your Guide or explore on your own.
- Montserrat: A stunning mountain monastery with breathtaking views.
- Costa Brava: Known for its picturesque beaches and coastal towns.
- Sitges: A charming seaside town with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Penedès Wine Region: Famous for cava and wine tastings.
Enjoy Tapas on Blai Street
Blai Street in Poble Sec is a tapas lover’s dream. This pedestrian street is lined with tapas bars offering a variety of delicious bites. Hop from bar to bar and enjoy a mix of pintxos (small skewered snacks) and vermouth. Don’t forget to save your skewers—they’re used to calculate your bill!
Catch a FC Barcelona Game
If you’re a football fan, watching FC Barcelona play at Camp Nou is an unforgettable experience. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the energy of the stadium is infectious, and it’s a great way to experience local culture

Top Tips

Pack Smart for Winter Travel
If you're traveling during the winter, like we did, be sure to pack layers. Mornings start off chilly, but by midday, we were walking around in light sweaters without jackets. However, as soon as the sun set, the jackets came back on. Don’t forget sunglasses—Barcelona was bright and sunny every day we were there!
No Need for a Car
You won’t need a car in Barcelona. The city is incredibly walkable, and you can easily get anywhere using the metro, buses, or by hailing a cab. Public transport is efficient, affordable, and well-connected.
Tipping Etiquette
Like most of Europe, tipping is not expected in Barcelona. However, if you’ve had exceptional service, feel free to leave a few euros or ask if you can add a tip. Leaving cash is always appreciated but not required.
Make Dining Reservations When Needed
Most of the places we ate and drank at didn’t require a reservation, but if there’s a specific restaurant you’re dying to try, especially a highly coveted one, it’s best to book ahead. Many places offer online reservations, so plan ahead if there’s a spot you must visit.
Meal Times Are Different
Keep in mind that meal times in Barcelona follow a different schedule than in many other countries. Lunch is the main meal of the day and typically happens between 1:30 PM and 4 PM. Dinner starts late, usually around 9 PM or even later. If you’re hungry earlier, look for places offering tapas or light snacks in the afternoon to tide you over.
Book Major Attractions in Advance
Make sure to book tickets for the Sagrada Família and Park Güell weeks in advance. The only way we got into the Sagrada Família was with a guided tour, as general admission was sold out three weeks prior. Unfortunately, we couldn’t visit Park Güell because no tickets or tours were available. You can book directly through their official websites, whether you prefer just admission or a guided tour.
Visit in the Off-Season
I highly recommend visiting Barcelona during the fall or winter. Summer brings peak tourist crowds and sweltering heat, but visiting in the off-season lets you avoid both while still enjoying everything the city has to offer.
Carry Cash and a Credit Card
While many places accept credit cards, smaller establishments, local markets, or traditional bars may only take cash. It’s always handy to carry a mix of euros and cards to cover all situations.
Plan for a Siesta Schedule
Many smaller shops and restaurants close in the afternoon for a few hours, especially outside of tourist-heavy areas. Plan your meals and shopping trips accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Try Local Dishes and Drinks
Don’t miss out on Barcelona’s incredible food scene! Be sure to try pa amb tomàquet (Catalan tomato bread), Canelons (Catalonia’s version of cannelloni), and escalivada (grilled vegetables). Pair these with a glass of local cava or a refreshing vermut (vermouth).
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Barcelona’s cobblestone streets and hills, especially in neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter and El Born, can be tough on your feet. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the city.
Stay Alert in Crowded Areas
Like any major city, Barcelona has its share of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas like La Rambla and The Gothic Quarter. Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying valuables.
Explore Beyond the Highlights
While the main attractions are fantastic, don’t miss out on hidden gems. Neighborhoods like Gràcia and Poble Sec offer a more authentic, local vibe. Take time to wander and explore!