12 Top Festes Majors in Barcelona

November 28, 2019August 6, 2020Natàlia Gibernau

Have you ever been in Festes Majors in Barcelona? In this article we list the approximate dates of each festa major and how they are usually celebrated. (This year due to the Covid pandemic, each neighborhood proposes both virtual and in person activities. We recommend checking each official programme with the corresponding organisers).

Our favorite Festes Majors in Barcelona

Festa Major de Sant Antoni

Dates: 17–26 January

2019 was this festival’s debut year, so we’re sure its second year will be an event not to be missed. Enjoy a range of activities centred around the neighbourhood’s recently renovated market.

Festes de Santa Eulàlia

Dates: 7–12 February

Coinciding with the day of former patron saint of Barcelona (12 February), expect to see the centre of Barcelona come alive with castellers (human towers) and an array of parades in her honour. Castellers is something that all the festes majors have in common and you will love it. It’s an amazing traditional experience!

Festa Major de la Sagrada Família

Dates: April–May

Experience this renowned Gaudí masterpiece with over a week of various events and activities suitable for all ages.

Festa Major del Casc Antic

Dates: June

No one can deny that Barcelona’s old quarter has a unique charm – so why not discover its more traditional side. Head to Sant Pere and Santa Caterina i la Ribera to see castellers, parades of giant puppets and the modest sardanes dance.

Festa Major del Raval

Dates: June

In honour of the neighbourhood’s patron saint, this bright and colourful festival in the centre of Barcelona stands out thanks to its castellers and artisans selling local craft products.

Festa Major del Poble-sec

Dates: July

The festival of Poble-sec will take you on a journey through its most emblematic, local locations, from the Semblador square and the El Molino theatre. Be sure not to miss its blazing correfoc fire run.

Festa Major de Gràcia

Dates: 15–22August

Perhaps the most eagerly awaited of all the festes majors of Barcelona, discover how the streets of Gràcia are transformed by the local residents with decorations of every colour.

Festa Major de Sants

Dates: August–September

From concerts, decorations and correfocs, the Festa Major de Sants transforms this residential and professional district for a week of celebrations in honour of patron saint Bartholomew.

Festa Major de Poblenou

Dates: 11–20 September 2020

One of the largest of the festivals with around 500 activities, this event is not to be missed. Discover the magnificent cercavila parade, sign up to run the 5 or 10 km race or take part in some of the artistic workshops that run alongside this celebration.

Festa Major de la Rambla

Dates: September

This special celebration of one of Barcelona’s most renowned landmarks sees the façades of its buildings decorated with fresh flowers. What’s more, museums in the area are free during these celebratory dates.

Festes de la Mercè

Dates: 18–24 September

In honour of the patron saint of Barcelona, the entire city comes together to celebrate with popular culture, live music, castellers, correfocs and much more. Les Festes de La Mercè is the main and biggest Festa Major in the city. There’s something for everyone at a range of locations throughout the city centre.

Festa Major de la Barceloneta

Dates: September

In this beachside festival that celebrates the best of one of Barcelona’s most traditional neighbourhoods. We recommend catching a havaneres concert (colonial songs sung by local groups) on the beach.

Is the festa major of your favourite neighbourhood missing? Don’t worry; very soon the entire list of festes majors in Barcelona will be published here, where you will also be able to check their exact locations on the map.

We hope to see you there!

The 8 Best Japanese Restaurants in Barcelona

November 21, 2019July 26, 2021Natàlia Gibernau

In the last few years, the scene of Japanese restaurants in Barcelona has been rejuvenated by the izakayas (small Japanese taverns serving food and alcohol) which have been popping up left, right and centre in Barcelona. These charming and welcoming eateries serve a lot more than just sushi and often specialise in one particular dish.

It might not be the first thing you think of when planning a trip to Barcelona, but we’re sure by the time you finish this article you’ll be craving Japanese food.

What’s more, in cosmopolitan Barcelona you’ll find not only the best of Japan, but also a range of exotic and exciting fusions. Read on to discover Japanese tapas, steaming-hot ramen, fresh sushi, okonomiyaki and much more!

Japanese restaurants in barcelona — Can Kenji – Japanese restaurants in Barcelona

Mosquito

Located close to Carrer Princesa and the Picasso museum, in the lovely El Born area you’ll find Mosquito tucked away on a side street. Choose from a range of freshly baked dumplings and small Japanese tapas washed down with a pint of local craft ale. We recommend getting there early to put your name down for a table, as this quaint tavern can get particularly crowded.
Carrer dels Carders, 46

Ramen-ya Hiro

If you’re looking to try the best ramen in Barcelona, you’ve come to the right place. Rumour has it that their speciality stock is slow-cooked over 48 hours. With seating for less than 20 customers, get there early and join the queue before opening time. Trust us, it’s worth the wait!
Carrer de Girona, 164

Sato I Tanaka

For the true sushi experience that you’re not afraid of paying for, we’d recommend this discreet and modest restaurant. The mere 15 seats are arranged around the bar and kitchen so you can watch in awe as chef Sato delicately prepares each piece of sushi. Discover the art of sushi preparation in this tranquil atmosphere and impeccable service.
Carrer del Bruc, 79

Yatai

Step into Tokyo with this beautifully decorated restaurant located in the Eixample area of Barcelona. Capturing the essence of day-to-day life in Japan with a varied range of typical dishes, we’d recommend trying the curry, takoyaki (bite-size fried octopus) and donburi dishes (grilled meat in breadcrumbs or fish served on a bed of steaming rice).
Carrer del Comte d’Urgell, 112

Can Kenji

If you’re feeling adventurous, try something at one of the most unique Japanese restaurants in Barcelona, Can Kenji. Serving simple yet exquisite dishes that combine the best of fresh, local Catalan ingredients with traditional Japanese cuisine, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.
Carrer del Rosselló, 325

Fan Shoronpo Ramen

Specialising in steaming-hot bowls of every type of ramen, including ramen for vegetarians, Fan Shoronpo is a perfect choice for these chilly autumn nights. Be sure to try their speciality dumplings filled with hot stock.
Carrer de Sèneca, 28

Bouzu

A cosy Mediterranean-style izakaya close to the San Antoni market, Bouzu specialises in Japanese-inspired tapas. Offering a lot more than just sushi, we’d recommend the okonomiyaki – an omelette-style dish from the region of Hiroshima made with grilled egg, noodles and vegetables topped with sweet Japanese barbeque sauce. Dig in!
Ronda de Sant Antoni, 26

Yoi Yoi Gion

A great central location, this restaurant that specialises in udon dishes can be found on the corner of Passeig de Gràcia/Diagonal. These thick wheat noodles are served in hot stock and can be combined with a range of delicious toppings. Don’t miss the selection of second hand Japanese books and vinyls and Japanese Asahi beer served on tap!
Avinguda Diagonal, 383

Recharge your batteries after a long day of sightseeing with these tasty options! Let us know, what are your favourite Japanese restaurants in Barcelona?

A Guide to Christmas Concerts in Barcelona

November 14, 2019November 15, 2021Natàlia Gibernau

It’s time to enojoy the Christmas concerts in Barcelona! The nights are drawing in earlier, the mornings are chillier and soon lights of every colour will illuminate the streets of Barcelona.

This can only mean one thing! Christmas is almost upon us. And if you’re spending Christmas in Barcelona this year, we can recommend a different plan to ensure you make the most of time with your loved ones. Amidst the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and preparing for the many family gatherings and meals, take some time out to enjoy a unique musical experiences.

We’ve compiled this short guide to concerts during the festive season for you to sit back and be regaled by local choirs and orchestras. What better way to get in the festive mood!

Christmas concerts in Barcelona

Christmas on Broadway

Where: L’Auditori

When: Friday 20 and Saturday, 21 December 2019

Join the Symphonic Orchestra of Barcelona on a journey through the musicals of Broadway in a fantastic gala show to kick off the festive season in style. With music from works by Rodgers and Hammerstein (2015), Lloyd Webber (2017) and Bernstein (2018), there’s something for everyone.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Where: Gran Teatre del Liceu

When: Saturday, 21 and Sunday, 22 December 2019

Enjoy this Christmas classic surrounded by loved ones. Music by Albert Guinovart together with Symphony Orchestra of the Gran Teatre del Liceu and the Amics de la Unió children’s choir.

Star Wars & OCM: Original Soundtracks by John Williams

Where: El Palau de la Música Catalana

When: Thursday, 19 and Saturday, 21 December 2019

Relive some of John William’s most emblematic soundtracks from the big screen including Star Wars, E.T., Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List. We’re sure that you’ll laugh, cry and be entertained by the favourites of this renowned and prize-winning composer.

Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci

Where: Gran Teatre del Liceu

When: Various dates from 5–22 December 2019

This December enjoy a unique double opera session of two acclaimed Royal Opera House productions. These two Italian classics set in the 1950s will be performed side by side in what is sure to be an epic evening of emblematic opera.

The Magic World of Hans Zimmer

Where: L’Auditori

When: Wednesday, 25 December 2019

What better way to spend the most magical day of the year than enjoying music from some of the most epic films of the century. From The Lion King, Gladiator, Pearl Harbour, Pirates of the Caribbean and many more, bring this special day to a close surrounded by your loved ones.

St. Stephen’s Choral Concert: Christmas at the Palau

Where: El Palau de la Música Catalana

When: Thursday, 26 December 2019

Take part in this festive tradition of Catalonia with this unique concert held every St. Stephen’s Day. The charming melodies of the Orfeó Català and a combination of choirs are sure to bring the whole family together in an enchanting venue.

If you’re spending Christmas season in Barcelona, we’re sure one of these magical Christmas concerts in Barcelona will make for an unforgettable experience with your loved ones.

Where to buy castanyes in Barcelona

October 31, 2019November 10, 2021Natàlia Gibernau

Where to buy castanyes in Barcelona? All over the world, the 31^st of October and the 1^st and 2^nd of November hold special significance for many different people and cultures. From Halloween to All Saints Day, it’s a holiday celebrating by many. And although Halloween is getting more and more popular in Catalonia, the region’s local traditions still hold strong.

A guide to chestnut-roasters in Barcelona

This holiday represents a time for intimate family gatherings, for paying respect to those who are no longer with us and for enjoying age-old traditions and recipes. Known as the holiday of la Castanyada (literally ‘The Festival of Chestnuts”), the first days of November are a special time for all Catalans. If you’d like to read more about the origins of this custom, read our article to discover how this festival came to be what it is today.

At this time of year, the flavours of autumn take on a new meaning in Catalonia and become the protagonist of this holiday. You’ll see how the old and young alike come together to enjoy a range of autumnal treats that we’ll share with you today. Discover them here!

Don’t forget the moniatos

As the cold sets in and the nights become longer, the smell of roasted castanyes (chestnuts) and moniatos (sweet potatoes) fills the streets of Barcelona.

There are around 30 stalls located around the city that sell these roasted delights. Many belong to local chestnut roasters whose task and dedication has been passed down to them over generations.

What’s more, during this season you will also find typical panellets. These sweet, sugary delicacies boast flavours of almond, marzipan and pine nuts, and are one of the most popular treats to be savoured during this holiday season. Discover our recipe with step-by-step instructions for how to make them here.

Where to buy castanyes in Barcelona – the list

We’ve put together this small guide to the chestnut-roasters of Barcelona so you know wher to buy castanyes in Barcelona. Visit these renowned street stalls where you can try roasted moniatos and castanyes until your heart’s content.

Wherever you choose to spend your time in Barcelona, make sure to indulge in the flavours of this holiday and join the locals in celebrating this special festival.

Where to buy castanyes in Eixample

Passeig de Sant Joan, 2
Rambla de Catalunya, 2
Carrer d’Aribau, 2

Where to buy castanyes in Les Corts

Carrer de Déu i Mata, 49
Avinguda Diagonal, 589
Avinguda Diagonal, 668

Where to buy castanyes in Ciutat Vella

Ronda de Sant Pau, 76
Passeig Joan de Borbó, 1
Avinguda de Francesc Cambó, 16

Where to buy castanyes in Sants – Montjuïc

Carrer de Vilà i Vilà, 101
Carrer de Creu Coberta, 24
Plaça de Sants, 1

Where to buy castanyes in Sant Martí

Carrer de Pallars, 63
Rambla del Poblenou, 57
Rambla del Poblenou, 124
Avinguda Diagonal, 26

Where to buy castanyes in Sarrià – Sant Gervasi

Carrer Major de Sarrià, 1
Plaça d’Adrià, 1
Plaça de Joaquim Folguera, 3

Where to buy castanyes in Horta – Guinardó

Carrer del Tajo, 39

We hope you liked this complete guide about where to buy castanyes in Barcelona. Discover the taste of autumn in Barcelona! However you decide to celebrate this upcoming holiday, don’t forget to delight your taste buds while exploring the city.

And if you’re looking a place to stay during your trip, we have a range of exclusive holiday apartments to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

9 Sports Bars in Barcelona

October 18, 2019June 7, 2021Natàlia Gibernau

Looking for sports bars in Barcelona? Barcelona is a city that has it all: history, culture, beach, nature and not to forget, a healthy love for all types of sport. Tourists visit this cosmopolitan hub from all around the world, and many share Barcelona’s passion for its local team. Whether it is football, basketball, athletics or something else you’re after, you’ll find a multitude of sports bars in the city showing both local and international matches, cups and tournaments.

La Pròrroga

So, just because you’re on holiday it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your favourite teams’ matches. Say goodbye to searching for Wi-Fi to check the latest scores and head to one of these lively sports bars in the centre of Barcelona. We’ve selected our best spots for you to stay up to date with the action among a lively crowd!

Also referred to as the sports “bodega”, La Pròrroga bar in Gràcia is a comfortable environment where you can enjoy good food and good sports. Catch the latest football, rugby or basketball game on its 125-inch screen.

C/ de les Guilleries 10

La pròrroga - Sportsbar in Barcelona — Sports Bars in Barcelona – La Pròrroga

Sports Bar Italian Food

The name says it all. Look no further for some of the best homemade pizza and pasta in Barcelona, with great service and at affordable prices. Enjoy the latest matches surrounded by several screens and locals and tourists alike.

c/ Ample 51

sports bar italian food - sports bar barcelona — Sports Bars in Barcelona – Sports Bar Italian Food

L’Ovella Negra Marina

If you’re looking for an animated crowd to cheer along with, L’Ovella Negra is the place to be. Enjoy its several screens, very lively atmosphere and huge barrels of beer to share! Get there early to secure a seat in the front row or to play a game of pool while you wait for the game to start.

C/ Zamora 78

Ovella negra - sports bar barcelona — Sports Bars in Barcelona – L’Ovella Negra Marina

Michael Collins

Like all big cities, Barcelona has its fair share of Irish pubs showing everything from Champions League finals to Wimbledon. Our favourite is Michael Collins located right by the Sagrada Familia. After a tour of this Gaudí icon, slip into its warm, cosy interior and pull up a chair by the big screen.

C/ Plaça de la Sagrada Família, 4

Sports Bar Barcelona - Michael Collins — Sports Bars in Barcelona – Michael Collins

CocoVail

This American-style sports bar with long wooden tables, several screens and a fantastic range of craft beer on tap is located just off Passeig de Gràcia. Its tasty snack menu and selection of board games mean there’s something for everyone!

C/ d’Aragó 284

Cocovail — Sports Bars in Barcelona – CocoVail

Xaica Bar

If you’re really looking for the local experience, head down to Xaica Bar on Carrer de Jovellanos. With an exquisite menu of Catalan dishes and a boisterous crowd of Barça supporters, what’s not to love!

C/ Jovellanos 7

Xaica Bar - Sports bar barcelona — Sports Bars in Barcelona – Xaica Bar

Pasa Tapas

With a pool table, screens and a tasty selection of tapas in La Barceloneta, Pasa Tapas is a popular option to catch the latest games. What’s more, if you want to see a match that you can’t find elsewhere, just let the friendly staff know!

C/ del Dr. Aiguader, 8

Belushi’s Bar

Located a few metres off Plaça Catalunya, Belushi’s Bar with 10 plasma screens shows sport from all around the world. As the bar is part of a hostel, you’ll get the action with English commentary and in a lively, international atmosphere!

C/ de Bergara, 3

Belushis sports bar barcelona — Sports Bars in Barcelona – Belushi’s Bar

Sonora Sport Tavern

The Sonora Sport Tavern is decked out in American style décor, with a wooden bar, vintage signs and sports memorabilia. Located in Poble Nou, it’s a nice alternative outside of the city centre. We recommend its great burgers and nachos washed down with a litre of beer.

C/ de Pamplona, 96

Sonora sports tavern — Sports Bars in Barcelona – Sonora Sport Tavern

So, pull up a stool and join in the chants among the sea of scarves and football shirts. With such a large variety of bars to choose from you can cheer on your team while you soak up the local atmosphere.

Best tapas in Barcelona – Top 10 Tapas Restaurants in Barcelona

February 19, 2019August 27, 2020Natàlia Gibernau

Ready to discover the best tapas in Barcelona? The culinary tradition of tapas is well-known worldwide, and nowhere will you find a more exciting and varied selection of it than in Barcelona. From the traditional Catalan tapas plates like “pa amb tomàquet” and “escalivada”, to classic staples like “patatas bravas”, and exciting modernized fusion plates, going out for tapas in Barcelona has something for every occasion. When wandering through Barcelona, it’s easy to be tempted by the mouth-watering smells that float from every street corner, but to be sure you’re going to the best tapas restaurants in Barcelona, follow our guide below.

Best tapas in Barcelona

Bar del Pla

As the sister restaurant to the well-known Pla restaurant, Bar del Pla gives you all the taste but in a more casual and laid-back setting. With a menu that changes continuously to reflect the season, Bar del Pla use fresh components to make tapas plates that vary from both traditional to experimental. This is also a great place for wine lovers, as they house a huge selection of natural and organic wines, as well as local beers. Tables here can be hard to come by, so if you want a guaranteed seating at one of the best tapas bars in Barcelona, it’s best to book.

Location: Montcada, 2

Blai Tonight and La Tasqueta de Blai

Many tourists make the trip out to Poble Sec to explore the mountain of Montjuic but fail to discover what lies in the streets below. Wander over to Carrer Blai and you will find a street full of some of the best tapas bars in Barcelona that serve mouth-watering bites called “pintxos”. Originating from northern Spain, “pintxos” can be almost anything as long as they’re on a stick. The unique experience involves going up to the counter and selecting anything that takes your fancy. At the end of the meal your sticks are tallied up for your final price. With each “pintxo” coming in at between €1 and €1.85 this can be a great value option.

Blai Tonight is one of the more famous “pintxo” restaurants on the street and it’s obvious to see why when you get there. Slices of bread with indulgent halves of avocado and smoked salmon await, along with a selection of other fish and meat bites. La Tasqueta del Blai is similarly delicious and with a slightly larger variation of options and unique combinations. Try and get to Blai in the early evening so you can grab an outdoor terrace table and people watch as you wash down your “pintxos” with traditional Basque cider.

Blai Tonight Location: Blai, 23

La Tasqueta de Blai Location: Blai, 17

Tickets

If you know anything about the culinary scene in Barcelona, you almost certainly will have heard of Tickets as the best tapas restaurant in Barcelona. Headed up by the famed Catalan chef Albert Adrià, this Michelin star restaurant focuses on a sense of fun as much as the exquisite quality of the food. After being seated in the weird yet wonderful surroundings, you will be presented with a stream of intriguing and experimental tapas plates until you request the waiter to stop. However, getting a table at this famed restaurant is notoriously hard. Bookings open every day for the day three months ahead and often get booked out in minutes – it is, however, possible to try for cancellations on the day of if you’re lucky.

Location: Paraŀlel, 164

Cal Papi

When you’re thinking about where to eat in Barcelona, Barceloneta isn’t always the first place that comes to mind. However, Cal Papi is an excellent choice of tapas restaurant for those looking for something authentic near the beachside. As opposed to some of the other more experimental restaurants on this list, Cal Papi focuses on serving traditional tapas classics, and does it well. Its proximity to the beach means it’s a great place to try out some fresh sea food, especially in the form of fideuà, a traditional Catalan style paella, that makes great use of noodles instead of rice.

Location: l’Atlàntida, 65

Elsa y Fred

The low-level lighting and eclectic but beautiful setting of Elsa y Fred make it the perfect location for romance, or for a meal with a group of old friends. The ambient surrounding is compounded by the stunning taste of the food with a menu that changes seasonally, but often includes the likes of tuna tartar and grilled octopus. And that’s not to mention their “patatas bravas” which are thought by some to be amongst the best in the city.

Location: Rec Comtal, 11

La Bicicleta

Located in the heart of Gràcia, La Bicicleta offers up tasty and inexpensive tapas in a casual and laid-back environment. This is the perfect spot for when you are wondering through this trendy neighbourhood and looking for a bite of cheap and tasty food to fill your stomach. With friendly service and a good atmosphere, this Barcelona tapas restaurant is also the perfect location for your Sunday afternoon “Vermouth” and “bravas” pit stop.

Location: Verdi, 65

Bar Cañete

In the heart of Barcelona’s vibrant Raval district you will find Bar Cañete, one of the city’s better known tapas bars. For an authentic Barcelona tapas experience, head to the “Barra” section of the restaurant. Instead of being seated at a table, like in the “Mantel” portion, you will stand at the bar or if you’re lucky get a stool from which to consume your gourmet tapas. From this area diners can watch as the chefs create their food and the barmen hurry round with bottles of Catalan cava and trays of fresh seafood.

Location: Unió, 17

Marcelino1968

The newest addition to the Can Pijaume group of restaurants, founded in 1984 by chef Jose Gandoy, Marcelino1968 offers up some of the most sophisticated tapas in Barcelona. Placed in prime position within Gràcia’s Plaça del Sol, sit on the terrace to enjoy the squares lively atmosphere or inside to enjoy the wonderful ambiance of the restaurant itself. Whatever you do, make sure you order one of their opulent cocktails, exquisitely made by the expert bar tenders, to sip on as you enjoy your tapas at this Barcelona restaurant.

Location: Plaça del Sol, 2

La Flauta

Having been around for over 25 years, La Flauta is a mainstay on the Barcelona tapas scene. Popular with locals, La Flauta has a little something for everyone. As well as being able to order traditional and delicious tapas, La Flauta lives up to its name by offering an elaborate selection of sandwiches, which are literally called “flautas”. Fillings for the sandwiches change throughout the year with market availability, so you can pop in any time to find a fresh new creation to fill your stomach.

Location: Aribau, 23

Make sure your trip to Barcelona is the best it can be by trying out our recommendations for the best tapas in Barcelona and you will see why it is rated as one of the best gastronomical cities in the world.

Do you have more recommendations about the best tapas in Barcelona? Leave your comment below 😉

Discover more restaurants in Barcelona here:

Movies and series set in Barcelona you must watch

January 29, 2019September 7, 2020Natàlia Gibernau

The beautiful backdrop and varied history of Barcelona make it the perfect setting and location for movies and tv series. From serious historical based dramas, to romantic love stories and even comedies, check out our favourite movies and tv series set in Barcelona to get a taste of the beautiful and vibrant city.

Movies set in Barcelona

L’auberge espagnole

Barcelona is an ever-popular place for students doing their Erasmus, or year abroad studies, and L’auberge espagnole perfectly encapsulates that. Based on a French student who finds himself in a house of eclectic international students whilst doing his year abroad in the often-diverse city of Barcelona, this film really highlights the hedonistic side of the city that can be enjoyed. Capturing the Barcelona from a certain period of time, this French-Spanish film is not one to be missed, especially for those who studied in Barcelona themselves as a trip down memory lane.

Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Perhaps the most famous film set in Barcelona, featuring stars Scarlett Johansson, Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem, Vicky Cristina Barcelona follows the journey of two Americans visiting Barcelona for the first time, where they meet and fall for some fiery Spanish characters. As much a love story about people, this film is a love story about Barcelona, showing off the very best of the city.

Todo Sobre mi Madre

Directed by Pedro Almodóvar, one of Spain’s most famous directors, Todo Sobre mi Madre, literally translates as All About My Mother. This Academy Award winning film is able to explore deep and complex issues, such as AIDS, existentialism and transsexuality, through its cinematic prowess, and its setting in Barcelona is perhaps an ode to the city’s often progressive and liberal nature.

Salvador (Puig Antich)

A true story, based on the above named, gives the spectator an insight into the history of Barcelona, during the time of the Franco regime. This is the sad tale of a man who fought for the independence of Catalunya, through anarchist movements and depicts the time he spent on death row as a result. Salvador Puig Antich is still a symbol of independence and a household name in Catalunya, as one of Franco’s last victims.

Pa Negre

Another sad film depicting life in Catalunya in the times of Franco, Pa Negre, meaning black bread, is the story of a young boy who lives in the Catalan country-side in the harsh post-war times. An emotional tale, that explores the intricacies of human nature, as well as the history of Catalunya and Spain, this is a must watch for those for those interested in politics and history.

Cheetah Girls 2

For anyone who was into Disney as a child this movie might ring a bell. A talented teen quartet, led up by Raven-Symoné, move to Barcelona to follow their dreams of pop superstardom. A light film featuring musical numbers and suitable for children, Cheetah Girls 2 highlights some of Barcelona’s most famous sites as they explore all the city has to offer. In fact, as the cast and crew were looking for some luxurious accommodation to stay in during filming, they chose to stay in some of bizFlats finest apartments, as the best base to relax and have access to the city.

TV Series set in Barcelona

La Catedral del Mar

For those interested in history, La Catedral del Mar (Cathedral of the Sea) takes the viewer back to medieval Barcelona, and is the tale of the construction of Santa Maria del Mar, which still stands. Set in Barcelona, the series follows the life of Arnau Estanyol, the son of a fugitive serf and one of the cathedral’s stone workers.

Where to watch: Netflix (outside Spain), Antena 3

Cites

A light comedy-drama, Cites (an adaptation of the UK series Dates) shows what contemporary life in the city of Barcelona is like for young adults, searching for love and companionship. Following the experiences of 24 different strangers who met on the internet and then meet face-to-face, Cites cleverly intertwines the lives of these strangers to create a compelling drama focusing on the ups and downs of human relationships and the struggle of looking for love in the modern age.The characters visit a great selection of venues such as parks, restaurants and bars which any visitor can find in the city.

Where to watch: TV3, Amazon Prime Video

Merlí

A good one if you want to practice your Catalan (although don’t worry, it is also possible to find it with subtitles), Merlí has seen international success, with the possibility to even find it on Netflix. Set in a high-school in Barcelona, each episode is themed after a famous philosopher or school of thought, with the series bringing philosophy to the public in an interesting and accessible way.

Where to watch: TV3 (seasons 1-3), Netflix (seasons 1 and 2)

So next time you’re looking for something to watch, why not try out one of these great movies or tv series. It might even help you get inspiration for your next trip to the wonderful city of Barcelona.

Discover the new Mercat de Sant Antoni

January 24, 2019November 24, 2021Natàlia Gibernau

After almost a decade of work and 80 million euros worth of investment, the Mercat de Sant Antoni has finally reopened its doors, much to the excitement of locals. The renovated market, an iconic building within Barcelona, is almost its own small city. It totals an area of 55,388 square metres, which are distributed over five floors, four of which are underground.

This architectural wonder, originally built between 1879 and 1882 by the architect Antoni Rovira i Trias, is entering a new stage of its life under renovators from the architectural firm of Ravetllat Ribas, who have readapted it with a new modern twist. Below we will discuss the exciting developments you can look forward to on your visit to the newest market in Barcelona.

MERCAT DE SANT ANTONI

Mercat de Sant Antoni

Fewer stalls, but larger

The new market will have a total of 235 different establishments, which is slightly less than previously, however, allowing more space in total with widened corridors and store spaces. In the very heart of the market you will now find 52 fresh produce stalls, which will include the likes of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and meats amongst other things. Another 105 non-food market stalls will also be located in the interior, in the outer section, while the Sunday book market will be located fully outdoors.

You can also look forward to long visiting hours with the fresh produce market open from Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm, the non-food market on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 8am to 8.30pm, and the Sunday book market – as indicated –open on Sundays.

Retractable canopies for Sunday

The famous Sunday market will be a permanent home for booksellers, selling books, postcards, stamps and trinkets alike. Running along the outer perimeters of the market, you will be able to find 78 stalls under their new modern retractable canopies, installed in the revamp to replace the old awnings.

New Tenants

Perhaps two of the most exciting features to come from the renovation are the new supermarket and gym that are now installed in the market’s basement floors.

The supermarket chain Lidl has announced its plans to make this new branch of their store the most emblematic in Barcelona. Located on the first underground floor of the market, the new store is spacious coming in at an area of 1300 square metres. The store is also doing its part to be eco-friendly, installing a 5-metre high plant wall at the entrance in a bid to help balance its CO2 footprint. As well as this, they have cleverly installed kinetic flooring, meaning customers help to generate electricity for the store simply by walking around it. The other new tenant, finished around autumn 2018, is a branch of the low cost gym Duet Fit.

The supermarket and gym are a first for this kind of market place, which will be a welcome addition for the neighbourhood.

An outdoor museum

The Mercat de Sant Antoni has always been historically important in Barcelona, having been built on the remnants of the fortress of Sant Antoni, part of the defensive system of the ancient medieval city. Aiming to retain the ancient historical importance of the market, the renovators have left parts of it as an open-air museum. Not only will the medieval wall from the ancient city of Barcelona be on view, but during the renovations parts of the fortress were able to be recovered in surprisingly good condition and will also be on display.

Additionally, you will be able to see the remains of the legendary Roman road Via Augusta, with plans to make it into a new museum space as part of the Museu d’Història de Barcelona.

MERCAT DE SANT ANTONI 2021

For the neighbourhood

One of the main goals when renovating the Mercat de Sant Antoni has been to make sure the space is something that contributes to the neighbourhood. Whilst retaining the beautiful architecture and characteristics of the old market, the new market is a space where the local community can meet to drink, chat, eat and much more.

So, what are you waiting for? Go down and visit the new Mercat de Sant Antoni and experience all it has to offer!