1 day trip to Cadaqués to cherish forever

Natàlia Gibernau

Shall we go on a 1 day trip to Cadaqués? The days are getting warmer and longer and winter is certainly on its way out. With the Easter holidays just around the corner, we’re already thinking about getting out of the city and making the most of the sunshine.

Cadaqués, located in the province of Girona, makes for the perfect springtime day trip from Barcelona. A few hours’ drive away, this picturesque seaside town is one of the Costa Brava’s best-kept secrets.

The endearing fisherman’s village is home to whitewashed houses with periwinkle-blue doors and is lapped by the Mediterranean sea. If you’re planning to visit Cadaqués on your next trip to Barcelona, we’ve put together this small guide to ensure you make the most of your day there!

Day trip to Cadaqués - Day trips from Barcelona - Barcelona Day Trips

Stroll along the seafront promenade

Soak up the tranquility of this Mediterranean village with a pleasant stroll along its seafront.  With each step you’ll spot a new delight, with plenty of opportunities for postcard-perfect photos, small, local restaurants to grab a drink or a snack in the shade, and wooden benches where you can stop and simply take in Cadaqués.

We’d recommend you follow the coastline along to Cala es Ros to enjoy the turquoise waters and escape the crowds. If you feel like walking a bit further, head on to Sa Conca, a secluded, rocky cove often only frequented by locals. 

Explore the historic centre

From the promenade, head into the heart of Cadaqués and exploring its medieval historic centre. Get lost among the narrow cobbled streets adorned with purple and pink bougainvillea. Be sure to head up to the Santa María church, which offers breathtaking views over the bay.

Day trip to Cadaqués

Visit the Casa Museu Dalí

Just outside of Cadaqués is the small village of Portlligat, where Dalí lived for a considerable number of years with his wife, Gala. Their house, which is actually several fishing huts merged together, has been preserved exactly as it was when the couple lived there together. For only 11 euros you can discover this unique museum.

With the great Catalan artist taking much inspiration from this coastline, you’ll spot his influence everywhere and see just why he fell in love with what he called the most beautiful part of the world.

Day trip to Cadaqués - Museo Dalí

Try the local food – Day trip to Cadaqués

A trip to Cadaqués would not be complete without sampling the local food. Grilled fish freshly caught that morning is a specialty, with lobster and prawns, sea urchins and fish stews being the protagonists of most menus. You also can’t leave without trying the local black rice dishes or a simple breakfast overlooking the turquoise waters.

Where to eat in Cadaqués

Getting there – Day Trip to Cadaqués

Don’t be put off by Cadaqués being that little bit harder to reach. Its secluded location nestled among the mountains has been a blessing, with fewer tourists than other coastal resorts.

If you have a hire car, bear in mind that parking in Cadaqués can be difficult. Follow the winding road from Barcelona and you’ll find a parking lot on the outskirts of the village, but get there early to secure a spot. The journey takes around two and a half hours.

There’s also a bus from Barcelona’s Estació Nord with tickets costing around 25 euros one-way. 

Cadaqués is authentic beauty and one of the most stunning towns in Catalonia. If you come to Barcelona, ​​you can’t miss spending a day trip to Cadaqués.

We hope you enjoy your day trip to Cadaqués! Let us know what you discover!

Also check here other interesting day trip guides:

5 Medieval villages in the Empordà 
A day out in Sitges
 Day Trip to Montserrat
Day Trip to Dalí Museum from Barcelona
La Roca Village shopping day trip from Barcelona

Bomb Shelters in Barcelona: Complete guide

Natàlia Gibernau

Bomb shelters in Barcelona? Yes, almost 82 years on, you’d never know that Barcelona was once the target of repeated and systematic airstrikes during the Spanish Civil War. 

It’s 16 March, 1938, and 41 hours of non-stop bombing is about to be unleashed on the city. Over three days, there were 670 deaths and 1,200 wounded during the Bombing of Barcelona by the Italian Aviazione Legionaria Italiana, upon the orders of General Franco and Mussolini. 

With attacks every three hours, the panic and terror was real. Luckily, over 1,400 bomb shelters were constructed in the city primarily by Barcelona’s very own citizens. Men were tasked with the construction, whilst women and children excavated the labyrinth of underground tunnels.

Despite over thousands of air-raid shelters being built, still many of Barcelona’s population struggled to find shelter. In these cases, the metro tunnels and stations were also used as makeshift shelters, with the station at Universitat being an example of this. 

We propose an alternative route that is often overlooked by tourists and locals. If you’re looking for route that will open your eyes to Barcelona’s history, this is it!

Refugi 307

One of the largest and most fascinating shelters in the city, Refugi (Shelter) 307 is located at the foot of Montjuïc mountain. It was the neighbourhood of Poble Sec that was one of the city’s most badly affected areas.

Get ready to discover over 400 metres of narrow tunnels with space for up to 2,000 people, plus a kitchen, bathroom facilities and even a pharmacy.

There are guided visits ever Sunday morning at 10.30 in English, 11.30 in Spanish and 12.30 in Catalan. Tickets are €3.50 and prior booking here is necessary.

Bomb shelters in Barcelona - Refugi 307
Refugi 307 – Bomb shelters in Barcelona

Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 175

Refugi Antiaeri de la Plaça del Diamant

Around 90 shelters were built in the neighbourhood of Gràcia, with the Plaça del Diamant Air-raid Shelter being the most well known, with 250 metres of tunnels and capacity for around 200 people. 

It was discovered in 1992 during the construction of a power station in the square, thanks to which it was restored and opened to the public in 2006. 

Guided visits include a tour of the underground shelter with actors playing the roles of locals seeking shelter in order to survive the bombing. Visits in Spanish and English (upon request) are every second Sunday of the month and can be booked here. 

Plaça del Diamant

Bomb shelters in Barcelona - Plaça del Diamant
Bomb shelters in Barcelona – Plaça del Diamant

Refugi del Palau de les Heures

Despite being the smallest air-raid shelter on our tour, this one is, without a doubt, the best preserved. Discover its 40 metres of tunnels lit by the same lights that were used over 80 years ago, thanks to its restored electrics system.

Located at this stunning palace in the north of the city, the shelter was constructed specifically to protect the then President of the Government of Catalonia, Lluís Companys. Visits can be arranged by contacting the University of Barcelona, the current owners of the building. 

Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron, 171

Bomb shelters in Barcelona - Palau de les Heures
Bomb shelters in Barcelona – Palau de les Heures

An additional tip to complete the tour: One of the most devastating events during the attack was when a bomb was dropped on the corner of the streets Balmes and Gran Vía, hitting a truck filled with TNT. Today, you can visit a cross in the place where it fell in memory of those killed and wounded during these days that Barcelona will never forget. 

Let yourself be amazed by these never-ending underground tunnels beneath the streets of Barcelona.

Barcelona is replete with history, don’t miss it on your next visit!

The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Looking for the best vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona? Whether you’re a supporter of veganuary or a long-time vegan or vegetarian, or simply a lover of everything nutritious and green, Barcelona has a plethora of options for you.

We’ve compiled a list of Barcelona’s best veggie spots where you can care for your body inside and out. 

Our favourite Vegetarian Restaurants in Barcelona

vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona
Flax & Kale – Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Barcelona

The Green Spot – Carrer de la Reina Cristina, 12

Located in the neighbourhood of La Barceloneta, the interior design of this vegetarian restaurant is almost as beautiful as its imaginative dishes. Boasting creative and fusion cuisine that will make even a non-vegetarian’s mouth water, everything is made with fresh and natural ingredients. 

Teresa Carles – Carrer de Jovellanos, 2

It is no wonder that the Teresa Carles restaurant is one of the most popular veggie spots in the cultural hub that is Barcelona. Be prepared to be blown away by contemporary, innovative dishes that take inspiration from Catalan cuisine. We think it will completely change the way you think about the plant-based approach.

Flax & Kale – Carrer dels Tallers, 74b

Just around the corner from Teresa Carles is its sister restaurant, Flax & Kale. Created with the same innovative spirit, this flexitarian restaurant offers something for everyone. Think raw food, super food, gluten-free and vegan. Drop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner or grab a freshly squeezed juice to take away – you won’t regret it.

Sésamo  – Carrer de Sant Antoni Abat, 52

This quaint and cosy vegetarian restaurant is located in the up-and-coming neighbourhood of Sant Antoni. Although the menu is not that extensive, you’ll find roasted vegetables, stuffed pasta and homemade desserts. We’d recommend booking a table to avoid disappointment.

Veggie Garden – Carrer dels Àngels, 3 and Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 60

This vibrant and colourful space is perfect for those on a budget and with a hearty appetite. The daily set menu is extremely affordable and boasts delicious Indian- and Nepalese-inspired options, including dahl, thalis, curries and spiced vegetable dishes. Tuck in!

L’Hortet – Carrer del Pintor Fortuny, 32

A family-run restaurant located in the area of Raval, l’Hortet offers a feast for body and soul. The restaurant opens only at lunchtime during the week and for dinner on Fridays and Saturdays. Get there early to enjoy their delicious daily three-course set menu, with hearty vegetarian creations–from veggie meatballs, soups and stews–and a colourful salad bar. What’s not to love?

Café Camelia – Carrer de Verdi, 79

This light-filled café-come-restaurant serves vegetarian and vegan delights all day long. Choose from curries, burgers, a range of tasty snacks and sweet treats. Located in the quaint neighbourhood of Gracia, Café Camelia is a cosy spot to enjoy a peaceful coffee or tasty meal after a long day sightseeing. 

We hope you enjoy this selection of colourful, innovative vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona 😉

More Barcelona restaurants you will love

8 Best viewpoints in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Looking for best viewpoints in Barcelona? Barcelona is a beautiful city that is full of many interesting and peculiar sights, but one of the best ways to see Barcelona and truly be able to appreciate it is from above. Here we’ve compiled a list of the eight best viewpoints in Barcelona, so you can truly appreciate this wonderous and vibrant city in all its glory, taking in its unique skyline.

Best viewpoints in Barcelona

Mirador d’Horta

On the road from Cerdanyola to Horta, you will find this little observation deck with a sweeping view of the city to the left, and the district of Horta right in front spreading all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. One of the quirkiest features of this dazzling spot, and one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona, is a little wooden swing – if you get the angle just right you can take an original looking picture where it looks like you’re swinging out over the whole city.

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador d'Horta - Viewpoint Barcelona
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador d’Horta

Mirador de Colom

You may have seen the giant Columbus Monument that stands proudly at the end of La Rambla, but did you know you can actually go up it? Built in 1888 in tribute to Christopher Columbus, the column houses a lift that will take you up 51 metres to the top for just €5.40. Based on the columns positioning, you will get a unique view of the city, with the mountain of Montjuïc to one side, the Olympic Marina to the other, and the bustling craziness of La Rambla and the Gothic quarter behind you.

Mirador de Colom - Barcelona viewpoints
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador de Colom

Mirador de Sarrià 

Collserolla park, the natural beautiful hilly park that surrounds Barcelona is an area you should visit if you want to get away from the city for a breath of fresh air. It is at the gateway to this park that you will find Mirador de Sarrià, for a spectacular view of the sprawling metropolis framed by nature. About 250 metres high, this viewpoint takes a little walking but there is also the option to take a cable car up to enjoy the view. Once you are up there it is worth exploring the rest of the natural park as well for a nice day trip without leaving the city.

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador de Sarrià
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador de Sarrià

Mirador Torre de Collserola

If you’ve ever looked up toward the magical site of the Cathedral that sits at the top of Tibidabo, there is no doubt you have also seen the telecommunications tower that stands just to the side of it. The tower stands at 288 metres tall, making it the highest structure in the city. That combined with the fact that it’s high up on a hill above Barcelona, you can just imagine the kind of views it provides. Climb to the tenth floor to reach the observation deck where you can enjoy these spectacular views for just €5.60. 

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador Torre de Collserola
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Torre de Collserola

Mirador Turó de la Rovira

More commonly known as Bunkers del Carmel and known to be one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona, this is a fantastic viewpoint of the city to go and relax with some drinks and snacks. A beautiful vista of the city laid out in front of you, the relaxed atmosphere here, where you may find yourself surrounded by locals, is the perfect spot for a date – as long as they’re not put off by the short climb. Mirador Turó de la Rovira is also not a place short of history as it contains the remains of an anti-aircraft bunker that was used to defend Barcelona from air attacks during the Spanish Civil War, as well as the remains of a shantytown, that was closed in 1990.

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador Tuó de la Rovira - Búnkers del Carmel
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Turó de la Rovira or Bunkers del Carmel

Mirador from the Castle of Montjuïc

An old military fortress that stands atop Montjuïc mountain, with roots dating as far back as 1640, the view from the top is almost as spectacular as the location itself. Some 173 metres above sea level, from here you can see the city and sea stretching in front of you in all its glory. If you don’t fancy the climb up the hill, don’t worry as there are fun cable cars you can get to the top.

best viewpoints in Barcelona - Mirador Montjuïc Castle
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Castle of Montjuïc

Mirador at Las Arenas

Located in Plaça Espanya, you will find Las Arenas shopping mall, its unique round structure because of its former incarnation as a bull fighting arena. Rather than just shopping here, the mall also has an option to take a lift up to the roof for an interesting 360-degree view of Barcelona. If you want a more relaxed visit you can visit the first floor of the viewpoint which hosts a number of bars and restaurants, which allow you to enjoy the view while having a drink or even dinner. 

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador las arenas
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Las Arenas

Mirador at Jardins de Miramar

Another viewpoint that stands atop Montjuïc is the Jardins de Miramar. From here you can see all of the city sights starting with the neighborhood of Poble Sec located just below the mountain and then spreading all the way to the outer edges of the city. This spot can be especially nice at sunset on a clear day when the setting sun casts a golden hue over the city. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, why not stop off at Terraza Martínez, a trendy Mediterranean restaurant that’s the perfect location for lunch or a drink with a view. 

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador Jardins de Miramar
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Jardins de Miramar

Whatever it is you’re looking for, be it a viewpoint set in a beautiful natural setting, or a place to relax with a drink and take in the beautiful city, with our list of the best viewpoints in Barcelona, you can be sure to have an amazing experience. 

First Dip of the Year in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Let’s go for the first dip of the year! What better way to welcome in the New Year than a bracing dip in the Mediterranean? Since 1996, hundreds of bold bathers have flocked to Platja de Sant Sebastià for the first dip of the year (Primer Bany de l’Any). Why not join these brave souls on January 1st 2017 at midday as they charge into the sea, clad in only their swimming costumes and the occasional Santa hat?!

The event, organised by el Club Natació Atlètic-Barceloneta, is totally free and is a sure-fire way to rid your cobwebs from the night before! And, if the prospect of an icy dip is a little daunting, you can register at the club´s reception prior to the event for a hot shower afterwards. This is a brilliant affair and a far better alternative to a day spent hibernating under the duvet, cradling a packet of Alka-Seltzer to nurse your hangover.

Whilst not for the faint-hearted (medically speaking), proponents of icy dips claim that the health benefits are numerous. Swimming in cold water can help your immune system, improve libido and boost circulation. Some even claim to experience a natural high so surely that´s reason enough to tempt you!

first-dip-of-the-year-in-barcelona

  • Join Europe´s Popular New Year´s Day Tradition

By taking part in Barcelona´s Primer Bany de l’Any, you’ll join the tradition of thousands of people who mark the start of the New Year with a dip in the sea, rivers or lakes and, with an average water temperature of 13 degrees in January, Barcelona provides a comparatively gentle winter bathing experience!

For over 30 years, bathers have braved the freezing waters off Barry Island (Wales) for a New Year´s Day swim and in Edinburgh (Scotland), locals take part in the Loony Dook –  an icy plunge into the River Forth where the water is decidedly chilly! Similarly, in Rzeszów (Poland) bathers refuse to be deterred by the bitingly cold waters year on year.

first-dip-of-the-year-in-barry-island

The Netherlands boasts over 60 locations for a New Year´s Day plunge, and insist there is no better way to start the year. With a whopping 25,000 participants each January, the Dutch are arguably the champions of this watery tradition. The largest scale event is the annual nieuwjaarsduik in Scheveningen which welcomes approximately 10,000 swimmers.

first-dip-of-the-year-in-the-netherlands

So, what are you waiting for?! Get 2020 off to a great start and make this January 1st a day to remember by heading to Barcelona for a New Year’s Day dip!

Christmas Bath in Barcelona - first dip of the year

Where to eat in Barcelona – Our Christmas recommendations

Natàlia Gibernau

If you’re wondering where to eat in Barcelona over the Christmas period in 2019, look no further than our list of places that have wonderful Christmas menus and festive vibes. Here are our best suggestions of where to eat in Barcelona so you can make the most of the festive season with your close friends and family. Check out our list, categorised so you can find the perfect destination:

Where to eat in Barcelona: Trendy restaurants for Christmas

9 Nine

Enjoy their tasty tapas and Catalan fare, or even enjoy one of their tasting menus to get the full foodie experience. Always packed and with an international vibe, you can’t go wrong at 9 Nine.

9 Nine will be closed on December 24, open on December 25, 26 and 31, and January 1 and 6.

New Year’s menu available (€ 45)

Due to its popularity, book in advance for any of these Christmas days.

Address: Carrer València 334

www.facebook.com/pg/Restaurant9Nine

Where to eat in barcelona - 9-nine-restaurante

Ikibana

While Japan and Brazil are miles apart, Ikibana expertly blends both renowned cuisines together to make delicious fusion meals. Think fresh sea food and the best cuts of meat, Ikibana is one of the trendiest places to be. If you’re looking for where to eat in Barcelona on New Year’s Eve, this is the perfect option, as they are hosting a luxurious gala dinner, with tickets starting at €180 a head, where you can truly ring the New Year in in style.

They also will have special christmas menu for the 25th and 26 of December.

Open every day.

Address: Avinguda del Paral·lel 148

www.ikibana.com/parallel

where to eat in barcelona - Ikibana

Mamarosa Beach

If you want to make the most of the late winter Mediterranean sun, why not head over to Mamarosa Beach, with the perfect seaside location. Here you can sit indoors or outdoors to soak up the atmosphere of Barceloneta beach. If you’re looking for where to eat in Barcelona on New Year’s Eve and want something sophisticated, this is an ideal option as it has a special New Year’s Eve menu for just €145 a head, including all the fresh sea food you could want.

Mamarosa is open every day of December.

Address: Passeig del Mare Nostrum 19-21

www.mamarosabeach.com/

Where to eat in barcelona - Mama rosa

El Barceloneta

Another one for the seafood fans, El Barceloneta is where to eat in Barcelona if you want a more laid back al fresco experience by the sea. With its large terrace, rooms especially for groups and its group menus, it’s perfect for big groups of friends or for celebrations where all the family can get together for Christmas.

Open every day, but currently full. If you come to Barcelona next year, make sure you ​​book well in advance 😉

Address: Carrer de l’Escar 22

www.restaurantbarceloneta.com

El barceloneta - barcelona restaurants

Patrón

If you are looking for somewhere a bit different for your company dinner or celebrations with your group of friends, Patrón offers a full and lively evening with live music, cocktails and the possibility of having a private room. As well as this, they offer a special set menu from €58 per person over all the important Christmas dates, as well as special New Year’s Eve menu and party.

Open every day of the year.

Address: Travessera de Gràcia 44

www.patron-restaurant.com

PAtron - Where to eat in barcelona

Mercer

The Mercer has a Trip Advisor certificate of excellence, owing to its wonderful food. Original frescoes of the 12th century serve as a backdrop and their cuisine is dedicated to local products, offering typical traditional Catalan dishes with a careful presentation and a wide selection of wines.

Open on December 24, 25, 26 and 31. During those days they offer a Christmas menu that you can check here https://www.mercerbarcelona.com/es/restaurantes/mercer-restaurante (New Year’s Eve is already full)

For January 1, Mercer will be closed but you can book at their Gastro Bar Le Bouchon, for lunch or dinner.

Address: Carrer dels Lledó, 7

Mercer - Barcelona Restaurant

Restaurants with views

Marea Alta

With stunning views over the Mediterranean Ocean, Marea Alta is where to eat in Barcelona if you want to enjoy some city views as you celebrate the festive period. Here the sea view is complimented with delicious grilled fish. With menus for Christmas Day, Boxing Day (Sant Esteve), and New Year’s Eve, this is the perfect place for celebrations.

Closed on the evening of December 24, January 1 and 6.

Address: Avinguda Drassanes 6-8

www.mareaaltamareabaja.com

marea-alta-- Where to eat in barcelona

Terraza Martinez

Vibrant and eclectic, mixed with delicious Catalan food and views that will leave you dreamy-eyed, Terraza Martinez is where to eat in Barcelona for an exciting night out. With paella the star of its menu, it makes it the perfect place for big groups celebrating Christmas together with festive lights only adding to seasonal atmosphere.

Closed on the evening of December 24 and during the day on December 25. It is open on December 26 and 31 and January 1. Special menu for New Years: €210 including an open bar and party. Children €50.

Address: Carretera de Miramar 38

www.martinezbarcelona.com

Terraza martinez - Recomended Restaurants in Barcelona

Torre de Alta Mar

If you’re looking for a truly unique New Year’s Eve experience, Torre de Alta Mar is where to eat in Barcelona. At the top of the tower that sits by Barceloneta beach, you can enjoy your meal along with 360-degree views of the city. On New Year’s Eve, tickets start from €295 per person but include a full menu with copious drinks, as well as a party atmosphere with music and dancing all night long.

Address: Passeig Joan de Borbó 88

It is closed on December 24, 25 and 26, as well as from January 1 until 6.

www.torredealtamar.com

Torre de alta mar - Where to eat in barcelona

Michelin Starred Restaurants

ABaC

For those foodies who are looking for where to eat in Barcelona over the Christmas period, ABaC is the perfect choice. Headed up by chef Jordi Cruz, the three-star Michelin restaurant offers true luxury with its traditional dishes with an experimental edge and elegant setting up among the hills of Tibidabo.

Closed on January 1. Open on December 24, 25, 26 and 31. It is already full for this year. If you are in Barcelona for next years festivities, make sure you book at least two months in advance.

Address: Plaça J. F. Kennedy / Avinguda del Tibidabo 1

www.abacrestaurant.com

ABAC Barcelona

Xerta Restaurant

With one Michelin star, Xerta Restaurant headed up by chef Fran López is focused on the cuisine of Terres de l’Ebre. This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a place to celebrate Christmas with that special someone.

Opened on December 24, 25, 26 and 31 and January 1. During those days they offer a Christmas menu for €85, except on New Year’s Eve, when they offer a special menu for €180.

Address: Carrer Còrsega 289

www.xertarestaurant.com

So, if you’re looking for where to eat in Barcelona over the Christmas period, why not try one of the above options. Whether you want a lively party atmosphere by the sea or fine-dining in the trendiest neighborhoods of Barcelona, there is something for everyone who is visiting Barcelona at this magical time of the year.

Barcelona gifts: Our Guide to Gifts Made in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Where to find original Barcelona gifts? If you’re planning on doing some last-minute Christmas shopping in Barcelona this holiday season and are looking for unique gift ideas, you’ve come to the right place. 

Finding the right gift year after year can often be a daunting task, so to help you out here’s our guide to special gifts that are designed and made in Barcelona. 

From handmade jewellery, locally designed clothing and children’s toys, Barcelona really has something for those who have everything. And what’s more, by buying locally produced and designed gifts, you’ll be supporting local businesses and helping the environment.

Original Barcelona gifts

OMG BCN, Plaça de la Llana 6 and Carrer Corders, 7

Discover the home of Barcelona-based designers. OMG BCN stocks only products that are inspired by and made by local artists and artisans. From fashion, prints, accessories and home décor, we’re sure that you won’t leave this store empty handed.

Barcelona gifts - Omg barcelona

Frida’s Tierchen, Bateau Lune, Plaça de la Virreina, 7 and Konfetti Kids, Baixada de Viladecols 2

Looking for a unique gift for the youngest members of the family? These hand-crafted dolls, animal costumes and accessories by local designer María Salamanca are perfect for gifts that inspire creativity and imagination. Shop online or find her products in a range of local children’s stores.

Frida's tierchen - barcelona gifts

Meublé, Carrer de Martínez de la Rosa, 34

Meublé opened in 2012 in Gràcia with the aim of restoring antique furniture and items. This now multidisciplinary space is brimming with a range of locally made and designed home items. What’s more, it also offers workshops and exhibition spaces for local artists.

Meublé - Barcelona gifts

Casa Mariol, Carrer Rosselló, 442

Although these gifts are not technically made in Barcelona, Casa Mariol is a wine producer from a small medieval village called Batea in Tarragona. Their store in the Barcelona Eixample district stocks the best organic wine of the Terra Alta Denomination of Origin. Why not drop in to try a glass before you buy!

Barcelona gifts - casa mariol

B de Barcelona, Avinguda de Gaudí, 28

Hand crafted in workshops in Manresa and Parets del Valles using locally sourced materials, the souvenirs you’ll find at B de Barcelona are exquisitely designed and made. Choose from colourful prints of the Sagrada Família, funky mugs, Barcelona-inspired jewellery and much more.

Barcelona gifts- b de barcelona

Colmillo de Morsa, Carrer de Vic, 15 

We’d recommend dropping by Colmillo de Morsa in Gràcia to discover this local “slow” fashion brand that oozes personality. Their showroom, studio and store stocks a varied range of the brand’s collections and boasts exclusive designs and top quality.

Barcelona gifts - colmillo de morsa

Koetània, Carrer de Goya, 8

If you’re looking for something extra special this Christmas, at Koetània artisan jewellers you’ll find locally designed and crafted pieces of jewellery at reasonable prices. Our favourite is their exclusive collection inspired by Barcino– the Roman name for Barcelona. 

Barcelona gifts -Koetània

Tiny Cottons, Passeig del Born, 7 and Via Augusta, 25

This beautiful and brightly coloured clothing for babies and children comes in fun and exciting prints. Renowned internationally for its fresh designs, at Tiny Cottons their motto is to be the go-to brand for grandparents due to the great quality of their collections.

Barcelona gifts - tiny cottons

Barcelona really has something for everyone; so whoever you are buying for, we hope this guide comes in handy.  So put a smile on your loved one’s faces this year with unique Barcelona gifts.

Happy shopping!

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Are you planning on spending the New Year in Barcelona and looking for a special way to ring in the next year? Then look no further; we’ve compiled a list of the best parties for you to celebrate the night away with your partner, friends or family.

For locals, the celebration starts at home with a family meal and the traditional eating of 12 grapes at midnight, before hitting the town. However, we’ve selected a range of events starting before and after midnight at restaurants, bars and clubs so you can find the best event for you.

So what are you waiting for, start planning a New Year you’ll never forget in the centre Barcelona!

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

Fireworks: Plaça Espanya, Av. María Cristina

Unlike other cosmopolitan cities, it was only in 2013 that the tradition of an official outdoor New Year’s event began in Barcelona. Now locals and visitors alike can wrap up and get together to be awed by a fantastic performance of fireworks and music! This family-friendly celebration is free and starts at 9.30 pm. 

Sutton: C/ Tuset, 13

Looking to spend the New Year in style? Then we have the place for you! With tickets starting from €50 (including 3 drinks) and VIP tables starting from €1,000, this New Year’s Eve the exclusive nightclub venue plays host to DJs and artists such as Juanpa Claret, Gerard Roig and Xavi Ques. 

Bling Bling: C/ Tuset, 8–10

One of the city’s most exclusive nightclubs offers you an unforgettable evening starting at 1 am. With a selection of DJs, the option of VIP tables and the best music, ring in the bells with your loved ones at home then get the party started. We’re sure you’ll dance the night away.

Gatsby: C/ Tuset, 19

This themed restaurant come nightclub will take you back to the 1920s. Enjoy an exquisite menu of local and international dishes plus nightlong entertainment with singers, dancers and much more. After dinner, grab a cocktail and hit the dance floor. This luxury space won’t disappoint!

Sala Apolo: C/ Nou de la Rambla, 107

From 01:00 to 05:30 you’ll have access to two exclusive events held at one of Barcelona’s most renowned nightclubs, with over 75 years of clubbing tradition. In the main room, enjoy Nitsa live electronic beats from Shelby Grey, DJ Kosmos and more. In room 2 or “La 2” discover Astin, Nitsa’s house and disco alternative. Early Bird tickets are only €25 – what are you waiting for!

Razzmatazz: C/ dels Almogàvers, 122

With five different rooms, Razzmatazz really does have something for everyone. Choose from two ticket types, with entry either from 22:30 or after midnight, including two drinks and a special edition T-shirt – plus grapes, party favours and cava if you choose to see in the New Year there. Tickets cost €54.50 or €44.50 respectively.

Pacha: Passeig Marítim Barceloneta, 38

Head to the Barcelona seafront to party the night away at Pacha, with a selection of Europe’s most famous DJs. As well as being a nightclub, the Pacha restaurant also offers a dinner right by the sea and includes entry to the club to the exclusive New Year party.

Poble Espanyol
Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13

Starting at 10.30 pm, discover a traditional Spanish street party in the centre of Barcelona at the Poble Espanyol. A standard ticket costing €40 (until December 26) will grant you access to three different outdoor spaces. Grab a VIP table with your friends and loved ones starting from €120. Tickets include four drinks, grapes and party favours.

Catwalk
Carrer de Ramon Trias Fargas, 2–4

Catwalk boasts the best of R&B and hip-hop music in an exclusive space located on the seafront. With a range of tickets starting from €30 right up to €3,500, enjoy three rooms, neon lights and an outdoor terrace.

Wherever you choose to celebrate the end of the year, we hope you have a blast!