Barcelona - Beyond the Basics
It is so wonderful to re-visit a city, especially one you love. I recently returned to Barcelona for the third time, and was able to dive so much deeper into the character and spirit of the city.
I have covered most of the major, must-see tourist attractions in my first blog on Barcelona, which you can find here. Keep in mind I wrote that article in 2018, so some logistical information may have changed.
Streets scenes
On this trip, I really took advantage of the wonderful and varied (and vegan and vegetarian-friendly) restaurants Barcelona has to offer.
The first place which was new to me, but which is very popular across Barcelona these days is Honest Greens. They have many locations, but I stopped into the one near Plaça de Catalunya after I got off the Aerobús from the airport. While it is kind of hectic vibes inside, because of the many people stopping in, it was a delicious meal and a good place to rest and gather myself after my trip in. They have many plant-based options (including their desserts!) and I definitely recommend.
The fresh juice bar at Honest Greens - completely refreshing!
Totally by accident one day, I was walking down La Rambla and I wandered into La Boqueria market. It is of course fascinating to walk around, to see the vibrant colors of fresh juices and various products from chocolates and candies to empanadas, fresh fish, meats, and more. Some stalls are obviously more catered to tourists (and quite pricier than others). I recommend heading away from the main entrance back towards Plaça de Sant Josep to find the places off the beaten path.
The famed entrance to La Boqueria
I was very happy to discover Espai Diandé Africa and have a taste of Senegal in the heart of Barcelona. I had a Senegalese coffee, the warmly-spiced café touba, as well as some fried plaintains. All delicious and a warm atmosphere - make sure to ask Mamadou to put on some Senegalese music :)
La Central del Ravel
My friend introduced me to the great coffee and café culture of Barcelona. I only scratched the surface, but we checked out Frizzant, which also doubles as a yoga studio. I also tasted a great flat white and brownie at Dalston Coffee, where you can also purchase select coffee beans selected from around the world on my way to La Central del Raval, a fabulous bookstore that also has a lovely garden café. Unfortunately though, I must say here that it was on this street (outside Plaça de Vicenç Mortorell) that I was pickpocketed. It all turned out okay in the end, and I know that these things can happen anywhere, however, it never hurts to be reminded to be mindful of your things! (and many people had told me to keep in eye out).
Having already checked off many of the main sights on my previous trips, I was super happy to discover more hidden treasures scattered around the city. I visited Casa Vicens, the first house to be built by the Modernist architect Antoni Gaudí. The house is intricate, beautiful, and wildly imaginative. At the time it was built, it was on the outskirts of Barcelona, while today it is just a bit outside the tourist center of the city. I recommend booking tickets ahead of time - and make sure you listen to the included audioguide which gives wonderful insight into the history of the home. If you arrive early for your timed entrance, make a note of nearby café to have a classic bocadillo (sandwich) or pastry.
Casa Vicens
Falafel from Lazeez
After my visit to Casa Vicens, I headed down the street to Lazeez, a Lebanese restaurant where I immediately felt right at home. I can’t speak highly enough of this place: the food was delicious, the seating comfortable with couches and pillows lining the walls, and the kind staff happy to accomodate with several vegan and vegetarian options. It was an amazing experience and I hope to return on my next trip to Barcelona.
On my last day, I decided to take it easy and spent the morning in MACBA - the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona. It is a beautiful museum with art and exhibitions from the 20th century. Attention because outside the entrance has been turned into a de facto skate part. Your ticket is valid for one month from when you visit so you can come back if there is something you want to contemplate deeper. Afterwards I stopped into the local pub La Masia, where as the regulars watched a football match, I had a draft beer and a lovely chat with the proprietor. She is the third generation of this family business. Ask what local dishes they have cooking that day and enjoy the atmosphere.
View of Montjuïc from Las Arenas de Barcelona
One more highlight of this trip was trying my first orxata (horchata)! I curiously stepped into Orxateria La Valenciana not knowing what to expect, but from the first sip I was hooked! A drink made surprisingly from a type of nut, I found it sweet and refreshing.
My general advice for Barcelona? Enjoy! And go with the flow. Many places often close in the late afternoon, so be prepared for that. Book tickets ahead of time for the places that need it, and leave time to wander around and discover the little places that you won’t find on the internet.
It was such a pleasure to dive deeper into Barcelona, and I already have a list started with what to check out for next time!
More whimsy at Casa Vicens
So much love and thanks to my friend Camila, who hosted me on my trip to Barcelona and who shared many of her favorite recommendations with me!
Cover photo taken along La Rambla.
