The city of Gaudí, with the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, the Passeig de Gràcia for luxury brands, the city beach and port, the FC Barcelona museum that young people love, and refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Chapter One
A Roman town (Barcino) that Muslims entered around 717 CE and held until the Franks took it in 801 CE. It became a frontier post of the Frankish Spanish March, then the seat of the counts of Barcelona and a maritime base of the Crown of Aragon. Today it is the capital of Catalonia and the centre of Catalan “Modernisme”.
Figures of Barcelona
Antoni Gaudí
An architect born in Reus who worked in Barcelona, whose works there are on the World Heritage list: the Sagrada Familia church, Casa Batlló and Park Güell.
Lluís Domènech i Montaner
A Barcelona architect and a leading figure of Modernisme; his works include the Palau de la Música Catalana and the Hospital de Sant Pau, both on the World Heritage list.
Pablo Picasso
He lived and studied in Barcelona during his early artistic years; the Picasso Museum Barcelona in the Barri Gòtic holds the most important collection of his early works.
Joan Miró
A Surrealist artist born in Barcelona; the Fundació Joan Miró on Montjuïc displays his works.
Chapter Two
5 hour-by-hour day plans and 4 walking routes I drew myself in Barcelona, with the places to pray and eat where I marked them.
Chapter Three
300 places I chose, arranged in chapters. A gold star marks one of my favourite picks.
The masterpiece of architect Antoni Gaudí and Spain's most famous landmark. Construction began in 1882 and is still being completed; its carved facades, forest of columns and stained glass turn its interior into a canvas of light unlike anywhere else.
My tip
Book your ticket from the official website weeks in advance; the morning visit is more beautiful for the light; allow two hours.
A house designed by Gaudí on Passeig de Gràcia, with a facade like dragon scales and balconies like masks; its interior is almost free of straight lines. One of Barcelona's most stunning experiences.
My tip
The Gold ticket is worth the difference (an augmented-reality guide and a Gaudí cube); the evening “Magical Nights” visit is distinctive in summer.
Gaudí's last residential building (1906–1912), with a wavy stone facade like a quarry; its rooftop, with chimneys resembling warriors, is one of the most beautiful views in the city.
My tip
One to one and a half hours is enough; the night rooftop tour is a different experience.
A 17th-century military castle on the summit of Montjuïc, overlooking the port, the sea and the city; the hill itself is a vast park with museums and gardens.
My tip
Go up by the cable car (Telefèric de Montjuïc) and time your visit just before sunset; entry is free on the first Sunday of each month.
One of Europe's best science museums, fully interactive, with a real flooded Amazonian forest inside the building; ideal for families.
My tip
Allow at least half a day; the ticket is inexpensive and children love it.
In the National Palace on Montjuïc, which houses the world's most important collection of Romanesque murals, with panoramic views from its roof.
My tip
End the evening with the magic fountain show below the staircase; closed Monday.
9Reinas
Argentine grill: premium meats cooked over charcoal, and empanadas.
TryPremium Argentinian steak, empanadas
“Generous Argentinian grills in a spacious hall; an excellent choice for meat lovers and groups.”
Booking advised · Smart casual · Suits families and children and friends and groups
Gaudim
Mediterranean cuisine and rice dishes (carabinero prawn paella), croquettes; closed Sundays.
TryCarabineros prawn paella, croquettes
“Excellent rice and paella in a calm setting, among the highest-rated rice restaurants in the city.”
Booking advised · Casual · Suits families and children, couples, business meetings and friends and groups
Shunka
Traditional Japanese restaurant with sushi and the Shunka menu in the Barri Gòtic; closed Mondays, and lunch only on Sundays.
TrySushi, sashimi, Shunka menu
“Authentic Japanese sushi at the bar, one of Barcelona's most consistent Japanese addresses.”
Booking essential · Smart casual · Suits couples and business meetings
El Nacional
Large food hall in an old factory: tapas, grills, fish, shellfish.
TryOysters, grilled fish, grilled beef
“An elegant food market under one roof with several corners, comfortable for families and groups.”
Booking advised · Casual · Suits families and children, couples, business meetings and friends and groups
Botafumeiro
Classic Galician seafood restaurant since 1975: spider crab, octopus, mixed seafood platters.
Signature dishThe royal Galician “Marisqada”: the large seafood platter.
“A classic Galician seafood restaurant for decades, with formal service suited to guests and business banquets.”
Booking advised · Smart casual · Suits families and children, friends and groups and business meetings
Gloria Osteria
Osteria in the Big Mamma group: pizza, truffle pasta and meats.
TryTruffle pasta, pizza, lemon cake
“An Italian restaurant with a cheerful atmosphere, with pasta and pizza loved by adults and children alike.”
Booking advised · Casual · Suits families and children, couples and friends and groups
Gaudí's famous park on the Carmel hill, with its coloured mosaics, undulating bench and famous lizard, overlooking all of Barcelona as far as the sea.
My tip
The Monumental Zone needs a timed ticket, so book in advance; go up by bus or taxi, because the road from the metro is very steep.
The most beautiful hospital ever built in Europe: designed by Domènech i Montaner (1902–1930) as a small city of pavilions clad in coloured tiles and mosaics, linked by underground tunnels, in the belief that beauty and gardens are part of healing. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it received patients until 2009.
What to see
The modernist pavilions clad in ceramic tiles and mosaic · the administrative wing, its dome and its coloured halls · the tunnels that linked the pavilions · the gardens between the buildings · Avinguda Gaudí leading to the Sagrada Família
My tip
Book a ticket on the official website and make your visit in the morning; then take the pedestrian Avinguda Gaudí to reach the Sagrada Família on foot in 10 minutes.
The first house designed by Gaudí (1883–1885), where his clear debt to Mudéjar and Andalusian architecture shows: green and white tiles with marigold flowers, and a smoking room with a muqarnas ceiling in the Islamic style. A key to understanding Gaudí's link to Andalusi art.
What to see
The facade clad in green tiles and carnations · the smoking room with its muqarnas ceiling inspired by Andalusian architecture · the garden and the small waterfall · the roof overlooking Gràcia · an exhibition on the history of the house
My tip
Less crowded than Casa Batlló; book a specific time slot online. The garden café is pleasant for a break.
Remains of Civil War anti-aircraft positions on a hill with the most beautiful 360-degree view of Barcelona and the Sagrada Família.
My tip
Best at sunset; the climb is steep, so take water and comfortable shoes.
The oldest garden in Barcelona (late 18th century), built for the noble Desvalls family in a neoclassical style, with terraces, pools and statues stepping down, and at its heart a maze of clipped cypress trees centred on a statue of Eros. A quiet, romantic corner far from the tourist crowds.
What to see
The cypress maze that children love · the pools, waterfalls and fountains · the small Arabian-style palace at the entrance · the classical temples and statues on the terraces · the quiet, romantic garden
My tip
Entry is for a symbolic charge (free on Wednesday and Sunday), and visitor numbers are limited; the maze is sometimes under maintenance, so check before you go. Metro L3, station Mundet.
A masterpiece of Catalan Gothic, built by sailors and porters with their own hands in just 54 years (1329–1383), so it came out unusually harmonious: slender, widely spaced columns and a spacious interior. It is the “Cathedral of the Sea” that the famous novel made a symbol of La Ribera.
What to see
The spacious central nave and its slender columns · the glass windows, especially the great rose window · the rooftop tour for a view of the quarter · the “Fossar de les Moreres” memorial square · Montcada street and its palaces, and the nearby Picasso Museum Barcelona
My tip
Entry is free at set hours, and going up to the roof with a ticket gives you a view over El Born as far as the Sagrada Família. Continue to the nearby “El Born Centre” on the same tour.
· Cardona
A fortress on a mountain top, founded by Wifred the Hairy in 886 as a line facing the Andalusi Upper March, making it one of the strongest border castles between Catalonia and the Muslims. Beneath it lies the natural “Salt Mountain” that made the town's fortune, and the Romanesque church of Sant Vicenç is one of the purest examples of the 11th century.
What to see
The castle (Parador) and the La Minyona tower, and their views · the Romanesque church of Sant Vicenç inside the fortress · Salt Mountain and its mine, visited in a helmet · the medieval town at its foot
My tip
Visit the salt mine (Muntanya de Sal) on a guided tour in the morning, then the castle; it is 1 hour 20 minutes by car from Barcelona.
· Montserrat
A Benedictine monastery suspended among the jagged rocks of Montserrat at 720 m; the journey up by mountain train or cable car is a sight in itself, the most beautiful day trip from Barcelona.
What to see
The basilica and the Moreneta statue · the rack railway and the cable car climbing to the monastery · the Sant Joan and Santa Cova trains · the Sant Jeroni summit trail (1236m) · the Montserrat Museum · the Escolania boys' choir
My tip
An hour by train from Plaça d'Espanya; the Trans Montserrat ticket covers the train, the rack railway and the funiculars. Go early.
· Vic
Vic is an ancient episcopal city on the Osona plateau. Its great arcaded square is among the widest in Catalonia, and the Tuesday and Saturday market has been held there since the Middle Ages. The city is famous for a rare Roman temple and a cathedral with huge paintings by Sert.
What to see
The great square and its historic Tuesday and Saturday market · the Roman temple discovered inside a palace · the Episcopal Museum, one of the most important Romanesque art collections · the medieval bridge over the Mèder river · the old alleys and their sweets
My tip
Go on Saturday morning for the market; it is one hour by car or by the R3 train from Barcelona.
· Rupit
A medieval stone village on a volcanic rock in the Les Guilleries area, entered by a wooden footbridge suspended over the river; its streets are paved with stone and its balconies decked with flowers. One of the most beautiful villages in Catalonia.
What to see
The hanging wooden bridge at the village entrance · “Fossar” street, cut into the rock as steps · the stone houses and their flowering balconies · the Salt de Sallent waterfall on a short trail · trails in the Collsacabra area
My tip
Cars are banned inside the village; park in the car parks at the entrance. Combine it with the nearby “Salt de Sallent” waterfall trail.
· Santa Coloma de Cervelló
A workers' village built by Eusebi Güell around a textile factory, with “the Laboratory” where Gaudí tested inclined columns and hanging arches that he later applied at the Sagrada Família. The crypt is a World Heritage Site, and the whole modernist village is lovely to stroll through.
What to see
Gaudí's crypt with its tilted columns and coloured windows · the modernist workers' village with its brick houses · the old factory buildings · the interpretation centre explaining Gaudí's hanging model
My tip
Tickets are from the tourist office in the village; avoid Sunday morning when Mass is held. You can combine it with Montserrat on the way back.
Crowning the highest peak in Barcelona (512 m), it bears a bronze statue visible from across the city and was completed in 1961. Its terrace is the highest viewpoint in Barcelona, and at night the city glitters below all the way to the sea.
My tip
Entry to the terrace is free and the lift to the top is a small fee; take the blue tram, then the funicular, and bring a jacket, as the wind is cold in the evening.
· Ciutat Vella (Barcelona)
A zoo inside Ciutadella Park, with elephants, giraffes, gorillas and more than 300 species, plus playgrounds and a farm area for little ones. Easy to reach from the city center.
My tip
Go in the morning before the heat, when the animals are active; allow 3 hours. E-tickets are cheaper. Combine it with a walk in Ciutadella park.
The stronghold of the Barcelona club and Europe's largest stadium; its museum displays the club's trophies and history from Cruyff to Messi, a stop football fans will not want to miss.
My tip
The stadium is being renovated, so check which areas are open on the tour before booking; the club shop is at the end of the route.
The city's most famous beach, with a lively seafront promenade stretching to the W hotel and seafood restaurants along the front.
My tip
Best at sunset for a walk; the far end from the city is quieter.
One of the oldest amusement parks in the world (1901), on the summit of Tibidabo at 512 m; its historic rides overlook Barcelona and the sea.
My tip
Better suited to children than teenagers; ride the inclined train (Funicular) and check the opening days, as they change.
A free show of water, light and music below the National Palace, drawing thousands each evening since the 1929 exhibition.
My tip
The show runs only on certain days and changes seasonally (and sometimes stops to save water); check the council website and arrive half an hour early.
One of the mosques closest to La Rambla and Plaça de Catalunya in El Raval, on two floors and air-conditioned.
My tip
Friday prayer is usually at about 13:30 to 14:30 (it can be delayed to 15:00 in summer); check the mosque before then. It sometimes holds two Friday prayers in summer; women have a prayer room with an entrance that passes beside the men's.
· Barcelona (Raval)
One of the highest-rated halal butcher shops in El Raval: fresh meat, chicken and groceries.
My tip
Open daily until 21:30; El Raval is crowded at night, so it is best to shop by day.
· Barcelona (Raval)
A halal butcher on Rambla del Raval, with fresh meat and chicken at reasonable prices.
My tip
Open daily until 22:00.
· Barcelona (Eixample)
A highly rated halal butcher near the Sagrada Família, selling lamb, beef and chicken, cut to order.
My tip
Sunday 10:30–16:00 only; suitable for residents of Eixample and Gràcia.
· Barcelona (Eixample)
A Syrian supermarket with authentic Levantine products: molokhia, tamarind, fresh knafeh, za'atar, tahini, fresh bread and sesame ka'ak.
My tip
Closed Sundays; open until 23:00 the rest of the days.
· Barcelona (Gràcia)
An Arab supermarket with Levantine and Gulf products and halal meat, with an almost perfect rating.
My tip
Closed Sundays.
A palace in the Barri Gòtic built on the Roman wall of Barcino; its Roman towers and medieval arches are visible inside the hotel itself. Designed by Rafael Moneo, Pritzker Prize winner.
My tip
Look for the Roman tower in the courtyard; the rooftop pool is small but quiet.
· Gavà
The Barcelona branch of Indie Campers is one of its highest-rated (4.5 with over 2400 reviews), an ideal gateway for trips to the Costa Brava, the Pyrenees and southern France.
My tip
It is in Gavà near Barcelona airport; it is open even on Sunday, and older motorhomes are not allowed into Barcelona's low-emission zone, so head straight for the motorway.
A modern five-star hotel in the Les Corts district at the top of Avinguda Diagonal, known for its spacious rooms, outdoor pool and spa.
A historic, luxurious five-star grand hotel opened in 1919 in the heart of the Eixample, combining classic elegance with a rooftop terrace and pool.
A four-star hotel in the Eixample, a few steps from Passeig de Gràcia and Plaça de Catalunya, with a rooftop terrace and a small pool.
A four-star hotel directly above Sants railway station, with a space-inspired design; very practical for high-speed trains.
Barcelona's most crowded pedestrian street, running from Plaça de Catalunya towards the Barri Gòtic, with major Spanish brands and El Corte Inglés.
My tip
Beware of pickpockets here in particular; carry your bag in front of you and avoid the afternoon rush hours.
An elegant shopping centre in the upscale district on Avinguda Diagonal, designed by Rafael Moneo as a horizontal building 330 m long. It brings together Spanish and international brands, with an El Corte Inglés store nearby and a back garden where children play.
My tip
Closed Sunday like the other centres outside the tourist area; a large, comfortable car park for families.
“The Champs-Élysées of Barcelona”: a wide avenue bringing together masterpieces of Catalan modernism (Batlló and La Pedrera) with the most prestigious international fashion houses.
My tip
Walk up from Plaça de Catalunya to Diagonal; the luxury shops are at the upper end.
· Santa Agnès de Malanyanes
An open-air outlet village with more than 150 shops for international and Spanish brands at discounted prices, designed in the style of Catalan villages.
My tip
It is 40 minutes away; take the Shopping Express bus from the city centre, and ask for the tax refund service and the “hands-free shopping” service.
Spain's most famous food market, on La Rambla since the 13th century: fruit, juices, fish, nuts and sweets in dazzling colours.
My tip
Closed Sunday and Monday; go in the morning before the crowds, and keep an eye on your wallet.
The largest department store in central Barcelona: fashion, perfumes and luxury brands; on the top floor, restaurants overlook the square.
My tip
Usually closed on Sunday; the tourist desk offers a discount and handles tax refunds.
· Torrelles de Llobregat
An organised private barbecue site in the hills of Torrelles de Llobregat, 20 minutes from Barcelona: barbecues, charcoal and tables for hire, with toilets and a snack bar. A practical solution for anyone who wants a family barbecue legally close to the city.
My tip
Book in advance online; each barbecue comes with 2 bags of charcoal, and a waste deposit is required. In Catalonia, the use of fire in forests is restricted from 15 March to 15 October, and licensed barbecues on private sites are closed on high-risk days (Pla Alfa); in general, barbecues are banned in many provinces from about 15 May to 15 October, so check the forest fire rules for the region before you go.
· Barcelona (La Ribera)
A long square in La Ribera that was the jousting and festival ground of medieval Barcelona, stretching from the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar to the old Born market, which reveals the ruins of the neighbourhood demolished after the 1714 siege. Today it is a promenade of cafés and sweet shops.
My tip
Combine the visit with the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar and the El Born Cultural Centre (1714 ruins); the quarter tends to be lively late at night.
· Gualba (Montseny)
A private picnic and barbecue site in Gualba, at the foot of the Montseny Natural Park (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), among shady trees beside a stream. It provides barbecues, washing facilities and toilets, so all you need is the food.
My tip
Open Saturday and Sunday only; take mosquito repellent if you sit near the water. In Catalonia, the use of fire in forests is restricted from 15 March to 15 October, and licensed barbecues on private sites are closed on high-risk days (Pla Alfa); in general, barbecues are banned in many provinces from about 15 May to 15 October, so check the forest fire rules for the region before you go.
· Montseny
A public recreation area on old agricultural terraces of the Vilar farm in the heart of Montseny, between the village of La Costa and Fontmartina. Level paths suit children and adults, with drinking water and toilets. For picnics with ready food, not barbecues.
My tip
It is most beautiful in autumn, with the beech colours; there are few tables, so bring a rug. In Catalonia, the use of fire in forests is restricted from 15 March to 15 October, and licensed barbecues on private sites are closed on high-risk days (Pla Alfa); in general, barbecues are banned in many provinces from about 15 May to 15 October, so check the forest fire rules for the region before you go.
Roman-Andalusian style baths in a historic warehouse near Ciutadella Park, with cold, warm and hot pools, a salt pool for floating and a jacuzzi. A sensory experience with candlelight and total silence.
My tip
Book a few days ahead and confirm before the appointment; sessions are mixed, in swimwear, and ask about private experiences or exclusive booking for privacy.
A spa on floors 42 and 43 of the Hotel Arts tower (Ritz-Carlton), with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. It offers treatment rooms the size of suites, each with a private bathroom.
My tip
Book the “private spa” with jacuzzi, sauna and steam room for exclusive use; it is an excellent choice for couples or for women who want complete privacy.
· Ciutat Vella
The historic core of Barcelona, built over the Roman city of Barcino, with narrow stone lanes and a Gothic cathedral. Plaça de Sant Jaume, here, has been the seat of the Catalan government and the city hall for two thousand years. It is the ideal place to understand Barcelona's history on foot.
What to see
Barcelona Cathedral · Sant Jaume square · the Royal Square · the columns of the Temple of Augustus · Carrer del Bisbe · the MUHBA Barcelona history museum
My tip
Best time: early morning, before the crowds. Halal Pakistani and Turkish restaurants are nearby, on the edge of El Raval and on Carrer de Ferran. Pickpocketing is very active here, especially near La Rambla and in the crowded alleys.
· Eixample
Barcelona's modern extension, planned by Cerdà on a grid of blocks with chamfered corners. It is an open-air museum of modernist architecture. Passeig de Gràcia gathers the works of Gaudí and global fashion houses, and it is also home to the Sagrada Família, Spain's most famous landmark.
What to see
Casa Batlló · La Pedrera (Casa Milà) · the Sagrada Família · the Manzana de la Discordia · Passeig de Gràcia for luxury shopping · the modernist Sant Pau hospital
My tip
Best time: book Gaudí in advance and visit in the morning; shop in the afternoon. Upscale and varied restaurants, and Lebanese and Turkish restaurants in the neighbourhood. Safe and upscale, but with pickpocketing on the metro and near the Sagrada Família.
One of Europe's oldest sports clubs, hosting the CSIO Barcelona tournament and the Nations Cup show-jumping final. It has more than 40 tennis courts, hockey pitches and a huge equestrian arena in Les Corts.
My tip
The club is for members, but the international show-jumping tournament (usually late September or October) is open to the public and is a refined social experience. Riding lessons for non-members are limited, so ask in advance.
· El Prat de Llobregat
A long-established tennis and padel academy (the former site of the Sánchez-Casal Academy) that produced world champions, next to Barcelona airport. Full facilities, including courts, a gym and a pool, with indoor and outdoor programmes.
My tip
Weekly programmes for children and adults, on a day or residential basis with accommodation; very close to the airport, so suitable for short visits. Book early for the summer and Easter seasons.
· Terrassa
A long-established royal club near Barcelona that hosted the Spanish Open, with its “Pink” and “Yellow” courses designed by Greg Norman. Luxurious facilities and changing rooms with saunas.
My tip
Visitors are accepted with advance booking; the pink course is the most distinctive and the most difficult. Equipment is available for rent. Make sure there is an open restaurant after the round.
The Barcelona club's interactive museum, with a 360-degree immersive hall, a Messi corner and a trophy collection, overlooking the Camp Nou, which is being renovated. A must for Barça fans.
My tip
Access to the stadium itself is limited during the renovation, so read what the ticket includes before buying it at fcbarcelona.com. For children's camps in Barcelona: “Barça Academy Camps” with a residential option (barcaacademy.fcbarcelona.com).
Chapter Four
My view in brief: April to June, and September and October. Pick a month to see its weather and events.
Among my best months An event or holidayBars: lowest and highest temperature
May14° to 22°
Ideal weather (14–22°C) before the summer peak. We recommend Montjuïc hill, its gardens and its cable car overlooking the harbour.
Public holiday
Whit Monday in Barcelona
Lunes de Pascua Granada
2026: 25 May · 2027: 17 May
A local holiday in Barcelona (and other Catalan towns) fifty days after Easter; the big stores sometimes open.
Fair and market
Sant Pons herb and honey market (Barcelona – Carrer de l'Hospital)
Fira de Sant Ponç
11 May every year
A spring market centuries old on the Carrer de l'Hospital: medicinal and aromatic herbs, honey, candied fruit and sweets. Ideal for lovers of herbal remedies.
Fair and market
The Modernisme Fair in Terrassa (Terrassa)
Fira Modernista de Terrassa
Usually a weekend in early May
The city goes back to the early 20th century: period costumes, a craft market, cars and street performances within Catalan Modernisme architecture.
Chapter Five
From my own stays
I stayed here in 2026★★★★★
A modern five-star hotel in the Les Corts district at the top of Avinguda Diagonal, known for its spacious rooms, outdoor pool and spa.
I stayed here in 2026★★★★★
A historic, luxurious five-star grand hotel opened in 1919 in the heart of the Eixample, combining classic elegance with a rooftop terrace and pool.
I stayed here in 2022★★★★
A four-star hotel in the Eixample, a few steps from Passeig de Gràcia and Plaça de Catalunya, with a rooftop terrace and a small pool.
I stayed here in 2021★★★★
A four-star hotel directly above Sants railway station, with a space-inspired design; very practical for high-speed trains.
I chose it for my guests★★★★★
A luxury five-star hotel in the historic Vedruna Palace in the Eixample, near Passeig de Gràcia, with an antiquities collection, a rooftop pool and a spa.
I chose it for my guests★★★★★
A five-star hotel on the old port quay of Barcelona, in the World Trade Center building, with sea and city skyline views, within walking distance of La Rambla.
Where I wouldn't stay
La Rambla itselfLa Rambla
Europe's best-known street for pickpockets; visit it by day, with great care over bags and phones, and don't stay in hotels on the street itself, because of its noise all night.
El Raval at nightEl Raval
A neighbourhood on the west side of the Rambla, with many halal restaurants and Arab shops, but it is uncomfortable at night and theft is common; not recommended for families to stay there.
Barri Gòtic and El Born at late hoursBarri Gòtic / El Born
Both are lovely by day, but their narrow lanes are noisy at night and are a hunting ground for pickpockets; choose accommodation outside them.
Hotels I recommend in Barcelona
Chapter Six
What deserves to come home with you from Barcelona: the genuine article, and what carries a protected origin.
Reus hazelnut
Avellana de Reus DOPA protected Catalan hazelnut from the Tarragona area; its best-known variety is the small, sweet, oily “Negreta”. It is sold roasted and used in Barcelona's sweets.
Catalan oil
Aceite Siurana DOP / Les Garrigues DOP – ArbequinaA smooth, fruity oil from the “Arbequina” variety, with notes of almond and green apple; one of Spain's gentlest oils and most suitable for beginners.
Honey with mató cheese
Mel i matóA simple Catalan dessert: fresh unsalted cheese “mató” drizzled with honey and sprinkled with walnuts; ordered in traditional restaurants.
Catalan cream
Crema catalanaCustard made with milk, egg yolk, lemon zest and cinnamon, with its sugar caramelised on top; an ancient Catalan classic.
Panellets
Almond marzipan balls coated in pine nuts, made in the season from late October to early November; make sure they are alcohol-free.
Wood-roasted nuts
Frutos secos tostadosA long-standing Barcelona tradition of almonds, hazelnuts and pistachios roasted in old ovens; a light gift that travels well.
Artisan chocolate
Chocolate artesanoBarcelona is one of Spain's luxury chocolate capitals, with famous shops for artisan cacao; check that the fillings are alcohol-free.
Chapter Seven
Barcelona — El Prat airport (BCN)
From the airport to the city
Transport cards
Emergencies and safety
Last reviewed1 October 2026
