Photo taken by: Samantha DePasquale
As we transition into the Fall season, I can’t help but find myself daydreaming about palm trees, warm weather, and soaking up the sun’s rays. I know you all do it when you’re procrastinating that paper you need to write or that email that needs to be sent. This past Summer I had the opportunity to spend three days in the beautiful city of Barcelona, Spain. My visit there was like nothing I had ever experienced before. The architecture was so unique and I could sense the history and culture in every street I wandered down. I had to refrain from skipping through the city singing "Strut" from the popular "Cheetah Girls" movie as I explored with my best friends (girls who have seen this movie I know you will be wanting to do the same thing).
I was fortunate enough to have a friend who studied in Barcelona during his Spring semester, and gave me a long list of places to eat, things to see, and unique nightlife hotspots. As I expected, there were a bunch of touristy things on there: The Sagrada Família, Barceloneta Beach, and Opium nightclub. I had heard about these places before, but I wanted to make the most of my limited stay and have as much of an authentic experience as possible; and I did just that. I loved my trip so much that I decided to write up a quick post to help make the most of your trip to Barcelona!
First, let’s talk about beaches. You can’t go to Barcelona without visiting one of its gorgeous beaches. Barceloneta Beach is a very popular one to visit. Since it’s so well-known this means one thing…. tourists. Who wants to go to an overcrowded beach with people basically sitting on top of you? I certainly don’t. Instead visit La Nova Icària Beach.
La Nova Icària Beach
Photo taken by: Samantha DePasquale
My friends and I hopped in a cab and within 10 minutes had our feet nestled in the sand. What’s so great and different about this beach? Well for one, it’s gorgeous. The water is crystal clear and has a vibrant shade of blue that you won't wait to take a dip in. You also have a great view of the city that you can enjoy in a peaceful and relaxing environment. This beach is a great choice for families and groups of friends with restaurants and bars located right on the beach and boardwalk. If you’re looking for some more fun in the sun, they also have volleyball nets and water sport kiosks set up that you can sign up for! This was a great way to spend my first day in Barcelona before heading home and getting ready for dinner and a night out! If you’re a frequent beach goer and plan to be in Barcelona for a long period of time, here are some other great beaches without the annoying crowds!
Sant Sebastià Beach
Mar Bella Beach (great for naturists and students!)
Llevant Beach
Bogatell Beach
After all that time spent in the sun, you’ve probably worked up an appetite. In Spain, there is a tradition where the entire city essentially takes a break in the middle of the day to rest; a Siesta. Many restaurants and businesses close during this period, which is around lunch time. So be sure to grab something to eat beforehand! If you’re at the beach and are looking for a place to grab a bite you will have many options. You might be urged to go to the first restaurant you see on the beach but refrain! While convenient, these places are often overpriced and not even that good! Why? To lure people in who don’t know any better (AKA tourists, AKA you!) So avoid this trap, and walk a few minutes to find a great meal… you are in Barcelona after all! As I mentioned before, the area of Barceloneta is very touristy. If you happen to be there, or are at a beach nearby and are in need for lunch at a good price check out Foc.
FOC
Photo taken by: Samantha DePasquale
This place was recommended by my friend Matt who had studied abroad in Barcelona and it definitely did not disappoint. Only a mere 10-minute walk from the beach Foc exceeded my expectations with its Latin theme and vibrant atmosphere. I ordered a burrito which was filled with beef, cheese, rice, beans, jalapeños, and guacamole (nope it wasn’t extra folks). My friend Tess ordered the club sandwich which was just as tasty. The staff spoke English and they had an English menu which was helpful since my Spanish skills aren't the best. The restaurant is also located along a street filled with markets and boutique shopping which gives you something to do afterwards! They have a great website with their menu and more about their history here.
I absolutely LOVE tapas. For any readers who may not know what that means, tapas is another word for small plates. They’re great for going with groups of friends or your family since you can order a bunch of things and get to try everything! If you're an indecisive person then La Luna is calling your name! While in Barcelona trying a tapas style restaurant for dinner is a must, and La Luna is hands down the best place to go for it.
La Luna
Photo taken by: Samantha DePasquale
Tucked away down a random alley, I honestly wasn’t quite sure if I was in the right place when our cab driver dropped us off at La Luna. If this happens to you don't worry! I promise it's there you just need to adventure down the street a little before you find it. The interior is gorgeous with high brick ceilings, dimmed lighting, and big booths that give off a cozy and intimate vibe. Our waitress briefed us on the various portion sizes and suggested we order various options and share amongst the table. Be sure to ask how the system works if you aren't sure, the staff is more than happy to help you! They had delicious sangria, and we decided to order a pitcher of white and red so we had the chance to taste both which I highly recommend! Each of us ordered an appetizer, entreé, and side dish. By the time the third course came, I couldn’t even bare to take another bite. My personal favorite was the magret duck in port sauce that was served with mashed potatoes. My mouth is drooling just thinking about it. My friends ordered nachos, potatoes bravas (another personal favorite), sautéed vegetables with parmesan cheese, and mushroom risotto. Everything I tried was delicious and don’t let the small prices fool you because I was so surprised with the substantial portion of food I ended up with. If there was any restaurant I could go back to during my trip to Barcelona this was it. The place fills up pretty fast so a reservation is a must. Visit La Luna to guarantee that you can have some of these yummy tapas. If you’re looking for some more restaurants like La Luna try:
Sensi Tapas
Cerveseria Catalana
If you have some energy left after your dinner you may be thinking about hitting some of Barcelona’s bars and clubs. The city has some of the best nightlife I’ve ever experienced so definitely take advantage of it! You’re first thought may be to try Opium. Despite the popularity this beachside club has gotten over the years, it’s extremely crowded and somewhat overrated. Barcelona has so many other great clubs and bars that you should try and experience. My favorite was Pippermint.
Pippermint
Photo taken by Matthew Donnelly
Unlike the bars and clubs filled with tourists that are popular in Barcelona, Pippermint is less crowded and just as fun! The drinks they serve are huge (literally) and are great for sharing. They’re reasonably priced which you’ll quickly learn is extremely important when traveling abroad. The bar has a mixed crowd of locals and Americans and it's a great way to meet new people. They also give you free chips with your drink which is an awesome bonus. Located a bit farther from the more popular nightlife attractions Pippermint is a different way to have fun in Barcelona! If you’re looking for some even more options for your night out check out:
Espit Chupitos
L’ovella Negra
Sutton Club
Whether you’re looking for great food, relaxing beaches, or awesome nightlife Barcelona has it all and more. Don’t forget to take in the cities’ beautiful architecture and overall design while you’re checking out all of these awesome spots. Stop and give yourself a moment to look around and take in the natural beauty of Barcelona. It’s an incredible city that is waiting for people like you to come and explore it.
