Barcelona in Style: Art, Scenic Drives & Culinary Delights
Barcelona is a city where artistic grandeur meets coastal sophistication. This three-day itinerary invites you to immerse yourself in the city's architectural wonders, savour world-class cuisine, and embark on a breathtaking coastal drive along the Mediterranean.
With stays at opulent hotels and meals at Michelin-starred restaurants, your weekend will be nothing short of indulgent.
Friday: Arrival & Exploring the Heart of the City
Stay in Style: Check into the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona in the Eixample district. This five-star sanctuary blends modern elegance with historic charm. Unwind in the rooftop pool overlooking Passeig de Gràcia or indulge in a personalised spa treatment using rare botanical ingredients.
Afternoon: Begin your journey with a leisurely stroll through the Gothic Quarter. Wander its narrow medieval streets, discovering hidden squares and historic landmarks. Visit the awe-inspiring Barcelona Cathedral, and pause at Plaça Reial for a coffee in one of the elegant arcaded cafés.
Evening: Dine at Disfrutar, a two-Michelin-starred culinary adventure. Renowned for its inventive tasting menu, expect imaginative dishes like caviar-filled crispy egg yolk and sea cucumber with bone marrow. After dinner, head to Paradiso, a hidden speakeasy tucked behind a pastrami shop, for an exclusive cocktail crafted by award-winning mixologists—try their signature smoked Old Fashioned for a theatrical twist.
Saturday: Gaudí Wonders & Seaside Serenity
Morning: Fuel up at Billy Brunch Headquarters, known for its hearty, stylish breakfasts. Treat yourself to their signature eggs Benedict or fluffy pancakes topped with fresh berries. Then, immerse yourself in Gaudí's architectural genius. Start with the Sagrada Família, where you can marvel at the intricate façades and stained-glass windows bathing the basilica in ethereal light.
Continue to Casa Vicens, Gaudí's first house, tucked away in the laid-back Gràcia district. Wander through the mosaicked rooms and lush gardens, and enjoy a peaceful break in this UNESCO-listed treasure.
Afternoon: For lunch, savour Catalan cuisine at Restaurant La Perla, a hidden gem near Montjuïc. Enjoy classic dishes like fideuà (a seafood pasta paella) or slow-cooked Iberian pork. Afterward, explore Jardins de Laribal. These terraced gardens on Montjuïc Hill offer shaded pathways and fountains, making them a serene retreat. Visit the nearby Joan Miró Foundation for a closer look at the surrealist master's works.
Evening: Return to the Eixample for an elegant dinner at Cocina Hermanos Torres, where twin chefs craft innovative dishes in a sleek, open-kitchen setting. Highlights include the truffle-infused oxtail ravioli and lobster in a delicate saffron broth. Conclude the evening with a nightcap at the Rooftop Bar of the Almanac Hotel, where panoramic views of the city skyline await. The Almanac's understated luxury extends to its rooms, which feature marble bathrooms and bespoke Catalan furnishings.
Sunday: Coastal Drive & Mediterranean Charm
Morning: After a leisurely breakfast at the Mandarin Oriental, embark on a scenic drive along the Costa Brava. Head north to Tossa de Mar, a picturesque coastal town about 90 minutes from Barcelona. The drive winds through dramatic cliffs and Mediterranean vistas, offering stunning photo opportunities. In Tossa de Mar, explore the Vila Vella old town, the last remaining fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast. Stroll along the ancient walls and visit the lighthouse for sweeping sea views.
Afternoon: Indulge in a seaside lunch at Can Sophia, an elegant restaurant inside a historic villa. Expect fresh seafood delicacies like grilled turbot with olive tapenade or lobster paella, paired with crisp Catalan white wines. After lunch, relax on Platja d'es Codolar, a secluded beach nestled beneath the castle walls.
Evening: Return to Barcelona and unwind with a luxurious spa treatment at Gran Hotel La Florida, perched on Tibidabo Hill. This hilltop retreat offers panoramic views of the city and sea, along with indulgent spa rituals using organic Mediterranean oils. End your weekend with a sunset dinner at Terraza Martinez, a chic terrace spot offering exquisite paella with prawns and cuttlefish, accompanied by a glass of Cava as you take in breathtaking views over the city and sea.
The Ultimate Barcelona Escape
A weekend in Barcelona seamlessly combines architectural marvels, coastal beauty, and culinary excellence. From the grandeur of Gaudí's masterpieces to the serenity of the Costa Brava, every moment is crafted for the discerning traveller. Whether you savour Michelin-starred delicacies, relax in lavish hotels, or drive along the Mediterranean coast, Barcelona promises an unforgettable escape into luxury and culture.
Barcelona is waiting for you—are you ready to explore?