You can find something for every lifestyle in the beautiful city of Barcelona. There is everything from quaint tapas bars to Michelin-Starred dining and design hotels to boutique guesthouses. Although, you can live locally in this mesmerizing city, once in a while it is great to splash out and enjoy the best of what the city has to offer.
The capital of Catalonia is a dynamic city, well known for its architecture, vibrant cuisine and various events and festivals, such as the creative Gracia Festa Major and regular sporting and poker championships. There are ample terraces for trying out cocktails, magical music nights on top of Gaudi-designed Casa Batlló, and even the option to rent luxury cars to cruise the city in. Each year a wine and cava festival arrives in town where you can sample tipples from around Catalunya. Read on to find out ways you can live the high-life in Barcelona.
Sip cool drinks in the lush Mimosa Garden
This relaxing natural space is set right in the heart of the busy city in the Mandarin Oriental hotel. This tree-shaded cafe is the perfect spot to avoid the city bustle, and simply relax. The fragrant lavender will heighten your senses, as you wait for the waiter to bring a couple of refreshing drinks. This city oasis offers sumptuous tapas plates such as salmon salad with pickled vegetables and avocado, and a delectable croquette selection.
Experience the La Dolce Vitae Rooftop Terrace
Why not make a trip to the Hotel Majestic’s Dolce Vitae Rooftop Terrace for some drinks and dips one sunny afternoon? Sip a drink or two while admiring the backdrop of Barcelona’s famously unfinished Sagrada Familia church. In warm months, of course, you can cool off in the terrace’s refreshing plunge pool too.
Try a crazy cocktail at Dr. Stravinsky
Hidden among the narrow streets of El Born, Dr. Stravinsky bar offers a unique experience. The smoking test tubes in the window will be the first thing that catches your eye. The super-friendly bartenders will be eager to suggest the best innovative cocktail to suit your tastes. You can sit at this bar surrounded by the mad scientist vibe and watch as they start whipping them up. This front row seat will keep you entertained, even if traveling solo.
Enjoy a star-fed evening in Disfrutar restaurant
This Michelin-starred restaurant, as you might expect, has a highly-respected reputation in the city. If you get the chance to visit this Mediterranean-inspired top-class restaurant, do not pass it up. The modern dining room is pleasing to the eye and features design elements influenced by quaint fishing villages. The tasting menu delivers several innovative dishes which will surprise your taste buds and awaken your senses.
Look over Barcelona’s beaches from up high
At the far end of Barcelona’s Sant Sebastià beach, you will find the all-familiar sight of the Marriot’s W Barcelona Hotel. This semi-reflective sail-shaped architectural masterpiece stands tall and forms the focal point of many photographs by trigger-happy tourists. Near the top of the W Hotel, you can find a viewing platform where you can take a drink or sample some tapas. If you need to cool off, then you can enjoy the infinity-edge WET® splash pool. Expect quality mixed drinks and cuisine from top to bottom.
Take a luxury private yacht tour
Why not see Barcelona from a new perspective? Once you have seen the city and its secrets from the ground up, you will want to get out on the bluey-green sea for a new angle. You could take a romantic private tour for two, or if you are looking for more fun, a group tours with friends. Setting off from Barcelona’s marina, you can get out onto the water, enjoy some Spanish Cava and snacks while taking in the breathtaking views. You will also have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip right off the boat. It is a world away from the bustle of Barcelona’s city center.
So, as you can see there are many ways you can spoil yourself in this fascinating city. Which one would you choose?
