As my mum is from Barcelona and I have half of my family living there, I go at least twice a year. When I finished high school back in 2005, I moved there to study for one year, but ended up getting a job as an Air Hostess and stayed for another year and a half.

I have an entire Barcelona guide on my to do list, but for now, I have collected the eight things I always do when in Barcelona:

 

Eat breakfast at Flax & Kale

Flax & Kale is the place for healthy breakfasts in Barcelona. Açai bowls, wholegrain croissants and chia puddings accompanied by an anti aging juices and an almond lattes… I’m in love!

And oh, the place is also great for lunch, dinner and healthy afternoon treats!

Location: Tallers 74B

 

Eat donuts from CHÖK

At CHÖK they make the best donuts I have ever tasted. The chocolate cover is dark and crisp and the toppings tasty.

Find a bench to sit and enjoy it or take it to a park for a little donut picnic!

Location: Carrer del Carme 3

 

Drink coffee at La Esquina

Well, La Esquina opened in the fall 2015, so I have only been there for Christmas, but it is definitely a place I intend to visit frequently. I have only had coffee there, but the menu (especially the breakfast and brunch) looks delicious and I cannot wait to go back. Try to get a seat at the bench by the window and enjoy the lively streets of Barcelona with a cup of coffee in your hand.

Location: Carrer Bergara, 2

 

Have a drink and enjoy the sunset at Restaurant 1881

On top of the Museo de Historia de Catalunya with stunning views to the Harbour and the Montjuic mountain you will find Restaurant 1881. The bar has an enormous open air terrace and is open every day all year, even if the museum is closed. It is one of my favorite places to enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine while watching the sunset in Barcelona.

Location: Plaça de Pau Vila 3

 

Shop stockings at Calzedonia

Calzedonia has the perfect black classic stockings with low waist. And better yet; they always have five pairs for the price of four. I always pick up five pairs whenever I’m there.

It’s also great for bikini shopping in summer!

Location: All around the city. Check their website for a place near your hotel/apartment.

 

Shop and enjoy a light breakfast at the cool store Be Store

Be Store has outlets throughout the city, but the one at Diagonal is worth visiting for the wonderful courtyard, also named The Jungle or The Secret Garden. They serve light breakfast and freshly made orange juice. The store has a grand variety of clothing brands, including their own brand Be, and an interesting section with stationary and books. The perfect place to do some shopping after the breakfast in the garden.

 

Eat lunch at restaurant El Passatge at hotel Mur Muri

Hotel MurMuri at Rambla Catalunya is a chick hotel with a modern restaurant. Their delicious three-course lunch during weekdays at 16€ including a glass of wine is simply too good to pass up on, so we always have a lunch there. It is mostly visited by locals having their business lunch there. They also offer a weekly evening menu at the price of 18€ in case you don’t get there for lunch.

Location: Rambla de Catalunya 104

Sorry for the low quality picture – I will take some new ones next time we go!

Have lunch at El Nacional

El Nacional is the new food mecca right on Paseo de Gracia. It used to be a garage, but is now turned into a huge space with a grand variety of delicious bars and restaurants.

Location: Paseo de Gracia 24

 

Shop underwear in Intimissimi

I know, it’s an Italian brand, but I love it and always buy more whenever I’m in Spain!

Location: Like Calzedonia, they are all around the city. Check the website for locations.