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The top things to eat, see and do when attending the Spanish Grand Prix
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Welcome back to Europe, time to kick off the rest of the European races beginning in beautiful Barcelona. Located on the Mediterranean sea, Barcelona offers a unique blend of history, architectural wonders and a vibrant cultural scene. If you are headed to the Grand Prix, here are our top suggestions on where to eat, explore and relax when visiting Barcelona for the Grand Prix.
Did you know?
- Barcelona is home to Barcelona is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites
- There are two official languages in the city: Catalan and Spanish
- Traditional paella was invented in Valencia and traditionally features chicken and rabbit as the primary protein
Where to Eat
Barcelona is a culinary haven and a foodie paradise. The local cuisine is a fusion of Catalan tradition and innovative gastronomy, showcased in bustling markets like La Boqueria and through a myriad of tapas bars and Michelin-starred restaurants. From the iconic paella to the savory tapas and fresh seafood, the city's diverse restaurants have something for every palette. These are some of our favorite places to eat when visiting Barcelona for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Local Favorite: La Plata
A stop at La Plata is a must for any visitor to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. This hole-in-the-wall establishment has been serving up their signature tapas since 1945. The menu features just four dishes, wine from the barrel, and bottled beer. We suggest trying everything on the menu but you should not miss their iconic fried anchovies (pescaditos). La Plata is the perfect place to grab a quick snack and drink as you explore Gotico. Open daily for Lunch and Dinner, closed Sunday
Inventive Tapas & Natural Wine: Bar del Pla
Tucked away in the charming El Born neighborhood, this cozy eatery exudes a welcoming atmosphere and showcases a menu that highlights the finest local ingredients. Known for its innovative twists on traditional dishes, Bar del Pla offers a diverse selection of tapas, ranging from Iberian ham and patatas bravas to creative seafood and vegetable small plates. Their curated wine list draws both locals and visitors alike, the wonderful team is keen to share their knowledge and help you select an interesting bottle to enjoy. We suggest pairing the mussels with a local Catalan wine. Open all day, closed sunday. Reservations recommended for dinner and groups
Caelis
Barcelona is home to almost 30 Michelin star restaurants so it can be hard to choose just where to dine. One of our favorite restaurants is Caelis, awarded 1 Michelin Star. Chef Romain Fornell meticulously curates tasting menus that showcase local ingredients and interprets traditional Catalan dishes through a modern lens. Elevate your dining experience by booking a seat at the chefs counter which overlooks the open concept kitchen. If you are short on time or would like to stretch your budget, they offer a daily set lunch menu for just 55€ that includes multiple courses and wine. Open Wednesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, advance reservations required,
Where to Explore
Barcelona is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations for a reason, there are so many things to see and explore. A city steeped in history and architectural marvels, one moment you can be enjoying a coffee next to a 2,000 year old Roman wall and just a few meters later be relaxing on a modern beach. The vibrant culture and commitment to artistry contribute to this exciting city. These are some of our favorite places to explore when visiting Barcelona for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Gaudi Architecture
Experiencing Gaudi's architecture in Barcelona is an unparalleled journey into the imaginative and fantastical world of one of the most brilliant architects in history. Antoni Gaudi's creations, such as the iconic Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló, are awe-inspiring masterpieces that defy conventional architectural norms. The organic shapes, vibrant colors, and intricate details of Gaudi's designs showcase his unique approach to blending nature and architecture. Many of the buildings are free to enjoy from afar but reservations and advance tickets are generally required to enter, book in advance to secure your preferred time.
Joan Miro Museum
A visit to the Joan Miró Museum in Barcelona is a compelling journey into the avant-garde and surreal world of one of the 20th century's most influential artists. Dedicated to the renowned Catalan painter and sculptor Joan Miró, the museum houses a vast collection of his works, providing a comprehensive overview of his artistic evolution. Located on Montjuïc, take time after your museum visit to explore the park and the many other points of interest in the area. Open Daily 10am-7pm, Closed on Mondays.
La Boqueria
A visit to the Boqueria Market in Barcelona is a sensory feast that immerses you in the vibrant and diverse culinary culture of the city. A market has been operating in this area since 1200 but the most recent iteration has been in business for almost 200 years. Explore the lively stalls and see a dazzling array of fresh produce, seafood, meats, and an assortment of local and international delicacies. Woven in between the stalls you can buy prepared foods, shucked oysters, pressed juices and fresh fruit or sit down at one of the counters for a quick tapa. To beat the crowds we recommend arriving before 10am. Open daily from 8am, Closed Sunday
Where to Relax
Any busy race weekend deserves a a little bit of R & R. Barcelona is home to many beautiful public parks as well as free public beaches. If you are looking for a more elevated experience, these are some of our favorites places to relax when you are visiting Barcelona for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Aire Ancient Baths
Nestled in the heart of the city, the AIRE Ancient Baths combines modern luxury with the ancient tradition of bathing. The meticulously restored historical building, adorned with elegant architecture, sets the stage for a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. AIRE's thermal baths, inspired by baths from Roman, Greek, and Ottoman civilizations, offer a therapeutic journey through various water temperatures, complemented by candlelit ambiance and soothing aromas. Open daily, advance reservations required
43 The Spa
Situated on the 43rd floor of the iconic Hotel Arts Barcelona, this spa offers a haven of tranquility overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The state-of-the-art facilities, including saunas, steam baths, and a fitness center, provide a holistic wellness experience. With a team of skilled therapists and a menu of decadent treatments, the Spa at the Hotel Arts caters to both relaxation and revitalization. Extend your spa day with a day pass to their pool facilities. Open daily, advance reservations required.
Where to Go Out
Barcelona is a city that takes its drinks seriously with an array of bars known for their unique twists on traditional cocktails and a vibrant nightlife scene that attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. The city's love affair with cocktails began during the 19th century when the first cocktail bar in Spain opened its doors in Barcelona. Since then, the city has continued to cultivate its cocktail culture, embracing both the classical cocktail movement and the molecular mixology trend. These are some of our favorite places to enjoy nightlife in Barcelona during the Spanish Grand Prix.
Sips
Named the number one bar in the world by 50 Best in 2023, Sips is a cocktail bar that actually lives up to hype. The upbeat but lively atmosphere sets the stage for their expertly made cocktails. While the drinks are served in whimsical vessels with creative flair, they never lose sight of the drink itself. Advance reservations are required or you can join the standby queue. Open nightly, Tuesday-Saturday.
Solange Cocktail Bar
If you are looking for an excellent cocktail in a chic atmosphere, then look no further than Solange Cocktail Bar. This jewel-box space tucked behind a discrete entrance is a portal to the world of James Bond. Enjoy their take on classic cocktails inspired by Bond movies of years past - your drink can be either shaken or stirred. Open nightly, table reservations can be made in advance.
Sutton Barcelona
Sutton Club stands as a beacon of sophistication and excitement in the city's nightlife scene. Renowned for its opulent design and high-energy atmosphere, Sutton attracts a diverse and stylish crowd seeking an unforgettable clubbing experience. Located in the vibrant Eixample district, Sutton is a multi-level venue that seamlessly blends sleek modern aesthetics with a touch of glamour. Rated one of the best clubs in the world due to its dynamic ambiance, and top-notch service, Sutton Club remains a premier destination for those seeking an upscale and memorable night out in Barcelona. Check their website for guest list, ticket and table information.
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