How to Spend an Extra Day in Barcelona

Awe-inspiring architecture, boundless culture, and a balmy Mediterranean climate—it’s no wonder Barcelona is one of Spain’s most popular destinations. A foodie paradise, the city is blessed with superb bars and eateries that spill onto the streets during the long summer months. Spectacular outdoor events such as the National Day of Catalonia and the Flamenco Festival add color and music to the city’s already vibrant palette. Barcelona never sleeps, so extend your extra 24 hours to the full.

Wittmore Hotel / Photo: Courtesy of Wittmore Hotel

Wittmore Hotel

Possibly Barcelona’s ultimate boutique retreat, offering Gothic glam in an adults-only venue, the Wittmore is a discreet haven of five-star calm in a tasteful, clublike setting. Bask in the rooftop pool, enjoy stunning views while sipping a cocktail, or just hang out in one of the dark and sultry public areas. With just 22 rooms, first-class service from staff is guaranteed. Book ahead for a table in the plush Contraban restaurant, where the evocative menu highlights sections with names such as “Creative Excitement” and “Freedom.” wittmorehotel.com

Photo: Barcelona. Courtesy of Kaspars Upmanis on Unsplash

Walk the Plazas of Gràcia

Once an independent village, Gràcia was slowly engulfed by Barcelona but the beautiful squares remain. This bohemian quarter of the city is a lively mix of cafés, bars and culture. Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia is the focal point, with a magnificent clock tower, while Plaça del Diamant still houses air raid shelters from the Spanish Civil War. There are some 15 squares to explore and although crowded with tourists, Gràcia is now Barcelona’s beating heart for many. barcelonaturisme.com

Photo: Moco Museum. Courtesy of Miranda Makaroff

Moco Museum

Barcelona boasts an overwhelming array of museums—choose from venues dedicated to fashion, chocolate or soccer. While the Picasso Museum and Gaudí House Museum draw the biggest crowds, the Moco is an independent museum of contemporary works by some of the world’s best-known artists, including Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat. An incredible 16th-century Gothic facade offers just a hint of what’s inside. mocomuseum.com

Casa Batlló / Photo: Courtesy of Tyler Zhang/Unsplash

Go Gaudí

Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí’s modernist designs shaped the face of Barcelona. The mesmerizing Sagrada Família church is among the most famous, but the Palau Güell mansion and Casa Batlló are dreamlike masterpieces that can’t be missed. parkguell.barcelona

Photo: Razzmatazz. Courtesy

Razzmatazz

A night out should include a visit to this nightclub in the Poblenou district. Now in its 25th year, the venue has won countless awards and attracts top DJs from around the world. Barcelona’s largest dance venue contains five rooms with a variety of musical styles. There’s often a line, so make sure to book to dance away your final few hours in the Catalan capital. salarazzmatazz.com