City guide: a weekend in Barcelona with Petites Gormandises

Buenos días, Khoollectors! ¿Estás bien? We’re heading off to Barcelona for a weekend; and, with top tips and exploration advice from our girls Cristina, Claudia and Eli from the Petite Gourmandises blog, it’s sure to be a memorable one. Experts in all things brunch, beach and Barcelona, we knew The Petites would be just the trio we could turn to before heading to our favourite sunny city for all things Gaudi and tapas. The Petites have combined their love of design, delicious food and sound Instagram opportunities, of which Barcelona has many, in one perfect weekend city guide. Ready to discover the best rooftop spot Barcelona has to offer? Vamonos! The weekend is never too far away …

What essentials should we pack for a weekend in Barcelona?

A pair of Converse trainers, suncream (at least factor 30!), a camera, a sense of adventure and the latest edition of the Barcelona Foodie Guide. It should all fit in one carry-on case!

Best places to go for brunch in Barcelona?

The brunch at Bendita Helena is unmissable, as are the Eggs Benedict at Picnic! If you’re looking to sit in the sun, then you can perch yourself on the sunny rooftop of Federal Cafe Parlament. Or if you want more of a trendy vibe you can find it at Cotton House, and of course, Tropico for travellers. What can we say? For brunch in Barcelona, there’s a feast of options on offer, and we’re big fans!

Spots for a good Instagram opportunity?

Every corner of Barcelona has a special something that’s Instagram-and-Snap-Chat-able! Every neighbourhood has its own entity, infused with individual characteristics, personalities and idiosyncrasies. The sunset from the Bunkers del Carmel, where you feel totally free looking out over Barcelona beneath you, is a great spot for an Insta-shot. Also, looking at Tibidabo mountain through the Arc de Triomf, meandering through the majestic stone columns in Park Guell or taking a shot admiring the cultural icon that is the National Catalan Art Museum. Don’t forget to take an Instagram sunning yourself on the Soho House terrace, scrap that, any terrace will do with good company and a cocktail in hand.

Must-see art galleries?

Discover new forms of contemporary art in MISCELANEA, check out the latest exhibition at The Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, and discover the full evolution of Picasso all the way up to his cubist period at Picasso Museum.

Interesting and independent stores to visit?

Want a souvenir that’s also useful? Head to La Manual Alpargatera in Calle Aviñó. Steeped in tradition, it’s a shoe shop where you can wait and watch your very own pair of sandals get made. Now, that’s better than buying a Gaudi-style fridge magnet! You’ll also be able to find the latest and greatest of interior design trends in Mar de Cava o Codeco, and then kick back and sip on an authentic cold brew in Wer Haus. For organic food stores go Saturday shopping at Mercado de Santa Caterina, and pick up some freshly ground coffee at SlowMov. If you’re looking to pick up something ‘unique’ in a street market, go to Lost and Found. Palo Alto is another great experience with local music, food and clothing.

Must eats?

Top level and totally tasty veggie dishes at Celeri by Xavier Pellicer. A pizza and the thinly sliced vegetable carpaccio at Green Spot. A tipple of wine and cheese at Casa Bonay or La Cuina d’En Garriga, then a coffee at Satans. Try the eclectic and exotic combination of tapas at Casa Xica, or take a typical Catalan midday aperitif of classic vermut like a local at Morro Fi.