Xemei - the Venetian word for twins - is the creation of Stefano and Max Colombo, twins from Venice who are also behind much-loved Bar Brutal. A love letter to the cuisine of their hometown, they have been serving their Venetian menu spanning classic antipasti, homemade pasta and fresh fish in Poble-Sec for over twenty years. Book an outdoor table on the street side terrace and settle in for a long lunch.

The 1992 Olympics changed the fortune and landscape of Barcelona, much of which can still be felt today. Case in point: the diving pools on the side of Montjuic with sweeping views across the city skyline and out to sea. Today it’s best enjoyed at Salts Terassa Bar, an unpretentious bar at the top of the rows of seats in the viewing area. Go at sunset and don’t skip the patatas bravas.  

Plaça del Sortidor is the central square of neighborhood Poble-Sec and has a real local-feel , making it a lovely spot to spend a few hours people-watching. On one corner of the square is La Galena, a light-filled street level cafe and one of the best spots in this part of town for artisanal coffee (they serve Harmony Roasters) and all day brunch as well as fresh juices and homemade cakes.  

Inside this towering neo baroque building constructed for the 1929 World Exhibition are the vast galleries of the National Catalan Art Museum. Showcasing Catalan art from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, the Romanesque frescoes and Modernisme furniture are both particularly impressive. Not many people know about the rooftop here (the access is hidden right at the back of the huge gallery) but it offers 360 views of the city, often enjoyed alone.