Barcelona, a vibrant metropolis celebrated for its cutting-edge design, high fashion, and pulsating music scene, is also a global gastronomic powerhouse. Boasting an impressive array of hotels and, most importantly, some of the most innovative and delectable culinary experiences in the world, it’s no surprise Barcelona holds the title of the Spanish city with the most MICHELIN Stars, and ranks third in Europe.
This meticulously crafted 48-hour itinerary, inspired by the Michelin Guide Barcelona, is your passport to discovering the city’s most exciting streets, brimming with culture and, of course, unforgettable food. Prepare to immerse yourself in a whirlwind of flavors and experiences that only Barcelona, guided by the Michelin standard, can offer.
Day 1: Discover the City Center & Michelin Starred Delights
Morning: Strolling La Rambla and Market Marvels
Begin your Barcelonian adventure with a leisurely walk down La Rambla, one of the city’s most iconic and bustling boulevards. From here, step through the grand modernist archway into the legendary La Boquería market. While La Rambla itself is a popular tourist destination, venture slightly off the beaten path to the nearby Sant Antoni Market for a truly authentic experience. Here, you’ll find the relocated Bar Pinotxo, a must-visit for any serious food enthusiast. In its new, less touristy setting, you can savor a hearty breakfast or mid-morning snack featuring kitchen specialties now expertly prepared by the nephew of the beloved late Juanito.
For those with a sweet tooth, Barcelona’s pastry scene is renowned. Escribà, a celebrated bakery located right on La Rambla, is a perfect example. Behind its striking modernist facade, you’ll discover the imaginative creations of Christian Escribà, the fourth generation of this esteemed baking family. Indulge in their signature pine nut panellets, delicate macarons, or exquisite cakes and bonbons – miniature masterpieces of haute patisserie.
A short ten-minute walk will bring you to the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA). Art aficionados will find this 20,000 square meter space an essential stop, hosting some of the city’s most compelling exhibitions. MACBA also offers a bar, continuously open from 1 PM until late, and a terrace overlooking the vibrant Plaza dels Àngels, perfect for a refreshing break.
Lunch: Michelin Recommended Tapas at Dos Palillos
For lunch, remain in the vibrant Raval neighborhood and experience Dos Palillos, a One MICHELIN Star restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide Barcelona. Helmed by Chef Albert Raurich, formerly of the legendary El Bulli, Dos Palillos presents cuisine deeply influenced by Southeast Asia, served in a tapas format through two unique tasting menus. For a more casual experience, the restaurant also features a sake bar accommodating eight walk-in diners, offering an à la carte menu and a curated selection of sakes, wines, and beers. This Michelin-recommended spot is a true culinary adventure.
Afternoon: Modernist Marvels and Luxurious Stays
One of Barcelona’s greatest draws is undoubtedly its breathtaking modernist architecture. Paseo de Gracia, one of Barcelona’s most significant avenues, showcases numerous buildings representative of this late 19th-century style, including the iconic Casa Batlló and La Pedrera – Casa Milà. These masterpieces, created by the world-renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, are conveniently located near some of the most exclusive hotels in the Catalan capital, such as the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Barcelona. Recognized with Two MICHELIN Keys by the Michelin Guide Barcelona for its exceptional hospitality, this hotel occupies a former bank building. Among its many attractions is the exceptional gastronomic experience at the Two MICHELIN Star restaurant Moments, providing ample opportunities to unwind after an afternoon of exploring the high-end boutiques in this central district. Don’t miss Banker’s Bar within the Mandarin Oriental, where ceilings adorned with safes, a nod to the building’s past, create a unique ambiance for enjoying a cocktail (or mocktail), a glass of fine wine, or a local Catalan cava.
Dinner and Evening: Catalan Flavors and Design Excellence
Housed in the historic former Moritz brewery, a building dating back to 1864 and beautifully renovated in 2011 by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, you can, of course, savor excellent local beer. However, the brewery also boasts a remarkable selection of restaurants. At al kostat, indulge in Catalan-inspired dishes by Chef Jordi Vilà, designed for sharing and crafted with fresh, local ingredients. For a more refined dining experience, ascend to the second floor of the building to Alkimia, also by Chef Jordi Vilà and holding One MICHELIN Star from the Michelin Guide Barcelona. Alkimia offers a unique, seafood-centric tasting menu where Jordi showcases his deep understanding of Catalan cuisine and a modern culinary approach. Adding to its allure, Alkimia was recognized for its exceptional design at the 2017 SBID International Design Awards for Best Restaurant Design.
To conclude your first day, head to the rooftop of Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona for a final drink. This vantage point offers some of the best panoramic city views, complemented by live music every Wednesday and DJ sessions from Thursday to Sunday. If you’re fortunate, extend your experience with an unforgettable night in one of its 91 rooms, each stylishly designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán Studio.
Day 2: Coffee, Culture, and Culinary Climaxes
Morning: Specialty Coffee and Artistic Immersion
Barcelona boasts a thriving specialty coffee scene. Start your second day at NOMAD Coffee, one of the city’s most celebrated coffee shops, with multiple locations and its own roastery. At their Nomad Coffee Lab in El Born, explore a diverse selection of beans and roasts that have earned them a stellar reputation among Barcelona’s coffee lovers. They exclusively serve seasonal varieties in continuous rotation, offering three espresso coffees, four filter coffees, and two to four cold options, including their signature nitro cold brew. While they focus solely on coffee, offering no food, sugar, teas, or juices, they do provide a wide array of coffee merchandise, gadgets, and books for the true coffee aficionado.
Demasié, a pastry shop specializing in American-inspired treats, also has several locations throughout Barcelona. Indulge in their delectable rolls, cookies, and cakes at their Carrer de la Princesa location, crafted by descendants of a pastry chef family established in Barcelona since 1897. Vegan options are also available, ensuring everyone can enjoy a sweet treat.
After this delightful indulgence, immerse yourself in art at the Museu Picasso. Lose yourself in the rooms of one of Barcelona’s great museums, dedicated exclusively to the works of Málaga-born painter Pablo Picasso, featuring 5,000 pieces in its permanent collection.
Lunch: Seafood Sensation at Estimar, a Michelin Guide Pick
Conveniently located nearby, Estimar is an exceptional choice for lunch, highly recommended by the Michelin Guide Barcelona. Chargrilling, the finest seafood selected by the Bocanegra family, and the culinary expertise of Chef Rafa Zafra combine to create an unforgettable dining experience in this intimate restaurant. Ferran Adrià himself has called Estimar “the seafood restaurant of the 21st century.” Here, quality raw ingredients and simple, skillful preparations are the winning formula. Even Mick Jagger is a repeat visitor, a testament to Estimar’s allure.
Afternoon: Gaudí’s Icons and Panoramic Vistas
No trip to Barcelona is complete without exploring two of its most iconic treasures: Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia. Missing these is to miss two of the most captivating examples of Catalan modernism. Park Güell, a designated World Heritage Site since 1984, and the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, despite its unfinished state, are true emblems of the city’s architectural genius.
Close to both landmarks is The One Barcelona hotel, recognized with a MICHELIN Key by the Michelin Guide Barcelona. From its elegant roof terrace, soak in some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city while enjoying a refreshing drink or a light bite.
Discover all the MICHELIN Key hotels in Barcelona.
Another of Barcelona’s unique charms is its array of gourmet grocery stores. Colmado Múrria, a fascinating establishment founded in 1898 in the heart of Eixample, is a prime example. Explore a curated selection of premium products – cheeses, smoked meats, sausages, oils, preserves, and wines – within a beautifully preserved space featuring modernist touches. Colmado Múrria also houses several dining areas where you can sample more elaborate culinary creations. Don’t forget to admire the stunning façade and signage outside!
Dinner: A Three Michelin Star Finale at Cocina Hermanos Torres
Conclude your gastronomic journey with an unforgettable dinner at Cocina Hermanos Torres. This Three MICHELIN Star restaurant, featured prominently in the Michelin Guide Barcelona, is located in a beautifully renovated former industrial warehouse. Chefs Sergio and Javier Torres showcase their exceptional talents through a unique tasting menu centered around seasonal ingredients, with an optional wine pairing to perfectly complement each course. Prepare for an exciting culinary odyssey where every dish is executed with precision and reflects the best of Mediterranean flavors.
Evening Drinks and Boutique Hotel Retreat
For a final drink, a visit to one of the bars designed by renowned bartender Javier de las Muelas is essential. At Dry Martini Bar, you’ll find an exceptional cocktail selection that has made Javier a legend in Barcelona’s mixology scene. As the name suggests, Dry Martini Bar specializes in dry martinis, but their extensive menu also includes classic cocktails and innovative concoctions. A small selection of tapas is available to accompany your drinks.
For a restful night before your departure, the boutique hotel Casa Bonay offers a distinct experience, making guests feel like true Barcelona locals rather than just tourists. The hotel’s 67 rooms, almost all with outdoor spaces, exude understated elegance and simplicity, perfectly embodying the spirit of this captivating city. Casa Bonay also houses a variety of eateries and hosts regular events.
Address Book
Mercado La Boquería: La Rambla, 9, 08001 Barcelona
Bar Pinotxo: Carrer del Compte d’Urgell, 1 – Mercado de Sant Antoni, 18-21, 08011 Barcelona
Escribà La Rambla: La Rambla 83, 08002 Barcelona
MACBA: Plaça dels Àngels, 1, 08001 Barcelona
Dos Palillos Sake Bar: Carrer Elisabets, 9, 08001 Barcelona
Casa Batlló: Passeig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona
La Pedrera – Casa Milà: Passeig de Gràcia, 92, 08008 Barcelona
Banker’s Bar: Passeig de Gràcia, 40, 08007 Barcelona
Fàbrica Moritz Barcelona: Ronda de Sant Antoni, 41, 08011 Barcelona
Nomad Coffee Lab: Passatge Sert, 12, 08003 Barcelona
Demasié: Carrer de la Princesa, 28, 08003 Barcelona
Museu Picasso de Barcelona: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona
Estimar: Carrer de Sant Antoni dels Sombrerers, 3, 08003 Barcelona
Park Güell: Carrer d’Olot, 12, 08024 Barcelona
Basílica de la Sagrada Familia: Carrer Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona
Colmado Múrria: Carrer de Roger de Llúria, 85, 08009 Barcelona
Dry Martini Bar: Carrer de Aribau, 162, 166, 08036 Barcelona
Cocina Hermanos Torres: Carrer del Taquígraf Serra, 20, 08017 Barcelona
Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona: Carrer de Bergara, 8, 08002 Barcelona
Mandarin Oriental Barcelona: Passeig de Gràcia, 38-40, 08007 Barcelona
The One Barcelona: Carrer de Provença, 277, 08008 Barcelona
Casa Bonay: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 700, 08010 Barcelona
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Hero Image:
An aerial view of Barcelona (© GettyImages)
Written by The MICHELIN Guide
