Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ment.
Chiringuitos
are also great spots for a snack - particularly the
Guingueta de la Bar-
MAP
GOOGLE MAP
; 9am-10.30pm May-Sep) run by Michelin-starred chef Carles Abel-
lan. The drink of choice at either is a refreshing
cava sangria
.
One of the liveliest beachside bars lies northeast of the city on Cavaió beach in Arenys de
Mar (accessible from Barcelona by train).
Lasal
(
www.lasal.com
) hosts top-notch DJs and
has a tropical-themed party atmosphere. It opens from mid-May to September.
Clubs
Barcelona's
discotecas
(clubs) are at their best from Thursday to Saturday. Indeed, many
open only on these nights. A surprising variety of spots lurk in the old-town labyrinth, ran-
ging from plush former dance halls to grungy subterranean venues that fill to capacity.
Along the waterfront it's another story. At Port Olímpic sun-scorched crowds of visiting
yachties mix it up with tourists and a few locals at noisy, back-to-back dance bars right on
the waterfront. The best spots are over on La Barceloneta side.
A sprinkling of well-known clubs is spread over the classy parts of town, in L'Eixample
and La Zona Alta. As a rule of thumb they attract a beautiful crowd.
Cafes
The cafe scene in Barcelona is incredibly vibrant and makes a great setting for an afternoon
pick me up. You'll find charming teashops hidden on the narrow lanes of Barri Gòtic, bo-
hemian hang-outs in the Raval, hipster haunts in L'Eixample and Modernista gems on La
Rambla. While coffee, tea or perhaps
xocolata calenta
(hot chocolate) are the main attrac-
tions, most places also serve snacks, and some serve beer, wine and sometimes cocktails.
