5 insider tips for discovering Barceloneta

Already been to Barceloneta beach? Taken a stroll along the prom? Supped at one of the many overpriced restaurants by the port? Then you’re ready for the other side to Barceloneta. Experience this vibrant, seaside town like a local with these top 5 tips for discovering Barceloneta off the beaten track.

Get active and take on the waves down in Barceloneta. A great place for water sports, you can try out the latest craze, paddle surfing.  Check out hipster hangout Surf House Barcelona and join in with some of their Stand Up Paddle (SUP) sessions.

Its great beachside location and historic identity as the fishermen’s district makes Barceloneta an ideal place for some delicious seafood tapas. Popular with locals, the lively and traditional bars Jai-Ca (Ginebra 9), La Bombeta (Maquinista 3) and Cal Papi (Atlàntida 65) are perfect for sampling some traditional specialties. From fried calamari and buckets of mussels to the timeless classic, patatas bravas, you’ll find endless tantalising options unknown to the everyday visitor to Barcelona.

If you fancy chilling out on the beach, watching the waves and the world go by, why not prepare for a picnic on the sand? Head to the market on Plaça del Poeta Boscà and pick a selection of tasty treats from amongst the fresh food stalls, such as delicious breads, juicy fruits, and local cold cuts.

As a day of hard graft comes to an end, locals often head for an after-work chill-out drink. G&Ts and Spritz are currently trendy. A couple of our fave local bars are the quirky Bar Ké (Baluart 54), and the seafront bar Santa Marta (Grau i Torras, 59) with its infectious summer buzz. For top notch nibbles stop by Filferro (Sant Carles 29) and order one of their great cheese or ham platters.

Barceloneta has many excellent restaurants where you can celebrate a special occasion and enjoy a slap up meal. El Cheriff (Ginebra 15) is known for its delicious paellas, and Can Ramonet (Maquinista 17) for its hearty traditional food, the fish and seafood being particularly recommended. Somorrostro (Sant Carles 11) is the place to be if you’re in the mood for some haute-cuisine – their exquisite menu never fails to impress.