Prepare for Primavera Sound and Sonar with the new WGSN Barcelona city guide
As festival season approaches, the artsy capital of Catalonia stands out due to its striking retail, hospitality and culture spots – and is driven by sustainability and staying true to its Mediterranean roots.
Festival season finally hits Barcelona, and high temperatures welcome travellers from all around the world. Music devotees are well-served on the Mediterranean coast as Primavera Sound and Sónar return year after year.
Sustainable development is another key value of Catalonia’s capital, and responsible local brands are in the spotlight. Barcelona’s youth-driven, resort-inspired aesthetic now coexists with traditional expertise, local production and seasonless delivery. Concept shops that explore this trend include ’60s-inspired House of Rowdy, selling art, music, books and vintage fashion, and the new Casa Le Swing Vintage, offering curated vintage designer clothing, accessories and furniture.
Independent stores can be found in El Born, a bohemian area with an artistic atmosphere featuring boutiques and cafes – here, home brand Pachulí Interior & Lifestyle is all about global arts and craftsmanship, while Bon Vent champions the Mediterranean lifestyle through artisanal products. Dareels, in the central area of Eixample, is a furniture label that produces items with chemical-free finishes.
The newest addition to the city’s well-known art scene is the Museu de l’Art Prohibit (or Museum of Forbidden Art), the first museum in the world to showcase censored pieces, including works by Picasso, Andy Warhol, Ines Doujak, Robert Mapplethorpe and Ai Weiwei.
But if your main Spanish interest involves food and drink, we’ve also got you covered. Head to El Raval and, arguably, the city’s oldest food market, La Boquería, a must-visit for a glimpse into its rich gastronomic culture. For a more contemporary taste, the recently opened Bar Pimentel serves classic tapas dishes with a modern twist, while Masa Vins establishes itself as a trendy location with flavourful plates and an extensive range of natural wines. Salud!
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