Summary
Exploring El Born: A Cultural Gem in Barcelona
El Born is one of Barcelona’s oldest neighborhoods and arguably its most picturesque. A stroll through its largely pedestrian streets reveals a plethora of Gothic churches, eclectic bars, and captivating museums.
La Palau de la Musica Catalana
Address: C/ Palau de la Mú-sica, 4-6, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 932 95 72 00
Domenech i Montaner’s modernist masterpiece enhances music through its stunning architecture, surrounded by vibrant mosaics and classical busts. The breathtaking glass cupola and exquisite acoustics create a truly unforgettable experience.
Picasso Museum
Address: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 932 56 30 00
Discover Spain’s most celebrated painter at this converted palace on a charming medieval street. The museum showcases an extensive collection of early sketches as well as remarkable cubist works.
The Passeig del Born
Address: Pg. del Born, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Once the location for medieval jousts and tournaments, this vibrant promenade connects the Church of Santa Maria del Mar to El Born’s market. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching, complemented by trendy boutiques in the nearby backstreets.
Medieval Palaces on Carrer Montcada
Walk through Carrer Montcada and admire the impressive architecture of the palaces that once housed the wealthiest nobles of medieval times. This street is dotted with historical character and architectural beauty.
Cocktail Bars of El Born
Address: Carrer de Manresa, 4, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 933 15 18 10
By night, El Born’s charming streets come alive with trendsetters, and exploring its stylish cocktail bars is an excellent way to meet them. Start at La Fianna, known for its two-for-one happy hours on Carrer dels Banys Vells.
Chocolate Museum
Address: Carrer del Comerç, 36, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 932 68 78 78
This tempting museum on Carrer Comerç indulges every cocoa lover’s fantasy, showcasing the delicious history and artistry of chocolate.
Santa Caterina Market
Address: Av. de Francesc Cambó, 16, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 933 19 57 40
Designed by Enric Miralles and completed in 2005, Santa Caterina Market offers an astounding variety of Mediterranean fruits, cured meats, cheeses, and fresh fish, all amidst a stunning architectural setting.
Baños Arabes
Address: Passeig de Picasso, 22, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 932 20 44 18
This luxurious spa, located in a charming 18th-century building overlooking Ciutadela Park, offers a serene escape with its Arabian bath experience, making it an ideal way to unwind after a day of exploring.
Seafood at La Paradeta
Address: Carrer Comercial, 7, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 932 68 19 39
La Paradeta, located just behind the Mercat del Born, invites diners to select the freshest seafood at its market stall. Enjoy delightful dishes like navajas—razor clams cooked in a rich sauce.
Santa Maria del Mar
Address: Plaça de Santa Maria, 1, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 933 10 23 90
It’s hard to believe that the sea once reached this Gothic Basilica’s foundations—one of Catalonia’s most admired churches—known as Saint Mary of the Sea, a nod to its original maritime proximity.
