Barcelona is a city that feels like an open-air gallery—where every street corner whispers stories of rebellion, art, and unapologetic vibrancy. Gaudí’s surreal architecture punctuates a skyline that stretches from gothic alleyways to sun-drenched beaches, while its heartbeat pulses through underground clubs, avant-garde galleries, and kitchens serving tradition with a twist.
This week, KHAMSA takes the trip to Barcelona with a detailed travel guide by Shaza Farah (@byshazoya on Instagram). Shaza is a digital creator who creates content based on beauty and lifestyle. Represented by Imaginary Friends, she is one of the most exciting people to follow in the online space.
Barcelona is a city that doesn’t come to life at any moment in time. Rather, it is always welcome with its sheer versatility and multifaceted offerings for all kinds of tourists. Shaza will affirm these traits of the Spamish city, a place she falls in love with every time she is there.
Top must-visit food spots?
Lunch/Dinner
Berbena (Michelin star restaurant)
Located in Vila de Gracia. Exotic flavours/dishes, first discovered the ice cream and olive oil dessert here!
Amazing food & pasta especially. The ambience is so nice & elegant with fairy lights filling up the ceiling of the entire restaurant.
Right across Harry’s, actually. Duck salad was truly stunning. They combined the flavours so well, definitely worth a visit.
Some of the best tapas in Barcelona!
Coffee
Sweets
Truly the best gelato you’ll have!
Best places for sundowners/rooftop places?
Best sunset views + incredible 360-degree view of Barcelona.
Barceloneta Beach
Best places for shopping?
“There are a lot of standalone stores in Barcelona. It’s not really common to shop in malls/centres. Zara is typical, but Zara is Spanish, so it’s only natural to shop there for clothes. Also visit Flamingos Vintage Kilo and Humana Vintage. All three are present in multiple locations across the city.”
Street/Areas
Passeig de Gracia
“Filled with luxury brands and beautiful architecture.”
Plaza de Catalunya
La Rambla
“You can find a lot of cool bars & tapas in this neighbourhood.”
Must-visit cultural spots?
“There are all your typical tourist spots, but they truly are rich in culture & worth seeing.”
Picasso Museum
Mount Tibidabo
Montjuic
Boqueria Market
“You can find the most fresh fruit & vegetables, and meat.”
Best boutique hotels to stay in?
“Haven’t stayed in any, but these are ones I’ve come across & have been inside in are Seventy Barcelona, The Social Hub, and The Barcelona Edition.”
Underrated places?
“Neighbouring cities: Costa Brava, Cadaques (the beaches are truly stunning). Also, the heart of non-popular neighbourhoods that are filled with incredible architecture, such as Vila de Gracia and La Rambla”
Labyrinth Park (Horta Park)
“Definitely visit Mossen Costa Llobera, and Micu Maku for the best paella.”
What should you avoid?
“Dodgy neighbourhoods like el raval, la rambla, & Barceloneta (during late night hours though, otherwise you’ll be fine). Avoid “locals” that try to approach you and pretend to help you. Also, not paying attention to your bag/items on the metro, and speaking English – make the effort to learn a few words and speak with the locals in their language!
“At Park Guell – there’s a specific exit from the park that I would avoid.”
Must-pack items?
“There’s not much for a ‘must-pack’ because Barcelona is quite carefree and simple, but personally:
- Sunscreen – Barcelona can get pretty hot and sunny!
- Funky/Stand out pieces/clothes as Barcelona is quite fashionable & diverse.
- Lots of jewellery
- Headphones – super walkable city, so you’ll want to listen to music while you admire your surroundings.
Any tips and tricks to tackle the city?
“Take advantage of their transportation. It’s quite efficient and will save you time & money. Learn the language, even if it’s just the basics. Plan out your itinerary ahead of time, as there’s a lot to see, and you don’t want to rush.”
