Rooftop Sunsets, Secret Galleries, and the Trendiest Districts: A Local's Guide to Barcelona

      Welcome to Locals Only. In this series, we are connecting with prominent locals in the style scene to present a curated selection of their top picks for sights, dining, and shopping in their hometown. They will reveal lesser-known suggestions that you won't find in standard guidebooks, resulting in concise mini-guides showcasing where the city's trendiest residents prefer to spend their time. When I think of Barcelona, what immediately comes to mind is its vibrant energy—sun-kissed streets filled with creativity, quaint cafés hidden amid historic buildings, and a fashion crowd that consistently looks effortlessly stylish. It’s a city where you can kick off your day with a museum visit, wind down with rooftop cocktails, and still feel as if you've only explored the surface. That’s precisely why I fell for it and have seized every opportunity to visit over the past two years.

      Thus, I was motivated to chat with jewelry designer, creator of PDPaola, and local creative Paola Sasplugas, who has called Barcelona home for over 15 years. If anyone can craft the ultimate city guide for your upcoming visit, it's her. With a desire to bypass the typical tourist spots familiar to college study abroad students, Sasplugas has delved deep to discover Barcelona’s hidden treasures. From the galleries where she loves to lose track of time to the finest spots for an impromptu night out, she provides an authentic local insight into the city’s chicest areas—complete with specific neighborhoods, shops, and Catalan dishes to base your itinerary around.

      (Image credit: Courtesy of PDPaola)

      Where do you originate from, and how many years have you lived in this city?

      I was born in Andorra and raised in Barcelona, so this city is intricately tied to my identity. I've traveled extensively, but I always feel drawn back here—it truly feels like home. I've been living in Barcelona for over 15 years.

      Which neighborhoods do you favor, and where do you find yourself spending the most time?

      I adore the contrasts among different areas of Barcelona. El Born, with its meandering streets and hidden treasures, is where I seek inspiration. Sarrià, where I was raised, offers a serene charm and some of my favorite spots. Recently, I've been spending more time in Poblenou, which has a vibrant creative atmosphere and an evolving culinary scene that I cherish.

      What does a typical day off look like for you?

      It generally begins with a leisurely morning at a cozy café, followed by a stroll along the beach or through Montjuïc. I’ll fit in some vintage shopping or visit an art gallery before gathering with friends for a long lunch. Evenings are made for cocktails, spontaneous adventures, and perhaps concluding the night at a cozy hidden bar with great music.

      If you had to design the perfect afternoon for someone visiting the city with limited time, which area would you recommend, and what activities would their afternoon include?

      I would suggest El Born. Start with coffee at Nomad, meander through the narrow streets, pop into boutiques, and visit the Picasso Museum. Then, enjoy a vermouth at El Xampanyet before heading to Barceloneta for stunning views by the sea during golden hour.

      How has the city of Barcelona and its architecture influenced your work as a designer?

      Barcelona continually inspires me—from Gaudí’s organic shapes to the sleek lines of contemporary design. The city harmonizes history and modernity seamlessly, and that balance impacts my approach to creativity.

      Which neighborhoods best represent the city’s fashion scene?

      El Born has a trendy, effortless atmosphere with many independent designers and concept stores. Eixample is more refined and classic, while Gràcia adds an eclectic, artistic energy to the mix.

      WHAT TO PACK

      FARM Rio

      Floral Stripe Sundress

      PDPAOLA

      Diamond Loop Ring

      If you're seeking a gift for someone who loves books or just enjoy visual inspiration, the color-coded shelves of Terranova will certainly catch your eye and entice you to linger. If you time your visit right, you may catch one of their art exhibitions, showcasing a unique window display featuring local artists and craftspeople.

      A 45-minute taxi ride (or an hour on public transit with locals) will bring you to this charming coastal town famous for its colorful beach huts and clear waters. Most residents skip the city's main beach (Barceloneta) and prefer this picturesque beach town for a swim in the Balearic. It has only a couple of restaurants and is surrounded by blue skies and beautiful waves.

      Editor’s Tip: For a peaceful experience, consider staying at Soho House’s Little Beach House, and watch out for jellyfish.

      (Image credit: Courtesy of Los Féliz Shop)

      Anyone intending to visit Barcelona likely knows it's a haven for vintage shoppers. With a plethora of stores to explore, the options can feel endless. To help you narrow down your quest for archival treasures, I persuaded Saspluga to share her