In Spain, there is classic Madrid and then there is cosmopolitan Barcelona, which, apart from being the home of the most beloved football team in the world, is a real treat to visit. We dream of sinking our feet into the soft golden sands of the stunning beaches, taking in the bustling art scene and spectacular attractions, glass of sangria in hand, the list goes on.

While its Mediterranean climate is unbeatable, the best time to visit Barcelona would be the mid-summer months when the weather is balmy enough to cool down by the beach, but not too scorching to sight-see. One of the biggest attractions of the Catalonian capital is that there’s always something to indulge the senses. Barcelona once belonged to the Roman Empire, which explains the exquisite buildings and remains dating back to medieval times you can spot at every twist and turn. Another thing is its mouthwatering gastronomy. You’ll be getting your fill of yummy seafood in the most unique and fantastic Catalan dishes you’ve ever tasted. It also wouldn’t be a holiday in Barcelona without experiencing the glitzy nightlife scene it is so famous for, which unsurprisingly doesn’t begin until 2am.

Here are my suggestions for where to stay, dine, party and sight-see if you’re in Barcelona this summer.

W Barcelona

The five star hotels in Barcelona are timeless, some affording incredible views of the ocean like W Barcelona. Step inside your luxurious glass-fronted room or suite and fall into your plush bed, soaking in the views of the horizon before heading to the Eclipse bar to watch the mixologists in action and London’s best DJs spin the hottest mixes. All this plus the infinity pool, spa, private cabins etc. is Dubai’s over-the-top glamour and Ibiza’s vibrant energy all-in-one. The W is a definite choice for the traveler big on star class treatment.

Boca Grande

Barcelona has a world-class drinking and dining scene and the best way to dive into its Catalan cuisine is to sample the delicious seafood at one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city. Boca Grande’s old-world charm comes through in the hushed lighting and the elegant wooden panels from the polished floors to the oak doors that invite you inside. Think - sophisticated speakeasy meets wine cellar. Sink your teeth into the finest Galician shellfish and fresh local seafood while you sip on their innovative in-house cocktails in true bohemian fashion.

Barceloneta Beach

A few minutes on Barceloneta beach and you’ll be wondering if you’re in Miami! One of the most popular and lively beaches in Barcelona, this is where the who’s who of tourists and locals come to see and be seen. There’s endless fun over here where beachgoers enjoy a game of volleyball, others get their suntan on, and the rest cool off in the waves. There’s also seaside huts where you can buy the freshest paella and even rent a beach chair and umbrella.

Sagrada Familia

Step out onto the streets and it will not be long until you spot the work of world famous architect, Antoni Gaudí. A symbol of the capital’s cultural identity, crowds from around the world come to celebrate his Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Sagrada Familia is considered his masterpiece and fascinates the human eye time and time again. Gaudí’s blending of the divine and natural world is seen in the soaring trees for pillars, the fruits and even the few tortoises incorporated into the design.

Pacha Barcelona

It comes as no surprise the number of nightlife experiences available from quiet Spanish bars to the most happening night clubs like Pacha, where you can raise a glass to the weekend, palms to the ceiling, while the DJs spin the best hip hop, electronic, pachanga and international hits. However, Pacha is as elegant as it is exclusive so making the guestlist means doing it their way - dressing to impress! The VIP experience is best for those epic club nights where you want to celebrate in style with bottle service and an intimate crowd.

Barcelona waits for you! The Spanish borders recently opened up this Monday to vaccinated tourists from outside of the EU (finally!). What are you waiting for? Consider this the sign you needed to travel again☺