Barcelona off the beaten track: the hidden gems of the city

Some may be quick to assume that Barcelona is nothing more than unusual Gaudi buildings and beautiful beaches. To the contrary, the Catalan capital is brimming with off-the-beaten-track treasures whether you’re looking for the best spots for clandestine dining, low-key bars, quaint and quirky museums or simply to keep away from the hoards of tourists. We’ve sussed out the best places for you enjoy all sorts of secret shenanigans, but shhh… we don’t want everyone to find out about Barcelona off the beaten track! Wine tasting cruise A trip to the beautiful Barcelona coastline is incomplete without a boating trip. Saying that, why not make your experience that extra bit special with a wine tasting cruise, which are available for both company and private charters. Orsom Barcelona offers a once in a lifetime experience where you can enjoy the stunning views of the sparkling Mediterranean and the Catalan capital’s coastline. Allow a professional sommelier to transform you from a wine amateur to a wine connoisseur in a matter of hours. Your newly found expertise will cover everything from tasting wine like a professional, to the senses involved and all the relevant vocabulary to make you sound like you’ve been doing this for years! Most importantly, you will be given the opportunity to sample a range of delectable Spanish wines from the famous Penedès and Rioja regions. Bar Mutis So chic and exclusive, this bar has previously seduced the likes of Russell Crowe, Robert de Niro and Woody Allen. Located in a converted flat, which is totally soundproof, this is possibly Barcelona’s most secretive bar so for all you challenge seekers out there; Bar Mutis is the place for you. If you manage to get your name on the guest list, find the right door and navigate your way up the spiral staircase, bear in mind that you’re probably ready to join MI5. With its hidden location and 1920s New York inspired décor, experience the vibe of an illicit party as you soak up the sounds of exquisite live music in absolute privacy. Its luxurious red, velvet curtains and gold ceilings make you feel as if you’re in an old American movie. In terms of its menu, it has been carefully devised by the head bartender and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Its combination of classics, cocktails, and after-dinner specials offers many tempting concoctions with each drink coming with its own back story. The food menu is equally outstanding, even if you fancy just a quick bar snack. There’s a reason why this place has been voted the ‘Best European Bar’ by the prestigious magazine, ‘Drinks International’. One thing’s for sure, you can’t get much more off-the-beaten-track than this place! Calle Pau Claris, 192 Perfume Museum Situated on the luxurious and fashionable Passeig de Gràcia, is a little gem that’s all too easy to miss, the Perfume Museum. Calling all you Chanel fans, witness the development of the ever changing perfume industry from Ancient Egyptian times to present day. This eclectic museum is home to more than 5000 perfume related artefacts, sending all you sweet scented perfume lovers into a complete frenzy. It features the fascinating evolution of the perfume bottle with ornamental vessels to fine china and crystal glass. Passeig de Gràcia, 39 Sensi Gourmet by Tapas Tucked away in the Gothic Quarter, you will find one of Barcelona’s most intimate eateries which is ideal if you’re looking for a table for two with your loved one and to ramp up the romance. The crème de la crème of gastronomic tapas, Sensi Gourmet by Tapas boasts a divine selection of impeccably presented food, all made with locally sourced and high quality ingredients. Their wild sea bass fillet with white butter sauce and broccoli foam is simply to die for, as is their duck breast served with mango chutney and potato emulsion. Their fabulous food is perfectly complimented by the wine and drinks list, which rumour has it, includes some of the best sangria in the city. Carrer de Milans, 4 Showtime at El Molino Fancy trying something different? Experience an evening of eroticism with El Molino’s truly sensational cabaret show where you can enjoy a unique experience of glamour and glitter. Enjoy an action packed show filled with plenty of unforgettable, seductive and exciting moments, all for €33. Having recently celebrated their 100th birthday, you know that you’re in the hands of professionals with the best that Cabaret has to offer. Check their website for show times. Carrer de Vila i Vilà, 99 1881 Per Sagardi This hidden gem is perched atop the Museum of History of Catalonia and prides itself on its unique and privileged views of Port Vell. Take a seat on the terrace and enjoy the stunning Barcelona skyline and the beautifully illuminated port with its glistening waters, with a well deserved glass of vino. Bliss! This Bacardi-sponsored cocktail bar is the perfect spot for some post-dinner relaxation or alternatively, make your way over on a sunny Saturday afternoon where they have live DJs playing. Plaça de Pau Vila, 3 Sandra Roig is Marketing Director at Apartment Barcelona. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.