Where to go on a date in Barcelona

Dates, much like people, come in all shapes and sizes and can spark excitement and intrigue. Romantic Barcelona has got it all. Whether you’re a student or professional that’s new in town and looking to impress, a hopeless romantic pursuing recent love interests, a honeymooner seeking perfection or you’re in the planning stages of a romantic getaway and searching for a romantic apartment. The Barcelona date-life offers a classic night out of the wild and extravagant to the sensitive and reserved for any romantic vacation or occasion.

Barcelona is one of the most romantic cities in Europe and the possibilities of romantic things to do and activities are endless. Where cute independent cafes, renowned restaurants and individualistic bars are within walking distance or a short commute.

Romantic areas

Each neighbourhood in Barcelona presents establishments that are sure to set the mood for all types of date. Below are all but a few of the hundreds of Barcelona date ideas.

Options at your discretion could range from the truly authentic Catalán experience at L’antic Bocoi del Gotic, the Venetian cocktail bar Sub Rosa or the secluded and atmospheric rooftop garden Bar Jardin. Barri Gótic is bursting with bars and restaurants for romancing daters.

The neighbourhood of El Born is home to a wealth of ambient and comfortable bars and eateries, here you will find the likes of Rubi Bar, a hip and red cushioned gin bar, the intimate lighting and informal but elegant decor of restaurant El Pla, or take to the tiny winding streets to find one of Barcelona’s favourites for first dates, La Fianna.

Related article: How to have a low-cost date in Barcelona

Introducing Oddland cocktail lounge, where an earthy decor, laid back vibe and atmosphere take you a step into experiencing El Raval’s bar scene. Don’t just stop there, delve deeper into El Raval’s repertoire where you will find the cocktail bar Cocteleria Tahití, owned by Javier Cejas. Serving up traditional recipes from tiki culture, which, in short, is inspired by nostalgia from South Pacific beaches after World War II, making rum the mixologists’ area of expertise. Just a few doors down is the contemporary and elegantly styled Negroni bar, same owner but with an altogether different inspiration and concept. If you converse with the mixologist for a moment about your tastes you’ll be gifted with an extraordinary cocktail appropriated to your preference. In my case it was a classic Italian negroni, the gin component substituted for whiskey and with a coffee infusion. Exquisite. 

Share with a special someone the delectable experiences on offer in Sant Gervasi, whether its the mediterranean and un-intimidating modern cuisine at ‘A Contraluz’ where the ambience and magnificence of dining are combined within an evergreen garden setting, or seasonal Japanese concept cooking at Wagokoro, with a menu that is harmonious, thoughtful and free from any pretensions that evoke a metaphor for your date.

All of Barcelona’s neighbourhoods are not to be overlooked when looking where to go on a date. This statement definitely goes for Eixample which is home to the legendary cocktail bar Dry Martini, internationally renowned as one of the best on earth. Enter the password protected, underground, clandestine restaurant of Speak Easy through the kitchen of Dry Martini. Javier de las Muelas, owner of both establishments is responsible for these sumptuous venues. The later recreates a gastronomic space inspired by the prohibition era in America in the twenties. Here you can enjoy a unique food and cocktail pairing inspired by the cocktail, offering a different gastronomic experience.

If you’re the adventurous dating type then put your senses to the test by eating a romantic three course meal in total darkness. At Dans Le Noir your senses of taste, touch, sound, and smell indulge in exquisite food, delivered by skilled ‘blind dining’ guides.           

Romantic things to do

A date will always be much more than just drinking, eating and the right venue. The beautiful weather of Barcelona could make you want to stray away from the boundaries of a bar or restaurant. The most romantic places in Barcelona are not just the most expensive restaurants, and in some cases can be the most inexpensive. How about the 5 places to enjoy a romantic picnic? If you’re looking for ideas for entertainment, culture and a bit of romance then your should definitely look into taking your date to a flamenco dance show or alternatively, to watch a performance at the extremely popular and wide range of theatres on offer. If you haven’t found apartments to spend a romantic weekend in barcelona yet, you can find some inspiration here.

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