Barcelona… the city of lovers

Paris? Pah! Venice? What a cliche! If you want a unique romantic getaway with your significant other to celebrate something special or just to get intimate, Barcelona has everything a couple could possibly need. Be it great weather, the blue sea lined with golden sand, inspiring architecture, and a great nightlife.

The Spanish know all about romance. Courting couples, teenagers snogging on park benches, pensioners walking hand in hand –  the Spanish could definitely teach the rest of us a thing or two about love.

So here are our suggestions for the lovebirds who are coming to Barcelona for some quality time.

Related article: Get a romantic massage for two

Best romantic hotels

If you are flush or want to splash out, then there are some great luxury hotels in Barcelona. The Arts Hotel (Port Olimpic) or the W Hotel (Barceloneta) both boast excellent locations and facilities to die for. Spas and massages, exceptional breakfast buffets, five-star restaurants, and beautifully appointed rooms. Careful though, you might never want to leave.

If your budget is more humble or you favour something more idiosyncratic and altogether cosier, then check out Hosteria Grau. Centrally located but sufficiently removed from the lunacy of Las Ramblas to allow you sleep and relaxation.

Best romantic places to eat

There are so many beautiful and interesting little boutique restaurants and cafes in Barcelona that you really are spoiled for choice. Way too many to list here. Gracia has more than it’s fair share of these places and is worth getting out of the centre of town for. There are many little gems hidden throughout the Gothic Quarter, Raval and Poble Sec as well.

Related article: 7 spots for a romantic dinner for two

Romantic things to do

When you’re not eating, drinking or testing the durability of the hotel beds, there are lots of activities to enjoy and day trips that you can take.

Sitges, less than an hour by train, is a lovely seaside town with many good restaurants, a beautiful beach and a lovely old town full of cute buildings.

When the weather is bad, which it occasionally is, or if you want some serious chill time, then get yourself and your loved one to the Aire de Barcelona – a gorgeous underground Arabian-style hammam where you can bathe, steam, Jacuzzi, and relax. It costs around 30 euros per person for entry to the spa, but there are many optional add-ons such as glorious massages and facials.

Finally, a trip to Spain would not be complete without a trip to a flamenco show. These are shown in tablaos and can range in price from around €5 to €50 and beyond if you want a full show experience including dinner and drinks.

One of the cheapest is Tarantas who provide a short but great show with no bells and whistles. If you want to make a night of it, try Tablao Cordobes.

Looking for a flat to rent during your stay in Barcelona? ShBarcelona is the answer.