The Mediterranean life – how to take it easy in Barcelona

Barcelona is synonymous with relaxation and fun, and the millions of visitors looking for sun and entertainment confirm this. When you live here it is just as possible to enjoy those things – the city, nature and the climate. That makes the stressful everyday routine more pleasant even when times get tough.

Beach and mountains

The beach, along with the sun, is the most obvious source of relaxation for the majority of people coming here in search of a more pleasant existence. Barceloneta beach, despite being a top tourist area during sunny times, has spots where you can avoid the crowds and enjoy moments resembling life in a holiday resort. In seaside chill-out bars you can escape the fact that you are in one of the biggest and most densely inhabited cities of Europe. Walk further towards Poble Nou along Barceloneta to find calmer spots.

Before the tourist season is the perfect time to enjoy Barceloneta’s relaxing effect, and especially the early morning hours offer moments of calm seaside time. Go for a walk or a jog, and watch the sun rise as the city wakes up in the background. The road towards the W hotel is a good option.

In addition to the sea, Barcelona has mountains and hills. And these include Montjuïc, a wonderful green area high above the sounds of the city. If you want more rugged natural environments, go towards Tibidabo or take an actual hiking path in the mountains.

Have a long lunch

You have the sea and the mountains, but relaxing in Barcelona does not need to mean going somewhere far from home or work. The 2-hour lunch break system might take getting used to, but it forces you to disconnect from work in the middle of a hectic day. A long lunch on a terrace followed by an unhurried coffee is definitely a good way to make life slower. So take your time like the locals! (In fact, in many jobs this 2-hour  break cannot even be avoided.)

And finally, the ultimate urban form of chilling out – rooftop terraces. You do not need a 5-star hotel for this, although Casa Fuster and Majèstic have absolutely stunning views. Just being high above the traffic, crowds and noise is enough to give you a soothing break that works wonders every time.