Valentine’s Day in Barcelona

The westernized and commercialized holiday, Valentine’s Day, is spreading like wildfire worldwide. Companies are capitalizing on this holiday to rack in sales and tell society that they need to show their feelings for the one they love with the perfect ring or necklace or a romantic getaway for the weekend.

In Spain, people often refer to this commercial day as the day of El Corte Ingles, which is the largest department store in Spain.

Single people all over the world groan when February 14th rolls around, but I think that instead of a day filled with global Public Display of Affection, it could be a day to treat yourself.

Here is a list of ideas for both singles and couples, and big spenders and thrifty shoppers alike.

Chocolates

Oriol Balaguer: This Catalan has made a name for himself throughout both Catalonia and Spain, and for good reason. At Oriol Balaguar, in Born, you will find a world of luxurious and delicate hand-crafted chocolates and bonbons. The taste is unique, and you can tell that the highest quality products have been used in the creation of these chocolate masterpieces. Even a chocolate bar will suffice if you aren’t into modern gastronomic fusion.

Fusina 5 – El Born

Fargas: Cross the street into the Gothic neighborhood if you want something special, but not quite as modern. Fargas is one of Barcelona’s staples for chocolate and other fine products. If you want to buy individual chocolates and gift them to that special someone, this is the spot. They put a lot of emphasis on customer service and presentation. They serve handcrafted chocolates with a wide array of selections.

Perfect Flowers

For those who wish to buy their special someone a perfect bouquet of flowers, but maybe forgot about Valentine’s day, I have the solution. Flores Navarro Barcelona is one of the most magnificent flower shops that is open 24/7, 365 days a year. The place is dedicated to flowers and their dedication is evident. You can choose either a careful flower arrangement, a delicate bouquet, or even a beautiful plant to gift. They even have special arrangements made just for Valentine’s Day this year!

Carrer de València, 320

Related articles: The most romantic places in Barcelona

Beautify

Ever done a luxurious spa day or dipped into a fountain of youth? I present you with the two ends of the treat yourself spectrum: luxurious or economic, in the beautiful Aire de Barcelona spa. This spa is currently offering a special for Valentine’s Day, where you can do a couples treatment for two, for 170 euros which would include: a gift box, thermal baths, chocolates, aromatherapy, 45-minute massage, cava, and fresh fruit. This spa includes over five different luxurious baths, include jet streams, a salt bath and a steam bath. You can treat yourself to a luxurious thermal bath and an aromatherapy session for as cheap as 31 euros.

Dinner

La Terraza del Claris at Hotel Claris: This Valentine’s, La Terraza del Claris will be having a special menu for a romantic dinner for two. This menu will include champagne, a four-course menu with exquisite Catalan delicacies including various seafood dishes and dessert for 65euros per person. Apart from an incredible menu, there is a breathtaking view of the city from the terrace.

C/ Pau Claris, 150

Economic but Intimate

El Soplo: One of my personal favorite spot in Barcelona happens to double as a wine bar (go figure). This incredible little nook is tucked away in one of the narrow alleyways of the Born, just near the Jaume I metro stop. The name is “El Soplo” and it is truly going to blow you away. It is a very small space, but the concept is an exchange of sorts: you buy a bottle or glass from their Catalan wine selection and they prepare local, kilometer 0, and unique tapas.

Each time you repeat the wine, they dish out more tapas included with the price of the wine, and by the time you’re through you are stuffed and buzzing off of some grade A wine. This place is easy on your wallet, quite intimate and delicious.