An international group of locals and expats who meet twice a week to socialise, practice their Spanish or English and exchange tips on Barcelona.

Don't watch TV in your hotel, meet the locals (Barcelonians and expats). Socialise and get all the insiders' info you could never get from a guide book. Every person is a walking, talking, up-to-date guide book. Ask and we shall answer!

The group meets at least twice a week. For all the details check out their website: www.englishoasiscafe.com

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

A friendly, bohemian cafe-bar in the Gothic quarter, just off Carrer de Ferran. Expect to be sitting alongside writers and artists - writing and drawing, no less - during your stay. Food is reasonably priced (eg soup and a main - the 'combi of the day' - for 6 euros). Plus the staff all seem to know English, but avoid speaking it if possible - usually a good sign.

5 Calle de Arai

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

In addition to presenting the "history" of chocolate, the museum displays huge chocolate sculptures. There is also a cafe offering chocolate treats.

Comerç 36, in the Gothic Quarter;
tel: 93 268 7878;
metro: Jaume I or Arc de Triomf;
open: Mon-Sat 10am-7pm; Sun 10am-3pm

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

This cool café, closed in winter, is in a pretty and surprisingly quiet square off the Ramblas and a great lunch spot. Locals and savvy tourists tuck into salads, pastas and quiches as their kids happily run around or go on the swings.

Plaça Vicenç Martorell, 4;
tel: 93 30 22 072

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Just behind the legendary Boqueria market, this is best practice in regeneration. It has an eclectic design, sunny terrace by day and discrete candle-light by night as well as best value multicultural dishes. Inclusive and yet trendy. Great brekkie and home-made milkshakes.

Plaça de la Gardunya 7; tel: 00 34 93 3014 163; nearest metro: Liceu

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Think Willie Wonka versus Ferran Adria and you get a cosmopolitan, eclectic and mind-boggling menu featuring such random selections as hot chocolate soup with curry and yoghurt ice cream. Beats other neighbouring milk-bars in what is known as the hot chocolate street.

Carrer Petrixol 11, 08002; Tel: 00 34 93 301 11 97, www.xocoa-bcn.com/; nearest metro: Placa Catalunya

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Addictive haunt for exchange students, locals and other bagelistas. Along with a different vegetarian special every day, diverse tea flavours and American brunch served on Sunday mornings, the infinite selection of bagels provides an essential accompaniment to Barcelona snacking.

As a bonus, up and coming artists exhibit their work while an eclectic musical mix provides the aural background to your bagel-infused conversations. Known to insiders as the Bagel Club, it’s a must on the exchange student circuit.

Place de la Vila de Madrid; nearest metro: Placa Catalunya

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends