A huge area of forested parkland riddled with pathways, the Parc de Collserola is a great place to escape the crowds in Barcelona.

(To the northwest of the city)
Tourist information centre:
Carretera Església 92
08017 Barcelona, Spain
932 803 552
www.parccollserola.net‎

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Get away from the crowds around El Born and the Gotic Quarter and head down to Barceloneta, an old fishing village by the harbour. It's less crowded and feels more authentic then other parts of the city.

The restaurants, which predominately specialise in seafood, are excellent. And if you don't like seafood, it's still a nice place for a stroll around the menu before heading to the beach.

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Wawas Barcelona is a small shop near the Picasso Museum in La Ribera which offers souvenirs, with a twist. Far from your average trinket shop, it is run by two local sisters whose product is a refocused view of the city's architecture and tradition. Their postcards, trays, and mugs bear images of a the less traditional - but still adored - Barcelona.

Most unique is their collaboration with Xocoa - the gourmet chocolatier of Barcelona. Wawas offers chocolate bars wrapped in their images, known as Barcelona Bombons. Without a doubt, the Barcelona souvenir you can find for friends, family, or 'novios'!

Definitely a must go!

WAWAS SHOP
C/ Carders 14
08003 Barcelona

(around the corner from the Picasso Museum)

T (+34) 93 319 79 02

At the time of this post, this shop did not have their own website, however they referred me to the following link to view their images:

flicker.com/search/?q=wawas+barcelona

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Personalised guided walking or bike tours

www.barcelonaexperience.com/

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A totally flat 5km track for runners, cyclists and walkers that runs along the hills at the back of Barcelona and offers the most stunning views of the city spread out below you with the sea beyond. The track sometimes winds through the trees but is mostly out in the open. If you need a break or want a different perspective on the city take a couple of hours and refresh your mind in this oasis with a view.

Despite its wonderfulness, the track is often almost totally deserted, though is busier on Saturday and Sunday mornings as Barcelona exercises itself. This track is a runner’s paradise and if you are there just after sunrise (the best time to go) you may see me plodding along.
www.virtourist.com/europe/barcelona/999.htm

To get there take the Ferrocarillis Catalana, which starts in Plaza Catalunya, towards San Cugat and get off at Peu de la Funicular. Take the funicular to Vallvidrera but get off at the half way stop. As you exit the halt turn left along the track and keep walking for as long as you want. Once you have walked enough either retrace your steps (literally) and return to the funicular or after 4 km you will get to Placa del las Maduixas (sadly lacking in strawberries) and here you can take the road back down into Barcelona stopping for refreshments at the Bar Miramar (a bit expensive and you've already had the views) beside the funicular station up to Tibidado and the Tramvia Blau if you wish

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Take a walk down Las Ramblas - the heart and soul of Barcelona, and end your tour with a visit to the Port Vell area and the beach. Treat yourself to an evening meal at one of the street's restaurants and be entertained by magicians.

In the centre of Barcelona. You can't miss it

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The best advice when it comes to this street is to plunge in, go with the flow and enjoy the constant weird and wonderful activities taking place around you. Let yourself be carried past shoe shiners, cheap pensions, human statues (performers), and people of all types. Let your senses be assailed by the squawking of caged birds, the perfumed air of flower stalls, the chatter of gossips and the shrieks of the fruit markets.

Arguably the best people-watching place in the world. Federico Garcia Lorca said that it was the only street in the world he hoped would never end. It was originally just a path beside a stream that was running through the centre of the old city to Spain’s most famous street. If Plaça Catalunya is the communications hub, Las Ramblas is the emotional hub of Barcelona.

Metro: Plaça Catalunya

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The old maritime quarter of "Little Barcelona" and its beaches have changed almost beyond recognition in recent years. The beach is cleaner and more popular than ever, and a stroll along the Passeig Maritim, with its skateboarders, poseurs and beach bums, is a great way to work off a long lunch.

Passeig Maritim, Barceloneta, on the seafront

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I get up early in the morning, put anything old thing on and three minutes later I'm on the beach, with it practically all to myself, peace - the waves, the sun, the sea and its ever generous beauty.

I can't believe it. I'm in Barcelona, 10 minutes from the centre. I go back to my colourful apartment and have breakfast and plan the day, I´m inspired. Parc Güell, La Pedrera, and the Casa Batlló will lead me on an afternoon walk back to the shore. What bliss to be in Barceloneta.

Barceloneta

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Starting in Gaudi's wonderful park, where you can see the whole city laid out before you, head due south, downhill. Follow your nose, soon you will be heading through Gracia, a great lively neighbourhood, there are several beautiful squares, Placa del Sol is one, with cafes bars and generally lots of Barcelonians outside enjoying their city. It is a refreshing break from the touristy Ramblas.

Keep heading due south and you will come to eixample and then down to the old city, you can even keep going and end up at the beach for a dip to cool off. It’s a walk that cuts a great cross section through the city, a good way to see a lot in a day.

Parc Guell: Metro: Lesseps, line 3

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