Barcelona Neighborhood Snapshots: El Born

Santa Caterina Market in El Born. Photos by Regina W Bryan

Barcelona has no shortage of neighborhoods to choose from, each providing its own vibe and experiences. Today I’d like you to get to know El Born, one of my favorite ‘hoods in the city, through the photos and tips below.

• Also see our complete list of Barcelona neighborhoods in our city guide.

Where to eat

The Santa Caterina Market is one of the prettier in the city. I prefer it to La Boqueria. Find seasonal foods here as well as bakeries and bars. You can’t miss it from the outside, it’s the enormous structure with the undulating rooftop.

Santa Caterina Market

Tapas at Santa Caterina Market

What to drink

Have a glass of wine at Vila Viniteca’s La Teca bar. They have a wide selection of Spanish wines, cold tapas and cheeses (over 300 types of cheese!).

Wine in El Born

What to see

Santa Maria del Mar Church is a stunner, even if you’re not much for religious architecture. Some people like it better than the Cathedral… take a look inside and decide for yourself.

Santa Maria del Mar

Where to dine

Have lunch or dinner at the tucked-away Salero Restaurant, which serves seasonal, Mediterranean dishes.

Salero

Salero in El Born

Take a stroll

Barcelona is a city to walk in. There are balconies to ogle, architecture to ponder, window shopping galore, and excellent people watching to boot. Wander the maze of streets in El Born for an hour or so to get a feel for it.

Wander El Born

Have a snack

Have a coffee and a tasty snack at Cafe del Born Nou. Find a seat inside or search out their terrace seating.

Snack on some fluffy pastries.

Where to stay

The Hostal Nuevo Colon is located in El Born, and is recommended as a great value.

And don’t miss…

All the amazing street art in the area.

Street art in El Born

Counting street art in El Born