A Winter Breather in
Barcelona.
I had my off days strategically planned in 2025. Because at the end of the year, I wanted to have a breather. Somewhere not too far, but where the temperatures were slightly warmer.Barcelona had been on my mind for quite some time... the architecture, the Spanish vibes. I was looking for a spark.
So I booked a flight to Spain for the Christmas festivities.
I booked a stay at Hilton Barcelona. It was in a very modern and contemporary part of Barcelona. Quiet, but only a few stops from the centre of Barcelona.
From there, I was free to go and discover Barcelona. I was finally back. The last time I was here was in 2016 with my siblings. So I had never done a solo trip here. I love solo trips; you get to enjoy the space exactly how every cell in me desires <3.
So I needed some Spanish vibes, so first stop:
The historic centre → El Born & Gothic Quarter, Barcelona, with its quirky streets, is like a maze, but then with beautiful shops, restaurants, houses and vibes. Walking is how I like to get to know a place.
I really did not have a specific destination. I just enjoyed being in a totally different environment, having a totally different experience. I love travelling <3.
For dinner on the first night, I went to El Chigre 1769. During the day, the restaurant caught my attention because it had a very authentic & old-school Spanish vibe.
The place was packed, but I was alone, so I got the head chef's table. This is not official; I just called it that because it was at the bar, next to the open kitchen. For me, that is the best place when travelling solo. The staff comes alive for me. You get to witness how they prepare the food and the drinks. It is like being in a movie.
This restaurant has the concept of sharing. That is very much in alignment with their vibe.I had been on an alcohol break for some time, but this occasion called for enjoying a good red wine.
This was an experience: the vibe of the place, the people,
the food, the wine.
I forgot the name of the wine, but pairing it with all the items... It was a feast.
I opted to go for small starters: oysters, bread with tomato (simple but amazing), anchovies, the Bombetes Picantos, which were finger-licking good, and some Patatines.
But I still had a main course: half an octopus, recommended by the chef. And this was magnificent. The grilled BBQ taste was spectacular.
When I left there, I felt complete. I was able to walk around a little before heading back to the hotel.
The first day was perfect.
Day 2 of Barcelona
gave me sunshine & grand gestures.
I had no schedule, so around 11:30, I was ready to properly reintroduce myself to Barcelona.
I walked around and ended up at Montjuïc. The buildings, the structures... They don't make them like this anymore. I took time to take in the history. And just as I thought it could not get any better, the sun decided to show me why the winter Spanish sun was just what I needed.
I continued through Montjuïc without rushing, following whatever caught my attention. I ended up at the entrance of the cable car towards the top & I just had to experience it... again.This view remains magical. Just being up there presented grand gestures of gratitude. From me to Life <3.
Being so high up, made a waterfront that much more captivated.I wanted to experience The Port of Barcelona. I slowly made my way towards the water towards. Promenade of Palau de Mar at the old harbour.
At sunset, I ended up at Restaurant Vellissima, an Italian restaurant. I got lucky again because I was alone, as they were usually busy that night.
Grateful for the places I get to see.
I did not take a lot of pictures. The space was very moody, and I was in a very grateful state, having the privilege of enjoying a delicious meal in a beautiful place in a different city. And the food was very delicious.
And with that, the last day arrived.
Today, I wanted to see different areas of Barcelona.
I went to the Basilica of the Sagrada Família & just walked around the Gràcia area while thinking about what I would eat before I left. I wanted to eat something typically Spanish. I do not eat rice, so paella was out of the question.
At some point, I ended up at Carrer Gran de Gràcia. That street almost made me forget that I was hungry. I wanted to explore all the side streets. What caught my eye were those beautiful buildings, in combination with the façades, the trees and flowers. Barcelona was really filling my cup with charm, aesthetics & admiration.
Then something caught my eye : Restaurant Taberna del Cura. It is an authentic Spanish restaurant, and I knew I was in the right space.
As soon as I stepped in, my heart smiled. I was going to indulge,Indulge in the surroundings. even though I only had 1.5 hours.
It was the 25th of December, so all the Spanish families were out. I heard that Spanish people take Christian holidays, food & family very seriously.
I had the Spanish omelette made with potato & grilled artichoke, and a carrot cake.
This was the perfect last supper in Barcelona.
And then time reminded me it was time to go.
I had already checked out, so all I needed to do was get my luggage and go.
And with that, my winter festive adventure came to an end. I definitely want to come back to Barcelona, explore a different part and/or combine it with another city trip.
This trip reminded me that Spain is waiting for me to go & explore it. So I am looking forward to exploring different cities within Spain.
Muchas gracias, Barcelona.
Signed with love,
Abigail
