Atypical Cities: Barcelona

“Barcelona, archive of courtesy, home of the strangers, asylum of the poor ….”

Miguel de Cervantes.

The gossips say that these words are ironic, caused by a bad experience of the author of Don Quixote in Barcelona. In any case, a lot of time passed since the creator of the crazy hidalgo walked on the streets of the city’s Gothic Quarter, and now, Barcelona has become a favorite destination of millions of tourists.

© by Carolina Torres_LEGOestudio

Not surprisingly, Lonely Planet has crowned the city as the best beach town in their guide.

We have a special affection because our headquarter is here (and a few Desigual Stores), and although Desigual is a global company, we like to keep our roots.

So much love that we have dedicated Barcelona a very Desigual map. You’ll find it at various tourist spots and also the Trixies are distributing it:

Atypical Cities: Barcelona atypical cities

Indeed, one of the best ways to enjoy the city without suffering the summer heat is to use one of these colorful tricycles.

You’ll find useful tips for tourists in the map, as well as recommendations of special places and a coupon redeemable for a shirt “BCN IS NOT THE SAME” for a minimum purchase in our stores. There’s also a form to get the Amig@ Card.

un recorte del mapa que te puedes descargar

Download Desigual’s Barcelona Map (PDF)

On my side, I’ll only make two recommendations.

First one, in the middle of the Raval, one of our most multicultural attractions: Joaquin Costa street. In walking distance you will find filipino grocery stores, argentinian pizzerias, pakistani restaurants , lebanese parlors, african barber shops and multinationals cocktail bars . A destillate of the real city.

Atypical Cities: Barcelona atypical cities

And two, the Festes de Gràcia neighborhood . The neighbors decorate their streets with recycled materials and street revelry lasts all day and much of the night. Hurry up, they’ll end this Sunday.

Atypical Cities: Barcelona atypical cities

Finally, 5 curious sites in the city, by David, Desigual’s blogger:

  • Xarcutería Andreu: There are many places to taste the pà amb tomàquet (better with spanish ham). This is a safe bet if you’re near the Mercat de Santa Caterina. Avg. Francesc Cambó.
  • Bar Tomás: the legend says they have the best patatas bravas (spicy potatos) in the city. It is also a good excuse to visit the discreet Sarrià area. Major de Sarrià 49.
  • Drassanes- Spiritual Café: A cozy and quiet terrace at the foot of Ramblas, near the Columbus statue. A small luxury treat. Avda. Drassanes, s/n (Museu Marítim).
  • Fair trade shop Olokuti: Artisans crafts of all kinds, original and beautiful. They have a small “secret” garden, where you can enjoy a tea or a soft drink in a quiet shade. Asturies 38.
  • Plaça Sant Felip Neri: in the heart of the city, a unfrequented and hard to find place , still bearing the scars of the Civil War.

What do you think of our places selection? Don’t be shy, share with us your favorite local spots in the comments.