48 hours in Barcelona: A Tale of Two Stays, Paella and Picasso!

Before a magical five nights in Paris, my husband and I spent two days in Barcelona as we were picking up our son after his semester abroad. This whirlwind couple of days was the perfect blend of luxury, culture and Catalan flavor. From boutique hotel-hopping to Gaudí-gazing, here's how I made the most of two great days in this city.

Hotel Neri

Where I Stayed: From Medieval Charm to Modern Chic

I split my time between Hotel Neri and the Almanac, two hotels with wildly different personalities—and I loved them both for what they offered.

• Hotel Neri (Gothic Quarter): Tucked into a quiet corner of the Barri Gòtic, this hideaway felt like a secret. Built by a Jewish family in the 12th century, this palace is filled with history. Think velvet armchairs, ancient stone walls, and a rooftop terrace perfect for a midday siesta. The vibe? With only 22 rooms, this property is moody, elegant, and oh-so-intimate.

• Almanac Barcelona (Eixample): A sleek pivot into modern luxury. Located near Passeig de Gràcia, the Almanac wowed with its tech-savvy rooms, city views from the rooftop Azimuth bar, and a vibe that felt effortlessly upscale without being stuffy. Also on the smaller side, with only 91 rooms.

Almanac

While in the Gothic Quarter, I also popped into The Wittmore, an adults-only, also 22 room property that oozes privacy and plush decadence. If you’re looking for a stunning stay that’s off the radar, this is your place.

The Wittmore

Culture Hit List

• The Picasso Museum: An essential stop for any art lover. The collection traces Picasso’s evolution, set in a series of Gothic mansions—how very Barcelona.

• Gaudí Architecture Walk: I strolled past Casa Batlló and Sagrada Família, marveling at Gaudí’s surrealist touch. Even without stepping inside, the facades alone are spellbinding. But definitely go inside - I've been, and they are incredible.

Where I Ate & Drank

• Cal Pep: Still dreaming about the seafood tapas. Expect to wait, but the counter seats are part of the fun. Up there with best meal we've ever had.

• La Balabusta: A fresh, Mediterranean spot with Israeli flair in Eixample. A standout for its playful plates and cozy, stylish setting.

• Bar Paradiso: Hidden behind a pastrami shop in El Born, this speakeasy delivers theatrics and flavor. My cocktail came in a lightbulb.

A beyond incredible view of La Sagrada Familia from the rooftop bar at Almanac.

We experienced such a fun paella making class. With my partners on the ground, I will create an itinerary for you that blends the perfect combination of your interests!

Barcelona is a city of contrasts: ancient streets and modernist marvels, indulgent meals and scenic strolls, quiet courtyards and buzzing cocktail bars. By balancing the historic Gothic Quarter with the stylish Eixample, I got the best of both worlds.

Next time, I just might stay longer than 48 hours.

Next up, Paris!