El Born Neighborhood | ALBA Study Abroad in Barcelona

While studying abroad in Barcelona you are bound to live in on the neighborhoods of the Old Quarter. Today we are going to give you a few tips about one of the hippest neighborhoods of Barcelona: El Born.

An old picturesque neighborhood with narrow streets full of independent designer shops. There are plenty of nightlife options in this area, away from the touristy options of Barceloneta. Recommend getting lost in its side streets!

FOOD AND DRINKS

Demaisé. Carrer de la Princesa, 28
Features amazing cinnamon rolls and treats and specialty coffee. Must try their pistachio cinnamon roll!
Grasshopper Ramen Bar. Plaça de la Llana, 9
Some of the best ramen!
Hush Hush Cafe.
Stop for a coffee and a treat (& wifi) and then walk around all the cool shops nearby.
Les Dues Sicílies. Carrer dels Carders, 22
Great for late night food! Inexpensive great Italian pizza. Giant slices for only €2.
Bar del Pla. Carrer de Montcada, 2
Restaurant and bar with a charming atmosphere and delicious tapas. The second restaurant by the owner Pla.
Gocce di Latte. Pla de Palau, 4
Perfect way to treat yourself after lunch with authentic italian gelato with a twist.

MUST VISIT

Museu Picasso. Carrer Montcada, 15-23
The museum houses 4,251 of Picasso’s works, including a large collection of his early works, and his blue period. Free for students with an ID!
Basilica Santa Maria del Mar. Plaça de Santa Maria, 1
A Gothic-style church built in the 1300’s. Enjoy the long history and its architecture. You can also pay to go on the rooftop for beautiful city views.
Mercat de Santa Caterina. Av. de Francesc Cambó, 16
This market has a beautiful mosaic roof dedicated to Antoni Gaudi. Visit this market popular among locals to find fresh produce and meats. Much more tranquil than the nearby La Boqueria!
Palau de la Musica Catalana. C/ Palau de la Música, 4-6
A beautiful concert hall designed by Lluis Domenech i Montaner.It is elaborately decorated inside and out. Attend a concert there for a once in a lifetime experience.
El Borne Centre de Cultura i Memoria. Plaça Comercial, 12
Visit this restored former market to see excavated ruins from the 1700s. You can get in for free and there’s even a restaurant inside.