Barcelona Essentials: Where to Start Your Evening, Eat Well & Discover Local Flavours

Barcelona is a city full of energy, flavours and beautiful spots to enjoy from day to night. Whether you’re looking for a stylish rooftop, gourmet inspiration, authentic markets, or local drink traditions, here’s a curated guide inspired by some of the city’s best Instagram pages.
Aperitif – Start With a View
Nothing beats beginning your evening with a drink overlooking Barcelona’s skyline.
The Rooftop Ohla Barcelona, often featured on @rooftopbarcelona, offers elegant views and a golden sunset setting.
https://www.instagram.com/rooftopohlabarcelona/
It’s the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail in a chic atmosphere above the Gothic Quarter.
Food Guides – Where to Eat Like a Local
Barcelona’s culinary scene is diverse, and some of the city’s best recommendations come from dedicated foodie accounts such as:
- @bcnfoodieguide → https://www.instagram.com/bcnfoodieguide/
- @bcn.foodies → https://www.instagram.com/bcn.foodies/
- @barcelonafoodexperience → https://www.instagram.com/barcelonafoodexperience/
- @gastronomicfbcn → https://www.instagram.com/gastronomicfbcn/
These accounts highlight places such as:
- Modern tapas bars in Eixample serving creative plates and natural wine.
- Traditional Catalan restaurants in Gràcia with seasonal dishes.
- Trendy brunch cafés in Poblenou with specialty coffee.
- Seafood restaurants in Barceloneta offering fresh Mediterranean flavours.
Perfect if you want stylish, trustworthy recommendations curated by real locals.Markets – Experience the Heart of Barcelona’s Food Culture
To explore Barcelona like a true local, follow @mercatsbcn:
https://www.instagram.com/mercatsbcn/Their posts showcase:
- Fresh produce, seafood and Catalan products.
- Small market bars serving tortilla, croquettes and tapas.
- Seasonal ingredients from local producers.
- The lively atmosphere of markets like La Boqueria, Santa Caterina or Sant Antoni.
A must for anyone wanting to discover authentic Barcelona.
Drinks – Wine, Vermut & Local Traditions
Barcelona Wine Week
For wine lovers, @bcnwineweek is the perfect account to follow:
https://www.instagram.com/bcnwineweek/
They highlight Catalan grape varieties, local wineries, tastings and regional events celebrating the rich world of wines.Make Your Own Vermut
For a unique local activity, @lasvermudasuniversity offers vermut-making workshops:
https://www.instagram.com/lasvermudasuniversity/
You learn how to mix botanicals, understand flavour profiles and craft your own vermouth — a deeply rooted Catalan traditionConclusion
From rooftops with a view to foodie hotspots, colourful markets and authentic drink experiences, Barcelona offers endless ways to enjoy the city. These Instagram-inspired recommendations will help you explore Barcelona like an insider and discover its most delicious and atmospheric spots.