Summer in the city can get intense, between the heatwaves, packed terraces, sometimes you just need a change of pace. This month, I’ve been mixing it up with a few local gems and quick getaways that felt like mini-vacations without the hassle. From a breezy daytrip up the coast to Blanes, to discovering one of Gaudí’s lesser-known masterpieces, Beachday at Playa del Bogatell, sipping iced matcha in a quiet corner of Eixample, and wrapping it all up with one of the best patata bravas, here are my top recommendations for July.
Beach day at Bogatell
Barcelona has many beaches, one of my favorites is Playa del Bogatell. It is a bit further from Barceloneta beach which makes it less touristy. The beach is still easy accessible, and to my opinion I find the water more clean.
Daytrip to Blanes
If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Barcelona for a day, Blanes is the perfect coastal retreat. Just over an hour by train from the city, this charming seaside town marks the gateway to the Costa Brava and offers a quieter, more authentic taste of Catalonia.
To read more about a daytrip to Blanes, check this post.
Matcha Crew
Recharge at Matcha Crew, nestled in Eixample near Sagrada Família. This compact but vibrant matcha café offers drinks made with Japanese-grade matcha, don’t miss the Strawberry Cloud Matcha, or matcha soft‑serve.
Restaurant La Bodega del Cabo
To finish your day, stroll to La Bodega del Cabo in the Dreta de l’Eixample, just by La Monumental. It’s a local restaurant offering generous tapas and classic staples like croquetas, Patata bravas and pimientos del padron. The patata bravas is one of the best I have had, they are really good!
Casa Vicens
While most visitors go to the iconic Sagrada Família or Park Güell, Casa Vicens is Gaudí’s often-overlooked gem, and the perfect summer escape for design lovers. Tucked away in the quiet neighborhood of Gràcia, this colorful house was Gaudí’s first major work and a bold statement of the genius to come.
Check their website for more information.
Check tickets for Casa Vicens here.
Travelwithbodien 