An Insider's Guide to Barcelona: Hidden Gems, Cool Neighborhoods, and Stylish Spots

Welcome to Locals Only. In this series, we're tapping notable locals in the style space to share a tight list of their top recommendations of what to see, eat, and shop in their home city. They'll share off-the-radar recs that you won't find in your average guidebook, resulting in digestible mini guides revealing where the city's most fashionable residents are actually hanging out.

When I think of Barcelona, the first thing that comes to mind is its energy—sun-drenched streets buzzing with creativity, hidden cafés tucked between centuries-old buildings, and a fashion crowd that always looks effortlessly cool. It’s the kind of city where you can start your day with a museum visit, end it with rooftop cocktails, and still feel like you barely scratched the surface. That’s exactly why I fell in love with it and have spent the past two years going at every opportunity.

Thus I was inspired to chat with jewelry designer, founder of PDPaola, and creative local Paola Sasplugas, who’s spent over 15 years calling Barcelona home. If anyone knows how to craft the perfect city guide for your next trip, it’s her. With a passion for skipping the typical tourist spots everyone saw on their college study abroad, Sasplugas dug deep to uncover Barcelona’s hidden gems. From the galleries she loves to get lost in to the best places for a spontaneous night out, she shares a truly local perspective on the city’s most stylish corners—complete with the exact neighborhoods, shops, and Catalan dishes worth building your itinerary around.

Where are you originally from, and how long have you lived in this city?

I was born in Andorra and raised in Barcelona, so this city is deeply woven into my identity. I’ve traveled a lot, but I always find myself drawn back here—it’s home in every sense. I’ve been living here for more than 15 years.

What are some of your favorite neighborhoods, and where do you find yourself spending the most time?

I love the contrast between different areas of Barcelona. El Born, with its winding streets and hidden gems, is where I go for inspiration. Sarrià, where I grew up, has a peaceful charm and some of my favorite spots. Lately, I’ve been spending more time around Poblenou—it has this creative energy and evolving food scene that I love.