Family Adventures in Barcelona: A Journey Through Culture and Cuisine

A Day of History, Spirituality, and Flavors

Today was a day of contrasts and deep dives into what makes Barcelona so special. From the historic streets of El Born to the spiritual heights of Montserrat, and ending with a culinary exploration, it was a day that engaged all our senses. Jana, Maximilian, and I set out eager to soak in as much as possible, and Barcelona certainly delivered.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Volta Al Món. The hotel restaurant, conveniently located in El Born, offered a delightful start to our explorations. Maximilian was particularly excited about the pastries, while Jana and I appreciated the fresh fruit and strong coffee – essential fuel for a day of sightseeing. I always appreciate a good breakfast buffet, and Volta Al Món did not disappoint. The quality of the food and the attentive service made it a perfect start to the day. It reminded me of some of the cozy breakfast spots we frequent back in Brno, though with a distinctly Catalan twist.


Experience culinary excellence at Volta Al Món in Eixample, Barcelona—where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

After breakfast, we ventured into the heart of El Born. The narrow, winding streets were a stark contrast to the wide avenues we'd seen elsewhere in Barcelona. It felt like stepping back in time, with each corner revealing a new layer of history. El Born's medieval origins are palpable, and it's easy to imagine the bustling markets and artisan workshops that once thrived here. We wandered through the neighborhood, soaking in the atmosphere. The architecture is stunning, with many buildings dating back to the 14th century. It's a place where the past and present intertwine seamlessly.


Experience the vibrant culture, art, and culinary delights of El Born, Barcelona's enchanting neighborhood steeped in history and creativity.

Our first stop in El Born was the El Born Centre for Culture and Memory. This wasn't just another museum; it was a portal into Barcelona's past. The center houses an archaeological site, preserving the remains of the city destroyed during the War of the Spanish Succession in 1714. Walking through the excavated streets and buildings, it was sobering to imagine the lives of those who once lived here. Maximilian, surprisingly, was quite engaged, asking questions about the artifacts and the people who used them. The permanent exhibition, Barcelona 1700, from stones to people, provided a fascinating glimpse into daily life in 17th and 18th century Barcelona. It was a powerful reminder of the city's resilience and its ability to rebuild and reinvent itself.


Explore the cultural heart of Barcelona at El Born Center for Culture and Memory, where history meets modern artistry in a stunning architectural setting.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

Leaving El Born, we embarked on a journey to Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey. The drive itself was breathtaking, with the jagged peaks of the Montserrat mountain range rising dramatically from the landscape. As we ascended, the views became even more spectacular, with the entire region stretching out before us. The abbey is perched high on the mountain, a testament to human faith and architectural ingenuity.


Experience the spiritual and natural beauty of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, an iconic Catalan monastery set in stunning mountain scenery.

The history of Montserrat is as captivating as its setting. Founded in 1025, the abbey has been a spiritual center for centuries. It's also home to the Virgin of Montserrat, the patron saint of Catalonia, affectionately known as La Moreneta, the little dark-skinned one. The basilica itself is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with intricate details and soaring ceilings. We joined the queue to see La Moreneta, a small, dark statue said to have been discovered in a cave in the 9th century. The atmosphere was reverent, with pilgrims from all over the world coming to pay their respects.

Exploring the abbey complex, we visited the museum, which houses a remarkable collection of art, including works by El Greco, Caravaggio, and Monet. Maximilian, who is developing an interest in art, was particularly impressed by the paintings. We also took a funicular ride up to Sant Joan, the highest point on the mountain, for even more panoramic views. The fresh mountain air and the stunning scenery were invigorating, a welcome change from the bustling city.

After a day of exploring, we were ready for a culinary treat. For lunch, we chose Moments, located in the Mandarin Oriental hotel. The restaurant has a Michelin star, so I had high expectations. The restaurant is known for its creative, fresh, and healthy cuisine inspired by Catalan culinary culture. The tasting menu was an experience in itself, with each dish a work of art. Jana and I opted for the wine pairing, which complemented the flavors perfectly. Maximilian, of course, had his own specially curated menu, which included some of his favorites, like pasta and grilled chicken. It was definitely one of the pricier meals we've had on this trip, but worth it for the quality and the experience.


Discover culinary artistry at Moments in Barcelona - where tradition meets innovation in Catalan fine dining.

As evening approached, we returned to El Born for dinner at Restaurante Informal. The name might suggest a casual eatery, but the food was anything but ordinary. The restaurant is known for its fresh, young, and informal, yet very much Catalan and Mediterranean style. The dishes were inventive and flavorful, with a focus on local ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the seafood paella, while Jana raved about the grilled octopus. Maximilian, predictably, devoured his plate of patatas bravas.


Experience the authentic taste of Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurante Informal in the heart of Barcelona's Ciutat Vella.

To cap off the evening, Jana and I decided to explore El Born's nightlife. We found ourselves at Mariposa Negra Cocktail Bar, a hidden gem known for its unique and artistic cocktails. The bar has a Tim Burton vibe, which I found particularly appealing. The cocktails were not only delicious but also beautifully presented, each served in a handcrafted ceramic cup. The bartender was friendly and knowledgeable, happy to recommend drinks based on our preferences. I tried a gin-based concoction with local herbs, while Jana opted for a rum cocktail with tropical fruits. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover unique cocktails in handmade ceramic cups at Mariposa Negra Cocktail Bar, a vibrant escape in the heart of Barcelona's Ciutat Vella.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. Barcelona has a way of captivating you, of drawing you in with its history, its culture, and its flavors. It's a city that rewards exploration, that surprises you at every turn. And to experience it with my family makes it all the more special. Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Barcelona's history with visits to the Barcelona History Museum MUHBA and the Palau de la Música Catalana. We'll also explore Casa Amatller and perhaps indulge in some vintage shopping at Holala! Tallers. I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure in this amazing city.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for whatever tomorrow may bring. Good night from Barcelona!