Valentine’s Day is this week and if you are like most people, you have waited until the last minute to plan a romantic and fun evening that won’t break the bank. Luckily, there are many beautiful and intimate spots in the city that do not require a reservation to have been made several weeks in advance. Here is a list of our favorite spots to help make your day or night time special
1. Visit the Illuminated Magic Fountain of Monjuïc
This is Barcelona’s largest ornamental fountain. The Magic Fountain of Monjuïc can be found in the Montjuïc neighborhood. It is situated near the Plaça d’Espanya and below the Palau Nacional. Beginning towards the end of February, every weekend there are several shows including musical performances and a light show. It is highly recommended that you head to the fountain with a picnic just as the sun is setting. You can find a cozy spot either on a bench or the steps nearby to watch the illuminated brightly colored water flow from the fountain.
2. Stroll on the Promenade by the Sea
Also known as Passeig Marítim in Catalan, this promenade runs from La Barceloneta to Port Olímpic for approximately 1.25 km. With the beach and ocean on one side and the bustling city on the other, it is the perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy a romantic bite to eat by the water. Not to mention, there are many restaurants and bars overlooking the water, if you are interested in going out to eat or grabbing a drink in a more formal setting. If you want to take it up a notch, you can bring a blanket, some wine, music, and have a quiet intimate evening on the beach.
3. Enjoy the Parc de la Ciutadella
This is no ordinary park. Within this one park, there are many attractions: the Catalan Parliament, the zoo, and the Museu d’Art Modern. There is a mesmerizing waterfall called cascade in Spanish located on the north side of park. You can even rent a rowing boat and take your date on a romantic ride around the small lake. No matter what time of the day, this is one of the greenest most picturesque scenic spots in Barcelona.
4. Eat with View at Mirablau
From Mirablau you can gaze at a panoramic view of the city while enjoying a drink and international Spanish cuisine. The restaurant has two floors and a terrace where you can sit facing the exquisite view. The menu has an array of creative dishes and tapas at a reasonable price. If you are interested in enjoying a nice meal on Valentine’s Day, the restaurant has set menu for €35.00 per person.
5. Share a Delicious Meal with El Salón
This restaurant is nestled on a quiet side street in the Gothic quarter. It is a traditional Catalan take on a boutique style restaurant. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and serves high quality local food. The simple yet elegant décor makes this space come alive and allows you to carry a conversation easily with your dining companion. What makes this place an even greater destination is its extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with the creative and savory dishes.
6. Grab a Drink at El Bosc de les Fades
Escape the hustle and bustle of city by visiting this bar that looks like it is straight out of a fairy tale. Some people even describe it as an enchanted forest located in the heart of the city. It is a little hidden, but worth the search. There are different rooms with various themes. For example, the bar is full of trees and covered in greenery, the ceiling is covered in stars, and there are fairies, dwarves, and waterfalls. To help set the mood, the soundtrack imitates noises from the forest such as animal sounds. This is the perfect place if you are looking to spice things up and be transported to a different world.
7. See the City from Observatori Fabra
If you aren’t sick and tired of beautiful scenic views, this observatory is a must. You can enjoy views of Barcelona from the outside of the dome and watch the stars through the telescope. It is located in the Tibidabo Mountain and can be reached by Ferrocarrils Catalan. The building is mix of modernism and neoclassism. It also is home to a well-maintained Mediterranean garden. In order to fully enjoy your time here, which includes a visit to the building, conference, and observation with the telescope, you need to make a reservation.
– Nina
