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In need of a getaway?

You're not the only one. As the evenings begin to get darker and grey skies and rain become the norm yet again, we're spending more and more time on our phones googling the easiest and quickest way out of here for a much-needed break. From Berlin to Paris, Prague to Copenhagen, there is plenty to choose from, but one place people often forget as a winter destination is Barcelona. Granted, Barcelona brings the heat during the summer attracting people in their thousands to head there for some vital vitamin D but, it is also a hub of activity during the winter months with plenty to see, do and eat (my favourite). So while you ponder where to head next, I give you eight reasons why Barcelona should most certainly be on your radar as a destination this winter.

1. Food

As previously mentioned, Barcelona is a foodie's heaven. If you love tapas, good wine and great hospitality, you're in for a treat as Barcelona is full of delicious spots packing moreish food. There truly is something for everyone (even the pickiest eaters) from a variety of cuisines to an abundance of family-owned restaurants dishing out fresh, local produce.

My recommendations are...

Rossini

Great tapas, close enough to La Rambla (but hidden in Plaça Reial). A lovely, affordable spot for escaping the winter elements and satisfying all bellies.

Brunch And Cake

Cameras at the ready, this place is full of Instagrammable, delicious food. It literally looks like art.

Tickets

This Michelin star restaurant was ranked as one of the top 50 in the world for 2018. An experience above all else. If you're looking to "go all out" for one night, then this is your spot. However, do note, this restaurant books out MONTHS in advance and so, a reservation is required if your eyes are drawing you here.

2. Nightlife

Barcelona is FULL of fantastic nightlife, with bars and clubs going until the early hours of the morning. During the winter months, many rooftop terraces also feature plenty of heat lamps and blankets for sipping drinks while watching the skyline. Dreamy.

3. Mercat de la Boqueria

The Boqueria market located in the centre of Barcelona is one of the city's biggest markets. During the summer this place is rammed with tourists making it quite impossible to even look around but during winter, it's actually a lot quieter meaning you get time to rummage through the stalls and incredible produce on offer. It's a must.

4. Cost

If you're looking for a break that's cost efficient - Barcelona is your man. Although hotels and apartments aren't astronomically expensive during the summer, they're half the price during the winter months, giving you more money for the important things... like shopping... and eating.

5. Bikes

Renting a bike in Barcelona is SUCH a must. It was up there as one of my favourite memories from my travels to the city and it's also the best way to see the place. There are plenty of places to rent bikes from and I'd recommend checking out Green Bikes Rental. They're located in the centre of the city and the staff are super friendly and helpful.

6. Sightseeing

No matter what season, Barcelona is bustling with history and landmarks to keep you occupied for days. From the incredible works of Gaudí dotted around the city, you can immerse yourself in art and history by taking a tour from the Sagrada Família to Park Güell and of course, not forgetting one of my favourites, the dragon house also known as the Casa Batlló located on the famous Passeig de Gracia.

7. Football

Although it isn't something that would be high on my list, it certainly is for my other half, and a trip to Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona is a must for any footie fan. Time it right and you might even get to see a match there too. There are matches on throughout winter right up until December 22. You can check out all the listings here.

8. Shopping

And lastly, it would be RUDE not to mention the incredible shopping Barcelona has to offer. If it's Christmas presents you're in need to sort out, you'll be pleasantly surprised with the wreath of selection in Barcelona, starting at the Plaça de Catalunya and filling the surrounding streets. As I've said, Barcelona is a city not just for summer vacations, this place is a mecca for activity and exploration no matter when you decide to visit. Even writing this is giving me itchy feet and the nudge to book a holiday, a weekend winter break looks to be on the horizon.

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