THERE'S a trendy neighbourhood in a popular Spanish city where holidaymakers can avoid the tourist crowds. From stunning architecture and culture to amazing nightlife and great food, all with great weather and beaches, Barcelona makes for the perfect break. More than 12 million people were thought to have visited Barcelona last year, which means finding crowd-free areas can be a little ticky.
One place that's said to be largely free from the tourist crowds is Poblenou - the coolest neighbourhood in the city, according to Time Out . The trendy area sits right at the heart of the Barcelona design movement, with it attracting just about everyone. Poblenou lies to the east of the city centre, with part of it backing onto Playa de Bogatell, one of the best beaches in the city.
Playa de Bogatell is said to have a "lively yet relaxed" atmosphere by beach-goers on TripAdvisor. One person wrote: "Well worth the extra 20 minutes on the bus to get to this beach, it's much nicer than Barceloneta , quieter (though still busy) and much cleaner." Another person added: "This beautiful stretch of sand offers clear waters and plenty of space to unwind or enjoy beach activities.
"The promenade is lined with charming cafes and restaurants, providing the perfect backdrop for a delightful meal or drink." Someone else said: "I read that this is one of the best beaches in Barcelona, and it didn't disappoint. It has a relaxed atmosphere, clean, and excellent service from the nearby Bo Kaap restaurant.
" Because Playa de Bogatell is a little harder to reach, it generally tends to be a little quieter - although it can still get quite crowded. Away from the beach, the once a traditional Catalan neighbourhood, Poblenou is home to colourful burst of Modernist architecture, with its very own version of the famous La Rambla. Meanwhile, areas in the northern part of the neighbourhood are very different, filled with big warehouses and technology hubs.
This part of Poblenou is occupied by design schools, galleries and craft beer breweries. If you're planning a trip to Barcelona and want to be welcomed by locals, travel writer Lauren Libin revealed the places holidaymakers should visit in Barcelona : Most Spanish locals flee Barcelona in August because it's too hot and too busy. If you want to make like a local, then here are the other places I've recommend visiting in Spain: Travel writer Lee Bell recently revealed how holidaymakers heading to Barcelona can make their trip a whole lot cheaper from transport tips to dinners out.
First off, Lee recommended swapping the airport taxi for a local bus, which will save solo travellers around €20. He added: "Dodge the pricey cocktails before a night out and instead head down to Can Paixano - or what the locals call “La Xampanyeria” (champagne bar) where you’ll find a “copa de cava” for just €1 a pop. "Ask for a 'clara' - essentially a Spanish shandy made with Fanta Limón - at practically any bar.
It’s not only cheaper but it’s a tasty, more refreshing option for when the temperatures soar." Read more of Lee's money-saving tips, here . Meanwhile, another British expat who lives Cadiz in Andalusia has revealed the three big mistakes tourists make while they're on holiday.
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