One of the biggest draws to Barcelona is its architecture. From stunning showpieces such as Jean Nouvel’s Torre Agbar to the robust beauty of the Gothic quarter, the architectural variety in Barcelona is quite remarkable. But if there were one singular style that could be termed truly ‘Barcelonese’ it would be modernisme. Most people may be aware of the modernisme through the fluid, almost organic works of Antoni Gaudí, the movement’s most famous exponent. But there are many more notable contemporaries of the great architect, and most of their work can be seen in the neighbourhood of the Eixample (or ‘Extension’) the 19th century, grid-like ‘new town’ that spans northward from Plaça Catalunya. And the best way to see it is on foot. Start your modernisme walk is the Passeig de Gràcia, a high-end shopping strip that is paved with hexagonal-shaped, grey-blue tiles designed Gaudí. Head to the cross street with C/ Aragó and you will be standing in front of the zenith of modernisme: the Manzana de Discòrdia (or ‘Block of Discord). These three buildings are all showstoppers: built for a chocolate baron, the Casa Amatller resembles a fairy-tale Flemish townhouse, whilst the Casa Lleó Morera (now occupied by ...

Best is a very subjective word but visitors to Eixample, Barcelona can be sure that the district does indeed have some of Barcelona’s best restaurants. El Tragaluz Restaurant in Ptge. de la concepció, 5, offers differing décor in its three distinct areas and a general style of modern Mediterranean cooking that only uses fresh produce. Noti Restaurantin Roger de Llúria, 35- 37 has a charming interior, offers excellent cocktails and good food and wine at affordable prices. Moo Restaurant in C/ Rosselló 265 is on the ground floor of the Omm Hotel. It has an excellent chef who offers a personal take on traditional Mediterranean food. The restaurant is particularly attractive but the price still fairly reasonable. Ciudad Condal in Rambla de Catalunya, 18 opened in 1997 and is renowned for its tapas and its choice of beers. Despite its popularity, the service is very good and the food even better, especially the amazing desserts. Cinc Sentits in Calle Aribau, 58 the name means five senses in Catalan. Typical choices of food that make this restaurant one of the best in Eixample, Barcelona, are the Foie Gras ‘Coca’ and the Iberian suckling pig. Other fine choices are the saddle of lamb and the ...