Vicky and Cristina had it right: Eye-popping graffiti, bustling markets, all night jazz and tapas on every street corner—Barcelona is non-stop.

stay
The Claris is owned by an avid archaeological collector who keeps his collection in the rooms, bar and entrance of the hotel. Don’t be surprised if you find an Egyptian etching from Napoleon Bonaparte's private collection, or a 1,600-year-old sandstone statue of a Hindu Goddess in your room at this chic and centrally located hotel. From $400. www.derbyhotels.es/

eat
Some of Europe’s best chefs are in Barcelona, but the ubiquitous tapas are of a very high standard. Meander from one bar to another in the chic El Born neighbourhood nibbling on jamon, fried calamari, grilled squid, tortilla Catalán and croquettas along the way.

do
Take the Gaudi trail up Passeig de Gràcia. If it happens to be a Thursday night, the Casa Fuster plays jazz until the wee hours. Don’t miss the Park Güel, and Gaudi's unfinished masterpice La Sagrada Família cathedral is a must-see.

shop
Peppered with precious, one-of-a-kind boutiques that carry local Catalan and Spanish designers, El Born is the place to shop. Check out Coquette, Mercado and On Land.