Attend a performance at the Palau de la Música Catalana, an ornate concert hall known for its mosaic-covered columns, sculpted floral details, and vibrant stained-glass windows and skylight.

Afterwards, head to El Born, a lively neighborhood known for its narrow medieval streets, creative tapas, independent boutiques, and historic charm.

Sample local tapas such as pa amb tomàquet/pan con tomate (bread rubbed with garlic, tomato, olive oil, and salt), croquetas (crispy fritters, often filled with ham and a creamy sauce), and esqueixada de bacallà (salt cod salad with tomato, onion, olive oil). Visit some refined cocktail lounges or trendy, modern wine bars.

Head to the Gothic Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and historic squares that reflect the city’s medieval past.

Be on the lookout for live jazz or acoustic music sets, such as the type often found downstairs at the Jamboree Jazz and Dance Club, and bar hop through some cozy taverns or speakeasy-style cocktail bars in the neighborhood.

Remain the Gothic Quarter and end the night dancing at one of the neighborhood’s small electronic clubs or basement venues with DJs. The upper level of the Jamboree Jazz and Dance Club transitions to a late-night club.

Head toward the waterfront for a sunset stroll along Barceloneta Beach as the light changes over the Mediterranean. For dinner, consider sampling local specialties, such as black paella (rice with cuttlefish or squid and squid/cuttlefish ink), arròs caldós (rice in a flavorful seafood stock) or bombas (spicy sauce deep-fried mashed potato balls filled with meat).

After dinner, settle in at one of the chiringuitos (small beach bars) to unwind with music, drinks, and outdoor seating.

Head toward Port Olímpic, the marina built for the 1992 Summer Olympics, as you transition from the chiringuitos to lounge-style bars or open-air terraces with DJs along the promenade.

Make your way toward one of the large clubs with sea views and high-energy dance floors, such as Opium Barcelona Restaurant and Club or Shôko. Large clubs such as these often host internationally known DJs and glamorous events.

Head to Gràcia, which is known for independent boutiques, artist studios, and an artistic, bohemian vibe, starting near Plaça del Sol. Find some casual wine bars with outdoor seating to begin your evening. Consider taking a taxi or public transit to and from the neighborhood.

Continue on to Poble Sec, a neighborhood known for its relaxed atmosphere and tapas bars, for a tapas and pintxos (small tapas on bread) crawl. Include Carrer de Blai, a street known for its pintxos.

As the night progresses, the scene in Poble Sec leans toward indie music, live performances, and alternative dance floors. You might encounter mixed-use venues hosting live bands, themed party nights, or experimental DJs.