With bragging rights to swanky shopping streets, colour-popping architecture, trendy tapas bars, oh, and its own beach within reach, Barcelona is a winner. But you don’t need to stick to doing things the way other tourists do. Our Product Executive, Rosie, is here to show you how to embrace the Catalan capital like you live there.

1. Hit the lesser-known sights

Wander around the Poblenou district. In short, it’s an up-and-coming district that’s really artsy, with lots of independent breweries, galleries and pop-up food joints. It serves international dishes, and its little bars are fab. The other bonus is, it’s only a quick tube journey to the centre. For something a bit different, give the IDEAL Centre d'Arts Digitals de Barcelona a try too.

2. Wear what the locals would

Most areas in Barcelona have independent boutique shops. Poblenou is a great area for this, though if you go down Las Ramblas, it’s well worth seeing what shops are there. And be sure to have swimwear for if you hit the beach.

3. Order local food and drink

At practically every bar and restaurant, you can order tapas. It’s Barcelona’s thing. I recommend trying padron peppers and meatballs. You need to try the gelato too – somehow, it just tastes better there. You’ll also stumble upon a range of vegan eateries, so there’s something for everyone.

Rambla del Poblenou, which is a quieter version of Las Ramblas, has a range of locally run restaurants and bars to choose from. It runs through a park and has good access to the beach as well.

4. Try the lingo on for size

If you pop into a shop or a bar, saying “hola” is fine, but “bon dia” is the local Catalan version of “hello” or “hi”. And if you see the words "més que un club", it’ll probably relate to the football team’s famous saying, “more than a club”. In need of a caffeine fix? “Fem un café?” translates as “let’s have a coffee” – something I can get behind.

5. Hop on public transport

The metro is so easy to use – just buy a ticket on the platform and hop on the train. So simple! Or get a multi-day pass which you can purchase in the airport when you land. It allows you to jump on trains and buses anytime you want.

6. Don’t be afraid to get lost

Some areas can feel a bit ‘edgy’, so speak to the locals while you’re there if you’re unsure. But during the day, everywhere’s very safe. Barcelona is a vibrant city, but it's best to keep your bags and pockets shut for extra peace of mind as you walk. If you end up around the Gothic Quarter, you're bound to discover some hidden gems and amazing buildings!

7. Support local businesses where you can

Pop into little side streets and you'll clock something new around every corner, with indie eateries the most common places. At Plaça Sant Jaume, explore the architecture and try the delicious pizza from Da Nanni. It might not be Spanish, but the doughy goodness at this hole-in-the-wall restaurant is a must. There’s also a build-your-own-pasta place called Macchina Pasta Bar, where it’s all made fresh daily. Again, not Spanish but it’s close to Plaça Reial and well worth it.

You'll come across some traditional restaurants down by the marina, where you can just people-watch as you dine. These have different atmospheres to what’s in the centre of Barcelona – each district has its own personality.

8. Take onboard insider tips

Give yourself some downtime. Don’t just tick the must-see sights off, but soak in the atmosphere. If you go to Park Güell, pack a picnic and make a mealtime of it. And be prepared to see the light change from morning to evening at Sagrada Familia – that might mean one earlier morning!

As I’ve mentioned, uncover different districts with different atmospheres too. The best way to do this is by staying outside the very centre of the city, so you can tap into the quirks.

Into climbing and sports? La Foixarda at Montjuic gives you access to lots of different things, including the climbing tunnel. And while you’re there, the Museum of Catalonian Art is impressive, and you can enjoy great views as a plus.