Barcelona's Soho: hip, trendy and with a parade of fine places to eat, drink and shop.
El Born is the perfect neighbourhood if you want to discover the trendy and laid-back side of Barcelona. Dating back to the 14th century, it is located between El Gòtic and the Parc de la Ciutadella city park, not far from the beach. Here you're in the right place for atmospheric restaurants, small-scale designer boutiques and cosy terraces. In the labyrinth of medieval streets you'll find the popular Museu Picasso and the beautiful Santa María del Mar church. Catalan nationalism comes alive in the old market hall, reopened as El Born Centre Cultural. Today, locals buy their fresh produce under the billowing roof of the revamped Santa Caterina market.