Spain - Barcelona
Street art in El Born
By @hanneolsen
A historic quarter of narrow medieval streets with a lively, creative rhythm. Walk the Passeig del Born and small side streets filled with cafés, boutiques and bars. Here you find a lot of street art. Just be aware, that it changes over night. So if you are looking for a specific piece of work, it might be gone. Santa Maria del Mar and the Picasso Museum sit a short walk away and anchor the neighborhood’s history and art.
Address: El Born, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Why go
Lots og street art, local life and culture in one place. You can move from a Romanesque-Gothic church to contemporary museums and then sit on a terrace as the evening begins. Nightlife is lively and the area is rich in small galleries and design shops.
Known for
Street art, Medieval lanes, Santa Maria del Mar, the ruins at El Born CCM and a dense mix of cafés, bars and boutiques.
Vibe
Stone and shade by day. Warm light, music and full terraces by night. A lived-in quarter where history and daily life meet.
Tips
Start early to enjoy quiet streets, then return after sunset when the Passeig del Born wakes up. Visit El Born CCM for the 1714 ruins and exhibitions and check the program in advance. Combine with the Picasso Museum. Keep an eye on your belongings in busy spots.
About @hanneolsen
I am a travel journalist specializing in Spain. I often work and live in Spain, which I consider my second home. As a cultural traveler, my curiosity drives me to continually seek out and convey the many stories that help define Spain, its people, and their culture. In addition to running Spain by Hanne, I also contribute travel articles and photos to Politiken and other Danish media. Received the Danish Media Award at the Spain Talks Awards 2025, organized by Turespaña, for a travel feature on Benidorm focusing on sustainable tourism.