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Witness the budding – and meteoric rise – of Picasso’s artistic genius at this unique museum. One of the world’s largest collections of the painter’s early works. See Museu Picasso.

Housed in a medieval palace complex, this museum charts Picasso’s rise to fame with an extensive collection of his early works, including numerous masterful portraits painted at the age of 13. See Museu Picasso.

Housed in a pair of adjoining medieval palaces, the Textile and Fashion Museum traces the evolution of clothing and textiles from Egyptian fabrics to Baroque tapestries to haute couture designs. Innovative temporary exhibits explore the fashions of yesterday and today, occasionally showcasing creative new talent. The small but ultra-cool museum shop sells funky clothes, accessories and design items, while the Tèxtil Cafè beckons with outdoor tables in a shady courtyard.

Excellent and arty shoe shop for men, women and kids in a country famed for its leather.

Of all the cottage industry boutiques in Gràcia, Naftalina has the most stylish interior – befitting the equally stylish, hand-made designer clothes. Chic, elegant, understated women’s wear with an emphasis on textured fabrics.

Top-class in every way, Neichel lures a moneyed clientele with nouvelle cuisine and a luscious interior. Reserve in advance.

A classic designer spot with some outré toilets and a fabulous cow-skin upholstered bar. The crowd is mostly yuppie and moneyed.

The pier just past Hotel Calípolis is one of the busiest cruising spots. Prime time is between 3am and dawn.

Nina, a young American designer, sells simple, modern women’s clothes made from fine fabrics. The shop is housed in a gorgeous Modernista building which was once a butcher’s, and has a workshop at the back.