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This sprawling Modernista café can be summed up in three words: location, location, location. Dominating a corner of the city’s hub, Plaça de Catalunya, this buzzing meeting point is packed at all hours with locals and visitors sipping coffees and cocktails.

Kick back at this elegant, late 19th-century café while rubbing shoulders with a mixed crowd, tended to by vested cambrers (waiters). This former xocolateria (confectionary café) – named after the Liceu opera house opposite – still serves fine gooey delights such as xurros amb xocolata (strips of fried dough with thick chocolate). It is near to perfect for people-watching on La Rambla.

Nestled in a sun-splashed medieval courtyard, this soothing café offers cheery respite from the outside world. Tuck in to the amanida tèxtil , with goat’s cheese, artichokes and leafy greens, or international fusion favourites, from baba ganoush to couscous.

Pause in the glass-topped, 19th-century Hivernacle after a saunter through Parc de la Cuitadella (Parc de la Cuitadella) to sipiced coffee or chilled cava amid the moist, fragrant warmth of tropical plants. Fresh nibbles include grilled squid, anchovies and sandwiches, including one with pungent Manchego cheese.

Round off your Barri Gòtic ramble with una copa (alcoholic drink) and una xerrada (chat) on this café’s enticing terrace. The café’s small interior also packs in the lively crowd. See Cafés & Light Eats.

This laid-back, outdoor café serves a sprightly menu of fresh, international fare with an Asiatic twist, including chicken curry and Greek salad. After the sun dips beneath the horizon, a bar-like vibe takes over, fuelled by beer and cider.

Stylish evidence of Gràcia’s intellectual and literary character, this airy, lofty café draws arty locals. While away the afternoon over a steaming cafè amb llet or munching on fresh salads and entrepans (sandwiches). See Gràcia Cafés.

Tuck into a generous buffet of rice, pasta, greens, chicken and more at this charming, long-running Eixample café-bookshop. Or opt for the well-priced vegetarian menu, including soup, salad and a main dish. An elegant, but informal, any time of the day option. See Cafés.

The xocolateries and granjes along Carrer Petritxol (Granja Dulcinea) have been satiating sugar cravings for decades. Among them is this old-fashioned café with todie-for delights, from xurros amb xocolata to strawberries and whipped cream. In the summer, orxates and granissats are on the menu.

Enter this dark, surreal, fairy-tale-like café, replete with faux gnarled trees, intimate cosy nooks and a gurgling brook, to enjoy delicious coffee concoctions, cocktails, wine and beer.