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Barcelona Guide: World Capital of Architecture 2026

Beyond the Icons by Valeria Vasi

Barcelona Guide: World Capital of Architecture 2026

BEYOND THE ICONS BY VALERIA VASI

In 2026, Barcelona invites visitors to experience the city from a new perspective. Recently named the UNESCO–UIA World Capital of Architecture, there’s no better time to look beyond its famous landmarks and discover a more unexpected side of the city.

To help us explore this lesser-known Barcelona, we turned to local designer Valeria Vasi, whose creative eye inspired this curated guide to the city's hidden architectural gems.

Restaurant Il Giardinetto
Italian cuisine in Gracia

"I've always been fascinated by the way photographer Leopoldo Pomés—one of the leading figures of Barcelona's legendary Gauche Divine movement—imagined a lush garden in the middle of the city."

Architects Alfonso Milá and Federico Correa brought his vision to life with tree-like columns and green carpeting that climbs the walls. Nestled in the Gràcia neighborhood, it's the perfect place to enjoy seasonal Mediterranean cuisine with an Italian soul.

Three images of Il Giardinetto Restaurant: a set table, the main bar and the forest-like decoration
Video zooming in a window inside a room in Bellesgard Tower and ending up showing the view to a green park from said window Three photos: the first features a colorful vitreaux, the second the tower from the outside and the third one an iconic lamp

GaudĂ­'s Torre Bellesguard
A little-known Modernist gem

"As we celebrate the Gaudí centennial, I wanted to highlight one of his most unique—and surprisingly overlooked—masterpieces."

Originally designed as a private residence, Torre Bellesguard reinterprets medieval architecture through GaudĂ­'s unmistakable modern vision.

"Don't miss the rooftop terrace, where the roofline evokes the silhouette of a dragon."

Shopping at Marché d'Intérêt Général

Designed by Barcelona-based studio 251 Arquitectura and inspired by the French markets from which it takes its name, M.I.G. transforms shopping into an architectural experience.

Part Brutalist landmark, part concept store, and part cultural hub, it's home to independent fashion labels and collectible design.

"I love how concrete, steel, and a carefully curated mix of cult brands come together in a space that's constantly evolving."

Table featuring a selection of accesories sold at MIG and a rack with clothes Two photos, the first shows Valeria Vasi in front of a mirror and a rack of clothes in pastel tones, the second shows a concrete staircase with glass detailing
Focacha's interior showing a modern monochrome design in red in the first half and then a moonochromatic blue design Video of Focacha's barman preparing a cocktail

Focachas
A cinematic cocktail experience

Hidden behind an unassuming focaccia shop lies one of Barcelona's most unexpected cocktail bars.

Designed by architect Isern Serra, Focacha masterfully plays with curves, color, texture, and lighting to create a retro-futuristic atmosphere inspired by Verner Panton.

"And yes—the cocktails are every bit as impressive as the design."

Vasto Gallery
Contemporary art in Poblenou

"If you're looking for a different way to experience art, this is the place."

Located inside a former industrial building in Poblenou, VASTO blurs the boundaries between home, gallery, and cultural space.

Designed by the architecture studio Mesura, it champions emerging artists while transforming every exhibition into an intimate, immersive experience.

Three photos of Vasto Gallery featuring diverse modern works of art in an industrial style space
Three photos of The Three Chimneys featuring diverse modern works of art in an industrial style space

Les Tres Ximeneies
Of Sant AdriĂ 

A powerful reminder of Barcelona's industrial heritage, the Three Chimneys of Sant AdriĂ  remain one of Europe's most striking concrete landmarks.

Rising nearly 200 meters, the complex is set to become an international hub for audiovisual production, digital innovation, and gaming.

"Definitely one to keep on your radar."

Valeria standing in front of a window inside the Bellesguard Tower building

Valeria Vasi

One of Barcelona’s most exciting contemporary designers, Valeria creates sculptural objects that blur the line between art and function. Her work has been showcased internationally, including at Milan Design Week.

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