Since 2001, Primavera Sound has provided the city of Barcelona and thousands of travelers with a diverse lineup of artists spanning essentially any genre of music imaginable.
For the last six or so years, Pau Cristòful Lozano has worked as one of the International Booking Agents for the festival, booking acts in Barcelona, Porto, Santiago de Chile, Buenos Aires, and beyond, as well as collaborating with a network of about 15 more festivals in Spain and Portugal. While he primarily specializes in identifying rising artists before they break out (Billie Eilish is just one example), Pau is well-versed in gastronomy and culture––in Catalonia and beyond.
During my summer trip to Barcelona, I had the chance to connect with Pau directly. I took him up on nearly all of his recommendations I could fit into three days (between festival sets, naturally). Read on to discover how Pau suggests exploring Barcelona.
Where to Stay
Casa Bonay
Since 2016, Casa Bonay has been a defining beacon of modern Barcelona, curated by local entrepreneur Ines Miró Sans. This lovingly restored historic building, adorned with period details, houses a boutique hotel, tapas bar, specialty coffee shop, cocktail bar, rooftop terrace, and a high-fidelity listening room. Casa Bonay provides a dynamic haven for cultural exchange, relaxation, and exploration infused with the essence of Catalonia’s capital. Pau “especially” recommends a stay here.
Hotel Brummell
Nestled in the heart of Poble Sec, Hotel Brummell is a unique 20-room “urban oasis,” renowned for its relaxed, intimate, and imaginative ambiance. The property’s meticulously transformed interior––shaped by architect Imma Rábano and the Barcelona-based duo Blankslate––reflects a fusion of tropical modernism inspired by Sri Lanka. Adorned with design pieces from global brands, a stay at Hotel Brummell makes for an immersive and stylish experience.
Where to Eat
Dos Pebrots
The culinary team behind this relaxed Michelin Guide-recommended spot in El Raval has meticulously reviewed, contextualized, and interpreted the origins of Mediterranean cuisine to provide ingenious variations of historically relevant dishes. The owner is one of Pau’s best friends, so he takes good care of those for whom Pau sets up a reservation directly.
Denassus
Pau asserts that he “spends half of [his] life here.” Tucked away within Poble Sec, Denassus is run by a punkish, motley crew who embraces freedom over formality. Come as you like to enjoy a curated selection of natural wines and elevated takes on traditional tapas.
What to Drink
Bar Brutal
Wine bars abound in El Born, but Bar Brutal is surely the standout. Since 2013, it has remained the premier place for natural wines, which are served with contemporary cold cuts, cheeses, and seafood.
Where to Visit
Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona
Situated in El Raval, the Centre de Culture Contemporànoa de Barcelona is a multidisciplinary destination offering city dwellers and visitors culturally relevant opportunities inclusive of exhibitions, festivals, concerts, films, and workshops. Last summer, Pau was most intrigued by their showcase on the 13th-century French writer Marquis de Sade.
Parc de la Ciutadella
As the city’s primary and most popular park, Parc de la Ciutadella is a great place to take a walk or just chill. Some of Pau’s favorite places for pastries or artisanal goods can be found around here, such as Pastelería Hofmann (“Their mascarpone croissant is mindblowing”), as well as Magatzem Escolà, which sells imported and rare wine and liquor.
Foto Colectania
Founded in 2002, this non-profit organization is committed to disseminating photography and collecting through exhibitions, touring shows, and activities. Pau especially enjoys the photobook archive.
Shop for You or Your Fashion-Forward Man
It’s no secret that some of the best style across the Iberian Peninsula is found in Barcelona, with boutiques to boot. According to Pau, style-centric men should swing by The Outpost (“very nice, high-end selection of mainly shoes and accessories, but also some Homme Plisse”) as well as SVD (“more streetwear-focused; kind of our Slam Jam.”)
