Barcelona: Smart Splurges

Cinc Sentits This cool and elegant spot in upscale L’Eixample churns out contemporary Catalan fare such as wild Mediterranean sea bass, Iberian suckling pig, and shredded oxtail, topped off with artisanal varieties of fantastic frommage. L’Eixample; C/Aribau 58; 011-34-93-323-9490; www.cincsentits.com
restaurant | expensive | wine

Comerç 24 The new-wave Catalan tapas, called tastets, at this swank industrial space include globally inspired creations like soy quail lollipop or mollet egg with Jabugo ham. El Born; C/Comerç 24; 011-34-93-319-2102; www.comerc24.com
restaurant | expensive | wine | small plates

Helicopter ride The unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the city and the coast is worth the steep price of these helicopter rides, ranging from a five-minute flight ($67) and a 10-minute flight along the coast ($118) to a 35-minute flight to Montserrat ($355). Barcelona; Cat Helicopters, Passeig de l’Escullera, Moll Adossat s/n; 011-34-93-224-0710; www.cathelicopters.com
tour | things to do

Hotel Arts This five-star spot owned by Ritz-Carlton occupies 33 floors of a 44-floor tower overlooking the Port Olímpic, with a beachside pool and glass-walled saunas at the spa. Port Olímpic; Carrer de la Marina 19–21; 011-39-93-221-1000; www.ritzcarlton.com
luxury | hotel | expensive

Hotel Neri A perfect example of cool Catalan style, this revamped 18th-century palace hides a boutique hotel with 22 swanky rooms and a rooftop terrace affording cathedral views. Barri Gòtic; C/Sant Sever 5; 011-34-093-304-0655; www.hotelneri.com
luxury | hotel | moderate

Ici et Là At this design emporium, over 30 international artists sell their one-off or limited-edition wares ranging from furniture to decorative items. El Born; Plaça Santa Maria 2; 011-34-93-268-1167; www.icietla.com
design | shopping | eclectic

Mondo Reserve a terrace table at this pricey waterfront outpost, where succulent seafood is paired with fantastic views of the sea and the old port. Port Vell; Moll d’Espanya, Maremàgnum; 011-34-93-221-3911; www.mondobcn.com
restaurant | views | expensive | seafood