RIVER ISLAND RESORT GUIDES: BARCELONA

From rooftop cocktails and poolside lounging to late-night festival sets, Barcelona is the ultimate city-break destination. Sim, from our Style Collective, headed to the Catalan capital for a long weekend at Primavera Sound, uncovering the best places to eat, unwind and soak up the city's energy along the way. Here, he shares his must-visit spots and the outfits that took him from day to night.

Shop Sim's Looks

BEST PLACE FOR LUNCH

Chalito Poblenou
Rambla del Poblenou, 123, Sant Marti, 08018 Barcelona

After a busy festival weekend, I was looking for something satisfying without being too heavy, and Chalito Poblenou was exactly that. I ordered the chicken milanesa topped with homemade tomato sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, pepperoni and basil, served with fries…and, of course, an Aperol Spritz!

Staff were so welcoming and helpful, and the place had such a cool atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR BY DAY

The Level at Melia Barcelona Sky
Address: Carer de Lope de Vega, 141-147, Sant Marti, 08005 Barcelona

When the festival finishes in the early hours, there's only one place to recover: by the pool. The Level at Meliá Barcelona Sky offered the perfect escape, with plenty of loungers, umbrellas and a stunning pool to cool off in. I wore my favourite black-and-white floral swim shorts and the matching shirt with sliders – an easy poolside look that feels elevated.

WHAT TO WEAR BY NIGHT

I was in Barcelona for one of the biggest music festivals: Primavera Sound! This was my second year going, and despite the yellow weather warning on the first night, it was still an amazing weekend. My standout festival look was the black sequin cape from the Samie Elishi collaboration, paired with denim shorts from the Tolami Benson collection and River Island trainers – essential for all the walking and dancing. The cape was a real conversation starter and earned compliments throughout the weekend. There’s no wonder it’s already sold out!

INSIDER TIP

24 Cielos @ The Level Melia Barcelona Sky
Address: Carer de Lope de Vega, 141-147, Sant Marti, 08005 Barcelona, Spain

For incredible city views without travelling far, head to 24 Cielos on the 24th floor of the hotel. The cocktails were excellent, the staff were fantastic and the mango mojito came highly recommended for good reason. The highlight, however, is the panoramic view across Barcelona – best enjoyed from a comfortable sofa with a drink in hand as the sun sets over the city.

SHOPPING HOTSPOT

Westfield Glories
Address: Av. Diagonal, 208, Sant Marti, 08018, Barcelona, Spain

Westfield Glòries felt like a home-away-from-home, but with even more to discover. The centre is packed with international brands, including some that aren't available in the UK, alongside plenty of great food options. I managed to leave with only a few purchases, although I definitely could have spent much longer browsing.