Barcelona Uncharted: A Guide to the 37th Louis Vuitton America’s Cup
As September rolls in, Barcelona’s harbour begins to stir with the arrival of the 37th Louis Vuitton America’s Cup.
Much like the shifting tides it rides upon, this event defies the usual calendar constraints — its dates ebb and flow as challengers and defenders negotiate their paths. By October 12, 2024, the competition will narrow to two teams vying for the storied Auld Mug, a prize steeped in maritime lore. The America's Cup, founded in 1851, is renowned as the oldest international sporting trophy, with a history that reflects over a century of competitive sailing.
Yet, beyond the grand spectacle of the race, Barcelona reveals itself in subtler ways. To truly experience the city, one must seek out its hidden corners, those places that reveal the authentic character of Catalonia away from the tourist throngs.
For a refined retreat that’s both intimate and tranquil, the recently unveiled Borneta hotel is a fabulous choice. Just a short distance from the harbour, this haven by Miiro Hotels provides a serene escape from the city's hustle. Its spacious rooms, adorned in calming neutrals, offer a respite from the frenetic pace of old town Barcelona. The hotel’s restaurant and cocktail bar, Volta, is where maritime adventures are best complemented with a dish off the menu — try the handmade tagliolini vongole. Prices fluctuate with the tournament’s buzz, so keep that in mind.
Borneta, Passeig de Picasso, 26, 30, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Catalan cuisine is a celebration of simplicity and quality. For a genuine taste of the sea, Mar i Rufo is a must. With its bare-bones decor and proximity to a bustling market, this humble restaurant delivers the sea’s freshest offerings in an honest, unembellished setting. Don’t be surprised if you spot a footballer or two digging into cigalas grilled with potatoes, eggs and a hint of truffle. The decor might be simplistic, but the flavours are anything but.
Mar i Rufo, Carrer de Freixures, 11, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona. Reservations recommended.
Further afield, in the less-traveled parts of Barcelona, Ultramarinos stands out. This understated asador-turned-Catalan diner is revered for its sweet and succulent seafood from Galicia and the Mediterranean. It’s a breakfast and lunch spot that invites a leisurely visit.
Ultramarinos, C/ de Balmes, 187, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08006 Barcelona
When the Catalan summer lingers, Esencia offers a refreshing escape. Concealed behind the renowned Sips, this speakeasy crafted by Simone Caporale and Marc Alvarez presents a unique tasting menu with thematic twists. Esencia’s focus on bespoke cocktails reflects Barcelona’s growing reputation as a cocktail capital - it’s a place that promises both a sensory delight and an aura of cool sophistication.
Esencia by Sips, C/ de Muntaner, 108, L'Eixample, 08036 Barcelona
No visit to the America’s Cup is complete without a nod to nautical fashion. El Maniqui Vintage in the old town offers a treasure trove of vintage pieces — from Jean Paul Gaultier pinstripes to Valentino gowns. For those further afield, Vasquiat provides a curated selection by Blanca Miró, while The Favorite Vintage delivers a Wes-Anderson-inspired collection of unique finds.
El Maniqui Vintage, Carrer de Sant Sever, 8, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
Vasquiat, C/ de Provença, 243, L'Eixample, 08008 Barcelona
The Favorite Vintage, C/ del Bruc, 71, L'Eixample, 08009 Barcelona
Word has it that Louis Vuitton will set up a temporary kiosk during the event—watch for a limited capsule collection at their Passeig de Gràcia store, a coveted addition for collectors.
Louis Vuitton, Paseo de Gracia, 80, 08008 Barcelona
For those wanting to immerse themselves in the action, Sail & Charter offers a front-row seat to the races with private boat charters. Alternatively, the official race village along Moll de la Fusta provides a ground-level vantage to mingle with competitors and view the sleek sailboats.
Sail & Charter, Marina Vela, Pg. de Joan de Borbó, 103, Bloque A . Despacho 4, Ciutat Vella, 08039 Barcelona
For a more serene and exclusive experience, consider booking Arts 41 at the Hotel Arts Barcelona. While the Ritz Carlton’s corporate feel can be a turn-off, the hotel’s special pop-up during the event provides unparalleled views.
Hotel Arts Barcelona, Arts 41, Carrer de la Marina, 19-21, Ciutat Vella, 08005 Barcelona
Mi Mi Chloe Park is a cultural curator in lifestyle, hospitality and design. Originally from New York and Monaco, she relocated to Barcelona during the early days of the pandemic and now splits her time between the city, Seoul and Bali.
