Barcelona has some of Europe’s hottest nightlife with a constantly evolving scene and boasting a richness of Dance, Theatre and Opera. Although more and more Barcelonans like to go out during the week, Fridays and Saturdays are still the big nights out on the town. A typical evening out begins with dinner at a restaurant, followed by either a show at the theatre or on to a discotheque, bar or jazz club.

Most theatres have one daily show, normally starting between 9pm and 10.30pm. Some theatres, however, have two shows, especially on Saturdays, with show times at 6pm and 9pm or 10pm.

Clubs and bars with DJs or recorded music generally open from 6.30pm in the evening to 3am, while discotheques open at 11.30pm and close at about 4.30am.

Clubs/Dance – The party scene rarely sleeps and some of the best bars and clubs can be found in and around the Placa Reial in the old town and Port Olimpic. For something different, try La Paloma in the Raval district (just of Ronda de San Antoni). Red velvet benches and baroque painted ceilings frame this classic dancehall with a variety of age groups dancing tango, salsa or the paso dobles to a brass band. Thursday and Friday nights it turns to ambient dance music.
Carrer del Tigre 27 (00 34 93 451 2151).

Bars – The Gràcia area has a fine selection of designer bars.

Shows – Try Opera at the Gran Teatre del Liceu or an authentic Flamenco display at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes www.tablaocordobes.com which has 3 shows a night and also offers an authentic dinner option.
Ramblas 35 (00 34 93 317 5711).

Other Activities – Visit the Font Màjica at Montjuïc for a colourful light and water show to varied music. No admission and takes place Friday-Saturday 7-9pm (October-April) and Thursday-Sunday 9.30-11.30pm (May-September).