We all want to enjoy the best without having to pay the ridiculously high prices. City breaks have become much more important to us in these stress ridden times, taking a short break to some of the top city’s in Europe is a logical step. I have picked my 5 favourite restaurants, clubs and activities in Barcelona all at affordable prices to show why having a small budget should not curtail your fun.

For the very best tapas in Barcelona, with a high street feel and affordable prices then hit the Cuines Santa-Catarina located in the brand new Santa-Catarina’s market. This restaurant offers four different types of cuisine Mediterranean, Italian, Asian and vegetarian. The restaurant is decorated to a very high standard with a mixture of clean stone and wood, natural lighting and shelves stacked with wine, olive oil and cooking necessities. The food is superb; enjoy a two course lunch for under €20, I recommend the risotto with langoustine or the fresh sushi.

For the best cocktail bar in Europe visit Boadas. A favourite with tourists as is its proximity to Placa Catalonia. All cocktails are made to order and I have never seen a cocktail pre-mixed. The bartending is unbelievable; if you are looking for a spectacle then you won’t be disappointed. If you decide to visit this cute bar, try the ‘grasshopper’ or its famed dry martini for under €10.

The Spanish wine region of Penedès lies a short distance to the south of the Catalan capital of Barcelona offering the opportunity for fascinating wine tours.  The area is renowned as home to Cava, Spanish champagne, but also produces outstanding white wines and good quality reds. Tours can be gotten for as little as €30 per person if booked on line in advance.

The Sidecar Factory Club located in Placa Reial is one of the better places to see a gig in Barcelona. With an array of music varying from indie to dj sessions, see many of Spain’s top artists perform for an entry price of €7-€15. Often compared to the Cavern in Liverpool, this venue is a must visit for all music fans.

El Mercat de la Barceloneta is the city’s beach-side market; this sweet little market is bustling Tuesday through Saturday. Settled in the middle of Barceloneta, this modern little market mixes an age old tradition with a modern approach. The little market packs in most things you would expect to find at one of the larger alternatives in the city but its small size makes a refreshing change to the madness often found at markets. Pick up a great bargain here especially the freshly caught fish.