Pipa Club

Although most tourists will miss this hidden bar, staged in an inconspicuous third floor flat, amongst resident at least Pipa Club is Barcelona's worst-kept secret. Thanks to its very late license this shabby Sherlock Holmes-themed drinking den is regularly packed to the rafters with thirsty folk who have been kicked out of bars around the city. Keep your eyes out for the train of youngsters making their way across Plaza Real to Pipa at exactly 3am on a nightly basis (the closing time for virtually all other bars in Barcelona). Ring the bell, ascend the stairs, try not to fall over right in front of the doorman, and you too will be admitted into this coven of late-night revelry... and, although there's no dancefloor to strut your stuff, plenty of friendly drunks and a pool table make Pipa an essential nocturnal adventure. Unsurprisingly given the name, the club is smoky as hell.

I always spend the whole night in Pipa queuing for the toilets... always meet some cool loons though. Best after hours bar in Barcelona!

a great find, especially late at night when all the other bars have shut. Mostly guys sadly, but then what did you expect? Plus a dancefloor would be nice... but still good atmosphere and chance to carry on your night always invaluable