Where to find Messi in Barcelona

For many football fans, travelling to Barcelona is almost like going to the Vatican: the city represents almost everything. It is home to what many consider to be one of the best teams in the world, FC Barcelona, and it is where the man who, for many, was the best footballer ever played: Lionel Messi.

If you're a fan of the Argentine, you've surely dreamed of meeting him, asking for his autograph, or taking a photo with him. Although today it's more difficult (and he no longer lives in the city), knowing where he used to leave his mark enhances the experience. 

Let's take a look at those places, with a wink and without expecting to meet him there in person (although... who knows).

Bellavista Jardín del Norte Restaurant (now closed)

This place at Carrer d'Enric Granados 86-88 was presented as Messi's restaurant, where the atmosphere of his hometown Rosario was recreated and Argentinean meats, empanadas, and Japanese dishes were served.

However, the restaurant no longer operates as such. In 2018, it was announced that it would close as a restaurant and be converted into an event space.

If you visit it today, you will regret not being able to sit at the table "that Messi used", but it may still be worth it to see the façade or take a photo of your football pilgrimage.

Chalito Restaurant (Luis Suárez's active chain)

This restaurant, owned by Messi's close friend Luis Suárez, is still open and is an excellent stop on your tour. It is located in the centre of Barcelona, and its menu includes milanesas, Uruguayan beef, pizzas, and more casual options.

For those of you who are vegan, here's a good tip: Chalito offers an aubergine milanesa that has been mentioned as an alternative. You can enjoy the football atmosphere without compromising your 'conscious menu'.

Coastal getaway: Castelldefels

About 20 minutes from central Barcelona, this town was the home-sweet-home refuge of many Barça players, including Messi at one time. Ideal for a relaxed walk, imagine that he could be there sunbathing or playing with his children (yes, a bit of fan fiction, I admit).

The point: Castelldefels beach, the coastal neighbourhoods, and the beach clubs become the scene for fans, not paparazzi. Enjoy the surroundings, without expecting to see the number 10 coming out of his mansion.

The training ground: Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper

Finally, you can find Messi by visiting the Joan Gamper sports village, the place where the players train, and waiting for training to finish to see if he stops his car to talk to the fans. Take note of where other people stand and where the television cameras are to know where the players leave from.

This is where Barça players used to train (and some still do). Although Messi no longer trains there, visiting the facilities puts you in the right place to imagine the life of an elite footballer: grass, benches, and camera flashes.

See where the entrances are, where the official cars leave, and maybe you can say, "I was where Messi took off his boots." Tip: Be respectful of the privacy of the players and staff.

Your fan kit for the tour

• Wear a Barça shirt or some other football-related item to get into the spirit of things.
• Bear in mind that some places no longer exist as we knew them in the past (Bellavista is one example).
• Respect privacy: private homes are private. Enjoy from a distance.
• Take photos of places without disturbing residents or visitors.
• Imagine: "This is where Messi ordered his milanesa"... even if it's fiction, you'll enjoy it.

Conclusion with a smile

Yes, you won't find Messi having a drink on a terrace in Barcelona's Eixample district anymore. But that doesn't mean the city has lost its appeal for fans. You can visit the places where he left his mark, imagine anecdotes, and enjoy your "fan moment" with humour and curiosity. 

And at the same time, enjoy the city, its cuisine, its beach, its architecture... Because Barcelona is much more than just one player, but for you — and for many — it remains "Messi's city".

If you want to enjoy Barcelona's food, wine, and culinary experiences in small groups, contact WE Barcelona for a gourmet experience you won’t forget.