There are bars of every size, renovated or old-fashioned, that magically lengthen the day with glasses of wine, beer or Martinis. And cocktail lounges, full of character, where waiters wearing bow ties serve spirits, such as in the legendary Boadas, in the heart of the Raval. And Modernista establishments where time has stood still, such as Casa Almirall. And breath-taking terraces, whether at street-level or at the top of a sky-scraper, such as Mirablau or the spectacular Mediterrani balcony in the bar-restaurant inside the Catalan History Museum, ideal for enjoying the city's aromas, with drink in hand, at any time of the year. What's more, many hotels in Barcelona open their roof terraces to the public, offering fantastic views of the city. Night-time is also the best time for enjoying live music, in places such as Jamboree, Harlem Jazz Club and the Modernist Barts, and burning off those drinks to the rhythm of the music hand-picked by DJs in discos and clubs for all tastes, from Luz de Gas, to Sala Bikini and the legendary Apolo.

And that's because Barcelona folk love the night and all it offers, always diverse, always intense. For the locals, the weekend starts on Thursday, but Barcelona's nightlife goes on throughout the week, packed with students and visitors. These are also ideal days for a little culture and discovering the more dramatic side of Barcelona, with its full and varied theatre programme.

The best selection of night-life offers in the capital can be found in the magazine Time Out Barcelona. Here's a taste.