Choosing the perfect spot to stay in Barcelona can make or break your experience in this vibrant Spanish city. Most travelers, including myself, gravitate towards staying in central Barcelona. Places like Ciutat Vella (the old town in Catalan), Paseo de Gracia, or Eixample, which blossomed in the 19th century when the old city was still expanding, are top picks.
Keep in mind, the more central your hotel, the pricier it tends to be compared to other areas. But, if you venture just a bit further from the center, you’re likely to discover a sweeter deal in terms of quality and price.
Barcelona’s excellent public transport system, which thoroughly connects the city, is a game changer. If you stumble upon a great hotel deal slightly away from the center, don’t hesitate to book it. Chances are, there’ll be a metro station nearby whisking you to the heart of Barcelona in just minutes.
1. L’Eixample, best area to stay in Barcelona for first time
If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than l’Eixample. As the modern extension of the city, l’Eixample was purposefully designed during Barcelona’s expansion beyond the old city, connecting once suburban areas like Gràcia to the vibrant core. L’Eixample is sleek, organized, and spacious, offering the perfect balance between local life and easy access to the city’s attractions.
The name “l’Eixample” literally means “the expansion” in Catalan, and that’s exactly what it represents. The neighborhood’s iconic grid system and wide, multi-lane boulevards provide a sharp contrast to the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinth of alleys, where you might find yourself pulling out a map to avoid getting lost.
With tree-lined streets and tall buildings that house shops and cafes on the ground floor, l’Eixample has a distinct, almost Parisian feel. However, it’s more relaxed than the Gothic Quarter, without quite reaching the laid-back vibe of Gràcia—a perfect middle ground.
One of the best reasons to base yourself in l’Eixample is its proximity to Plaça de Catalunya, the beating heart of Barcelona. Plaça de Catalunya sits at the crossroads of the Gothic Quarter and El Raval, marking the gateway to Las Ramblas.
It’s a vibrant, bustling square that serves as a key meeting point and a shopping paradise, with major stores like Corte Inglés, FNAC, and Triangle just steps away. Nearby streets like Portal de l’Àngel are lined with even more shopping opportunities, and the surrounding area boasts a thriving food scene with countless options to indulge in local cuisine.
Plaça de Catalunya also offers unparalleled connectivity, acting as a central hub for metro lines, bus routes, and even the direct airport bus, making it easy to get around Barcelona or venture further afield. Staying in l’Eixample places you right at the heart of this network, making it incredibly convenient to explore all corners of the city.
Pros of Staying in l'Eixample
- Central and Well Connected: Thanks to its proximity to Plaça de Catalunya, you’re not only well-placed to explore on foot but also have easy access to the metro, buses, and even the airport bus. You can reach almost any part of Barcelona with ease.
- Great Food and Drink Options: L’Eixample is packed with fantastic dining choices and cozy cafes. While nightlife here is quieter, nearby areas like El Born are easily reachable for a lively night out.
- Wide Range of Accommodations: Whether you’re after luxury hotels or affordable guesthouses, l’Eixample offers a plethora of options for every budget.
Cons
- It Can Be Expensive: As one of Barcelona’s more upscale areas, accommodation and shopping can be pricey, especially around the luxury brands near Plaça de Catalunya. However, the convenience of the location often justifies the cost.
What to see in l'Eixample
- Paseo de Gracia
- Casa Batlló
- Casa Mila
- Gothic Quarter
- La Rambla
Best Hotels in L' Eixample
- (€€€) Iberostar Selection Paseo de Gracia 4 Sup: It is close to Plaça de Catalunya. A quaint rooftop pool, a well-equipped gym, and superb facilities.
- (€€) Exe Plaza Catalunya: A 4-star luxury hotel, just a few steps away from Plaça de Catalunya.
- (€) Hotel Ginebra: A charming 1-star hotel near Plaça de Catalunya.
2. Gothic Quarter, a charming area to stay in Barcelona
Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is a treasure trove of medieval charm, one of the largest and best-preserved in Europe. Imagine wandering through a labyrinth of medieval courtyards, narrow alleys, and hidden squares. And amidst this historical maze lies the majestic Cathedral.
This neighborhood is a delightful blend of artisan shops, designer boutiques, cozy cafes, lively bars, and restaurants. The nightlife here, especially around Plaza Real, is vibrant and never fails to impress.
La Rambla forms a boundary between the Gothic Quarter and El Raval, offering direct access to this famous street. It’s like having the best of both worlds at your doorstep.
Yes, the area is a tourist hotspot, catering to visitors from around the globe. But trust me, its charm remains unspoiled. There’s something magical about this part of Barcelona that always draws me back. It’s undoubtedly one of the most enchanting neighborhoods in the city.
Pros of Staying in Gothic Quarter
- Close to the center
- Very charming neighborhood
- Includes La Rambla
- Lively nightlife
- Many cafes, bars, and restaurants
Cons
- Very touristic area
- More expensive accommodations
What to see in Gothic Quarter
Best Hotels in Gothic Quarter
- (€€€) Grand Hotel Central: A 5-star hotel in Via Laietana, with pool, restaurant and bar.
- (€€) Catalonia Catedral: A modern hotel in the center of Gothic Quarter.
- (€) Cuatro Naciones: A budget-friendly 2-star hotel, close to Plaza Real.
3. Gracia, best area to stay in Barcelona for families and kids
Gracia is a bohemian oasis that I often recommend to those revisiting Barcelona. It’s a refreshing change from the tourist-heavy areas, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The neighborhood exudes an intriguing vibe, with local bars and restaurants serving top-notch cuisine. It’s a bit hipster, sure, but also wonderfully family-friendly. The numerous squares and parks are perfect for kids, making it a great choice for family travelers.
For those with children, Gracia’s family-friendly character is a significant draw. It’s a place where the kids can enjoy open spaces while adults soak in the unique atmosphere.
A highlight of Barcelona, Parc Güell, is nestled in Gracia. This Gaudí-inspired park, with its mosaic masterpieces and whimsical sculptures, is nothing short of magical.
The only downside? You’ll need public transport to reach the city center. Otherwise, it’s at least a half-hour walk to the main attractions and the Gothic Quarter. But honestly, the journey is part of the adventure in this charming neighborhood.
Pros of Staying in Gracia
- Well-connected by metro (lines L3, L5)
- Not a touristy area
- Beautiful cafes, bars, and restaurants
Cons
- Can’t walk to the city center
- Limited accommodation options
What to see in Gracia
- Parc Güell
- Sagrada Familia: close to the southeast border of the neighborhood
- Casa Milà: borders the south
Best Hotels in Gracia
- (€€€) Hotel Casa Fuster G.L Monumento: A 5-star hotel with elegant design.
- (€€) Aparthotel Silver: A small hotel, 100m from the Fontana Station.
- (€) Sant Jordi Hostels Gracia: One of the best hostel in the city, 650m from the Fontana Station.
4. El Born, best area to stay in Barcelona for nightlife
El Born, right next to the Gothic Quarter, is a hotspot in Barcelona that I can’t get enough of. It’s part of Ciutat Vella, one of the city’s most bohemian and trendy neighborhoods. With its stylish establishments, it’s the perfect place for a night out, whether you’re dining or just grabbing drinks.
The hotels nestled between Via Laietana and Parque de la Ciutadella are fantastic alternatives to those in the Gothic Quarter. They offer a unique blend of convenience and charm.
El Born isn’t just any neighborhood; it’s a modern, pivotal area pulsating with perhaps the most active nightlife in Barcelona. The vibe here at night is something you don’t want to miss.
And for shoppers, El Born is a paradise. Whether you’re into chic boutiques, vintage clothes, or handmade jewelry, this place has it all. It’s my go-to for a shopping spree that always ends with unique finds.
Pros of Staying in El Born
- Very central location
- Vibrant nightlife
- Charming area
Cons
- More expensive accommodations
- Limited accommodation options
What to see in El Born
- Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
- Picasso Museum
- Moco Museum Barcelona
- European Museum of Modern Art
- Parque de la Ciutadella
- Barcelona Cathedral
Best Hotels in El Born
- (€€€) Hotel The Serras: One of the best hotels in Barcelona with restaurant and pool.
- (€€) H10 Port Vell 4* Sup: A 4-star hotel with restaurant, bar, gym and pool.
- (€) Pension Ciudadela: A 1-star hotel 100m from Ciudadela Park and 10-minute walk from beach.
Areas to avoid to stay in Barcelona
While Barcelona is generally a safe and welcoming city, there are a few neighborhoods you may want to avoid if you’re looking for an enjoyable stay. These areas may be less convenient, unsafe at night, or simply not the best options for tourists. Let’s take a look at the three neighborhoods that don’t make the cut.
1. El Raval
El Raval is known for its eclectic mix of culture and cuisine, with fantastic bars and restaurants that will delight any traveler. However, it has a darker side that you should be aware of.
This neighborhood is infamous for its pickpockets and drug dealers, particularly at night. While it’s undoubtedly a charming and vibrant area, the potential risk of theft makes it less than ideal for tourists, especially those unfamiliar with the city.
If you’re attracted to El Raval’s energy, you may want to consider staying in the nearby Gothic Quarter instead. You’ll still enjoy the old-town charm and a fantastic food scene without having to constantly worry about your belongings.
2. Sants-Montjuïc
Sants-Montjuïc is a relatively nice neighborhood, but it’s not the most convenient for travelers who want easy access to the main attractions in Barcelona.
This area is somewhat far from the city center, and exploring other parts of the city often requires multiple metro or train rides, which can add up in both time and cost.
The neighborhood is close to the airport and Montjuïc, a beautiful area with parks and museums, but unless you’re planning to spend a lot of time in this part of the city, it may not be the best choice.
If you’re looking for convenience and proximity to the main sights, staying near Plaça de Catalunya would be a better option.
3. La Mina (San Adrià)
Finally, La Mina, located in the San Adrià district, ranks as the number one neighborhood to avoid. This area has a reputation for being run-down, with streets often littered with garbage and generally empty at night.
The neighborhood is also known to attract individuals struggling with addiction and homelessness, which may make tourists feel uneasy.
While Barcelona is generally a safe city with low violent crime rates, La Mina is an area to steer clear of, especially at night.
It lacks the vibrant atmosphere and cultural attractions that make other parts of the city so appealing, and you’ll likely want to spend your time in more central, lively areas.
