Barcelona is one of those cities to visit at least once in a lifetime, a destination loved by young people, families, couples, really by everyone! Rich in unique monuments and wonderful neighbourhoods, the first choice to face is where to stay. Want to be close to the sea? Then choose Barceloneta. Prefer to stay in the heart of the city? The best area is the Barrio Gotico.
Here are all our tips on where to stay in Barcelona.
Useful tips: the best neighbourhoods to stay in
Barcelona is really full of completely different neighbourhoods, each suited to particular needs. Definitely, if it is your first time visiting the city, the best area to stay in is the Ciutat Vella, the historical centre. Here, too, you will find neighbourhoods to suit all requirements: the bustling Barrio Gotico and El Born or the quiet and wonderful Barceloneta, which includes Barcelona's beach. Avoid, however, El Raval, which is not entirely safe at night. An excellent alternative for a first stay in the city is Eixample, where attractions such as the famous Sagrada Familia can be found.
If you are looking for a luxurious hotel with top-notch amenities, we recommend the Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona hotel. Located in the modern and vibrant Diagonal Mar neighborhood, this hotel is perfect for those who want to be close to the beach and enjoy the city's amenities. The hotel features a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Guests can also enjoy stunning views of the city from their rooms and suites.
If you are travelling with a family, also opt for Ciutadella - Vila Olimpica, Gracia and Poblenou. Vila Olimpica is the neighbourhood that is home to the beautiful Ciutadella Park, an ideal area to stay with the little ones. Gracia, on the other hand, is Barcelona's bohemian district, elegant and full of cafés and wine bars. Poblenou, finally, is a quiet and less touristy area, overlooking the sea and with great beaches.
If you want to save money, choose Poble Sec, a district that is part of the larger Sants-Montjuïc district. Here you can find really good deals without being too far from the centre.
Recommended areas to save money: Poble Sec, Ciutadella - Vila Olimpica, Poblenou
Recommended areas for families with children: La Barceloneta, Eixample, Ciutadella - Vila Olimpica, Gràcia, Poblenou
Recommended areas for young people: El Born, Barrio Gotico
Best accommodation: We have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Barcelona.
If you are in Barcelona on business or as a one-day stopover to other destinations, consider sleeping near the airport.
Barcelona area guide
Barcelona is the second largest city in the country after Madrid. At first impact it can be difficult to settle in, especially among the narrow streets of the Ciutat Vella.
It is therefore important to understand how it develops. Barcelona, for example, is divided into 10 districts, which in turn are subdivided into different districts. The central district is the Ciutat Vella, in the heart of the city, from which the others then develop. In detail, the districts that are most interesting from a tourist point of view are the following:
Ciutat Vella: district 1, home to the districts of Barrio Gotico, El Born and Barceloneta;
Eixample: district 2, home to the Eixample district;
Sants-Montjuïc: district 3, home to the neighbourhood of El Poble-sec;
Gracia: district 6, home to the Gracia district;
Sant Martí: district 10, home to the neighbourhoods of Vila Olímpica and Poblenou
Areas to avoid: the areas to categorically avoid are the suburbs, as they are far from the centre and the main attractions. In the Ciutat Vella, the neighbourhood best avoided is El Raval, which is not entirely safe at night due to small cases of petty crime. During the day be careful even in the busiest areas, such as the Rambla, which is targeted by pickpockets.
Barrio Gotico (Ciutat Vella)
The Barrio Gotico is the beating heart of the city, the soul of the old city, and one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in in Barcelona, especially if this is your first visit. From here, you can easily walk to the most important monuments such as the Santa Eulalia cathedral, the Plaça Reial, the Palau de la Musica, the Generalitat and theBarcelona Aquarium.
It is a very lively neighbourhood both day and night, thanks to the presence of numerous clubs, tapas bars and wine bars. It is therefore an area especially recommended for couples and young people, or those who want to go out in the evening.
As mentioned above, if you stay here you can get around easily on foot, you will be right in the heart of the city. To reach the attractions further afield, you can still rely on transport: the district is served by the L1, L3 and L4 metro lines.
Average prices in the district range from around €40.00 for low-cost accommodation to €250.00 for high-budget solutions
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation Description Hotel Canton 500 m from the metro station. 24-hour reception and tour desk. Private bathroom, refrigerator, air conditioning and heating. Ideal for couples Hostal New York, Hostel in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. 24-hour reception, WiFi connection, vending machines. Dormitories with shared bathroom. Ideal for young people Hostal Levante, Guesthouse with 24 h reception and air conditioning. Rooms with private bathroom. Ideal for couples and young people Catalonia Port 4-star hotel 250 m from the last stretch of the Rambla. Sun terrace with small seasonal outdoor pool. Ideal for couples and families
El Born (Ciutat Vella)
Photo by ferran pestaña. Right next to the Barrio Gotico, in the Ciutat Vella, is one of Barcelona's trendiest neighbourhoods. It is also conveniently located between the Barrio Gotico and the famous Citadel Park, and is home to attractions such as the Museu Picasso, the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar and El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria.
Due to its buzzing atmosphere and numerous venues, it is mainly an ideal district for young people and those in search of movida. Lively by day and by night, at night it is one of the meeting points par excellence of Spanish nightlife, with wine bars, tapas bars and beer gardens.
Finally, staying here you can easily get around on foot. The district is very well located and is served by the metro line L4. Also on the eastern border is the Estación de Francia train station, ideal if you want to make some excursions outside Barcelona.
Average prices in the district range from around €40.00 for low-cost accommodation to €250.00 for high-budget solutions.
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation Description Safestay Barcelona, Hostel with top-floor terrace, common area, 24-hour reception and tour desk. Dormitories with private or shared bathroom. Ideal for young people Hostal Nuevo Colon, Hostel with 24-hour reception and WiFi connection. Rooms with private or shared bathroom, some with balcony. Idealer for couples and young people Park Hotel, Hotel with 24-hour reception, cafeteria and restaurant. Modern, soundproof rooms. Breakfast buffet. Ideal for couples K+K Hotel Picasso El Born, Boutique hotel with restaurant, pool, cafeteria and bar with cocktail service. Breakfast buffet. ideal for couples and families
Barceloneta (Ciutat Vella)
Finally, the last district of the Ciutat Vella in which we recommend you stay is Barceloneta, ideal especially if you are travelling in summer. In fact, this district stretches from the port area all the way to the beach, including the famous Platja de la Barceloneta, but also Platja de Sant Sebastià and Platja del Somorrostro.
This is a modern district ideal especially for families, not only because of the beach, but also because of its proximity to attractions perfect for children, such as the Ciutadella Park and the Barcelona Aquarium. In this case, however, it is best to avoid staying in the northernmost part of the district, as there are some of Barcelona's most famous nightclubs, such as Pachá Barcelona and Opium.
Finally, by staying here you can get around on foot and by transport. The Barrio Gotico is a 15-minute walk away, but the area is also served by the Barceloneta metro station, where the L4 line runs. The Estación de Francia train station is also nearby.
Average prices in the district range from around €50.00 for low-cost accommodation to €400.00 for high-budget solutions.
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation Description Hotel 54 Barceloneta, Hotel on the Barcelona seafront. 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi and air-conditioned rooms with smart TV. Ideal for couples Barceloneta Suites Apartments Beach, Apartment complex less than 5 min from the beach. Units with lounge area, equipped kitchen and full bathroom. Ideal for families Sea Hostel Barcelona, Hostel a few steps from the beach. 24-hour reception, WiFi, luggage storage and snack bar. Dormitories with en suite bathrooms. Ideal for young people W Barcelona Iconic 5-star sailing hotel on the Barcelona seafront. 3 swimming pools, spa and wellness centre, restaurant and bar. Ideal for couples and families
Eixample
Eixample lies just north of the Ciutat Vella and Plaça de Catalunya and is Gaudí's district. Here you will find his greatest works, true icons in Barcelona: the famous Sagrada Familia, the avenue Passeig de Gràcia with the Pedrera and Casa Batllò, all works of Gaudí's genius.
Eixample is a very extensive neighbourhood, which offers so many options. It is an ideal area for families, as it is quiet in the evenings. Even during the day, thanks to its large tree-lined boulevards, it never seems overcrowded. Here you can also find some of the most luxurious hotels in Barcelona, housed in elegant historical buildings.
Finally, if you stay here, we recommend getting around by transport. The district is perfect for exploring on foot, but to get to other areas like Barceloneta, you'll have to take the metro. Eixample is served by lines L2, L3, L4 and L5.
Average prices in the district range from around €50.00 for low-cost accommodation to €350.00 for high-budget solutions
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation Description Hostal Centric, Modern and stylish guesthouse with 24-hour reception, luggage storage and safe. Private bathroom. Ideal for couples and families Rodamón Barcelona Centro, Hostel 100 m from the metro and Passeig de Gràcia. Shared lounge and kitchen, dormitories with private or shared bathroom. Ideal for young people Magatzem 128, Small hotel with WiFi connection, rooms with private bathroom and family rooms available. Ideal for couples and families Sercotel Rosellon Hotel, 4-star hotel with a terrace on the top floor overlooking the Sagrada Familia. Air-conditioned rooms and elegant, modern design. Restaurant and bar. Ideal for couples
Poble Sec (Sants-Montjuïc)
Just southwest of the Ciudad Vella is the district of Poble Sec, within the larger Montjuïc district, one of Barcelona's most characteristic areas. Here you will also find wonderful attractions such as the Castell de Montjuïc, the Font màgica de Montjuïc with its evening shows and the impressive Palau Nacional de Montjuïc, which houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia.
This is a very quiet and characteristic area, ideal especially for families and those who want some peace and quiet. In fact, the district is mainly frequented during the day for its attractions, while in the evening it does not present a particular nightlife.
Staying here you will have to get around by transport. The top of the Montjuïc hill can also be reached by the wonderful cable car, which offers a splendid view of the whole of Barcelona, but the district is still served by the metro line L3 and numerous bus lines.
Average prices in the district range from around €35.00 for low-cost accommodation to €350.00 for high-budget solutions.
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation Description Hotel Brummell, Boutique hotel with outdoor pool, garden, sauna and wellness centre. Free and unlimited activities such as yoga classes. 24-hour access to the self-service bar. Ideal for 2 people Hotel Nuevo Triunfo, Hotel a 3-minute walk from the metro. WiFi connection, 24-hour reception, air-conditioned rooms and lounge area. Ideal for couples and families Hostal Barcelona, Guesthouse with 24-hour reception and luggage storage. Rooms with private bathroom. Ideal for couples and young people InterContinental Barcelona 5-star hotel with swimming pool, spa and wellness centre. 173 Rooftop Terrace with restaurant and stunning views of the city. Ideal for couples
Gràcia
North of the Ciutat Vella and Eixample, Gracia is one of Barcelona's most authentic districts. With bohemian charm, it is a quiet residential area full of shops, small cafés and wide boulevards. But above all it is home to the renowned Parc Güell, one of the city's most famous attractions.
Given its characteristics and tranquillity, Gracia is definitely an area recommended for families and couples, especially those looking for a romantic getaway. In the evenings, the neighbourhood is also very quiet with a very relaxed nightlife.
Finally, staying here means getting around by transport. The neighbourhood is served by several metro lines and is home to the Gracia train station, which is also great for excursions in the surrounding area. From here, for instance, you can easily reach the Barrio Gotico with the metro line L3 (8 min).
Average prices in the district range from around €40.00 for low-cost accommodation to €400.00 for high-budget solutions.
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation Description BCN Urbaness Hotels Bonavista, Hotel not far from La Pedrera. Reception 254h, tour desk, Burger Bar and WiFi connection. Ideal for couples and families Gallery Hotel with swimming pool, sauna and gym accessible free of charge. Terrace with views and quiet, spacious rooms. Free WiFi. Ideal for couples and families Rocket Hostels Gracia, Hostel 5 min. walk from Parc Guell. WiFi connection, cafeteria and shared kitchen. Dormitories for 6 to 16 people, shared bathroom. Ideal for young people Hotel Casa Fuster G.L Monument 5-star hotel with swimming pool, gym, spa and wellness centre, restaurant. Housed in a building constructed by modernist architect Lluis Domènech i Montaner. Ideal for couples
Ciutadella - Vila Olimpica (Sant Martí)
We approach the Ciutat Vella again to propose the Ciutadella - Vila Olimpica neighbourhood, bordering El Born. This is a quiet residential neighbourhood, overlooking the sea and home to the famous Parc de la Ciutadella, one of Barcelona's beauties.
Given its large green areas, its proximity to the sea with its beaches and its tranquillity, this area is ideal for families and for those who want to enjoy the sea without being too far from the city centre. In fact, you will find the Platja de la Nova Icàr, ideal for families, and the Platja del Bogatell, which is more youthful and has many activities to do.
Staying here you can get around on foot and by transport. Certainly, especially on hot summer days, the best option is to travel by metro: the reference stop is Ciutadella Vila Olímpica, served by the L4 line.
Average prices in the district range from around €30.00 for low-cost accommodation to €300.00 for high-budget solutions.
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation Description H10 Marina Barcelona Hotel with gym, spa, restaurant, bar and many other services. Spacious rooms with private bathroom. Ideal for couples ibis Styles Barcelona City Bogatell Hotel with private parking, free WiFi, outdoor pool, children's play area and bar. 24-hour reception. Ideal for families Unite Hostel Barcelona 5 min walk from the beach. Shared restaurant, bar and lounge, 24-hour reception and shared kitchen. Dormitories with private bathroom. Ideal for young people Hotel Arts Barcelona 5-star hotel with 2 swimming pools, spa and wellness centre, restaurant and bar, beachfront. Ideal for couples and families
Poblenou (Sant Martí)
Photo by Aldis Dzenovskis. Finally, we recommend the Poblenou district, a residential area developed along the seafront and bordering the Ciutadella - Vila Olimpica. There are no particular attractions here, but it is definitely a good area to stay in during the summer, for the large parks such as the Parc del Poblenou and the vast beaches.
It is a district recommended for couples and families. It is, however, livelier than Ciutadella - Vila Olimpica, so it is also ideal for young people who are not looking for a wild nightlife, but a more relaxed one, consisting of a few cold beers with friends. In addition, it is a great neighbourhood to save money without sacrificing services.
Finally, staying here is best done by getting around by transport. The neighbourhood is always served by the metro line L4, the reference stop being Llacuna. From here, you can, for example, reach the Barrio Gotico in just 10 minutes by metro.
Average prices in the district range from around €40.00 for low-cost accommodation to €450.00 for high-budget solutions.
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation Description Acta Voraport Hotel with ATM, 24-hour reception and free WiFi. Rooms with safe and private bathroom. Buffet breakfast Zero Barcelona Hostel 5 min. walk from the beach. Shared kitchen, snack bar, 24-hour reception and WiFi. Dormitories with private or shared bathroom. Ideal for young people RAMBLA BEACH Barcelonastuff Apartments Bright, air-conditioned flats, 5 minutes from the beach. Each flat has 2 bathrooms, an equipped kitchen and 2 or 3 bedrooms. Ideal for families and young people The Hoxton Poblenou 4-star hotel with a rooftop terrace overlooking the Sagrada Familia. Swimming pool, restaurant and bar. 24-hour reception. Ideal for couples and families
Countries near Barcelona where to stay
Sleeping in Barcelona is the best choice, especially for a trip entirely dedicated to discovering the city, as well as if you have little time, as you are busy on the classic weekend or long weekend. It is a very large city, with so many different neighbourhoods and accommodation to suit all budgets, looking for accommodation outside means putting in a lot of time for travelling and getting to the city.
It is a different matter if your aim is also to explore the areas around Barcelona and mainly enjoy a holiday centred on the sea and relaxation. In this case, you could also opt for resorts on the coast, such as:
Lloret de mar (75 km / 1 h 8 min): a holiday destination on the Costa Brava popular with young people from all over Europe, especially those who want to have fun both day and night. Ideal as a base as it is connected to Barcelona by direct bus (line 2, 1 h).
Sitges (44 km / 48 min): pretty town on the coast with a long golden sandy beach and a quaint old town. Of interest are the Romantic Museum and the Cap Ferrat Museum. Ideal as a base as it is connected to Barcelona by direct bus (Empresa Plana line, 30 min).
Tarragona (101 km / 1 h 20 min): a small port town with narrow streets and alleys leading to lively squares. Ideal as a base as it is connected to Barcelona by direct bus (Empresa Plana line, 1 h 24 min) and close to the famous amusement park Port Aventura World.