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Barcelona is a city made up of a collection of diverse neighborhoods, or barris in Catalan, each with its own distinctive vibe. Many of these barris feel like little villages within the city - a characteristic that stems from the city's growth over time, with Barcelona expanding out from its historic center to gradually incorporate surrounding villages.

Today, from the Mediterranean Sea to the mountains, there’s not only boundless things to see and do, but also an incredible variety of neighborhoods to explore, offering everything from elegant modernist architecture to authentic local charm.

I won’t lie – choosing where to stay in Barcelona can be daunting, with areas changing drastically from street to street. But after living here for five years, I’ve come to understand the nuances of each barri, so I’ve pieced together this guide to help you find a neighborhood that suits your travel style.

Whether you’re a beach lover, a night owl, or a first timer looking to be close to Barcelona’s iconic sights, there’s a barri here for you.

As one of Europe’s most visited cities, Barcelona is a place that lives up to its reputation. There’s thriving food and nightlife scenes, beautiful beaches, historic sites, and, of course, world-class museums and the visionary works of Antoni Gaudi.

So, let’s jump into Barcelona’s neighborhoods – by the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of where to stay, plus some top hotel picks in each area.

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My favorite hotels in Barcelona

Hotel Casa Fuster - 5-star luxury on Passeig de Gracia. $300/night
Hotel Casa Elliot - pretty boutique hotel by Plaza Catalunya. $200/night
Room Mate Carla - good midrange option near Las Ramblas. $150/night
Musik Boutique Hotel - boutique on a budget in El Born. $140/night
Hotel SB Icaria - modern beachside hotel in Poblenou. $140/night

Guided tours and activities

Private city center walking tour
Walking tour of the historic quarter (small group)
Tastes of Barcelona food tour
Park Güell & Sagrada Familia guided tour
Highlights of Catalonia day trip: Montserrat, Girona, & Costa Brava

How to get around

Car rentals with DiscoverCars
Train tickets from Renfe
Metro and bus at TMB
Airport transfers with Welcome Pickups

Barcelona’s layout explained

Barcelona is organized into ten different districts, each with its own mix of neighborhoods, or barris.

The city’s historic heart is the Ciutat Vella (Old City), dating back to Roman times, with its winding medieval streets, bustling markets, and historic landmarks. Ciutat Vella is also the major center of tourism and is home to four barris—the Gothic Quarter, Raval, Sant Pere/Santa Caterina/La Ribera (often called El Born), and Barceloneta.

Beyond Ciutat Vella, the other districts grew as Barcelona expanded in the 19th century, notably with the Eixample (“Expansion”) district, famous for its graceful grid layout and modernist buildings, which now connects Ciutat Vella to outlying areas like Gracia and Sarria.

Rather than orient themselves by compass directions, locals orient by up (toward the mountains) and down (toward the sea), with the city wedged between two rivers: El Llobregat and El Besòs.

These geographic markers can also help guide your choice, whether you want to be central, near the beach, or close to the city’s hilly green spaces.

A quick summary of my 7 recommended neighborhoods

Below, you’ll find my top seven recommended neighborhoods to stay in Barcelona. While each is different, know that no matter which one you end up staying in, they are all excellent areas from which you can walk just about everywhere. In general, Barcelona is a great walking city as there’s beautiful architecture pretty much everywhere, wide sidewalks in most places, and boundless shops and restaurants to stumble upon as you explore.

If a place I’m heading is around 30-40 minutes away, you best believe I’m considering walking there. That said, the city’s metro system is also excellent, and can get you pretty much anywhere you need to go in less than 20 minutes.

But still, for first-time visitors to Barcelona, most of you are going to want to be somewhat close to all the action. With that in mind, the following seven barris are all within walking distance of the city’s major tourist attractions and areas, or just a short metro or bus ride away.

1. Vila de Gràcia

A charming, bohemian area with a unique village atmosphere, Vila de Gràcia is known for its lively squares, independent boutiques, and authentic atmosphere. Once a separate village from the city, Gràcia offers a local feel with plenty of cafes and bars, and a strong community spirit, all within easy reach of central Barcelona.

This is the barri I would recommend for travelers seeking somewhere less busy than the city center, or for those after a more artsy and alternative vibe.

2. Sant Antoni

I used to live near this barri, and I still think it’s one of the coolest places in Barcelona. Sant Antoni strikes a balance between traditional Barcelona and a trendy modern vibe thanks to a recently renovated central market and a large, pedestrianized zone where loads of cafés and tapas bars have sprung up.

It’s also close enough to the city center to walk but doesn’t feel as touristy as those barris, and has a much more local vibe.

Sant Antoni is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a bit of local life in Barcelona, good food and nightlife, and great access to the historic city center.

3. La Dreta de l’Eixample

Home to some of Gaudí’s most famous works, La Dreta de l’Eixample is a refined neighborhood known for its iconic architecture, high-end shopping, and wide boulevards.

Staying here puts you close to the best of modernist Barcelona, with easy access to major attractions like Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló, and plenty of upscale shopping and dining. You’re also within walking distance of the Gothic Quarter.

La Dreta de l’Eixample is ideal for those seeking a fashionable and central Barcelona experience, although expect higher prices.

4. Poblenou

A laid-back area to the east of the center with a strong creative spirit, Poblenou is famous for its post-industrial revival. Today, this beachy barri combines easy access to the city’s nicest beaches with a creative and alternative vibe; think art studios, galleries inside repurposed warehouses, chic cafés and trendy nightlife. It’s another one of my favorite barris.

This is a barri that’s suitable for a wide range of travelers, from families to beach fans to those looking for some good nightlife.

5. El Born

If you’re going to stay in one of the historic quarters, I would recommend looking at El Born, an area offering a solid blend of medieval charm and lively modern culture. Close to the Gothic Quarter, this central neighborhood is filled with narrow streets, boutique shops, and historic sites like the Picasso Museum, and a lot of people live in the area, unlike the Gothic Quarter.

I recommend El Born for travelers looking for a classic Barcelona experience; tight alleyways, medieval architecture, and a huge number of trendy cafés, restaurants, and bars to choose from.

6. Esquerra de l’Eixample

I’m biased because this is my barri, but I think it’s one of the better places to stay in Barcelona. The neighborhood offers plenty of residential calm but still has loads of shops, restaurants, and bars lining the streets to discover.

This part of town feels very local as well, with plenty of parks, schools, and families going about their lives. It’s a peaceful choice but still very well connected to the city center, and only a few metro stops away from Sagrada Familia.

Esquerra de l’Eixample is a great choice for families and those travelers looking for a quiet, more residential area that’s still very much connected to the big sights.

7. Poble Sec

Rounding out this list of recommended neighborhoods to stay in Barcelona is Poble-sec. Located opposite Sant Antoni, this area is a famous entertainment district, with theaters and live music venues lining the large street Parallel.

The barri sits in the shadow of Montjuïc as well, providing easy access to some of the best green spaces in the city, stellar views, and great cultural sites. One of the main streets, Carrer de Blai, is also famous for its pintxo bars, and an influx of immigrants has given this barri a diverse dining scene.

I recommend this barri for travelers looking for an authentic neighborhood, good food, and easy access to the city center and green spaces.

1. Vila de Gràcia

Pros: Authentic atmosphere, strong local vibe, great for food and shopping, close to city center.

Cons: Slightly further from main tourist attractions, can be crowded during festivals.

*Looking north on Carrer Gran de Gràcia. Photo:* *Txllxt TxllxT*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Located just above Eixample, Vila de Gràcia is one of Barcelona’s most beloved neighborhoods, known for its bohemian vibe, pedestrian-friendly streets, and strong sense of local pride. Originally a separate village, Gràcia was annexed into Barcelona in the late 19th century but has retained its independent spirit and small-town charm. I often recommend Gràcia for friends visiting for the first time.

The neighborhood has narrow streets that open into lively plazas where the locals gather for coffee and tapas, while kids kick footballs around and play. There’s a strong artistic atmosphere throughout the barri and wandering aimlessly through the area will turn up plenty of creative and independent boutiques, artisan workshops, and cafés.

One of the highlights of Vila de Gràcia is Plaça del Sol, a popular hangout spot that’s one of the best spots to meet with friends for a beer. I’ll usually skip the bar terraces for the supermarket on the corner, which is a treasure trove of craft beers from across the world, all of them cold and ready to drink.

There are two Gaudi attractions here as well: the immensely popular Park Güell, located on the hills above the barri, and Gaudi’s first ever commission, the vibrant Casa Vicens. Underrated and uncrowded, this is a spectacular look at the beginning of Gaudi’s famous style, a beautiful home covered in tiles, motifs, and mosaics.

Another big draw of staying in Gràcia (or maybe not if you value your sleep) is the huge party that is the Festa Major de Gràcia, a colorful street festival that takes place at the end of every August. The streets are dressed up in themes, and crowds of people from all over Barcelona (and Catalunya) roam through the barri, admiring the locals’ creativity and, nowadays, political messaging.

Hotels in Vila de Gràcia

Hotel Casa Fuster: Smack on Passeig de Gracia, this 5-star hotel is located inside a historic and beautiful Modernist building with really opulent interiors. Expect top-notch service, luxurious rooms, and a rooftop lounge and pool. If you’ve got the budget for it, it’s a no-brainer. $300–$400 per night.

Sonder La Casa Del Sol: Another great boutique hotel in the heart of Gràcia, this one has a really nice balance between modern design and traditional, Barcelona charms. There’s a nice rooftop terrace as well, for great views of the city. $200–$250 per night.

Casa Bella Gracia by Aspasios: Also a boutique hotel (are you sensing a theme here?!) with a cozy atmosphere, Casa Bella Gracia is perfectly located, just minutes from Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona’s glitziest shopping street. Clean, snug, and with a fantastic location, it’s a solid all-around choice for staying in Gràcia. $150–$200 per night.

Aparthotel Silver: This aparthotel offers spacious rooms and a location close to public transport – great for families or longer stays. $125–$200 per night.

Arc House Gracia: A budget-friendly hostel located near the best plazas, cafés, and bars in the barri. $20–$50 per night.

2. Sant Antoni

Pros: Trendy and stylish, great food scene, close to city center.

Cons: Can be busy on weekends, some areas may feel touristy.

*The wonderfully renovated Mercat de Sant Antoni. Photo:* *Enric*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Sant Antoni is one of Barcelona’s trendiest neighborhoods, located on the southwestern edge of Eixample and bordering the historic district of El Raval. This area has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to the restoration of the Mercat de Sant Antoni, a beautiful 19th-century market that now serves as the heart of the neighborhood.

The pedestrian-friendly streets around the market are lined with stylish cafes, tapas bars, and boutique shops; the area is a pleasure to walk around.

The neighborhood is home to a mix of locals, young professionals, and creative types who are drawn to Sant Antoni’s authenticity and modernity. Carrer del Parlament is one of the area’s most popular streets, with trendy bars, brunch spots, and concept stores.

There’s also a lively nightlife scene here, with cocktail bars and music venues offering a taste of Barcelona’s creative edge. For even more entertainment, restaurants, and bars, you’re a short walk away from the barri El Raval, and beyond that, the Gothic Quarter.

As far as tourist sights go, there’s not much in Sant Antoni other than its marketplace, which features beautiful architecture and a fraction of the crowds that visit Barcelona’s most famous market, La Boqueria. The attraction of Sant Antoni lies in its mix of authentic vibes, great connections to the city center, Poble Sec, and Montjuïc, and its great dining and nightlife options.

Hotels in Sant Antoni

Hotel Casa Elliot: This boutique hotel features a contemporary design and trendy, modern interiors and rooms. Tucked away just below Plaça de Catalunya, it provides easy access to Barcelona's main attractions. $200–$250 per night.

Evenia Rocafort: Situated near the Fira de Barcelona and Montjuïc, this is a modern and stylish hotel with lots of amenities and services (it’s good for both tourists or business travelers). $150–$200 per night.

Hotel Lugano Barcelona: Located close to the Magic Fountain and Montjuïc Park, this is a bigger more corporate-style hotel with very modern rooms. With very easy access to public transport (Metro stops Placa Espanya, Rocafort, and Poble Sec) this is a great base for conveniently getting around the city. $100–$150 per night.

Hostal Centric - a no frills but perfectly clean and pleasant 2-star hotel, the location right next to the Sant Antoni market and city center is the main draw. From $100 per night.

Pars Tailor's Hostel: Designed to resemble a 1930s tailor shop, this is a fairly unique hostel with a nice atmosphere (very social and lively) and vintage decor. It has private rooms and shared dorms $30–$60 per night.

3. La Dreta de l’Eixample

Pros: Central location, stunning architecture, upscale dining and shopping.

Cons: Can be pricier than other areas, busy with tourists in high season.

*Plaça Catalunya. Photo:* *1997*, *CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

*Iconic buildings on Manzana de La Discordia, along Passeig de Gràcia. Photo:* *ChristianSchd, Xavier Badia Castellà, Amadalvarez, Balou46*, *CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

La Dreta de l’Eixample, or the “Right Side” of Eixample, is one of Barcelona’s most elegant and iconic neighborhoods, famous for its wide avenues, designer boutiques, and stunning modernist architecture.

This area is home to some of the city’s most celebrated landmarks, including Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, which line the upscale Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona’s major shopping thoroughfare. Then, there’s the world-famous Sagrada Familia, which is surely on your bucket list of things to see in Barcelona.

The neighborhood’s grid-like layout and beautiful facades give it a sophisticated, cosmopolitan feel, and I recommend this barri for travelers looking to be surrounded by the gorgeous architecture that really gives Barcelona a lot of charm.

La Dreta de l’Eixample has a mix of commercial and residential areas, with upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and chic cafes adding to its allure. Major streets include Passeig de Gracia and Rambla de Catalunya, both running up from Plaza Catalunya in the direction of the mountains, connecting with Avinguda Diagonal.

The area attracts tourists, expats, and locals who appreciate its refined atmosphere and central location.

Thanks to its central location, La Dreta de l’Eixample is incredibly well-connected by metro, bus, and tram, making it easy to explore the rest of the city. You can walk into the Gothic Quarter and El Born or get there in one or two stops on the metro.

Hotels in La Dreta de l’Eixample

Alma Barcelona: This upscale hotel provides a serene retreat in the heart of the city, featuring a tranquil garden and a luxurious spa. Guests can unwind in generous, stylishly appointed rooms and enjoy fine dining at the hotel's restaurant, all within walking distance of major attractions. $350–$450 per night.

Seventy Barcelona: A contemporary hotel with touches of Mediterranean warmth, Seventy Barcelona features a rooftop terrace with pool and a wellness center. $200–$300 per night.

H10 Catalunya Plaza: Overlooking Plaça Catalunya, this hotel is in an ideal location near Las Ramblas and Passeig de Gràcia. Rooms are stylish and comfortable, and the hotel offers a charming terrace and small rooftop plunge pool for unwinding. $150–$200 per night.

Hotel Praktik Rambla: Located in a sophisticated modernist building, this hotel offers affordable rooms with beautiful, tiled floors and chic decor. With a cozy terrace and a prime spot on Rambla de Catalunya, it’s ideal for those wanting a stylish yet budget-friendly option in the heart of Eixample. $150–$200 per night.

Room Mate Carla: With its colorful and contemporary design, Room Mate Carla is a fun hotel just steps away from Gaudí's masterpieces like La Pedrera and Casa Batlló. The hotel features stylish rooms, an inviting bar, and a welcoming atmosphere. $150–$200 per night.

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4. Poblenou

Pros: Beach access, creative vibe, family-friendly atmosphere.

Cons: Further from central attractions, some areas feel industrial.

*Rambla del Poblenou. Photo:* *RdA Suisse from Suisse*, *CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

*Playa Bogatell, in Poblenou. Photo:* *Carlos Cunha*, *CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

One of the first times I ever visited Barcelona, long before I lived here, I stayed in a hostel in Poblenou. It was a fantastic time, and a trip that made me fall in love with the city, spurring me to move here in 2018. The Poblenou barri holds a soft spot in my heart, but it’s not just about the sentimentality here, it’s just generally one of the city’s coolest areas.

In the early 19th century, Poblenou was at the epicenter of Barcelona's industrial revolution, the neighborhood dominated by sprawling factories, smokestacks, and warehouses churning out textiles, metals, and machinery.

Poblenou’s rapid industrial growth drew thousands of workers to its factories, building up a unique working-class culture and a tightly knit community. But by the late 20th century, those factories had fallen silent due to economic shifts and deindustrialization.

Somewhat abandoned until recent decades, it has undergone one of the biggest transformations in the city, the big warehouses now given over to studios, galleries, tech hubs, and co-working spaces, giving the historical and industrial barri a new creative and modern feel.

For fans of seeing how Barcelona uses its historic buildings in the modern day, there’s no better place to stay. And if you work online, you’ll also love Poblenou for the large tech and digital nomad community that works here.

The neighborhood’s Rambla del Poblenou is the main artery, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops that create a relaxed, beachy atmosphere perfect for strolling. Speaking of the beach, Poblenou has the best beaches in the city, far cleaner and more enjoyable than Barceloneta Beach.

And though it’s further from the city center, Poblenou is well-connected by the metro, allowing easy access to other parts of Barcelona.

Head away from the beach and things become more residential, but still with loads of character. You’ll also turn up some cool tourism attractions like the Mercat dels Encants, the biggest flea market in Barcelona, and the new observation deck on the Torre Glòries, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the Eixample grid and the Sagrada Familia rising above it all.

Poblenou is a great choice for visitors who want to stay near the beach and experience Barcelona’s more contemporary side.

Hotels in Poblenou

Hilton Diagonal Mar: Located near Barcelona’s beaches and the Diagonal Mar shopping center at the very end of the city, this luxury hotel features chic, an outdoor pool, and various dining options. It’s ideal for those looking to enjoy both seaside relaxation and retail therapy. $250–$350 per night.

The Hoxton, Poblenou: Located near the Torre Glòries, this stylish hotel has a rooftop pool and vibrant bar scene, perfect for urban travelers looking to explore Barcelona’s creative side. $200–$300 per night.

Melia Barcelona Sky: Housed in a sleek skyscraper on Avinguda Diagonal, Melia Barcelona Sky offers modern rooms with stunning city views and a rooftop pool for unwinding above the city. $200–$300 per night.

Hotel SB Icaria: Just a short walk from the beach, this contemporary hotel features comfortable rooms and modern amenities, including an outdoor pool and fitness center. $150–$200 per night.

Unite Hostel, Poblenou: Close to the beach, the hostel has a super lively and someone “beachy” atmosphere, with pleasantly busy common spaces and organized events. Right near the liveliest part of Poblenou. $50–$100 per night.

5. El Born

Pros: Central, historic atmosphere, lively nightlife.

Cons: Crowded with tourists, can be noisy at night.

*Santa Maria del Mar. Photo:* *Kent Wang*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

*The fountain in Parc de la Ciutadella. Photo:* *Enric*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Of all the barris in the historic center of Barcelona, El Born is where I would recommend staying. El Born is one of Barcelona’s oldest neighborhoods, nestled in the Ciutat Vella district next to the Gothic Quarter on one side and Barceloneta below.

El Born was once the bustling heart of medieval Barcelona and has evolved from a trading hub into one of the city’s most eclectic neighborhoods. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with historic buildings that once housed artisans and merchants, many of which now house trendy boutiques, bars, and art galleries. The streets are beautiful, and this is very classic Barcelona.

El Born is home to landmarks like the 14th-century Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar and the grand Mercat del Born, a former market turned cultural center. Staying here offers an immersive experience in all things Barcelona, a mix of old-world charm with modern energy.

El Born’s atmosphere is lively and youthful, with a mix of locals, tourists, and expats giving it an international feel. Popular streets like Carrer del Rec and Passeig del Born are buzzing, and the area’s proximity to Parc de la Ciutadella offers a nice green escape.

The nightlife and dining scene here is amongst the best in the city, making it a must-stay area if you’re a night owl. You’ll also be within walking distance of the other historic areas, and the beach, but a metro ride away from the Gaudi attractions.

All in all, it’s a great choice for all types of travelers.

Hotels in El Born

Grand Hotel, Barcelona Central: This upscale hotel offers luxurious accommodation with panoramic city views. The highlight is its stunning infinity pool overlooking the Gothic Quarter. Guests can also indulge in fine dining at the on-site restaurant and enjoy proximity to major attractions. $300–$400 per night.

Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa: Another luxury option, this hotel features a full-service spa and a rooftop pool with city vistas. Rooms are sleek, and the location makes it easy to explore the city’s historic quarters and surrounding areas. $200–$300 per night.

Park Hotel: Showcasing mid-century modern design, Park Hotel offers comfortable rooms and is situated close to a huge selection of bars and restaurants. Its central location provides easy access to the Barceloneta beach and popular tourist sites in the Gothic Quarter. $200–$250 per night.

chic&basic Born Boutique Hotel: Located inside a historic building, this hotel features stylish rooms and contemporary amenities, all within easy walking distance of the Picasso Museum and Ciutadella Park. $150–$200 per night.

Musik Boutique Hotel: Tucked away in the back streets of El Born and right beside the Parc de la Ciutadella, this is a pleasantly modern hotel in a somewhat historic building. Breakfast is good and the rooms are modern, clean, and relatively spacious. Rates from $120 USD.

6. Esquerra de l’Eixample

Pros: Residential, local vibe; green spaces; close to city center.

Cons: Less nightlife than other areas, fewer major attractions.

*Carrer de Consell de Cent. Photo:* *Cataleirxs*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

*Parc de Joan Miró on the western side of the neighborhood. Photo:* *Jordiferrer*, *CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Esquerra de l’Eixample, or the “Left Side” of Eixample, offers a more relaxed, residential vibe compared to its counterpart across Passeig de Gràcia. This area is known for its beautiful modernist architecture, leafy avenues, and strong sense of community. Esquerra de l’Eixample has become popular with young professionals, families, and expats, thanks to its quiet streets, green spaces, and a variety of bars and restaurants.

I’m biased since I live in this barri, but I think it’s one of the coolest in Barcelona. It feels lived-in, features plenty of parks and schools, but also is a never-ending parade of gorgeous buildings, cool shops, and great restaurants.

Walking here is a real pleasure, and some streets in the zone have recently been completely renovated into pedestrianized zones, making it even nicer – Carrer Consell de Cent in particular. There aren’t many major attractions other than the sprinkling of beautiful modernist buildings that line the wide avenues.

A big highlight is the area where Carrer Consell de Cent intersects with even more pedestrian-friendly streets around Carrer Enric Granados, which is the epicenter of fantastic restaurants and bars. The neighborhood is well-connected by metro and has several bike-friendly routes, making it easy to explore both the Eixample district and the city center.

This neighborhood is ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful base with good access to Barcelona’s main sights.

Hotels in Esquerra de l’Eixample

Olivia Balmes Hotel: A sleek, modern hotel with spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and excellent service. With thoughtful amenities and a prime location near the city’s main attractions, it’s ideal for those seeking comfort with a touch of luxury. $250–$350 per night.

The Corner Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel offering modern amenities and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. The interiors feature a sophisticated blend of industrial-chic decor and soft, welcoming touches, creating an ambiance that’s both trendy and relaxing. $200–$300 per night.

Hotel Soho Barcelona: Offers minimalist design with a rooftop pool and terrace, providing a chic urban retreat. Known for its sleek aesthetic and smart use of space, the hotel gives guests an ideal mix of style and substance in the vibrant Eixample district. $200–$300 per night.

Hotel Villa Emilia: Known for its contemporary design and cozy atmosphere, this hotel features a rooftop bar and live music events. Its inviting lounges and elegant interiors make it a favorite among travelers looking for a peaceful yet lively base in the heart of Barcelona. $150–$250 per night.

Axel Hotel Barcelona: Mid-range adults-only hotel with a rooftop pool, spa, and regular events. The Axel hotel group is mostly geared towards LGBTQ travelers, but the hotel is open to everyone. Its buzzing social scene and trendy decor make it a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a little social life. $150–$250 per night.

7. Poble Sec

Pros: Authentic local vibe, close to Montjuïc, great for food lovers.

Cons: Less central than other neighborhoods, limited shopping.

*Plaça Espanya, on the northern edge of Poble Sec. Photo:* *Canaan*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Poble Sec is a fun, multicultural neighborhood located at the base of Montjuïc Mountain, just southwest of the city center. Known for its authentic, down-to-earth vibe, it’s home to a mix of locals and young expats who appreciate the area’s unpretentious charm. The neighborhood’s main street, Carrer de Blai, is famous for its pintxo bars, where you can enjoy affordable bites in a lively atmosphere.

Poble Sec’s location near Montjuïc Mountain for me makes it one of the top areas to stay in Barcelona. The green spaces on the mountain are among my favorite places to go for a walk, and Barcelona has a severe lack of large parks like this which makes it even more precious.

On the mountain you won’t only find plenty of gardens and parks, but also some top cultural attractions like the Joan Miró Foundation and Montjuïc Castle.

Back down in the barri, Poble Sec enjoys great connections with the city center, and has a very innovative dining scene thanks to its mix of modern pintxo bars and historic tapas joints. It’s also far more relaxed than the city center in terms of tourism and lining the street Parallel are some of Barcelona’s coolest entertainment venues and theaters, making it ideal for visitors who want to check out events while in the city.

Overall, a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a mix of city life, live music, and green spaces.

Hotels in Poble Sec

Hotel Brummell: Hotel Brummell is a boutique retreat emphasizing wellness and relaxation. Guests can participate in complimentary yoga classes, unwind in the sauna, or take a dip in the serene outdoor pool. $200–$300 per night.

INNSiDE by Meliá Barcelona Apolo: As you would expect from a hotel in the Meliá group (one of Spain’s biggest hotel chains), this is a modern and stylish place with all the amenities of a big hotel. The gym is surprising decent and the location is excellent, in a busy part of Poble Sec. $200–$250 per night.

Grums Hotel & Spa: Near Montjuïc, the rooms here are quite spacious (for Barcelona standards anyways) and the full-service spa and wellness center - with a sauna, steam room, and massage services - are great amenities if you want to pamper yoursel after busy days of sightseeing. $150–$250 per night.

Hotel Concordia Barcelona: A very modern hotel, the Concordia Barcelona has a nice rooftop pool and terrace from where you have panoramic views of the city. Its location near Montjuïc and the Magic Fountain is quite nice for early morning or evening strolls through the park as well as nighttime fountain shows. $150–$200 per night.

Hotel Paral·lel: Hotel Paral·lel offers comfortable accommodation with modern amenities at an affordable price. Very close to the metro, it’s super conveniently located for exploring the city's attractions as well as wandering into Poble Sec and Sant Antoni. $100–$150 per night.

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Neighborhoods I don’t recommend

Barrio Gotico, El Raval, & La Barceloneta

If you compare the map above to the one all the way at the top of this article, you’ll notice that the three neighborhoods I’ve highlighted here represent a rather conspicuously large chunk of central Barcelona. And while these are undoubtedly convenient areas from a sightseeing perspective (especially El Raval and Barrio Gotico), there are a number of reasons that I think you’re better off staying elsewhere.

Below is a quick overview of each:

Barrio Gotico

The Barrio Gotico, with its medieval architecture and narrow winding streets, is admittedly lovely, but it’s absolutely overrun with tourists. And when I say overrun, I mean it. Keep in mind, Barcelona sees around 30 million tourists every year, and this little area isn’t overlooked by any of them.

While it’s quite nice to go for a wander, especially early in the morning before the hordes of people descend on it, as an area to stay, it just entirely lacks any local or residential character. You can easily come in from other parts of the city to explore the neighborhood, but should then escape back out to more residential areas where you’ll find better restaurants, more interesting shops, and real local life going on around you.

El Raval

Just to the west of the Barrio Gotico and also right in the city center, El Raval is another area that seems like a potentially good choice, but just isn’t. A hub for working class immigrants, it’s often referred to as somewhat unsafe, which I want to note is an exaggeration. Crime in Barcelona, especially violent crime, is quite low, so safety isn’t a major concern, but there are parts of Raval that have higher rates of petty crime, like pickpocketing and scams. While this shouldn’t deter you from visiting, you’ll want to be a bit more alert than you might be in other areas, especially at night.

In general, parts of the neighborhood feel a bit seedy and neglected, while others have a sort of “grunge” vibe going on (think somewhere that’s trying very hard to be edgy), which just isn’t my thing. And as you head east in the neighborhood, getting closer to the Barrio Gotico, La Boqueria Market, and La Rambla, it becomes incredibly crowded and touristy, lacking any sort of charm.

Accommodation is fairly cheap, but with the pleasant neighborhood of Sant Antoni right beside it, there’s just no real reason to stay in Raval.

La Barceloneta

On the southern edge of the city beside the Mediterranean Sea, the chief attraction of La Barceloneta is its namesake beach. The problem, however, is that the beach isn’t actually very nice and it’s always incredibly overcrowded during beach season. You also have to be really careful with your belongings there, as theft is a regular issue.

As I mentioned earlier in this article, the beaches at Poble Nou are much nicer, so if you’re after a city break with some beach time mixed in, I’d recommend staying there instead.

Also, the famous street of La Rambla takes you down to the sea not quite at La Barceloneta, but close enough that many people finish their walk and then continue into the neighborhood. Combine that with the beach traffic (both tourists and locals alike), and what you get is a neighborhood that is absolutely jam packed with crowds, especially near the beach.

The area’s popularity with visitors also means that its waterfront is filled with typical tourist trap restaurants, turning what could be a pleasant seaside meal into an overpriced and mediocre experience. On top of this, the area is kind of removed from the other main sights, so if you base yourself here, you’ll need to take the metro regularly or be prepared to add a decent chunk of additional walking every day.

I will say, however, that as you move off from the waterfront and go a little deeper into the neighborhood’s maze of little streets (which are filled with historic buildings), it does become fairly residential and there are distinct neighborhood vibes. The mornings and evenings - when beachgoers haven’t yet arrived or have already left - are especially nice, so I definitely recommend setting aside some time to explore here. I just don’t think it makes sense as your home base though.

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Perfect your Spain itinerary with our favorite local!

Connect with our Costa Brava-based Local Expert Dolça for a 60-minute travel consultation!

1-hour live trip planning session

Learn about pro tips & hidden gems

Get advice that's tailor-made to you

Learn more