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I’ve lived in Barcelona for 5 years now, and after having moved around the city quite a bit myself and helped lots of visiting friends and family members decide on their base here, I have a lot of experience answering the question “where should I stay?”.

And my response almost always starts with this: when deciding where to stay in Barcelona, I think there are two major considerations you need to think through before you even start looking at the city’s various neighborhoods: first, you should decide how touristy of an area you’re willing to accept, and next, whether you’re after a medieval atmosphere or a more modern one.

To the first point, Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in the world, receiving around 30 million visitors each year. With so many tourists here, and so many apartments having been converted into Airbnbs and other short-term rentals to accommodate them, parts of town can feel outright overrun, with locals almost nowhere to be found. These are often the prettiest parts of the city though and many of the main sights are there, so staying in them is still very tempting.

Regarding the second point about the atmosphere, Barcelona’s city center has two very architecturally distinct areas: there’s the medieval core, from where the city grew out, and then there are the much more modern areas surrounding it, which were mostly developed in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The medieval part is low and densely packed, with lovely churches, narrow winding streets that pop out to pretty squares, and everything you’d expect from a very old European city. Contrastingly, the modern areas are very elegant, with big boulevards and grand architecture, much of it designed in that iconic 19th century modernist style that Barcelona is famous for. The architecture is lovely in both, but very different, so you need to decide which one you prefer in your home base.

Now, within each of these areas, you’ll still find very distinct neighborhoods, some much more local than others, so my goal with this guide is to help you figure out which is right for you. I’ve tried to paint a clear and honest picture of both the pros and cons of all of them, so that you can make an informed decision.

Let’s dig in.

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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 walking tours with Dolça (my favorite local guide)
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

Overview of Barcelona’s layout

*Barcelona’s districts. Photo: © Sémhur /* *Wikimedia Commons* / *CC-BY-SA-4.0*

Modern-day Barcelona is officially organized into 10 districts, 4 of which form the core of what I would describe as central Barcelona (certainly from a touristic perspective anyways). Those are the Ciutat Vella, Eixample, Sants-Montjuïc, and Gràcia, and it’s among them that you’ll find the vast majority of Barcelona’s main sights and attractions.

The districts are fairly large and mostly used for administrative purposes, so what people typically refer to when describing the different parts of Barcelona are actually the various neighborhoods within each of those districts. And that’s exactly what I’ve done in this article as well, focusing on my favorite neighborhoods (or “barris” as they are called in Catalan).

Just to give you a quick overview though, the city’s historic heart is the Ciutat Vella district (old city), which dates as far back as Roman times. Home to four significant neighborhoods - the Gothic Quarter, El Raval, El Born, and La Barceloneta - this is the city’s major center of tourism and it’s a medieval area filled winding narrow streets and historic landmarks and monuments.

Beyond the Ciutat Vella, the other districts formed over time as Barcelona expanded, mostly during the 19th century. The Eixample district (which literally means “expansion”), is famous for its convenient grid layout, spectacular modernist buildings, and broad boulevards. It can be split into two halves, the left and right (Esquerra and Dreta, respectively, in Catalan.

The district of Gràcia, to the north of Eixample, was actually a separate village for centuries, but was swallowed up by Barcelona’s expanding boundaries in the 19th century and incorporated into the city. Lots of development happened during this time and the district now looks quite similar to Eixample.

Finally, Sants-Montjuïc district, just to the west of the Ciutat Vella, was mostly formed during the 20th century and is also organized in a neat grid (for the most part). The main neighborhoods here are Sant Antoní and Poble Sec, both of which are very pleasant but have little in the way of big sights.

When it comes to traveling between these areas, all of central Barcelona is extremely well-served by its comprehensive metro system. With 12 lines and almost 200 stations, the metro crisscrosses the entire city and will get you just about anywhere you want to go within 20 minutes at most. You’ll rarely be more than a few blocks away from a metro stop.

Ok, now that you have a decent understanding of the city’s layout, below is an overview of the 6 neighborhoods that I think make the most sense for the vast majority of visitors. They’re all within the 4 districts that I’ve just described above.

Quick summary of my 6 recommended neighborhoods

Below, you’ll find my top six recommended neighborhoods to stay in Barcelona. While each is different, know that no matter which one you end up staying in, they are all central areas from where 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. Gràcia (black on the map above)

A charming, bohemian area with a unique village atmosphere, Gràcia (officially known as 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.

2. Sant Antoni (green above)

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.

3. La Dreta de l’Eixample (yellow above)

Home to some of Gaudí’s most famous works, La Dreta de l’Eixample (the Right Side of 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.

4. El Born (orange above)

If you’re going to stay in one of the historic quarters within the Cituat Vella, 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 but less intensely touristy, this central neighborhood is filled with narrow streets, boutique shops, and interesting historic site. A lot of people still actually live in the area, so it’s not just for tourists.

5. Esquerra de l’Eixample (blue above)

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 easy access by metro to central Barcelona and all the city’s sights, but with the upside of a calmer, residential atmosphere. There are loads of shops, restaurants, and bars and the area feels very local with families going about their daily lives.

6. Barrio Gótico (purple above)

The Barrio Gótico, the oldest neighborhood in Barcelona, is filled with gorgeous medieval architecture and narrow, winding streets. This is a lovely area andbeing smack in the heart of the city, it couldn’t be more convenient for sightseeing purposes. This would undoubtedly be my top recommendation if it weren’t for one major drawback: it’s absolutely overrun with tourists at all times.

1. Gràcia

Pros: Pretty architecture, strong local vibe, great for food and shopping

Cons: A bit removed from the city center

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

*Plaça del Sol. Photo:* *Mattsjc*, *CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Located just above Eixample, Gràcia (known officially as 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 by Barcelona in the late 19th century but has retained its independent spirit and small-town charm.

I really like Gràcia and it’s typically where I recommend to friends and family when they visit Barcelona for the first time.

The neighborhood has narrow streets that open into lively plazas where locals gather for coffee or tapas while kids kick footballs around and play. There’s a very 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 a great place to meet with friends for a beer. When I’m here, I’ll usually skip the bars surrounding the square in favor of the supermarket on the corner, which has a terrific selection of craft beer. I then like to sit in the square and have a drink while watching all the poor souls around me drinking watered-down Estrella Damm.

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, Casa Vicens is a beautiful home covered in tiles, motifs, and mosaics, and it offers a spectacular look at the early stages of Gaudi’s career.

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.

Being just to the north of the Dreta de l‘Eixample, the area where many of Barcelona’s most impressive modernist buildngs are, you can also walk to a number of big sights right from the neighborhood.

If you stay here, you will need to be ok taking public transportation regularly though. There are 5 metro strops ringing the neighborhood, so I’d suggest staying relatively close to one of them.

This is the barri I would recommend for travelers who want to stay somewhere local and with less of the mass tourism feel that can be present in Barcelona’s more central neighborhoods.

Where to stay

Hotel Casa Fuster - Right 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 USD.

Be Mate Paseo de Gracia - Lovely 1 and 2 bedroom apartments right on Paseo de Gracia and adjacent to the Diagonal metro stop. Excellent option for families with kids or larger groups. $200-350 USD.

Sonder La Casa Del Sol - A nice boutique hotel on Plaça del Sol, Gracia's main square. The property was recently renovated and the rooms are bright and airy. There’s a pleasant rooftop terrace as well. $150-200 USD.

Hotel Catalonia Gracia - Pleasant little hotel on the border between Gracia and l’Eixample. You have two metro stops within a couple of blocks and lots of restaurants and cafes all around. $150-200 USD.

Aparthotel Silver - Right next to the Fontana metro stop, the serviced apartments here are simple, but super clean and very well taken care of. Rooms also have kitchenettes. It's no-frills, but good value. $100-150 USD.

Hotel BESTPRICE Gracia - As the name implies, this is a budget hotel in the northern end of the neighborhood. The rooms are small, but everything is new and well maintained. The metro is nearby and you're walking distance to Parc Guell and La Sagrada Familia. $80-120 USD.

2. Sant Antoni

Pros: Fun & local vibe, great food scene, close to city center, excellent public transportation

Cons: No major sights, not many accommodation options

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

*Pretty buildings by the Rocafort Metro stop on Gran Via. Photo:* *Enric*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

Located just to the west of the Ciutat Vella (old town) and stretching out along the southern side of Gran Vía (one of Barcelona’s principal avenues), Sant Antoni is an area that I love. It’s close enough to the touristic sights that you can easily walk to them, but far enough away that there are a fraction of the tourists compared to other similarly central neighborhoods.

The University of Barcelona is here, so there are always lots of students around and it’s fun to see them coming and going from classes and hanging out at the restaurants and cafes. And since it’s a primarily local and residential area, the atmosphere is pleasantly laid-back and you’ll find very little of a “tourism focus”.

Newly one of Barcelona’s trendier neighborhoods, Sant Antoni has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to the restoration of the Mercat de Sant Antoni, a beautiful 19th-century food market that is now the heart of the neighborhood.

The city created a really nice pedestrianized zone all around the market, and the area is filled with stylish cafes, tapas bars, and boutique shops. Carrer del Parlament is one of the most popular streets for a stroll, but they’re all pleasant to wander aroud.

While you used to mostly find families here, and there are certainly still plenty, lots of young professionals and creative types have moved in, and the shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants reflect that changing demographic. There’s also a lively nightlife scene, with a good number of cool cocktail bars and live music venues.

As far as tourist sights go, there’s not much in Sant Antoni other than the market, but I don’t think that’s a big drawback, as for me, the main attraction of staying here lies in its combination of authentic vibes, easy access to the tourist attractions (most are walking distance but for those that aren’t, you have 7 metro stops nearby), and its excellent dining and nightlife options. It’s a great choice if you want to feel like a local when visiting.

Where to stay

Hotel Casa Elliot - Very nice boutique hotel with stylish, contemporary design. The location is excellent - you're just below Plaça de Catalunya and a quick walk to the Sant'Antoni market, Las Ramblas, the historic center, and the plesant Eixample district. $200–300 USD.

Evenia Rocafort - Near the Fira de Barcelona and Montjuïc hill, this is a modern hotel that's very new, but a bit nondescript. If you want your hotel to have lots of character, it's not a great option, but is good if you just want somewhere comfortable, well located, and reasonably priced. $120–200 USD.

Hostal Centric - Basic, but very well done 3-star hotel with a fantastic location. In the heart of Sant’Antoni and near multiple metro stops, you're also a quick walk into the city center. For price-quality ratio, it's tough to beat. $150-175 USD.

Hotel Vilamarí - A solid mid-range option near to Plaça Espanya and the Rocafort metro stop. The rooms are on the smaller side, but they're modern and comfortable. $150 USD.

Hotel Lugano Barcelona - Located close to the Magic Fountain and Montjuïc Park, this is a bigger more corporate-style hotel with very modern rooms. It's a long walk into the city center, but a good base (at a very good price) so long as you're ok using the metro. $100–150 USD.

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 USD.

Vokel Boutique Apartments - Nice 2 and 3 bedroom serviced apartments in a nice location along Gran Via and just in front of the Rocafort metro stop. They're a good option for families. $300 USD (for a 2 bedroom apartment).

3. La Dreta de l’Eixample

Pros: Central location, many major sights, stunning architecture, upscale dining and shopping

Cons: Very touristy in some areas, pricey, can feel a bit commercial

*Passeig de Gracia at night. Photo:* *GeoTravellers*, *CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

*Plaça Catalunya. Photo:* *Ralf Roletschek* , *GFDL 1.2, 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.

Most guides you'll read refer to Eixample as a single neighborhood, not bothering to differentiate between left and right. I think this is a disservice to visitors though, as there are significant differences between the two. Especially if you’re here on a quick visit, the right side is more desirable, as it’s closer to all the main sights and is much more elegant.

The Right Side 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 list of things to see.

The neighborhood’s grid-like layout and beautiful facades give it a sophisticated, cosmopolitan feel, so I especially recommend this barri for travelers who want to feel like they’re in an elegant European city and enjoy a higher-end side of Barcelona.

The neighborhood has a mix of commercial and residential areas, with upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and chic cafes forming a big part of its appeal. Major streets include Passeig de Gracia and Rambla de Catalunya, both of which enter into Plaza Catalunya, Barcelona’s main square. These are especially busy areas, so when you want to get away from the crowds, just head away from the avenues onto the smaller side streets, which quickly become more residential.

You can quickly walk into the Gothic Quarter and El Born from here, but the neighborhood is also incredibly well-connected by public transportation, with metro lines, buses, and trams all passing through it.

Where to stay

Alma Barcelona - Fabulous 5-star hotel on Passeig de Gràcia and literally a block from La Pedrera. This is an exceedingly chic option and always my recommendation for anyone looking for a luxury hotel. The rooms are spacious and modern (but still warm and inviting), and the hotel has a great rooftop bar, a spa, and extremely pleasant dining and lounge spaces in its verdant back garden. $500 USD.

Radisson Blu 1882 - Just a few blocks away from the Sagrada Familia, this hotel is just outside of Dreta de l’Eixample, but it's very nice so I've included it anyways. The rooms are new, big, and quite pleasant and the rooftop, with a pool, is a treat. $200-300 USD.

Seventy Barcelona - Very good 4-star hotel located in a charming part of Gracia just one block from the Diagonal metro stop and barely 5 minutes by foot into the center of the Eixample neighborhood. It's comfortable and the aesthetic is new and modern. $200-300 USD.

H10 Catalunya Plaza - Overlooking Plaça Catalunya and beside a pedestrianized walkway that leads straight to La Rambla, this 3-star hotel is incredibly located for sightseeing. Housed in a beautifully preserved historic building, they’ve done a good job of creating a boutique and modern space that still retains some old-world elegance and charm. $150–200 USD.

Hotel Praktik Rambla - Lovely boutique hotel in a gorgeous modernist building just a few blocks north of Plaça Catalunya. The rooms are surprisingly spacious given the central location. $150–200 USD.

Room Mate Carla - A pleasant, fairly minimalist 3-star hotel a couple of blocks off Passeig de Gràcia. Great location and good value. $150–200 USD.

Occidental Diagonal 414 - Brand new 4-star hotel with pleasant rooms and a great rooftop with a small, but nice pool. The location is very good - on Avenida Diagonal and one block from the Verdaguer metro stop - putting you walking distance to both the Sagrada Familia and Gaudi's modernist houses. It's super good value. $120-200 USD.

Casa Mathilda - This simple, but really nicely done hotel is in a great location, has nice rooms, and offers an impossible-to-beat price for the area. The property feels more like a nice home/apartment than a hotel. $120-150 USD.

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4. El Born

Pros: Central, historic and gothic architecture, lively nightlife

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

*Paseo del Born. Photo:* *Kyle Taylor from London, 84 Countries*, *CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*

*Mercat del Born. Photo:* *ferran pestaña*, *CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

If you want to stay in the historic center of Barcelona, within the Ciutat Vella, I always recommend El Born. Squished between the Gothic Quarter, the Eixample, La Barceloneta beach, and the Parc de La Ciutadella, you are quite literally in the middle of it all here.

One of Barcelona’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhoods, El Born was once the bustling heart of medieval Barcelona and it 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. In their place, you’ll now find trendy boutiques, bars, and art galleries. The streets are beautiful, and this is very much classic Barcelona.

Although the adjacent neighborhood, Barrio Gótico, is almost always completely mobbed with tourists, El Born has avoided becoming totally overrun. Sure, the streets and squares see tons of tourists, but it has not entirely succumbed to mass tourism.

Lots of locals still have their apartments here and it’s always been a popular place for expats, so it maintains a real neighborhood feel despite the crowds.

When it comes to dining and nightlife, the scene here is amongst the best in the city. There are certainly some spots geared mostly toward tourists, but that’s far from the majority, and many of the restaurants are really high quality. If you’re a night owl, you’ll especially like this part of town, as it stays busy until very late into the evening (or early morning), especially along popular streets like Carrer del Rec and Passeig del Born.

The area’s proximity to Parc de la Ciutadella, just on its eastern edge, offers easy access an expansive green space, a rarity in central Barcelona. And just to the south, the beaches of La Barceloneta are a quick walk away.

El Born itself is also home to quite a few major sights and landmarks like the 14th-century Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, the grand Mercat del Born - a former market turned cultural center -, the Picasso museum, Palau de la Música Catalana (absolutely try to catch a show!), and Santa Caterina Market. There’s lots to keep you busy!

Where to stay

Grand Hotel, Barcelona Central - This is one of my favorite hotels in the city. A luxurious 5-star property, it’s in a great location right on the border between El Born and the Barrio Gotico. The rooms are super comfortable and they feel like a space designed to live in - like the bedroom you wish you had. $300-400 USD.

Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa - At the northern end of El Born not far from Plaça Catalunya, this is a sleek, modern, and stylish 4-star hotel that gives off what I’d call “New York City vibes”. $200-300 USD.

Park Hotel - With a clean and modern design, the rooms here are comfortable and fairly spacious. Near to a good selection of bars and restaurants, you’re also close to Barceloneta beach and the Gothic Quater. $200–250 USD.

chic&basic Born - chic&basic is a small hotel group with properties in Barcelona, Madrid, and Porto, Portugal. The name is pretty descriptive of the hotels; simple, but well done and with a little bit of style. It’s a good budget/mid-range option. $150–200 USD.

Musik Boutique Hotel - Tucked away on a pretty backstreet and right beside the Parc de la Ciutadella, this is a pleasant little boutique hotel. The modern rooms are well appointed and reasonably sized and everything here is well done. $150 USD.

5. Esquerra de l’Eixample

Pros: Residential and local vibe, nice green spaces, close to city center

Cons: Few major attractions, not as lively as other areas

*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 also 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 the other side of the Eixample district, Sant Antoni, and the city center.

Given the many parks and pleasantly residential vibes, I think this is an especially good choice for families with kids or anyone staying for more than three days.

Where to stay

Olivia Balmes Hotel - A sleek, modern hotel with spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and excellent service. The location is ideal, right next to many of the city’s main attractions, but far enough away so as to never feel hectic. $250–350 USD.

The Corner Hotel - A stylish boutique hotel, they’ve done a really nice job of creating a vibe that is simultaneously industrial-chic and very warm and welcoming. The rooftop terrace has panoramic city views. $200–300 USD.

Hotel Soho Barcelona - Right along Gran Via and beside the Urgell metro stop, this is an extremely well-located 3-star hotel with a very clean, minimalist design. $200–300 USD.

Hotel Villa Emilia - Great location beside the Rocafort metro stop and also along Gran Via, this is a very fun 4-star hotel with one of my favorite rooftop terraces/bars. The rooms are stylish, a little quirky (in a good way), and very cozy. $150–220 USD.

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. $150-250 USD.

6. Barrio Gótico

Pros: Gorgeous medieval architecture, unbeatable location in the heart of the city

Cons: Extremely touristy, very expensive, no local feel

*La Catedral de Barcelona. Photo:* *Jorge Franganillo*, *CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropepd*

*Plaça Reial. Photo:* *Ramblasbacardi*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped.*

Right in the heart of the city, the Barrio Gótico is Barcelona’s medieval core. If you’re after magnificent gothic architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and hidden away little squares, this is where you’ll find it.

Those positives come with a serious drawback though: you’ll also find shoulder to shoulder crowds of tourists all day every day. Tourism to Barcelona has absolutely exploded in the last few decades and the Barrio Gótico has in many ways been the epicenter of that. Almost all the locals who used to live here have long since left for other parts of the city, and this is now an area almost exclusively reserved for tourism. “Authentic Barcelona” it most definitely is not.

Being honest, this is not somewhere that I ever recommend to my friends or family when they visit, as the intensely intensely touristic atmosphere is a dealbreaker for me. That said, I’ve included it in this list because it’s an indisputably beautiful area and extremely convenient base for sightseeing. I’ll leave it to you to decide if the pros outweigh the cons.

There are many premier sights in the neighborhood, including the remains of the city’s ancient Roman walls, the cathedral, 14th century Basílica de Santa Maria del Pi, Plaça de Sant Jaume - home to the City Hall and Catalan Government building -, and Plaça Reial, a grand square surrounded by impressive buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries.

Even if you don’t stay here, you’re bound to visit at some point, as getting lost while aimlessly wandering the web of medieval streets is simply an essential part of visiting Barcelona. And if you do stay here, you’ll be able to do that first thing in the morning, when the area is actually pleasantly free of crowds and you’ll basically have it to yourself.

And one other very important note: if you book a hotel here, try to make sure your room gets plenty of light. Because everything is so tightly packed together, windows often look out straight onto another building’s walls, meaning very little natural light can get in. Definitely not ideal.

This is a polarizing neighborhood, so I’ve tried to paint an honest, unbiased picture of it.

Where to stay

Mercer Hotel Barcelona - A 5-star hotel in a historic building, you can tell that the Mercer is going to be sophisticated before you've even set foot inside. And it's only up from there! The rooms are stylish and refined, but in an understated way, and the place just oozes elegance and class. $400-550 USD.

Kimpton Vividora Hotel - If you're looking for something luxurious but a little more fun and lively, the Kimpton is a great option. The entire design is chic and very boutique, the commons area (especially the rooftop and pool) are delightful, and the location is great. $300-450 USD.

Catalonia Catedral - In the very heart of the Gothic Quarter and just a few steps from the city's Cathedral, the rooms here are surprisingly spacious and very nicely renovated. The property's common areas cleverly match the Gothic design of the surrounding neighborhood. $200-300 USD.

Portal de l'Angel - A nice 3-star hotel set in a restored building from the 1800s. It's not fancy, but the property has some lovely architecture and the rooms are unique, with a bit of style. The location is great too. $150-220 USD.

H10 Raco del Pi - Equidistant from the cathedral, La Rambla, Plaça Catalunya, and a metro stop, this hotel's location is fantastic. The large rooms are also nice with wood beamed ceilings, big windows, and colorful, tiled bathrooms. $150-200 USD.

chic&basic Habana Hoose - A little more stylish than most chic&basic hotels, this is one of few good budget options in the historic center. $120-200 USD.

Hotel Suizo - This hotel certainly won't wow you, but the simple rooms are nicely renovated, fairly big, and comfortable. The location, adjacent to the Jaume I metro stop, is convenient for getting into other parts of the city. $120-180 USD.

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Other neighborhoods to consider

Below I’ve listed 4 neighborhoods that aren’t typically my top recommendations, but that may appeal to certain types of travelers. Most of these offer a more local vibe, but they all have drawbacks, mainly that they’re not as central as my recommendations above.

For most of them, you’ll have a longer walk into the historic center or will have to use public transport (the metro) to get around. Prices tend to more reasonable though and they’re interesting options for those who are willing to trade accessibility for a more authentic atmosphere.

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*

Located opposite Sant Antoni (and moving away from the city center), Poble Sec is a famous entertainment district, with theaters and live music venues lining the large street Parallel. 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 barri sits in the shadow of Montjuïc, 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 famous for its pintxo bars, and an influx of immigrants has given this barri a diverse dining scene.

The green spaces on Montjuïc 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. It’s also home to 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.

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

Where to stay

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.

La Barceloneta

Pros: Right by the beach, historic architecture, neighborhood vibe

Cons: Very touristy in some parts, slightly removed from the center, overcrowded in summer beach season

Crowds of people on the sand at La Barceloneta beach in Barcelona, Spain — *Barceloneta beach. Photo:* *Nicholas Gemini*, *CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

On the southern edge of the city beside the Mediterranean Sea, is the little neighborhood of La Barceloneta. Historically home to fishermen and port workers, the chief attraction of the neighborhoods is its namesake beach which draws millions of people throughout the summer.

The neighborhood was mostly built in the 18th century and retains much of its period architecture, which is different from other neighborhoods of the city that have a much more modern feel. A traditionally working class area of the city, the apartments here are tightly packed together creating lots of narrow winding streets dotted by pleasant little squares. There are also lots of good bars and restaurants that primarily cater to locals.

The restaurants along the waterfront are known for having the best paella in all of Barcelona (and they’re the only places where you’ll find it outside of Sundays) and it’s tough to beat their seaside views. Do note, however, that many of them are outright tourist traps, so you’ll have to do some research before choosing one.

The drawbacks of staying here are that it’s a bit of a long walk into the parts of the city where you’ll be doing most of your sightseeing (though you have metro access), and it can be very crowded in the summer months.

Access to the beach is convenient, but it’s perpetually overcrowded and really there are nicer ones in other parts of the city (Poble Nou, for example). You also won’t find many hotels other than a few large international chains on the waterfront.

Where to stay

W Barcelona - Barcelona’s iconic beachfront hotel, you’ve undoubtedly already seen photos of the W even if you didn’t realize it. Right on the tip of Barceloneta beach, the luxurious rooms are spacious and offer gorgeous sea views. $300-450 per night.

H10 Port Vell - Off the beach, but directly in front of the marina, this stylish hotel is extremely well located. You’re just south of El Born and right next to the Barceloneta metro stop. The rooftop terrace and pool are lovely. $200-300 per night.

Hotel 54 Barceloneta - Overlooking the marina, this is a small hotel with modern and beachy vibes. The rooms are minimalist, but they’re decent-sized, and the common spaces (including the rooftop) are nice. $150-250 USD per night.

Poblenou

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

Cons: Far from central attractions, some areas feel industrial

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

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, with 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 area a newly 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 farther 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.

Where to stay

Hilton Diagonal Mar: Located near Barcelona’s beaches and the Diagonal Mar shopping center, this is a very chi luxury hotel. $250–$350 per night.

The Hoxton, Poblenou: A stylish hotel with a rooftop pool, the hotel is right next to the Torre Glòries and a lot of excellent bars. $200–$300 per night.

Melia Barcelona Sky: Housed in a sleek skyscraper on Avinguda Diagonal, this is a super modern hotel with stunning city views. It has an excellent rooftop pool as well. $200–$300 per night.

Hotel SB Icaria: Just a short walk from the beach, this is another contemporary hotel, albeit a bit simpler than the ones above. $150–$200 per night.

Unite Hostel, Poblenou: Super lively and with a nice “beachy” atmosphere, the common spaces are always busy and they organize lots of events. Right near the liveliest part of Poblenou. $50–$100 per night.

El Raval

Pros: Very central, more affordable accommodation, multicultural & alternative

Cons: Parts of it are fairly rundown/seedy, crime is a concern, especially late at night

*La Rambla del Raval. Photo:* *Janko Hoener from Bonn, Germany*, *CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons*

El Gato de Botero in the Rambla del Raval

Lying between Sant Antoni and the Barrio Gótico, El Raval is another centrally located historic neighborhood that offers great access to Barcelona’s main sights. The Gothic Quarter and El Born, the beach down by La Barceloneta, or Gaudi’s masterpieces up in the Eixample are all reachable on foot. There are also around 6 metro stops ringing the neighborhood, making it an absolute breeze to get around the city.

A hub for mostly working class immigrants who have settled here over the past decades, this is a distinctly less affluent area than the other neighborhoods I’ve recommended. It’s true that El Raval can feel fairly rundown and neglected in parts and there’s a definite gritty edge to it. A bit of an “alternative” hub, you’ll also find lots of record stores and vintage clothing shops, used bookshops, tattoo parlors, and other independent stores.

This neighborhood most definitely will not be for everyone and I especially don’t recommend it if you’re traveling with kids. Having said that, if you’re on a budget, this is an especially attractive choice, as hotel prices are very reasonable considering the central location.

In general, I’d suggest looking for a hotel in the northern half of the neighborhood, typically above Carrer del Carme. This is the more pleasant part of El Raval, and it has gentrified quite a bit, with a lot of fun bars and good restaurants. The MACBA (museum of contemporary art) is in that area, as are a host of other smaller galleries, theaters, and artistic/cultural venues, making it a good place to experience the local art scene.

And finally, even though almost no one mentions this when they talk about El Raval, it’s one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city and has similar medieval architecture and labyrinthine streets to the Barrio Gótico and El Born. The difference is that here, the buildings have usually not been restored to their former glory.

Personally, I rather like El Raval and think it’s an interesting neighborhood to explore in Barcelona. Whether it’s a good base for you will depend on if you’re willing to accept a bit of “grit” in your home base.

Where to stay

Hotel Casa Camper, El Raval: A trendy boutique hotel offering spacious, minimalist rooms with hammocks and city views, just a stone's throw from La Rambla. $230–$270 per night.

Andante Hotel, El Raval: A sleek, contemporary hotel featuring a rooftop pool with stunning skyline views, ideal for budget-conscious travelers. $130–$170 per night.