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Barcelona is the amazing architecture of Gaudi and the majestic Sagrada Familia, picturesque parks, museums that house masterpieces of world art, historical quarters, fashionable shops, kilometers of beaches, and amazing cuisine. It is not surprising that this beautiful city has become one of the most visited places in Europe. Every year it welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists, leaving no one indifferent.
The main question that worries those who come to Barcelona for the first time is which area of the city is best to stay in for sightseeing, a family vacation, a romantic trip, or shopping? We will try to answer this and other questions in this article.
Do you want to live closer to the center or near the beach? Do you prefer wild nightlife or are you looking for a quiet area away from the bustle of the city? Do you want to have fun with friends or have you come to relax with your family and children? We will tell you about the best areas of Barcelona to stay in so that you can make the right choice.
The Gothic Quarter or Barri Gòtic is the best option for those who want to stay in Barcelona’s city center. The winding streets of the oldest district of the city still have a medieval atmosphere. Modern houses built in the late 90s of the 20th century are adjacent to majestic historical buildings. It is not surprising that some of the most stunning architectural monuments of Barcelona are located here.
For those who are choosing where to stay in Barcelona for the first time, the Gothic Quarter is the first place to consider. Many iconic landmarks are located here. Among them is the famous Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, better known as the Barcelona Cathedral. Be sure to visit its courtyard, where white geese live, which symbolizes the purity of Saint Eulalia. It is also worth taking the elevator to the roof, which offers a magnificent view of the Old Town.
Staying in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, you can see many interesting places without spending money on transport. All the attractions of the area are easy to walk around on foot. During fascinating walks, you will visit the magnificent Royal Square, Barcelona History Museum, Frederic Mares Museum, Saint James’s Square, and Palau de la Generalitat.
Another advantage of Barri Gòtic is its proximity to other popular tourist places. For example, it borders El Raval, a bohemian quarter with fashionable designer boutiques. These locations are separated by the lively pedestrian street La Rambla, lined with numerous shops. It is also the entrance to La Boqueria, the most popular food market in Barcelona.
Barri Gòtic has a well-developed public transport network. You can easily get to any corner of Barcelona by metro and bus. Therefore, for those who are choosing where is best to stay in Barcelona for sightseeing, the Gothic Quarter will be one of the best options.
Barri Gòtic has its downsides, too. This area is exclusively aimed at tourists. The streets here are always crowded, and it is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during the high season.
Hotel Neri (5 stars). It occupies two historical buildings, one of which is a 12th-century palace. Its 22 chic rooms offer views of the Gothic Quarter and Sant Felip Neri Square.
Ohla Barcelona (5 stars). One of the most luxurious boutique hotels in the Old Town boasts a stunning terrace and rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Gothic Quarter.
Hotel Duquesa de Cardona Barcelona (4 stars). A great option for those looking for where to stay in Barcelona near the beach. From its rooftop terrace, you can admire stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Port Vell.
Duquesa de Cardona 4 Sup (4 stars). Its cozy rooms will make you feel at home. It features a terrace with views of the Mediterranean Sea, 2 small swimming pools, a bar, and a gym. The Maremagnum Shopping Centre and the Barcelona Aquarium are just 500 meters away.
Catalonia Avinyo (3 stars). Situated in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, a few meters from Plaza Sant James and the El Born neighborhood, it is a great option for stay in Barcelona for the first time. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the rooftop terrace and escape the hustle and bustle in the cozy, minimalist rooms.
Citadines Ramblas (3 stars). This budget aparthotel is located on the famous Las Ramblas, close to the beach, popular tapas bars, and the most famous cultural attractions. You will be just a few minutes’ walk from Plaza Catalunya and the Gothic Quarter. With Plaza Catalunya metro station just 100 meters away, Citadines Ramblas is a great base for exploring Barcelona.
Party Hostel Kabul. An adults-only hostel known throughout Europe for its parties. This is one of the best options for stay in Barcelona for young adults. Party Hostel Kabul attracts with its excellent price-quality ratio, offering guests everything they need for a comfortable stay. The hostel has a club where music and dance performances and jazz evenings are constantly held.
Plaça de Catalunya is a good choice for those who decide to stay in the center of Barcelona. The convenient location, excellent transport links, and a large number of shops and restaurants make this area one of the most popular among travelers. Plaça de Catalunya is an ideal starting point for exploring the city and its surroundings. It is a major transport hub of Barcelona, because several metro lines, as well as tram and bus routes, converge here. From here you can quickly reach the main attractions by metro or on foot, and also plan day trips. Therefore, for those who are looking for where to stay in Barcelona for the first time, Plaça de Catalunya will be the best choice.
Plaça de Catalunya is a paradise for shoppers. From here, the pedestrian street La Rambla begins, which goes down to the harbor. Nearby are the equally famous Passeig de Gràcia and Portal de l’Àngel, where you will find many boutiques and department stores of international brands. There is also no shortage of nightclubs, so those who want to have fun in the evening will not have to go far.
The beach from Plaça de Catalunya is about half an hour’s walk away. But the route goes along beautiful streets and the Gothic Quarter, so such a walk will bring a lot of pleasure.
Ohla Barcelona (5 stars). It is built on the same site where Roman aqueducts crossed, the palace of the first Count of Barcelona stood and the city’s first department store Casa Vilardell opened. This is a great place for gourmets, who can enjoy as many as 4 gastronomic rooms. They are run by Romain Fornell, the only French chef to have Michelin stars in both France and Spain.
Iberostar Selection Paseo de Gracia (4 stars). It is located in Plaza Catalunya, close to the theatres of Las Ramblas and the stunning works of Gaudi. The unique interior of the hotel and the large fresco in the courtyard will be appreciated by art lovers. From the rooftop terrace, you can take pictures of the most impressive views of the city.
Olivia Plaza Hotel (4 stars). A comfortable boutique hotel with avant-garde design is located in Plaza Catalunya. It offers rooms with the best views, a garden, a restaurant, parking, a terrace, and several meeting rooms, as well as free access to the Holmes Place Urquinaona fitness and spa club.
Yurbban Ramblas Boutique Hotel (3 stars). It is located in a historical building on Las Ramblas, opposite the Canaletas fountain, just a 14-minute walk from Plaza Reial. Its cozy rooms are suitable for families and single travelers alike.
Hotel Nouvel (3 stars). Stay in the heart of Barcelona, on a quiet pedestrian street just off Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya. This elegant hotel has retained its original 19th-century features, including ceiling moldings, bronze lamps, and marble floors.
Hotel Omnium (2 stars). If you’re looking for where to stay in Barcelona cheap, this is a must-see. Situated in the historic center of the city, just 600 meters from Plaza Catalunya, guests have access to a communal lounge area with free tea, coffee, and water, as well as access to a gym.
Violeta Boutique Hotel (2 stars). This exclusive guest house is set in a restored 19th-century building and offers contemporary-style rooms. The Rambla is just a 7-minute walk away, while Passeig de Gracia is 250 meters away.
Looking for where to stay in Barcelona on a small budget? Then check out Gràcia. It became part of Barcelona in 1897 and has retained its unique bohemian atmosphere to this day. This area is ideal for those who want to live away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The only downside to Gràcia is its distance from the main tourist attractions. But this does not mean that nothing is interesting here. The famous Park Güell is located in the Gracia area, where the Antonio Gaudi House Museum is located, where the architect lived from 1906 to 1925.
The heart of Gràcia is the beautiful Plaza del Sol. This is a favorite place for tourists. Here you can enjoy coffee and dessert in one of the cozy cafes or just take a walk. Shoppers will love the many fashion stores along Carrer de Bonavista, while Carrer de Asturies and the adjacent Carrer del Torrent de l’Olla are lined with trendy bars and ethnic restaurants.
Every year at the beginning of August, the Gràcia district hosts the Festa Major de Gràcia, one of the most spectacular celebrations in Barcelona. All the local streets compete with each other for the right to be called the most beautiful. For decoration, residents use any materials at hand, including plastic bottles, beer cans, packaging, and car parts. In the evenings, bars open throughout the area where you can buy drinks and snacks at very affordable prices. The fun begins at dusk and ends at dawn. And the festival itself lasts for a week.
When choosing where to stay in Gracia, give preference to the southern part of the area. There are many good hotels here that are much cheaper than in the city center. In addition, Gracia boasts excellent hostels.
Hotel Casa Fuster G.L Monumento (5 stars). One of the most luxurious hotels in Spain, located on Paseo de Gracia, was built in 1908 by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. The jazz club Hotel Casa Fuster G.L Monumento is a real Mecca for music lovers. And the Aleia restaurant, awarded by Sol Repsol and a Michelin star, will conquer any gourmet.
Radisson Blu 1882 Hotel, Barcelona Sagrada Familia (4 stars). You will be staying just 400 meters from the famous Sagrada Familia and admiring it from the comfortable terrace. And a 15-minute walk away is Casa Milà, one of Gaudi’s most famous creations.
Suites Centre Barcelona (4 stars). It is located on the city’s main avenue, Paseo de Gracia. The building was completely renovated in 2020. Its spacious, comfortable apartments are ideal for staying in Barcelona with your family.
Aparthotel Silver Barcelona (3 stars). In the aparthotel, located in the business center of Barcelona, you will feel at home. Its rooms are decorated in a simple, yet elegant style. Each of them has a kitchenette and a small refrigerator. Delicious breakfasts are served daily in the bar and the garden. Just 200 meters from the hotel is Casa Vicens, designed by Gaudi, and the Sagrada Familia is a 20-minute walk away.
Catalonia Park Güell (3 stars). Want to stay close to the famous Park Güell? Then this option is for you. Just a 10-minute walk away, you can admire one of Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces. In addition, Catalonia Park Güell boasts a great rooftop pool, a comfortable terrace, and a gastrobar.
Casa Jam Barcelona. A cozy hostel in the lively and bohemian Gràcia district offers private and shared rooms, a spacious terrace, 2 communal lounges, a games room, and a work area. The Sagrada Familia is just a 20-minute walk away.
Factory Hostels Barcelona. This comfortable hostel offers a family atmosphere, delicious breakfasts, a luxurious terrace, a library, and eclectic lounges. And you can walk to Park Güell in just 5 minutes.
If you dream of staying in Barcelona near the beach, La Barceloneta is the best choice. Living here, you will be just a few minutes’ walk from Barceloneta Beach, the city’s most popular beach. In addition, the Gothic Quarter and El Born district with all their attractions are within walking distance.
Barceloneta Beach is a true paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. It is popular not only among tourists. Locals love to come here to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy excellent fish and seafood dishes in restaurants that are considered some of the best in the city.
Next to the Port Vell marina, where the yachts of the rich are moored, is L’Aquarium de Barcelona, the largest aquarium in Europe and one of the most important centers for the study and preservation of the underwater fauna of the Mediterranean Sea. Although it is located in the neighboring Gothic Quarter, you can easily get there on foot. Not far from the beach is the cable car station (Telefèric del Port), which crosses the Barcelona harbor and goes up Montjuïc, to the viewpoint and cafe.
Another attraction of La Barceloneta is the huge Museum of the History of Catalonia. It is located in the Palau de Mar — the only surviving building of the old industrial port of Barcelona. It is close to the bustling promenade of Port Vell, where there are many bars and restaurants.
If you decide to stay near the beach in Barcelona, be prepared for the fact that hotels in this area are quite expensive, especially if they are located on the first line. But here you can also find options for a budget holiday. And for lovers of luxury, we recommend staying at the famous W Barcelona hotel, which is an iconic landmark of Barceloneta Beach.
W Barcelona (5 stars). Designed by world-famous architect Ricardo Bofill, it is a wonderful combination of luxury and comfort. The hotel is located on the Barceloneta promenade, and its suites offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Sofitel Barcelona Skipper (5 stars). It combines the styles of Barcelona and France. Nearby are the Olympic Port of Barcelona and the famous Barceloneta beach.
H10 Port Vell (4 stars). An exclusive luxury hotel located next to the harbor. And from its terrace Mare Nostrum, you can enjoy stunning views of Port Vell.
Hotel 54 Barceloneta (3 stars). It is located in the Fishermen’s Guild building, opposite Port Vell and next to the beaches of Barceloneta and Sant Sebastià. You will enjoy your holiday on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and admire the incredible views of the city and the Barceloneta marina from the terrace of Sky H54.
Hotel Oasis (2 stars). A small family hotel next to the beach of La Barceloneta is an example of an excellent combination of price and comfort. Its relaxed atmosphere is ideal for relaxation.
Unite Hostel Barcelona. The hostel is located next to the beach of Nova Icaria and offers guests different types of rooms — for groups, families, for individual travelers. You can cook in the shared kitchen, and relax in the spacious lounge or on the comfortable terrace.
Where to stay in Barcelona for nightlife? Of course, in El Born. This historic quarter with its cosy narrow streets has managed to retain its medieval charm. It is rich in architectural attractions, abounds with great places to eat and have fun, and has good transport links to other areas of Barcelona.
El Born borders the Gothic Quarter and La Barceloneta, as well as the Ciutadella Park, where the zoo is located. This makes it an ideal place to stay in Barcelona for the first time. Staying here, you will be within walking distance of many of the city’s popular attractions. In the El Born area, you will find the Picasso Museum, to which the artist bequeathed several of his works, the European Museum of Modern Art with a large collection of paintings and sculptures from the 20th and 21st centuries, the Moco Museum Barcelona, dedicated to contemporary street art, and the Church of Santa Maria del Mar, one of the best examples of Catalan-Gothic architecture in the city.
For foodies, El Born has a huge selection of restaurants and traditional tapas bars. Shoppers will also be pleased, as the narrow streets are home to many unique shops and boutiques. In El Born, you can easily find vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and handicrafts.
El Born is one of the centers of Barcelona’s nightlife. It comes alive after dark and does not stop partying until the early hours of the morning. It is not the best choice for those looking for where to stay in Barcelona with family. However, in the company of friends, you will have a great time.
El Born is an area with excellent value for money. Here you will find many mid-range and budget hotels, as well as interesting boutique hotels.
Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa (4 stars). Due to its location in a historical building above the Passatge de les Manufactures, it is considered a monument hotel. Its advantage is the terrace, which offers one of the best panoramic views of Barcelona.
H10 Port Vell (4 stars). You will enjoy superb views of the Mediterranean Sea and Port Vell from the rooftop terrace while sampling delicious Mediterranean cuisine. The Museum of the History of Catalonia is a short walk away.
chic&basic Born Boutique Hotel (3 stars). A chic boutique hotel in one of the most luxurious areas of Barcelona. Staying here, you can walk to Barceloneta and the promenade, the cathedral, Ciutadella Park, and the Picasso Museum.
Park Hotel Barcelona (3 stars). A good option for those who are visiting Barcelona for the first time and are looking for affordable accommodation. The hotel is located opposite the French Station, next to the Mercat del Born market and the Ciutadella Park, where the Barcelona Zoo is located.
Ant Hostel Barcelona. A youth hostel located in the very center of Barcelona, next to Ciutadella Park. The Picasso Museum is a 10-minute walk away, and Estación del Nord Train Station is just 500 meters away.
Born Barcelona Hostel. A comfortable hostel in one of the best areas of Barcelona. Staying here, you can walk to the beach, Plaza Catalunya, the Sagrada Familia, Pedrera, Casa Batlló, the Cathedral, the Gothic Quarter, the Ramblas, and the Boqueria Market.
l’Eixample is a wealthy area located north of the Old Town. This is one of the best places to stay in Barcelona, especially for first-time visitors. l’Eixample begins with the city’s main square, Plaça de Catalunya. To the north of it is the famous Passeig de Gràcia, the most expensive street in Barcelona. Here you will find luxury boutiques and designer stores, which have earned the area the nickname “Golden Square”.
Near Passeig de Gràcia are located the most famous buildings of Gaudí — La Pedrera (Casa Milà) and Casa Battló. But the main attraction of the area is the famous Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, the construction of which has been overseen by five generations of Barcelona residents. The cornerstone of the temple was laid on March 19, 1882, and the completion of construction is planned for 2026.
Staying in Eixample means you can enjoy not only modernist architecture and excellent shopping but also masterpieces of fine art. The area is home to many art galleries, as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona.
L’Eixample has excellent transport links to other areas of Barcelona. It is served by several metro lines and various bus routes, so you can easily explore the entire city. The only downside to Eixample is the expensive accommodation. There are many high-end hotels with luxurious suites here. The choice of mid-range and budget hotels is also good, but be prepared to pay more for a room than in other areas of Barcelona.
Hotel Casa Sagnier (5 stars). This luxury boutique hotel is located on Rambla Catalunya, just a 10-minute walk from Gaudi’s iconic modernist buildings, Casa Mila and Casa Batlló. You will have the opportunity to enjoy stunning Mediterranean cuisine from chef Jorge Aranda at the El Café de l’Arquitecte restaurant.
Claris Hotel & Spa (5 stars). A stunning combination of art, sophistication and comfort. This luxurious hotel, which opened in a restored 19th-century palace, offers guests 124 rooms decorated with works of art and furnished with period furniture. And its Museum Hall displays unique sculptures from Mesoamerica, Central America and Western Mexico.
Casa Bonay (4 stars). It is located in a restored neoclassical building from the 19th century, which also houses a popular tapas bar, coffee shop and cocktail bar. And its rooftop terrace with stunning views. The hotel has everything you would expect from Barcelona — historical architecture, culinary pop art, musical performances and exciting events.
Hotel Condes de Barcelona (4 stars). Stay in the heart of modernist Barcelona — on the prestigious Paseo de Gracia, right opposite Gaudi’s architectural masterpiece La Pedrera. Luxurious and comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, a swimming pool, a gym and a sauna await you.
Ca la Maria Bed & Breakfast Barcelona (3 stars). This bed and breakfast combines comfort, art and gastronomy under one roof. Its cozy rooms are decorated with paintings by famous artists, and for breakfast they serve jams and juices made from fruits grown in the hotel’s own garden. Guests have access to a large wooden terrace, a garden and a covered dining area.
B Hotel (3 stars). Its avant-garde design demonstrates the perfect balance between comfort and uniqueness. Just a two-minute walk from the hotel is Plaza Espanya, and from the terrace you can admire stunning views of Montjuic.
Praktik Garden (2 stars). Ideal for those who want to stay in Barcelona on a budget and be close to the beach. It is next to the Girona metro station, from where you can get to Barceloneta Beach in 15 minutes. And the walk to Plaza Catalunya takes only 10 minutes.
Hostal Oliva. Another good option for those looking for a cheap place to stay in Barcelona. This cozy family-run hostel is located on Paseo de Gracia, just a 5-minute walk from Plaza Catalunya and the Gothic Quarter. Its 16 rooms are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, 24-hour vending machines and a luggage storage room.
El Raval is a former working-class district and red-light area that has become a haven for bohemians, artists and gourmets. It is especially popular among young people and hipsters, who are attracted by its dark past. Despite its location almost in the city center, El Raval is historically an immigrant district and is considered the most multinational in Barcelona. Markets where people from India and Pakistan trade are located next to vintage shops, trendy restaurants and tapas bars.
Although El Raval is considered a relatively safe area, it is not recommended to walk along its streets alone in the evening. Families with small children should choose another place to stay in Barcelona. But young people who want to save money will love it here. If you want to live on a budget almost in the center of Barcelona, this is the place for you.
In addition to vintage shops, trendy bars and clubs, El Raval boasts several popular attractions. In this area, you will find Palau Güel, built by Antoni Gaudí, the MACBA Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona, the Maritime Museum of Barcelona, as well as the famous La Boqueria market — a real paradise for gourmets. The western border of El Raval is Las Ramblas. This means that you can walk around all the attractions of the Old Town.
In El Raval, you will find the most affordable hotels in the center of Barcelona. Luxury hotels please with a combination of price and quality, but budget accommodation leaves much to be desired. But there are exceptions, which we will tell you about below.
Eurostars Grand Marina (5 stars). An avant-garde hotel with a Mediterranean atmosphere located within the World Trade Center Barcelona. Its Black Marina terrace offers the best views of Barcelona at sunset. The hotel’s impressive spiral staircase was designed by the architect Leoh Ming Pei, the creator of the famous Louvre pyramid.
Antiga Casa Buenavista (4 stars). Once settled in its cozy rooms, you will be transported back to the Art Nouveau era. Large windows, wooden furniture, comfortable beds, lots of natural light — this is the perfect place to relax. The pride of the hotel is the family restaurant La Casa Buenavista, opened in 1918.
Hotel Casa Camper (4 stars). A cozy boutique hotel with 40 rooms is located in a 19th-century building, next to MACBA, the Boqueria market and Plaza Catalunya. Guests can enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks at the 24-hour Tentempie buffet and gourmet cuisine at the Michelin-starred Dos Palillos.
Andante (3 stars). A modern, practical and affordable hotel in the center of Barcelona, opened in 2012 in the old customs building. Guests are offered rooms for all tastes — double, triple, family, single, with a balcony, with panoramic views and for people with disabilities.
Niu Barcelona (3 stars). It is decorated in a minimalist Mediterranean style and is completely non-smoking. Therefore, the hotel will be an ideal option for those looking for a place to stay in Barcelona with a family. Plaza Catalunya is less than a kilometer from the hotel, and the Royal Square is only 600 meters away.
Eco Boutique Hostal Grau (2 stars). A family-run eco-friendly hotel in the very center of Barcelona offers guests spacious, bright rooms with decoration and furniture made from natural materials. The MACBA Museum of Contemporary Art is just 350 meters from the hotel, and Port Vell Marina can be reached in 15 minutes on foot.
St Christopher’s Inn | Hostel in Barcelona. This award-winning, comfortable hostel is just a 3-minute walk from Plaza Catalunya. The best beach in Barcelona is a 15-minute bike ride away. The hostel hosts live music nights every day, and offers pub crawls, paella nights and free walking tours of the city. This is one of the best places where to stay in Barcelona for young adults.
Another great place to stay in Barcelona near the beach is the El Poblenou area. It is located between the Mediterranean coast and the city centre, allowing locals and tourists to enjoy both the beach and a huge variety of shopping centres, bars and restaurants.
The only downside to the area is that it is far from most of Barcelona’s tourist attractions. But there is still plenty to see here. El Poblenou is home to the 38-story Torre Glòries skyscraper designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the Forum Building, which houses the Barcelona Museum of Natural Sciences and Europe’s largest scale model of the city, the historic Poblenou Cemetery, and the IDEAL Centre d’Arts Digitals de Barcelona. The main attraction of the area is its beautiful beaches, which stretch for kilometers.
Every February, El Poblenou hosts the Llum BCN light art festival. World-famous artists and young local talents create impressive light installations that are located throughout the area.
Hotel SB Icaria (4 stars). Ideal for those who want to stay in Barcelona near the beach, as it is located in the Olympic Port area, just 300 meters from Nova Icaria beach. Enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine every day and watch the sunset from the garden terrace.
Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona (4 stars). Stay close to Platja de Llevant beach, relax in the prestigious beach club or by the outdoor pool. El Maresme metro station is just a 5-minute walk away, so you can easily reach all the attractions of Barcelona.
Acta Voraport (3 stars). Excellent value for money, comfort and location. The hotel is less than a kilometre from Bogatell Beach and just a 5-minute walk from Rambla de Poblenou, with its many shops, restaurants and entertainment options.
Holiday Inn Express Barcelona City 22@, an IHG Hotel (3 stars). It is located in the trendy business area of 22@Barcelona, close to Mar Bella Beach. The nearby Llacuna metro station provides easy access to popular city attractions such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
Hostal Poblenou. A small boutique bed and breakfast in the heart of the El Poblenou district, close to the beach and the lively Rambla de Poblenou. There are no shared rooms, only private ones, each with its own bathroom. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas in their rooms, as well as delicious breakfasts in the dining room or on the terrace.
Jacobs Inn Barcelona (2 stars). Inexpensive and very cozy hotel near the beaches of Playa de la Mar Bella, Nova Mar Bella, and Playa de Bogatell. Guests have access to a shared kitchen, luggage storage and a tour desk.
Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is the wealthiest district of Barcelona. It was formed from several villages (Sarrià, Vallvidrera, Santa Creu d’Olorda and Sant Gervasi) and was only annexed to the city in 1921. The atmosphere here is very different from that of a crowded metropolis. That is why Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is preferred by wealthy people who want to live in peace and comfort, while enjoying all the benefits of a big city. When choosing where is the best place to stay in Barcelona with your family, be sure to pay attention to this district.
The architecture of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi harmoniously combines medieval and modernist buildings. While walking along its beautiful streets, you will come across many cozy squares, picturesque small squares, restaurants with excellent cuisine and shops with original goods. The main street of the district will take you to the Sarria market, where you can buy a variety of delicacies.
Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is an ideal place for those who came to Barcelona with children. Its main attraction is the Tibidabo amusement park — the oldest in Spain, one of the oldest in the world and the second oldest in Europe.
The Sarrià-Sant Gervasi district is located in the high part of the city Zona Alta, and borders on the famous Collserola Park, which is called the “green lungs of Barcelona”. Another great place for outdoor recreation is the Vallvidrera Reservoir Park. Its Mirador de Vallvidrera viewpoint offers excellent panoramic views.
One of the most interesting places to visit in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is the CosmoCaixa Barcelona Science Museum. Its permanent and temporary exhibitions focus on the environment, nature, science and space. The museum has a planetarium, a bookshop, a gift shop, a library, a study centre and a café. Some of the area’s best architectural landmarks include the Iglesia del Sagrat Cor (Sacred Heart Church), the Torre Bellesguard designed by Antoni Gaudí and La Rotonda. The famous Tamarita Gardens are also located here.
Primero Primera (5 stars). An oasis of luxury in one of Barcelona’s best areas. Upscale restaurants, bars and shops are nearby. It’s a good option for families with children, as Tibidabo amusement park is less than 2 kilometres away.
Hotel Boutique Mirlo Barcelona (5 stars). An excellent offer for those who value comfort and luxury. The hotel has only 16 rooms with beautiful views of the city, and each of them has a small private hammam and hot tub. Park Güell and the CosmoCaixa Barcelona science museum are within walking distance, and Tibidabo can be reached in just 25 minutes.
Hotel Upper Diagonal (4 stars). You will be staying close to the Güell Pavilions and the picturesque gardens of the Royal Palace of Pedralbes. The hotel’s 39 comfortable, soundproofed rooms are ideal for relaxing after a long day of walking around the bustling city.
Mercure Barcelona Condor (4 stars). It is ideal for a long stay in Barcelona with family or friends, as it offers comfortable and spacious rooms for four people. In addition, pets are allowed here. Park Güell and Passeig de Gracia are just a 15-minute walk away.
The Moods Oasis (3 stars). It is located in a quiet area of Barcelona, on Travessera de Gràcia, a few steps from Avenida Diagonal with its shops, bars and restaurants. The 36 cozy rooms of the hotel are decorated with natural materials and decorated with live plants. Getting to the main attractions of Barcelona from here is easy. Gracia Train Station is a 5-minute walk away, and Diagonal Metro Station is 10 minutes away.
Exe Mitre (3 stars). A good option for those who want to live away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Guests are offered 57 comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast. The Putxet metro station is nearby, which allows you to quickly get to Paseo de Gracia, Plaza Catalunya and Las Ramblas.
Hotel Via Augusta (2 stars). Located in a historic building between the Gracia and Sarrià-Sant Gervasi districts. The functional rooms of the hotel are decorated in a modern style, and there is a rooftop terrace from which you can admire the views of the city.
Inout Hostel. A unique hostel in the Parc Natural de la Serra de Collserola — the largest urban park in the world. It has only dormitories with 4, 6, 8 and 10 beds. Therefore, it is more suitable for young people and groups of friends. The hostel provides work for people with disabilities and is the first hotel service in Europe in which 90% of the staff are disabled.
A few words should also be said about where not to stay in Barcelona. This information will be especially useful for those who are visiting the city for the first time. In fact, Barcelona is considered relatively safe for tourists. Its main problem is pickpocketing in crowded places. But there are areas where more serious troubles are possible.
The list of less safe places includes El Raval, Barrio Gótico and El Born, as well as Las Ramblas. They are very popular among tourists, and this attracts a large number of pickpockets. Many narrow alleys that seem so cozy during the day become unsafe after dark. If you decide to live here to live near popular attractions and enjoy the historical atmosphere, take care of your safety. Do not walk alone after dark, stick to well-lit streets and always keep a close eye on your belongings.
In Barcelona, like any other big city, there are several areas that tourists should avoid. These are Nou Barris, Sant Andreu and La Mina. Also, when evening comes, you shouldn’t stroll along the city beaches.
If you are looking for where to stay in Barcelona for one night, pay attention to Sants-Montjuïc — the largest district of the city. From here you can easily get to the airport, and Plaza Espanya and Montjuic Castle are within walking distance. But it is not very suitable for a long stay. To see the main sights of the city, you will have to travel a long time by metro or train. In addition, this is the main transport hub of Barcelona. Therefore, there are always a lot of people at the stations, which is very tiring.
Those who came to Barcelona for the sights should not choose the prestigious district of Sant Gervasi-Galvany for accommodation. Hotels here are quite expensive, and the transport links leave much to be desired. Eixample or Gracia will be a great alternative.
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