Places to stay in Barcelona
Because Barcelona is such a diverse and large city, choosing where to stay for a Barcelona city break can take some deciding. Each district, or “barrio”, has its own unique character and advantages.
The district by district guide below outlines the key features of Barcelona’s main areas, helping you to choose the best place for your stay.
Along with details of the top sights and things to do in each barrio, you can find out which hotels will best suit the holiday to Barcelona you are searching for.
Read the guide that accompanies each district overview to find out more indepth information and top tips.
Barri Gotic
Visit this district to experience the heart and soul of old Barcelona. This central district is the oldest barrio and is brimming with charming ancient buildings, winding streets, hidden squares and lots of restaurants and cafes. The famous La Rambla runs between Barri Gotic and El Raval. The modern shops of the La Rambla contrast to the old city boutiques but are none the less charming.
El Raval
A vibrant and dazzling central district that sits on the opposite side of La Rambla to that of Barri Gotic, will appeal to the more seasoned and adventurous types. The area has undergone significant development and is home to the famous MACBA museum. It has an exciting nightlife scene more suited to couples and groups. Although you need to keep your wits about you, this barrio is an exciting place to visit to get a sense of local Barcelona life.
El Born
A popular district next to Barri Gotic. El Born is close to the old city as well as being near to the beach. It has a welcoming nightlife with a variety of restaurants and bars. It also boasts some impressive architecture with medieval churches, boulevards and market buildings. El Born houses the Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona’s oldest gardens.
Eixample
This large district surrounds the smaller central ones. It’s divided into two parts, the homely Esquerra on the left and the trendy Dreta on the right. Eixample is great for shopping, seeing traditional buildings and eating out. It’s famed for is grid-like structure and is home to Gaudi’s Casa Battlo and Casa Mila.
Port Vell and Seafront
The seafront districts of Port Vell, Barceloneta, Villa Olimpica, Port Olimpica were vastly improved by the Olympic initiative and now enjoy seven kilometres of golden beach. These districts are stylish, modern and home to the best seafood restaurants in Barcelona.
Other areas of interest
Surrounding the Eixample district are yet more barrios. Although the traditional attractions are more central these barrios offer affordable accommodation and easy travel links to the city centre. These outer districts also have their own attractions such as FC Barcelona's Camp Nou Stadium and the Parc Guell.