The best neighbourhoods and hotels in Barcelona: Nightlife fans, architecture lovers and families with children will definitely be interested
The vibrant centre of Spain's Catalonia region, the city of Barcelona, located on the shores of the Balearic Sea, is renowned for its colourful culture, history and art, attracting travellers from all over the world for its extraordinary gastronomic experiences, generous portions of wine and incredible urban atmosphere.
The following neighbourhoods of Barcelona promise an incredible authentic experience, while local hotels provide a comfortable location and relaxation after a busy day.
Gracia neighbourhood for family travel
For travellers who will be vacationing in Barcelona with strollers and cribs, it is wise to choose neighbourhoods with a good set of children's infrastructure. Here you'll have a better chance of finding a hotel with amenities and programmes for kids or booking a great Airbnb.
One good option is Gracia. It used to be a colourful village that was eventually absorbed by the city. Here you will have the opportunity to stroll along the footpaths, get to know the locals and relax in a measured atmosphere, as if you have escaped from the bustling metropolis to a charming little town. It's most appealing to families because of its easy access to the beautiful Park Güell: there are plenty of places for kids to use up their energy. When choosing the best hotels in Barcelona in the area, take a closer look at these two options.
Monument Hotel
This huge five-star hideaway is located in the Eixample neighbourhood near Garcia. The historic boutique hotel is located on the famous Paseo de Gracia shopping street, home to major national and international luxury brands. Access to major attractions and gastronomy under the guidance of 12 Michelin-starred chef Martin Berasategui are just some of its advantages. It has 84 rooms, including family suites with balcony and views of the Paseo de Gracia Avenue, two large bedrooms, two bathrooms and a living room.
Casa Bella Gràcia by Aspasios
This stylish and bright apartment is close to Park Güell in the bohemian neighbourhood of Gracia, within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and the Sagrada Familia. For families with children, it's best to book a suite with everything you need for a group stay: equipped kitchen, dishwasher, living area with sofas and so on.
La Barceloneta neighbourhood for newbies
If you're visiting Barcelona for the first time and don't know which neighbourhoods are the best to stay in, go for parts of the city where activity and relaxation are in harmony. La Barceloneta is the best option: there's easy access to the metro or tour buses to get around the city or to the beach, and tapas bars are easy to find along the streets along the coast for a bite of seaside paella.
If your trip falls between late May and early September, which are the hottest months, swimming in the sea is a great way to relax and refresh after sightseeing. Find out more about these popular hotels in Barcelona.
Hotel Arts Barcelona
This five-star hotel is close to the beach and delights its guests with beautiful views of the city and the sea. Its glass and steel facade is a remarkable part of the cityscape and its location provides a luxurious Mediterranean lifestyle combining sea, city and art. It sits on the border of La Barceloneta and Vila Olimpica neighbourhoods, and its amenities include a rooftop spa, two pools, and several restaurants, including a Michelin-starred one.
Sofitel Barcelona Skipper
This resort escape near Barceloneta Beach provides its guests with a tropical atmosphere and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. It displays a casual and even daring elegance. Guests can relax by the two swimming pools, enjoy snacks and wine at the tapas bar, check out the solarium and book a meal at the Syrah Mediterrani restaurant. The Gothic Quarter, one of Barcelona's most famous landmarks, is within walking distance of the hotel.
El Born neighbourhood with the best nightlife
In many Spanish-speaking cities, parties start closer to midnight and typical dinners start from 22:00. Barcelona is also one of them. Thus, if you want to party hard, you should prepare for a long night. Don't waste your time travelling to the outlying areas of Barcelona. There are good hotels in El Born, and use the hour or two you save to rest and sleep to build up your energy for the raucous parties.
Besides great nightlife, there are also countless cafes, art stores and the Picasso Museum. At night, as clubs, discos and bars open, the cobbled streets fill with music, dancing and hot drinks. Fans of the vibrant nightlife can stay at these hotels.
Hotel Catalonia Born
One of Barcelona's most charming hotels is housed in a restored 19th-century building and attracts guests with remarkable rooftop views, a beautiful courtyard and a convenient location close to numerous attractions. A special experience awaits guests in the rooms with terraces, where you can sit with a glass of wine and relax in privacy after exploring the city.
K+K Hotel Picasso
The avant-garde architecture of this hotel is inspired by the historic neighbourhood. It's more affordable but still boasts elements of luxury: beds in the rooms are made with comforters, there's an on-site bistro, and the rooftop pool is a great place to take a dip in the rooftop pool while taking in the views of the Gothic Quarter next door. The hotel is currently undergoing a complete refurbishment, so guests will soon be treated to an even more luxurious experience.
The Hoxton, Poblenou
Barcelona's renowned hotel chain The Hoxton is a trendy hotel in Instagrammable shades of pink. Its 240 rooms are decorated in the dark reds, turquoises and blush colours characteristic of the Mediterranean palette. After exploring, grab a bite to eat here at the terrace pizzeria or relax by the rooftop pool.
Barri Gotic neighbourhood for a downtown stop
If you want to live amidst history, stroll past centuries-old buildings, admire the mix of ancient and modern architecture and set in plazas with outdoor seating, go for hotels in the Gothic quarter of Barri Gotic. You'll wander the winding streets, shop in quaint stores and food markets, and enjoy the unique historical atmosphere. When choosing where to stay in Barcelona, check out these hotels.
Hotel Neri Relais & Chateaux
The Picasso Museum, Las Ramblas and many of Barcelona's other iconic sites are within walking distance of this five-star hotel, so its guests never have trouble filling their leisure time. The hotel itself occupies two historic buildings, including a 12th-century palace. The chic, elegant, classically decorated rooms overlook the streets of the Gothic Quarter and one of the most charming squares in the city, San Felipe Neri, while textiles in gentle hues and wooden floors create a measured, relaxing atmosphere. The hotel has a restaurant and a discreet green rooftop terrace for quiet relaxation.
Hotel Gargallo Rialto
If you're wondering where to stay in central Barcelona on a budget, book a room at this three-star hotel near the port, Las Ramblas and La Boqueria market. You'll be able to spend all your time exploring the city without having to worry about travelling to outlying areas. This is one of the most popular hotels due to its excellent location and affordable price. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. The hotel is housed in a landmark house: the Catalan painter Joan Miró was born here. It has 197 rooms with modern bathrooms and understated functional decor. There's free Wi-Fi, a storage room, car rentals and a breakfast buffet.
El Raval neighbourhood for those travelling with friends
Travelling with friends is always full of fun and adventure. Thus, when in Barcelona, choose optimistic and exciting neighbourhoods and the best hotels with a unique atmosphere and excellent service. One such neighbourhood is El Raval, which is similar to Garcia in many ways but would suit better groups of travellers rather than families with children. It's one of the most popular spots in the city, so be prepared for an abundance of tourists and locals. El Raval is home to art museums, such as the Barcelona Museum of Modern Art. You can make a run to small restaurants with local cuisine and watch street performers. Speaking of where to stay in Barcelona's El Raval neighbourhood, here are two hotels.
Hotel Regina
The historic building on Bergara Street, originally owned by the Crown, has been carefully preserving its character for over a century. It has been completely restored. However, the modern aesthetic has not in any way overshadowed the historic spirit. For a group of friends, it is best to book the Trio room. It is quite spacious and is equipped with a double bed and an extra single bed (or three separate beds) and a marble bathroom with shower or bathtub. Small groups of friends can also stay in adjoining rooms. There are enough interesting places around the hotel to jam your schedule: theatres, restaurants, cafes, etc.
Andante Hotel
For a group of friends who spend most of their stay in Barcelona sightseeing, walking around the city and exploring its restaurants and bars, it is worth choosing a simple, modern hotel such as the Andante. It is one of the best value for money hotels in Barcelona, with good transport links to access other areas. It opened in 2012 in a restored former customs building and has 134 rooms. Groups can stay in family rooms with double and twin beds and a large bath or shower. Guests have access to a gym, free Wi-Fi and a small pool with sun loungers on the sun terrace. There's a 24-hour lobby area with a coffee machine and light snacks, and a breakfast buffet is served in the mornings.
