Where to stay in Barcelona so you don't miss out on the most important things. A guide to neighborhoods and places of interest
Barcelona is not only one of the best sports cities, but also a place where the Catalan heritage gives you plenty of pedestrian attractions, special gastronomic delights and, of course, the sea breeze.
Choosing a stop in the city is more convenient to suit your goals, so we'll tell you: what you can achieve in each of Barcelona's best neighborhoods. The districts of the city are divided not only by a conventional line, but also by the atmosphere, the density of tourists and, of course, the prices of accommodation. With our best places to stay in Barcelona, you can find the best option for your budget and to-do list. From the possibilities of panoramic skyscrapers to an almost rustic retreat, Barcelona and its best neighborhoods for a stopover will leave warm memories in your phone to come back for the next batch.
The Gracia neighborhood - seclusion amidst Art Nouveau architecture
Concrete and glass will never block you from the long-awaited sun, unless you want to go into the shade yourself. The architecture of Barcelona's Gracia district was built long before it became a metropolis. Despite the absorption of this once independent town, it managed to retain the main thing: its individual atmosphere and cozy beauty. It is as if Gracia continues to live its usual life, filling its streets with various delicious and spectacular events, both in the light of day and under the stars. Many people come to the neighborhood in August for the Festa Major. This street fair, which lasts at least a week, brings together all the nearby neighborhoods of Barcelona and tourists who love gastronomic and cultural tours. The streets are elaborately decorated these days, and concerts and other entertainment take place in parallel at various venues.
What to see
For an experience in Barcelona's Gracia district, check out the Fuster House for a luxurious stay, the Vincent Gaudi House for an impressive tour and the Güell Park for a vivid discovery and therapy.
What to eat and drink
Meat tasters can get all excited in Barcelona, from a variety of quality street food for snacking, to restaurants serving tender Argentinian beef grilled and smoky-smelling. For a sumptuous meal, head to Disbrat Restaurant.
Not getting lost in the variety of bars will help the flavor of authentic quality, proven over 50 years of endless visitors. La Vermuteria del Tano is unique in its relaxed atmosphere, selection of quality Tano and variety of vermouths. Of course there's more on the menu, but that's what you're here for. The drinks are accompanied by a variety of seafood and vegetable jars that will make your evening drink even more colorful and rich.
What to do
Your mood may change at dawn, but a visit to Parc Güell is a must if you're in Barcelona, and in such a convenient area of Gracia. Entering the main gate between the two famous Hansel and Gretel towers, stretch your legs by jogging up the steps where a mosaic dragon guards the entrance to the columned hall, the main attraction of which will be the ceiling. get ready to look up for a long time, figuring out the secret of the craftsmen who must have put something under your neck while they were working.
Tile mosaics take all sorts of shapes in the park and paint some pretty emotional pictures. There will be a fee for part of the park, but it will be worth it, as you will enjoy the ideas, imagination and craftsmanship.
A second delight might be one of the neighborhood plazas: Plaza del Sol, Plaza de la Virreina or Plaza de la Villa. Choose one of the attractive café terraces to grab a cup of coffee or a glass of sparkling wine and immerse yourself in the life of a Barcelona local, carrying its history through the streets.
Where to stay in the Gracia neighborhood, Barcelona
A five-star luxury stay at Casa Fuster GL Monumento will introduce you to chic modernism that is over 100 years old. Along with your accommodation you will have access to a real museum, if the value of art means anything to you, as it does to UNESCO. The rooms are spacious with large panoramic windows and marble bathrooms. The landscaped rooftop features a swimming pool and a delicious relaxation area. The hotel is located near trendy stores, surrounded by the best gastronomic scene and only half a block from Gaudi's house.
The Raval neighborhood is a multicultural heritage
The neighborhood offers quite a contrasting picture of the world. The first thing that catches the eye are the shopping rows filled with Indian and Pakistani products, wares and garments. The population of the streets is largely Indian and Pakistani diaspora with a smattering of modern and international families. Standing out from the crowd are the stores whose foundations were laid by the Roman Empire and the modern establishments that have opened their doors to rapid development that has kept pace with the times.
The neighborhood is convenient for covering several contiguous areas, as well as incorporating relaxation activities on the city beaches.
What to see
Colorful places to explore include the Palau Güell - its medieval walls were brought to life by Gaudi, the MACBA - which will open up a modern collection for art lovers and cultural entertainment in the form of concerts and movies. Fans of skateboarding will find here a platform for new achievements. If you prefer creative stops, consider a closer look at the Barceló Hotel, which became part of the landmark in 2008.
A promenade along Joaquín Costa Street may prove to be the perfect discovery for the neighborhood. Don't miss the vintage stores, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs among the antiques. You'll come across an entire bazaar that you can wander around all day, exploring decor and household items collected from all over the world. When tired, you can always sit down to enjoy a delicious cocktail from Negroni.
The beachfront area offers a heap of its own entertainment, cozy establishments from outdoor cabanas, to elegant tables on the terraces. Sports fields and play areas for children can also keep your day busy in the Raval, Barcelona neighborhood.
What to eat and drink
To cover the variety of local food and drink in one establishment, visit theJuicy Room. This low-key tapas bar will surprise you with Catalan and Spanish dishes reinterpreted by civilization. Rejoice in the seasonal menu, as the produce on your plate will be as farm-to-table as possible. For an Iberian pork ribs, rice with duck and eel, grilled octopus with chickpeas and oxtail croquettes with cornucopia mushrooms can be considered for a VOU experience. That last one is fantastic fantasy.
To add a deep atmosphere to a deliciously rich drink will help an institution called Caribbean Club. A bit of classics and vintage glamor in the creation of Juan Gonzalez will immerse you in the right state to expand the boundaries of flavor nuances. Get therapeutic with the right balance of whiskey, ginger and mead with citrus notes to find an enjoyable substitute for anti-influenza remedies.
What to do
To be one of the 2292 lucky people who will enjoy the most famous opera arias in the world is the gift of the Barcelona neighborhood in which you are staying. Of course guided tours are available, but acoustics play an important role in this incredible experience. Don't be embarrassed if you are not inclined to this genre, for a change on the stages of the Liceo you can attend a ballet, a theater production or, even a concert. Modern technology has broken into the ancient gold-carved walls and now there will be a screen on the seat in front of you where you can choose a convenient language for subtitles. Didn't bring your tuxedo? No problem. Take advantage of one of the vintage markets where you can buy outlandish patterned shawls and cover up your jeans with a t-shirt if you see the need.
Where to stay in the Raval neighborhood of Barcelona
You can get a proper look at Barcelona by staying at the Barcelona Raval Hotel. This is perhaps one of the most romantic stops in the city. Climbing up to the rooftop, you'll be treated to 36 degree views. For convenience, the roof is equipped with binoculars so that the Mapfre Towers, the Mediterranean Sea and the Montjuïc communication tower can appear at arm's length. The restaurant and bar allow for a long and pleasant sightseeing experience, and make dinner for two a real stand-alone experience in Barcelona.
The Eixample neighborhoods of Ezquerra and San Antonio are a trendy stop in Barcelona
Neighborhoods within neighborhoods are nothing new to fast-growing metropolitan areas and the same thing happened with Eixample. Its left (Ezquerra) and right (Dreta) sides turned out to be completely different. And Ezquerra was divided into two more parts, the old (Antiga) and the new (Nova). Clear goals for your stay in Barcelona will help you make sense of this maze. If you want more activity, choice of establishments, bustling crowds and fashionable stores, then stay on the left side of the district in Ezquerro, and if you're interested in a slower pace with a choice of terraces and reviews, then stay on the right.
The attraction of Ezquerro means that there is a vast green space that includes the Joan Miró Park and the gardens of the University of Barcelona.
What to see
Of course the prison. More precisely, the former prison, which has become a rather cheeky attraction dressed up in greenery.
The Eixample district is definitely a good place for a luxury gastronomic tour and tasting. The level of local establishments is quite high and you will have a wide choice of what to include in your culinary delight.
It's great if you can get an aerial view of the neighborhood from a quadcopter or helicopter. One of the best neighborhoods in Barcelona was the project of Idelfons Cerda, who used the idea of the grid to maximize the distribution of resources and improve the comfort of the local population.
Admire the architecture of Domenech and Muntaner 's Casa Lleó Morera, Puch 's Casa Amatller and Gaudi's Casa Batlló Cadafalc.
What to eat and drink
We'll direct you to Rafa Peña, as this chef will help expand your gastronomic range in a win-win way at an establishment called Gresca. The beachhead with seating is quite large, the restaurant has been expanded and now features a stunning bar. The opportunity to watch the mastery of the chef's team is a separate experience and a prelude to your sweet introduction to extraordinary cooking. if our prelude is enough, we advise you to aim for the ginger zucchini or octopus with "butifarra negra".
Drink tasting can start there as well, but you're a traveler. Head to Bar Calder's for a seat on one of San Antonio's trendiest terraces. We must warn you that the road to the best can be thorny and in addition to drinks, you'll need to hunt for available seats. The bar offers both a snack and a full meal, but the focus shouldn't shift from choosing a great vermouth or tapas. By evening, the cocktail masters are at the peak of their skills and you can safely discover the horizons of successful combinations.
Another iconic tasting spot in this great Barcelona neighborhood for a stopover is Rafael's. A wine cellar where locals blend in with the throngs of tourists and prove the quality of the drinks on offer.
What to do
In addition to eating, drinking and strolling in the enjoyment of sunbathing, don't miss the opportunity to check out the neighborhood bookstores. After checking out the noteworthy decor, check out the excellent selection of English language books. A book is a great item that will long remind you of Barcelona's luxurious surroundings.
Where to stay
Of course, among the many trendy and luxurious stays in Barcelona's San Antonio neighborhood, you are sure to find something of your own. But we'd like to draw your attention to a more budget-friendly stopover in Barcelona's trendy neighborhood. Having recently received its upgrade, the TOC Hostel offers several comfortable accommodation options to choose from. Rooms for up to 8 people that are suitable for large families, groups and double rooms where couples will be perfectly comfortable and those who want to spend as little time in the room as possible will be on a budget.
The Born neighborhood is a good family stopover in Barcelona
You can come across quite a few names for this stretch of Barcelona (Sant Pere, Santa Caterina, La Ribera), if you lean on the majority, it's Borne. Without a doubt the most luxurious neighborhood in Barcelona, with interesting sights, a rich gastronomic scene and expensive accommodation. However, don't be in a hurry to give up on stopping there, as this location can be quite favorable, especially if you're with kids or a four-legged friend. Prepare to keep your heads up, there is plenty to see and do in Barcelona. Galleries, architecture, modern entertainment - the main thing is to stop in time and accurately put together a plan for the day, otherwise you can get very tired.
What to see
Stroll the streets of Barcelona's Born district and you'll find alternating 13th-century walls, Gothic church spires, trendy galleries and museums, chic restaurants and small, colorful establishments, including souvenir shops. The Santa Caterina market glistens with new colors and lures visitors away from the crowded La Rambla. The Picasso Museum should be on the must-see list, as this legacy encompasses the magical formative period of the creator and demonstrates the arduous journey to worldwide fame. The museum also houses a fascinating collection of works by fellow brush painter Jaume Sabartes, as well as a collection of ceramics that Picasso's wife presented to her husband. Your best bet is to buy tickets in advance, online.
An excellent location for a family vacation will be the Barcelona Zoo. Consider spending the better part of a day there to cover all the adventures from the boat ride, to the observation deck over the waterfall. A scenic walk can also be provided by the Citadella Park, where four-legged animals are also welcome.
What to eat and drink
Cal Pep restaurant and tapas bar opens its doors early, but a small queue (or a big one) can already crowd the entrance to take up viewing seats. Wedge clams and butifarra sausage with beans are among the most popular dishes here, though the fried clam variety rings are clearly looking to change the rankings in their favor. For dessert, a pudding in several different foamy layers would be appropriate.
Of the unique bars, perhaps the standout is Paradiso. You can get into it through a secret door at Pastrami Bar. A cavernous tunnel will take you down into the colorful underground, where re-distilled whiskey is not the only daring gimmick. Pleasant prices and original serving may stretch your excitement to shaky limits, but you're here for the adventure.
What to do
Take pictures. Non-stop. Make sure the memory in your devices is ready for a busy day. Hiking and the beach will be a big part of your stopover in Barcelona's most luxurious neighborhood - it's worth considering renting bikes to have more time.
Where to stay
If you're not ready for a five star that offers many services on their premises, including a spa, lower your search to four brightenings and get wonderful value for money. Hotel Colonial Barcelona offers a convenient location to all the popular attractions and beaches. Transportation here is rewarded with two metro stations and an excellent choice of ground transportation. Soundproofed rooms offer excellent shelter from outside noise and commotion, and the hotel's extended travel services can offer you a comfortable and informative way to explore the city.
The Gothic Quarter is an architectural stopover in Barcelona
Whether you're visiting Barcelona for a day or have a couple weeks to spare, the Gothic Quarter will be a prime target, as most postcards hail from here. The architectural heritage here has the deepest meaning and the most vivid picture. The lively daytime atmosphere is followed by the lull of evening and the silence of night. The scattered bars and restaurants go underground behind closed doors as darkness falls, much to the delight of the locals.
What to see
The itinerary can start from anywhere in one of the best neighborhoods to stop in Barcelona , but should include: the Plaza Sant Jaume, where the Renaissance palace and neoclassical Adjuntament present a government sanctuary. A little around the corner you'll find the Plaza del Rey, where Gothic spires lift your gaze to the heavens. You can hardly miss the Royal Plaza and the Cathedral . It's great that you can get around all the architectural treasures on a leisurely walk.
If you have time to wander a bit, add the Jewish Quarter to your experience. Its synagogue is a great place to pay attention, but don't miss the colorful shops along the way.
What to eat and drink
Barcelona's seasonal specialties include nautical details and fresh gifts from farmers. The talented chef Marc Gascones has brought it all together at an establishment called Unofficial. The name doesn't reflect a direct meaning, rather it sets the tone for conversation. The menu is filled with dishes that have discovered their best flavor halftones on a variety of grills, which the team of professionals handle wonderfully. Our recommendation would be the anchovies from L'Escal and the Palamos shrimp - enjoy longer or you'll have to order a refill.
Embracing the evening and nightlife can be done without leaving one location. One of Barcelona's best clubs, Sidecar Factory, boasts a red square "over the top" called Bar del Sidecar. Platforms offer such a variety of entertainment from show programs to concerts that it's worth taking a look at the poster if you only have one shot at visiting an establishment.
What to do
Explore more of Barcelona's Cathedral. Its history and architecture will exceed your expectations. In addition to the caves, crypts and the convent where the remains of the 13-year-old martyr Eulalia are buried, there is a stunning observation deck where you can take your best panoramic photos for a small elevator fee.
Take your bikes for a walk one day, your legs will thank you, and some of the scenery will still require a ride.
Where to stay
We suggest choosing the Petit Palais Boqueria Garden for a luxurious stopover in Barcelona's cool neighborhood. Amidst the century-old garden, your breakfasts and brunches will take place. Rooms of various sizes can accommodate single travelers, large families and entire companies in perfectly comfortable and elegantly understated settings. The palace is filled with arches and staircases that lead you to various relaxation zones and secret nooks and crannies. In principle, you can relax without leaving the palace, but remember the purpose. The location of the hotel is prime for exploring the popular and famous Boqueria Market, where you can spend hours talking yourself into not emptying your credit card.
The Sagrada Familia neighborhood is for measured enjoyment on the streets of Barcelona
Marking this part of Barcelona separately is worth mentioning for several reasons. We mentioned above that this area of the Eixample neighborhood is gentler, quieter and about inner pleasures. Its center, as you have understood, is the famous Gaudi Basilica on the Plaza de Gaudi. It's almost always crowded near the church, but the crowd is peaceful and flowing, so you won't feel frantic even in the epicenter.
Walking plays an important role in getting to know the neighborhood, as its squares are filled with interesting stores, inviting cafes, and small but joyful distractions for the visiting public. And you won't have to venture far from Gaudi Street.
What to see
The Basilica will certainly keep you busy, but it's worth going further afield to see an example of high-end modernism from Luis Domenech i Montaner in São Paulo. Today, the former hospital building is a UNESCO-listed building with some 20 pavilions where you'll gaze at every curl. Perhaps an examination of architectural styles can be done here, covering Byzantine, Gothic and Moorish modes of decoration. There's also a great view of the Sagrada Familia.
What to eat and drink
There are places to eat in the area both budget and expensive. Let's choose from the principle of price-quality and stop at Bardeni. Meat variety here reaches colossal lists on the menu. Even if the dish has fruits or vegetables the accent will still be on meat. hearty large portions allow you to order a dish for two, if you will be ready to share after the first bite in your mouth. The oxtail cannelloni or picanha with foie and chili peppers is up to you, but we recommend both.
Visiting the Sagrada Familia in the evening is a great idea, not only for the atmospheric lighting, but also for the sake of the place, which is very close. La Serveseria Secreta holds the bar high, where you can have a quality craft beer tasting and enjoy concerts, standups and organized events. The menu features filling vegan burgers and tapas.
What to do
Explore the famous Basilica, no trip to Barcelona would be complete without visiting it. A tour will take you to the cellars where plans, blueprints, models are kept and craftsmen still create using ancient techniques. The top is also worth the climb, the tall towers will offer panoramic views of Barcelona.
Where to stay
A comfortable and convenient four-star stop in Barcelona awaits you at the Hotel Aire Rosellon. In addition to its location near the Sagrada Família metro station, the hotel offers a landscape view from the rooms' windows, with the Basilica of the Sagrada Família as the centerpiece. A walk will give you a beach vacation and a tour of the Olympic Port.
Dreta de l'Eixapple - at the rhythm of a local resident
The eastern right side of the Eixample is characterized by the income level of its residents, and thus by the level of establishments within it. "The Golden Square offers luxury stores, premium restaurants and excellent cultural venues. Ruta Del Modernist architecture adorns the streets of one of Barcelona's great neighborhoods to live in.
What to see
With five architects competing at once, Paseo de Garcia Street is now a must-see for an impressive visit. You will discover such majestic structures as: Casa Lleo Morera, the work of Domènech i Montaner; Casa Mulleras by Enric Saunier; Casa Bonet by Marcel Cocchia; Casa Amatller by Puch i Cadafalca; and Casa Batller by Gaudí.
Another building to admire for a long time in Barcelona is the Casa Mila by La Pedrera.
What to eat and drink
When cuisine turns into creativity with a grit of professionalism Manairo is formed . The premium gastronomic scene will showcase creativity in food combinations and preparations and prove once again that cooking can be an art. Chef Jordi Herrera not only produces flavorful masterpieces, but also invents new kitchen devices for sophisticated cooking.
Entering the Rasputnik Bar your back straightens and your gaze becomes more insistent and that's you haven't started tasting yet. The playful name is not the only highlight of the bar. The emphasis is on cocktails, in the making of which bartenders clearly adhere to the recipes, so that the perfect flavor and effect is unchanged. You should only decide on your main favorite drink and get dozens of variations that will expand your idea of alcoholic mixtures.
What to do
By following the locals, you'll find that they have one common point of contact. The Mercat de la Concepcio market is located inside an iron house that could easily be mistaken for a church. It is the holy of holies of the neighborhood. You can also find the neighboring Flores Navarro here, which never closes to allow you to skimp at night as well. Blend in with the crowd for a couple hours to get a feel for the pace and mood of the locals, while picking out some nice trinkets for yourself.
Where to stay
The Jazz Hotel is a luxurious stopover in Barcelona. Its location puts you in the epicenter of interesting events and buildings. Plaça Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, Ramba Street and Portal de l'Ángel are all within walking distance for exploring and enjoying leisure time. The hotel itself has an attractive filling from the rooftop pool to the lounge bar, for your first and successful introduction to Barcelona's drinks.
