Barcelona hit me right in the heart, like so many other travelers who make a pilgrimage to the famous city on the Spanish coast every year.
I’ve been to Barcelona two summers in a row now and I have to admit that I love the city. However, Barcelona is a huge city and it’s important to find out a bit about the different parts of the city before booking a hotel.
After this brief introduction, I will introduce you to the best areas in Barcelona and recommend some great hotels.
Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain (surpassed only by the capital Madrid), the prices for food and drink are low, and Barcelona is right on the coast, so you can combine a city break with a beach vacation.
In other words, Barcelona is something of the perfect destination. But where should you book a hotel in a city that is a good size and is visited by countless tourists every year?
We go into this in more detail in our guide to where to stay in Barcelona.
The best places to stay in Barcelona
- 👉 Das Gothic Viertel – the best place in Barcelona
- 👉 Plaça de Catalunya – live directly in the center
- 👉 Gràcia – the best area for a bohemian neighborhood
- 👉 La Barceloneta – cozy area on the beach
- 👉 El Born – the best area for nightlife
The guide to where to stay in Barcelona continues below.
1. The Gothic Quarter – the best place in Barcelona
I love the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona. It may be a bit touristy, but these are always the best areas of the big cities in Europe.
It makes sense: tourists want to see the best places, and in Barcelona the best area in my opinion is the Gothic Quarter.
On my first visit, this area reminded me of the cozy, narrow streets in Prague, Covent Garden in London or the old town of Edinburgh.
Here you will find the best hotels in the Gothic Quarter. 👈
When you walk through the Gothic Quarter, you don’t feel like you’re in a big city, but in a movie set for a film set in the Middle Ages. And I mean that in the best possible way.
This is a unique area where tourist stores are located next to local art museums, old churches and cozy restaurants with fantastic food at reasonable prices.
It has to be said that the Gothic Quarter is on the “must-see” list of every tourist visiting Barcelona, so you won’t have it to yourself.
But you don’t have that anywhere in Barcelona, so why not live in the heart of the best neighborhood?
Being Barcelona’s old town, there isn’t a Holiday Inn on every street corner, and if you book your hotel in Barcelona at the last minute, you may be unlucky to find one in the Gothic Quarter.
However, I think it’s a good benchmark for accommodation in Barcelona – if you’re within a 5-10 minute walk of the Gothic Quarter, then you know your hotel is centrally located.
From the Gothic Quarter it is a 15-25 minute walk to the beach, depending on where you are.
Best places in The Gothic Quarter
There are quite a few places to stay in the Gothic Quarter, but here are a few of my favorite hotels in three different price ranges.
The 👉 Ohla Barcelona is a five-star luxury hotel that offers a first-class experience in the heart of the city.
The biggest attraction is the spectacular roof terrace with swimming pool, from which guests can enjoy an incomparable view of the city skyline.
The hotel’s modern, stylish rooms are all equipped with luxurious amenities.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, Ohla Barcelona is close to the main tourist attractions, gourmet restaurants and first-class shopping centers.
The dedicated staff is known for its attention to detail and is always ready to meet the needs of guests to ensure a stay of the highest standard.
The 👉 Hotel Duquesa de Cardona is a well-located hotel in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, just a short walk from the beach.
One of the highlights is the roof terrace with a small pool, from which you have a panoramic view of the city and the sea.
The hotel is known for its mix of historical details and modern facilities in the spacious and air-conditioned rooms.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Reviews from previous guests often highlight the hotel’s ideal location, which combines the charm of the old town with easy access to the beach.
The Hotel Duquesa de Cardona is highly rated for its comfort and location.
The 👉 Hotel Rialto is an affordable choice in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
Its simple but clean and air-conditioned rooms make it a practical choice for travelers looking for good value for money.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Many of Barcelona’s most important sights, including the cathedral and the lively La Rambla, are within walking distance of the hotel.
Previous guests have highlighted the fantastic location of the Rialto, and many have commented that you really get value for money given the central location and comfortable accommodation.
Now let’s take a look at another excellent area in Barcelona’s city center.
2. Plaça de Catalunya – live right in the center
If we have to talk about another Barcelona landmark, then it has to be the Plaça de Catalunya.
In other words, this is the center of Barcelona. So if you want to book a hotel near Plaça de Catalunya and be within walking distance of many of Barcelona’s popular sights, you’ve made the right choice.
The legendary Rambla begins at Plaça de Catalunya and stretches all the way to the harbor.
Here you will find the best hotels around Plaça de Catalunya. 👈
So if you want to stay in the center of Barcelona, close to sights and shopping, and if you want to get from Barcelona airport to the city center quickly, Plaça de Catalunya is the perfect choice.
It’s about a 30-minute walk from Plaça de Catalunya to the beach, but the route takes you through cozy streets and the Gothic Quarter, so it’s a great walk – or a short cab ride if you’ve had too much sun and want to head straight back to your hotel after a day at the beach.
The area is also ideal for a stay if you are traveling to Barcelona with children.
Where to stay in Plaça de Catalunya
Let’s take a look at some good accommodation near Plaça de Catalunya and La Rambla.
The 👉 Iberostar Selection Paseo de Gracia is a luxury hotel in Placa de Catalunya, in the heart of Barcelona.
One of the advantages of the hotel is the swimming pool on the roof, from which you have a beautiful view of the city skyline.
It is also close to various sights such as Casa Batlló, La Rambla and Passeig de Gracia.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Previous guests have praised the Iberostar’s luxurious facilities and ideal location, which makes it easy to explore the city on foot.
It is an excellent choice for travelers who want to treat themselves to a stay in the heart of Barcelona.
The 👉 Yurbban Ramblas Boutique Hotel is an elegant accommodation located directly on the Rambla, which, as already mentioned, is one of Barcelona’s most famous streets.
The hotel offers beautifully furnished rooms where every detail has been carefully considered to create a comfortable and luxurious atmosphere.
The rooms are air-conditioned, and many have a view of the popular street below.
See more photos and book here. 👈
The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore Barcelona’s many attractions, and you can quickly reach the Gothic Quarter and the Boqueria Market.
Reviews from previous guests often praise the unique design of the Yurbban Ramblas Boutique Hotel and its ideal location amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
The 👉 Hotel Nouvel is an affordable place to stay in the heart of Barcelona.
The hotel is also just a short walk from the famous La Rambla, making it ideal for those who want to experience the lively atmosphere of the city but are still looking for an affordable hotel.
The hotel has a wide range of room types to suit different needs and budgets, from standard single rooms to larger suites for group travelers.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Guests praise the comfortable furnishings, the clean surroundings and the hotel’s location, which makes it easy to explore the city. The Hotel Nouvel is therefore an excellent choice for anyone looking for good value for money and a central location.
3. Gràcia – the best place for a bohemian-style stay
While the first two areas are classic places to stay in Barcelona, we are now turning our attention to a slightly different area – Gràcia.
Gràcia is a neighborhood that is still known as the bohemian district of Barcelona without tourists.
This is no longer the case, because every travel blogger worth their salt has already visited Gràcia and written about it (including me).
Nevertheless, there is undoubtedly a different atmosphere here than in the classic tourist districts.
See the best hotels in Gràcia here. 👈
I liked the atmosphere, the cozy streets, the local bars and restaurants around the Plaza del Sol.
It’s perhaps an area to stay in if you’ve been to Barcelona a few times and now want to get a little more under the skin of the city.
If it’s your first time in Barcelona, I’d probably still recommend one of the other areas on the list where you’re closer to the sights and the beach – but consider Gràcia if you want to experience a different side of Barcelona and still be relatively close to the center.
Best places to stay in Gràcia
If you are looking for a luxurious, classic hotel, the 👉 Radisson Blu 1882 is a good choice.
The hotel is stylishly furnished and is located in the immediate vicinity of the famous Sagrada Familia.
The hotel is known for its spacious, beautiful rooms, which invite you to relax after a day of sightseeing in the city.
See more photos and book here. 👈
One of the hotel’s most popular facilities is the inviting outdoor pool, which offers a magnificent view of the city. Here you can cool off, enjoy the sun and rest your legs after a busy day.
The Radisson Blu 1882 Hotel is ideal for travelers who do not want to compromise on style, luxury and comfort. Other guests have particularly emphasized the modern design of the hotel with beautiful details and the unique location.
The 👉 Suites Centre Barcelona is an excellent choice if you are traveling with your family or in a larger group.
Spacious and well-equipped apartments are on offer here, ideal for anyone who wants to feel at home in Barcelona.
Each apartment has its own fully equipped kitchen where you can prepare your own meals and save a little on your vacation budget.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Guests can use the facilities of the neighboring hotel, which include a beautiful small swimming pool.
And if you need a break from cooking, you can order a breakfast buffet.
The 👉 Hotel Balmoral in the lively Gracia district offers its guests a pleasant base for their stay in the city.
The rooms are nicely furnished and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV.
The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from famous sights such as Gaudi’s masterpieces, La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.
See more photos and book here. 👈
The Hotel Balmoral also has a private terrace where you can relax with a drink after a day of sightseeing.
4. La Barceloneta – live right on the beach
Another area that might interest you if you are traveling to Barcelona to enjoy the city’s beaches is La Barceloneta.
Barcelona has several beaches, but the most famous (and closest to the city) is called Barceloneta.
The neighborhood next to the beach is called La Barceloneta and is excellent!
Of course there are many tourists here, but this part of the city has a unique and somehow local atmosphere. Having never been to South America before, for some reason I had South American feelings – in a good way.
Find the best hotels in La Barceloneta. 👈
You can see the area for yourself in this video:
In the area there are many restaurants, cafés, bars and of course beach clubs right on the beach.
The main reason to live here in the La Barceloneta neighborhood is that you’re just a short walk from Barcelona’s famous beach. But you’re also very close to the Gothic Quarter and the next place on the list (El Born).
So if you can find a good hotel deal in La Barceloneta and know that La Rambla is only a 20-25 minute walk away, then this is a great place to stay in Barcelona.
Especially if you expect to spend a lot of time on the beach!
Best places to stay in La Barceloneta
If you are dreaming of a beach vacation in Barcelona, then of course you should stay in La Barceloneta. Below I have found some of the best hotels near the beach in Barcelona.
The 👉W Barcelona, also known as 👉”Hotel Vela“, is a landmark on Barceloneta beach.
The hotel is known for its extraordinary architecture and luxurious furnishings.
As it is probably the most famous hotel in Barcelona, it naturally has a price tag to match – be warned
The rooms are modern and spacious and have panoramic windows that offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean or the city.
Guests have a range of facilities at their disposal, including a rooftop terrace with an infinity pool, a fitness center and several restaurants and bars.
See more photos and book here. 👈
The location of the hotel is second to none, right on the beach and just a short walk from the city center.
The spectacular views and the luxurious experience offered by the W Barcelona are often highlighted in the reviews.
If you are looking for luxury and unforgettable experiences, the W Barcelona is the perfect choice.
The 👉 Hotel 54 Barceloneta is a slightly (to put it mildly) cheaper hotel in the beautiful Barceloneta area.
The hotel also has a rooftop terrace where guests can relax with a drink and enjoy the view of the city.
It is also just a short walk from the Gothic Quarter, so you can easily explore the city’s historic sights.
See more photos and book here. 👈
The hotel offers modern, air-conditioned rooms, many with harbor views.
Reviews from previous guests highlight Hotel 54 Barceloneta for its clean and comfortable rooms and central location, making it easy to explore both the beach and the city.
The 👉 H10 Port Vell is a stylish hotel on the edge of the charming districts of La Barceloneta and El Born.
The hotel has beautiful rooms with modern amenities and minimalist decor.
Many rooms have their own balcony from which you can enjoy the view of the harbor.
See more photos and book here. 👈
One of the highlights of the hotel is the roof terrace with bar and small swimming pool, which offers a spectacular view of the city and the harbor.
The H10 Port Vell is within walking distance of the beach and many of Barcelona’s historic sights in the Gothic Quarter, making it an ideal place to stay if you want the best of both worlds.
Previous guest reviews highlight the hotel’s luxurious atmosphere, helpful staff and fantastic location.
5. El Born – the best place to enjoy the nightlife
El Born, located northwest of La Barceloneta and east of the Gothic Quarter, is an exciting part of Barcelona that is full of history and cultural activities.
So it makes little difference whether you choose El Born or the Gothic Quarter, as both districts are full of cultural treasures waiting to be explored.
El Born is a center of nightlife that often pulsates until the early hours of the morning. You should definitely bear this in mind when planning your stay, especially if you are traveling with children.
However, if you and a group of friends are looking for an exciting base for exploring Barcelona, El Born could be the right choice.
Here you will find the best hotels in El Born. 👈
As you explore El Born, you will find an abundance of bars, restaurants and charming stores, similar to the rest of Barcelona. It is also within walking distance of the beach, several historical sites and metro stations for public transportation.
But it’s not just about the nightlife or the beach.
El Born looks back on a rich history, which is reflected in the architecture of the buildings, the streetscape and the numerous museums. The Picasso Museum, for example, is an important landmark in El Born and exhibits some of the artist’s most important works.
In summary, El Born is a lively, historic area that has a lot to offer. It is rich in culture, offers many great restaurants and shopping opportunities and is well connected to the rest of Barcelona.
Whether you are looking for a base to explore the city or a place to relax and enjoy the local culture, El Born is worth considering for your stay in Barcelona.
Best places to stay in El Born
I’ve already mentioned a number of really great luxury hotels in Barcelona, so I’ll mention a few here in El Born that are perhaps a little cheaper – but they’re still very charming and get positive reviews.
The 👉 Chic&basic Born Boutique Hotel is a gem in the trendy El Born district.
The hotel is known for its unique and stylish interior, which combines modernity with authentic, historical details.
The rooms are bright and airy, with high ceilings and unique design elements that create an atmosphere of relaxed luxury.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Reviews from previous guests particularly highlight the hotel’s impressive facilities and central location.
If you are looking for a hotel that combines comfort with creativity and style, the chic&basic Born Boutique Hotel is the perfect choice.
The 👉 Park Hotel Barcelona is a charming hotel with affordable prices in the El Born district.
One of the hotel’s main selling points is the pool on the roof terrace, which is surrounded by sun loungers and from which you can enjoy a fantastic view of the city skyline.
See more photos and book here. 👈
The rooms are bright, airy and tastefully decorated, with comfortable beds and modern amenities.
The location of the Park Hotel Barcelona is ideal for exploring the cafés, stores and sights of El Born while being within walking distance of the beach.
In the reviews of previous guests, the beautiful pool area and the excellent location of the hotel are often emphasized.
The 👉 Ciutat de Barcelona is another charming hotel in the heart of El Born.
One of the best features of the hotel is the rooftop pool, which is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the view of the city.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Previous guests often praise the hotel’s cleanliness, comfortable rooms and excellent location in their reviews.
I hope you can use this guide for your accommodation in Barcelona and that you are now ready to book your hotel in this fantastic city.
If you have any questions about Barcelona, please leave a comment below.
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Frequently asked questions:
Where should you stay the first time in Barcelona?
I would recommend staying in the city center on your first trip to Barcelona. Look for hotels in areas like the Gothic Quarter or near Placa Catalunya, and you’ll be within walking distance of many of Barcelona’s best sights.
Which areas in Barcelona are best for families?
For families visiting Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter and the area around Plaça de Catalunya are two excellent options for your stay.
With its labyrinthine narrow streets, old-world charm and central location, the Gothic Quarter is a family-friendly choice. You’ll find a host of attractions right on your doorstep, including the impressive Barcelona Cathedral and the history-steeped Barcelona History Museum. It’s an exciting area to explore on foot, and children are likely to enjoy the sense of adventure that comes from wandering the winding streets.
Plaça de Catalunya is located on the edge of the Gothic Quarter. This square is considered the center of the city and is a hub of activity with its large department stores, shopping malls and numerous eateries. If you stay near Plaça de Catalunya, you will have very good public transport connections so that you can easily reach the city’s sights, such as Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia.
Both districts also offer a variety of accommodation options, from family-friendly hotels with multi-bed suites to apartments for more independence.
However, bear in mind that the Gothic Quarter can sometimes get a little noisy. For a quieter stay, choose accommodation on the edge of the district or towards Plaça de Catalunya.
Where should I stay in Barcelona for a beach vacation?
If you are planning a beach vacation in Barcelona, La Barceloneta is an excellent choice. This district is famous for its sandy beaches, beach promenade and many fish restaurants. The former fishing district of La Barceloneta is home to the city’s main beach and is perfect for a beach vacation with its lively, laid-back atmosphere.
El Born and the Gothic Quarter are also very close to the beach and are a good choice if you are looking for a balance between sightseeing and relaxing on the beach. Both districts are steeped in history, have numerous restaurants and bars and are just a few minutes’ walk from the beach.
El Born, famous for its nightlife and artisan stores, is just a 15-minute walk from Barceloneta beach. The streets in El Born are quieter and less crowded, giving the neighborhood a charming, local character. If you enjoy an active nightlife after a day at the beach, El Born could be a good choice for you.
The Gothic Quarter, known for its historical sights, is also just a 20-minute walk from the beach. Staying here, you’ll be surrounded by impressive Gothic architecture and some of Barcelona’s most important sights, including Barcelona Cathedral and the Ramblas.
Where can you stay in Barcelona for a romantic trip?
The best hotel for a romantic stay in Barcelona is the H10 Cubik, which is centrally located and has a rooftop terrace with pool and bar.
Is it safe to live in La Rambla?
La Rambla is not an area, but a street in the center of Barcelona. It is one of the most famous streets and squares in Barcelona and therefore attracts pickpockets and scammers late at night. I would not classify La Rambla as unsafe, but you should be on your guard in this area if you are out late at night.
Is Barcelona a walkable city?
Yes, Barcelona is one of the best cities in Europe if you like walking and want to get a feel for the city. There are not too many hills and lots of pedestrian zones.
Where should I stay in Barcelona to enjoy the nightlife?
For an active nightlife in Barcelona, El Born is a good starting point. El Born is known for its lively nightlife scene and offers a wide range of venues to suit all tastes. Here you will find wine bars with tastings, cocktail bars with experienced mixologists and live music venues where local and international talent perform.
But the charm of El Born doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. One of the many advantages of staying in El Born is its proximity to some of Barcelona’s most important sights. The neighborhood is home to cultural attractions such as the Picasso Museum and the Santa Maria del Mar church, which offer plenty to discover during the day.
El Born is also just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, making it a fantastic choice if you want to combine exploring the city with some relaxation by the sea. With several metro stations, El Born is also well connected to other parts of the city, so there’s plenty to do outside of the neighborhood.
However, bear in mind that the nightlife in El Born is quite active and can sometimes be noisy. So if you are a light sleeper or prefer quiet evenings, you should opt for accommodation away from the main streets or ask for a room that does not face the street.
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