Matt
In the heart of the Catalonia region of Spain, situated between the Montserrat mountain range and the Balearic Sea, lies the vibrant city of Barcelona.
This cosmopolitan city is renowned for its arts, culture, and exciting history, as well as decadent cuisine.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in this bustling city, you’ll need a place to rest up, so that you can be rejuvenated for the days of exploring ahead of you.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or revisiting this hip city, we’ve listed the best places to stay in Barcelona.
The Best Areas to Stay in Barcelona
Here’s a list of the best areas to stay in Barcelona, along with the best hotels in each area.
La Barceloneta
Best for: First-time visitors
If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time, you may want to consider staying in La Barceloneta. Located in the historic Port Vell district, La Barceloneta is one of the best neighborhoods in Barcelona to stay in.
This hip part of the city has an abundance of things to do. Some popular activities include visiting Barceloneta Beach and enjoying al fresco dining at one of the area’s tapas bars.
If you’re looking for somewhere luxurious to stay in the Barceloneta area, be sure to check out the Hotel Arts Barcelona.
This superb 5-star hotel boasts the most incredible views of the city center and Barceloneta Beach. It’s also located close to the Olympic Village, where the 1992 Olympic Games were held.
The hotel is also surrounded by numerous shops, lively bars, and nightclubs.
View photos and check for availability here
Gracia
Best for: Families
The neighborhood of Gracia was once a separate village, which has now become part of Barcelona. This quiet neighborhood is home to many young families, artists, and new arrivals in Barcelona.
Since Gracia is a very family-friendly neighborhood, you’ll have no trouble at all finding a hotel with tons of amenities for you and the kiddos.
One hotel to check out is Casa Bella Garcia. This eco-friendly boutique hotel is situated just 5 minutes away from the Passeig de Gràcia main avenue. Several restaurants, bars, and plazas are all within walking distance from the hotel.
If you’re traveling as a family, consider booking the family or superior suite which can comfortably accommodate four to six people.
View photos and check for availability here
El Born
One of the best locations to stay in Barcelona is the neighborhood of El Born, which is situated in the Ciutat Vella (also known as the Old City).
El Born is home to a number of museums such as the Picasso Museum, Museum of World Cultures, Chocolate Museum, and the European Museum of Modern Art.
It’s not until after dark that this neighborhood really comes to life with countless bars, clubs, and restaurants. If you’re an early sleeper, we don’t suggest hanging around El Born, as dinner seatings start as late as 10 pm and parties only really start at 12 am.
If you plan on staying in El Born, we recommend staying at the Hotel Catalonia Born. This 19th-century building has recently been restored into a charming hotel.
The hotel offers amazing rooftop views, a central courtyard, and easy access to shops, cafés, restaurants, and other attractions in and around the area.
It’s also located just 273 yards (250m) away from the grand Arc de Triomf Metro Station which connects El Born to other parts of the city.
View photos and check for availability here
Barri Gotic
Best for: History and architecture
If you’re hoping to stay in the heart of Barcelona, then you can’t get more central than the medieval Barri Gotic neighborhood.
Located in the city’s Gothic Quarter, the Barri Gotic is considered to be the best place to stay in Barcelona. It is filled with century-old buildings, plazas, and winding streets that give a glimpse of life in medieval times.
Barri Gotic is also filled with beautiful landmarks like the Pont Gotic, restaurants, boutique stores, and outdoor markets.
If you want to stay in the heart of the city but you’re on a bit of a tight budget, consider staying at the Hotel Rialto.
The Hotel Rialto is situated in a historic building where legendary Spanish artist Joan Miro was born in 1893. The hotel is located near Las Ramblas Boulevard, the port, and La Boqueria Market.
Some other attractions near the hotel include the Barcelona Cathedral, Liceu Metro Station, and the Plaza Catalunya, which are all within a short walking distance from the hotel.
View photos and check for availability here
El Raval
Best for: Staying in a group
If you’re traveling in a large group, then the exciting neighborhood of El Raval is a great place to consider for your stay. El Raval sits adjacent to the Barri Gotic neighborhood and is one of the best areas in Barcelona.
The neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures, art, and gastronomical experiences, and is home to attractions such as the MACBA Contemporary Art Museum.
Plus, it has a ton of great accommodation options which include budget-friendly hotels and one-of-a-kind boutique hotels.
The Hotel Regina is a great option to consider if you’re planning on staying in El Raval. The hotel was originally built in 1917 in a royal building on Bergara Street.
This hotel features some stunning 19th-century architecture but also includes clean, modern, and minimalist elements throughout the hotel.
It is conveniently situated 54 yards (50m) from the Plaza Catalunya and Las Ramblas Boulevard. You’ll also find quite a number of restaurants, theaters, and cafés in and around the area.
If you plan on traveling as a group, the hotel offers double rooms, family rooms, connecting family rooms, and a king studio that will comfortably house you and all your friends.
View photos and check for availability here
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Barcelona
Barcelona is an exciting city with loads of things to do and see. With so much to explore, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest up, and the city does not disappoint when it comes to supplying a number of accommodation options.
From family-friendly hotels to budget-friendly accommodation and luxury boutique hotels, you’ll have no problem finding something that’s just right for you.
