Where to Stay in Barcelona (For Sightseeing, Views and Luxury)

Have you decided to head on vacation to the capital of Catalonia in Spain and wondering where to stay in Barcelona? After living in Barcelona for a couple of months and exploring all around the city, I know all the safest places and areas, to hopefully save you the overwhelm.

Barcelona city is a pretty big place with plenty of safe and some rather not-so-safe areas to stay. No matter if you travel as a couple, family with kids, or even solo, here’s all you need to know about where to stay in Barcelona, from the best areas to party, sightseeing, being close to the beach, or in a quiet area.

The Best Areas to Stay in Barcelona

The best area to stay in Barcelona is in the city center, especially if this is your first time in the city. Although there are areas along the beach that are great as well.

The center of Barcelona is considered the following neighbourhoods:

• Gothic Quarter
• El Born
• Eixample

They are the best neighborhoods in Barcelona. All three locations have something different to offer, and I will go into more detail later. They are at the heart of Barcelona and offer convenient access to public transportation, restaurants, and sights to see. Plus, they are pretty safe areas to stay for tourists.

As you can imagine, there are a lot of hotels in Barcelona to choose from, so let’s get started with the best neighborhoods in Barcelona to stay including what each location has to offer to find the right one for you!

1. Where to Stay in Barcelona to Stay for First-Timers: Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter or Barri Gotic is a great place for anyone visiting Barcelona for the first time, including couples and families. It offers easy access to the main city sights, family-friendly restaurants, and parks to unwind and play.

The Gothic Quarter is also a historical and geographic area, which means it has a lot of architectural beauty to offer if you love learning about the city's history. While busy, it's pretty flat, the perfect area for walking. Plus the streets are lined with great places to eat and shop. From the center of the Gothic Quarter, it is only a 20-minute walk in either direction to other popular neighborhoods of Barcelona.

The Best Hotels In The Gothic Quarter

Luxury: Grand Hotel Central

This hotel is great for all kinds of travelers. It offers a great rooftop pool for kids and adults alike, a free minibar that is stocked with snacks for the kids and more adult beverages for mom and dad, a gym, a spa, and so much more. Relax by the pool or use the free Wi-Fi, or take the stress off with a nice massage. This hotel is on the luxurious side and suited for those who travel with deeper pockets.

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Mid-Range: Duquesa de Cardona Hotel 4 Sup

This is a nice mid-range hotel if you're looking for a stay that feels like luxury but doesn't have the price tag. This hotel is located a little closer to the beach, which makes it ideal if you want to spend more time out that way. It offers free Wi-Fi, a fully stocked minibar plus a nice rooftop.

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Budget: Petit Palace Boqueria Garden

The Petit Palace Boqueria Garden is more on our budget side of hotels, but it is still very nice. It is in a 19th-century historic building, making it very beautiful.

It offers a bar set in the private courtyard and a garden with trees over a hundred years old. One thing the hotel is missing is a pool, but if you are here to spend most of your time in the city, you shouldn’t miss the pool that much. The rooms are of average size and offer your traditional amenities such as a flat-screen TV, a safe, and a refrigerator.

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2. Where to Stay in Barcelona For its Famous Nightlife: La Rambla

La Rambla isn’t so much a location as it is a street in the heart of Barcelona. It has very popular nightlife and is great for couples or singles, but it isn’t a very family-friendly location.

I also found while it was alright in the daytime, it isn’t the safest place to stay in Barcelona. I actually would rather pick a hotel on a side street off of La Rambla (actual hotel recommendations are below) and walk or take transportation there if you want to party while in Barcelona. La Rambla. is the street that never sleeps. Beware of pickpockets and other shady business while here.

The Best Hotels Near La Rambla

Luxury: Hotel Bagués

Recently refurbished, this 5-star boutique hotel is just beautiful! You will love the rooftop pool with its fabulous city views and sleep heavenly in the well-decorated rooms.

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Mid-Range: BCN Town Apartments Portaferrissa

This apartment is a nice luxury option and comes fully furnished including a private kitchen and some amazing reviews. The apartments are great for couples who want privacy and a central location for the Barcelona nightlife. It's a safe place to stay within walking distance of all the action.

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Budget: H10 Raco del Pi

This is a mid-range option that would be great for history lovers. It is located inside a 19th-century building with beautiful architectural details. It offers a 9.5 rating, free breakfast, wifi, private parking, and a bar. It is a great place for a couple to unwind after their long day or get their night started before heading to Las Rambla.

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3. Where to Stay in Barcelona for Culture & History: El Raval

El Raval is the place to stay if you want to experience the most out of the city’s culture and history. The neighbourhood has plenty of ethnic food joints, value bars, and sights you won’t get anywhere else. There are also quite a few museums if you are looking to dive into Catalan culture and history.

There is one downside to El Raval. It is known for petty crime. Watch out for uber-friendly people, and if you are traveling with a family, you might want to stay clear of this area. You will find mostly apartments in the area.

The Best Hotels In El Raval

Luxury: Andante Hotel

On the lower end of El Raval near Drassanes Metro Station and walking distance to La Rambla. This hotel has a rooftop pool with great views over Barcelona. The rooms are modern with free Wi-Fi and there's a gym.

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Mid-Range: Old Town Ramblas Apartments

These apartments are a luxury place to stay in a very central within walking distance of lots of great food, music, and bars. The apartments also have wonderfully placed balconies where you enjoy your breakfast with a view in the morning. The apartments are fully furnished and come with a spacious bathroom and kitchen. Great for multiple people traveling together.

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Budget: My Address in Barcelona Downtown

My Address in Barcelona Downtown is a mid-range apartment with free Wi-Fi and is within walking distance of many restaurants in El Raval as well as public transport. The apartments come with a living area that features a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen for those days when you just want to unwind after exploring all the sights and sounds of Barcelona.

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4. Where to Stay in Barcelona For Shopping: El Born

El Born is a great place if you want to spend a little more money on the finer things in life. The neighbourhood has plenty of boutique shopping and nice bars to keep you busy all day. It also offers tasteful street art and music that you can enjoy while strolling the streets.

It is one of the safest places in Barcelona and is central to other parts you might consider spending your time in. This is where to stay in Barcelona if you like to do a lot of shopping.

The Best Hotels In El Born

Luxury: Deco Apartments Barcelona

Great luxury apartments if you're traveling alone or with a partner. They offer one and three-bedroom apartments and are equipped with modern facilities and beautiful decor. Deco Apartments is also very central to a lot of shopping in El Born. It is probably the best hotel to stay in Barcelona for shopping.

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Mid-Range: Borneta

The Borneta is considered one of the best mid-range hotels in Barcelona, Spain. It has a rooftop swimming pool, indoor restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and is a great place to stay with a family or your other half. It is also well-priced making it a great pick if you're looking to save a little money.

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Budget: Residencia Universitaria La Ciutadella

The Residencia Universitaria La Ciutadella is basic but a great budget-friendly option. It is located within walking distance of El Born and the beach.

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5. Where to Stay in Barcelona by the Beach: Barceloneta

Barceloneta is great if you're looking to stay close to the beach. There aren’t a lot of other attractions nearby and in summer it gets crowded here fast! Spanish people just really like the beach.

There are some great local bars and seafood restaurants along the esplanade, but the beach is really the main attraction here. It is a great place to spend a day in the sun. From Barceloneta you can walk into the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla in about 15 minutes.

The Best Hotels In Barceloneta

Luxury: W Barcelona

This is probably one of the most expensive hotels on my list, but it is well worth the money. The W Barcelona sits directly on the beach, and if you get a room facing the beach, you will get a wonderful view in the morning. It is also a little away from all the noise of the main street. Known for its celebrity treatment, you can expect fluffy robes, slippers, a luxury rooftop bar, and so much more.

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Mid-Range: Sofitel Barcelona Skipper

The Sofitel Barcelona Skipper is the mid-range option for staying by the beach. Being in Barceloneta, the main beach of Barcelona, it is still a little on the pricier side of things. It offers a rooftop pool, a lounge area, and spacious rooms. It also faces away from the main street, so there will be less noise in this very busy area.

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Budget: Residencia Universitaria Campus del Mar

This is a budget-friendly hotel located close to the beach, however, it is probably one of the noisier options. You will also want to book in advance since it is one of the less expensive options that gets booked fast. You can choose from basic twin or family rooms, plus there's a fitness center, private kitchen, and comfortable beds.

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6. The Safest Area to Stay in Barcelona: Eixample

Eixample is modern and full of trendy bars, restaurants and other attractions, and overall it is a very safe place to stay in Barcelona. Stay here if you're planning on spending your day sightseeing and shopping.

There are a few cons. Eixample isn’t close to the beach and it features little historical charm, unlike the Gothic Quarter. The streets can also get a little confusing but that's the least of your worries if safety is your main concern. A big plus is however that it's close to the Sagrada Familia.

The Best Hotels In Eixample

Luxury: Sir Victor Hotel

You'll adore the amenities at Sir Victor Hotel, featuring a rooftop pool and bar, a luxurious day spa, and elegantly decorated spacious rooms.

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Mid-Range: Elevated Experience Barcelona

Elevated Experience Barcelona is just as lovely as it sounds. It has a great balcony with a wonderful view of the city and furniture that will make you feel as if you are staying at a luxury resort. It's great for couples, singles, and families alike.

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Budget: Casa Mathilda

Case Mathilda is located within walking distance of everything in Eixample. Gaudi’s La Pedrera is just about 250 meters from this hotel. Set in an old historic building, all rooms come with mods and cons, some even with terrace access and city views. A beautiful Catalan-style breakfast is served every morning.

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7. Where to Stay in Barcelona like a Local & Without the Tourist Crowds: Gracia

Gracia has some of the best places to stay in Barcelona if you are looking for a place without the tourism crowds, perfect to unwind and relax. There are no chain restaurants or noisy bars here. It is also one of the closest neighborhood to the famous Parc Güell up on the hill.

Gracia is the place in Barcelona where you should stay if you want more of a residential and local feeling. You can practice your Spanish by ordering a nice cup of coffee at a local shop and enjoying a cold beer at a cosy restaurant.

The Best Hotels In Gracia

Luxury: Casa Vilaro Park Guell

This hotel offers a beautiful pool surrounded by plants and green grass, a sun terrace, and free Wi-Fi. It is located very close to Gaudi’s Park Guell. This makes it ideal for families, singles, and couples alike. There is even a kitchen with dishwasher, and washer and dryer located in every villa.

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Mid-Range: AB Gracia Sant Salvador

This apartment doesn’t offer as many amenities as the previous option, but it will still provide a relaxing stay. There is a kitchen and lounge area and it is a short 10 to 15-minute walk to Park Guell.

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Budget: Residència Erasmus Gracia

Residencia Erasmus is a budget-friendly option for this area. It has free Wi-Fi and a private bathroom for each room. It is a historical building that offers some beautiful features in every room. Within walking distance to the city and many restaurants as well. Perfect if you are traveling as a single or couple looking to relax after a day of sightseeing, this hotel will get the job done.

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8. Where to Stay in Barcelona on a Budget: Sant Antoni

Sant Antoni should be considered a budget-friendly location in Barcelona. It offers cheaper places to eat and shop. It also doesn’t have many tourists flocking to the area.

Since there are not many tourist attractions, there aren’t a lot of hotels to stay at in the area and it's mostly apartments. This also means you’ll want to book a little more in advance.

The Best Apartments In Sant Antoni

MH Apartments Urban

Air-conditioned one and two-bedroom apartments within minutes of Plaza Espana and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.

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You Stylish Boutique Apartments

You Stylish Boutique Apartments deserves its spot on the list. It offers fully furnished and spacious 3-bedroom apartments to stay close to Magic Fountain and Montjuic in Barcelona. There is free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV and a great option if you're travelling with family or in a group.

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9. Where to Stay in Barcelona for Village Atmosphere & Local Food: El Poble Sec

Sant Antoni should be considered a budget-friendly location in Barcelona. It offers cheaper places to eat and shop. It also doesn’t have many tourists flocking to the area.

Since there are not many tourist attractions, there aren’t a lot of hotels to stay at in the area. This means you’ll want to book somewhere a little more in advance.

The Best Hotels In Poble Sec

Since this area doesn’t offer much variety when it comes to hotel options, here is a more luxurious place to stay and something that will save you a little money.

Mid-Range: Tendency Plaza Espana

You’ll get a great view and a comfortable bed to stay and within walking distance of the main attractions in Poble Sec. This 2-bedroom apartment is air-conditioned and has a living room and two separate bedrooms and bathrooms.

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Mid-Range: Charming Flats by Aspasios

Charming Flats is fairly central on the border between Eixample and Poble Sec, which means you can walk to many things, plus it's near the subway. You will stay in a clean place with a private bathroom. Depending on which apartments you'll choose you also get a spectacular terrace.

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10. The Best Up-And-Coming Area to Stay in Barcelona: El Poblenou

El Poblenou is a laid-back part of the city close to the beach that offers a place to get away from the tourist traps. It’s also an up-and-coming neighbourhood if you want to experience a different side of Barcelona.

It is quieter and offers a lot of newer and beautiful architecture to admire. Plus it has restaurants and shopping to keep you occupied throughout the day. If you want to get away from the noise of the city, this might be one of the best Barcelona places to stay for you!

The Best Hotels In El Poblenou

There are a number of different options for hotels in Poblenou, but most are budget-friendly. If you want a cheaper place to stay on the beach than Barceloneta, this is where you can find the best places to stay.

Luxury: Hotel Arts Barcelona

Since Poble Nou is a cheaper area, you can get the luxury feel without the luxury price tag. Hotel Arts has a lounge area, rooms with large, comfortable beds, and a stone’s throw to the beach. It has a nice pool to escape the crowds at the beach. It is great for families as well. They offer cribs and infant beds for your convenience.

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Mid-Range: Lugaris Beach Apartments

This is another apartment hotel that is great for families. The rooms have a living area, large beds, and there is a pool with views of the ocean. It is a little more budget-friendly than the previous but offers just as many great amenities. It is also located right on Bogatell Beach.

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11. Where to Stay in Barcelona for History & Nature: Montjuic

Montjuic is a more laid-back area in Barcelona. It offers museums, sporting facilities, and a lot of natural landscapes. Here you won’t find as many tourists, and you’ll be able to experience the Catalan culture. The are offers something for couples, singles, and families as well as activities to fit everyone’s budget.

The Best Hotels In Montjuic

The area doesn’t offer much in the way of hotels since it doesn’t have a high number of tourist attractions but below are our choices.

Luxury: InterContinental Barcelona

The InterContinental Barcelona has elegant rooms with all the expected amenities. Located near Barcelona's Magic Fountain, its rooftop terrace provides stunning city views including an outdoor pool and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

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Budget-Friendly: Retro Chic in Poble Sec

Is a budget-friendly option for a hotel in Montjuic just 200 meters from the main street. Since the area doesn’t have many tourist attractions, there aren’t many hotels either. This hotel however will give you a private kitchen, a beautiful view, and a comfortable place to spend your nights.

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Where to Stay in Barcelona – Final Words

It can be very stressful to know where exactly to stay when visiting a new city for the first time. If you don’t know anything about the area, you can end up in a part of Barcelona that isn’t pretty, full of tourists or experience pickpocketing.

This guide is here to help you find a place that fits your needs and will keep you safe while you travel to Spain.