Visiting Barcelona has been my dream since I was a college student, and it’s finally coming true. Choosing where to stay in Barcelona was a key question because I had never traveled to Spain before. Hundreds of hotels and rental apartments can be found online, but selecting the best hotel in the right place is crucial to make our trip enjoyable and stress-free. So, I spent days finding the best hotels in Barcelona in ideal locations and prepared this guide on the best places to stay in Barcelona as a tourist to help you save time.
Generally, Barcelona is a safe and welcoming city for tourists, with many beaches, museums, hotels, and other attractions. It stands among the top tourist destinations not only in Europe, but also in the entire world. Staying here won’t be difficult, as so many well-reputed hotels offer accommodation to tourists. As a tourist, I always choose a hotel located in the city center or near the tourist attractions to save money and time.
Locations & Hotels: Where To Stay In Barcelona?
Barcelona is a big city along the Mediterranean Sea, but I found that only the old city and its nearby neighborhoods are the best areas for tourists to stay. We booked a hotel in advance for a week in the El Raval district, located near La Rambla. Then we researched other excellent hotels and found one in La Barceloneta, and stayed there until the end of our trip. Based on our research on where to stay in Barcelona, below are the best areas for tourists visiting the city for the first time:
- The Gothic Quarter
- L’Eixample
- La Barceloneta
- El Raval
- El Born
- Poblenou
- Gràcia
Let’s discuss the hotels, things to do, places to visit, and pros and cons of staying in these areas one by one:
The Gothic Quarter: Best Area For First-Time Visitors
The Gothic Quarter is locally known as Barri Gòtic, and it’s the old city center of Barcelona. It’s rich in history and preserves the architectural beauty and cultural heritage of Barcelona’s Medieval past. Staying here means easy access to most of the tourist attractions in the city. The streets and roads are perfect for strolling and exploring. The Gothic Quarter is also known for its bars, cafes, and small shops, which makes it a perfect place for first-time visitors.
We also considered the Gothic Quarter when planning where to stay in Barcelona, but chose El Raval for certain reasons. Even though we thought about booking a hotel in the Gothic Quarter when traveling from the Barcelona Airport to the City Center. We had already booked a hotel in El Raval, so we decided to go with our original plan. However, it’s a great place for history lovers, and tourists exploring Barcelona for the first time.
Best Hotels in The Gothic Quarter
Along with many historical places, the Quthic Quarter is also home to well-reputed hotels where tourists can stay during their trip. Living here could be one of the greatest experiences in Barcelona. We found the following hotels to be the best to stay in Barcelona for tourists:
- Mercer Hotel Barcelona: It’s a 5-star monument hotel that provides excellent services to its guests. The beautiful architecture and internal atmosphere of the hotel offer a memorable, pleasant stay in the city. Many tourist attractions are located within walking distance, which makes the hotel a preferable choice when deciding where to stay in Barcelona.
- Lamaro Hotel Barcelona: Another one of the best hotels in Barcelona is Lamaro Hotel, which is located in the heart of the city. It’s also a 5-star hotel, good for enjoying a luxury stay in Barcelona. It’s close to Barcelona Cathedral and other tourist places.
- Hotel Arai: It’s a 4-star boutique hotel located in an ideal location in the Gothic Quarter. The hotel is established in an 18th-century building, where historic charm and modern comforts are perfectly combined.
- Olivia Plaza Hotel: This 4-star superior hotel offers well-decorated single, double, triple rooms, and superior suites with magnificent views of Plaza Catalunya. The complimentary services include free Wi-Fi, welcome drinks, parking, and much more. Many places to visit in Barcelona are located near the hotel, which makes it the best option for accommodation.
- Hotel Denit: Looking for an affordable place to stay? Then Hotel Denit is a must-consider option when planning where to stay in Barcelona. It’s a 3-star boutique hotel that consists of 36 rooms and is located in an ideal location in the city center.
Things To Do In The Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is the oldest and central area of the city and offers many historical places to visit. Staying in the city center never gets you bored, as the real charm and lively life in Barcelona can be experienced here. Following is a list of things to do in the Gothic Quarter:
- Explore the Roman walls and ancient ruins
- Visit the Pissaco Museum
- Explore the Barcelona Cathedral
- Take a round of Plaça Reial
- Walk along Carrer del Bisbe
- Visit La Boqueria Market
Pros and Cons of Staying in The Gothic Quarter
Pros
- Experience the historical charm
- Close to the top tourist attractions
- Many bars, cafes, and restaurants are available
- Located in the center of the city
- Both budget and luxury hotels are available
Cons
- Cars are not allowed on many streets
- It can be crowded in busy hours
L’Eixample: Barcelona’s Modern and Stylish District
Experience modern living in Barcelona by choosing L’Eixample for your stay. It’s one of the best places to stay in Barcelona due to its central location and easy access to top tourist attractions. It’s a more central location than the Gothic Quarter, but with a modern and stylish atmosphere that attracts tourists. Some of Antoni Gaudí’s architectural miracles are located here, including the Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. The historical architecture of Sagrada Familia is also located here, and many tourists prefer staying nearby.
Best Hotels in L’Eixample
L’Eixample is much bigger than other neighborhoods and offers a wide range of accommodation, from budget and average to luxury options. The majority of tourists prefer staying in L’Eixample due to cleanliness, safety, and central location. That’s why finding accommodation here can be challenging during peak tourist season. We visited many hotels here and found the following to be the best for tourists:
- El Palace Hotel Barcelona: It’s one of the most luxurious hotels in Barcelona, located just a few steps away from Passeig de Gràcia. It was opened in 1919 and has continued its tradition of providing elegant accommodations ever since. The stunning exterior also influences the decision when planning where to stay in Barcelona.
- Gran Hotel Calderón: Enjoy a luxurious stay in Gran Hotel Calderón, which is a project by Hotel NH Collection Barcelona. This 5-star hotel needs no introduction as it is itself a big name in the hotel industry. We visited the Hotel NH Collection in Copenhagen while researching where to stay in Copenhagen. So, we were curious to visit it and found its services and facilities met our expectations.
- SM Hotel San Antoni: To experience modern life and a contemporary atmosphere at an affordable price, SM Hotel is the best option. It’s located in a premium location in the Eixample district. It’s a 3-star hotel that offers simple, clean, and well-furnished rooms with complimentary services.
- Seventy Barcelona: The Seventy Barcelona is a 4-star hotel, but it offers much more than a typical 4-star hotel. The stylish design, luxurious interior, and excellent services make it the best among all. It provides a calm, relaxing environment in the middle of the city, which makes it perfect for travelers seeking comfort and peace.
- Hotel Ohla Eixample Barcelona: It’s one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain with many awards recognizing its hospitality, structure, and experiences. It offers stylish rooms where travelers can stay with comfort and enjoy their vacations.
Things To Do In L’Eixample
L’Eixample is one of my favorite places to stay in Barcelona because it offers modern living, excellent restaurants, and easy access to other parts of Barcelona. It’s home to many attractions that are a must-visit for tourists. Many things to do and places to visit are available in the L’Eixample district, which are as follows:
- Visit the Sagrada Familia
- Admire Antoni Gaudí’s architecture, including Casa Batlló and Casa Milà
- Take a walk in clean streets
- Enjoy sightseeing of modern, stylish architecture
- Explore Passeig de Gràcia
- Enjoy dining in renowned restaurants
- Enjoy Barcelona’s vibrant nightlife
- Shop from boutiques and international brands
Pros and Cons of Staying in L’Eixample
Pros
- Home to the top tourist attractions
- Modern and clean area
- Well-connected with other parts of Barcelona via public transport
- Easy to find delicious food
- Central location
Cons
- Expensive area
- Too many commercial activities
La Barceloneta: Best For Beach Lovers & Waterfront Stays
I’ve explored many beautiful and luxurious places to stay in Europe, including Paris, but never experienced a neighbourhood as lively and beautiful as La Barceloneta. La Barceloneta comes first to mind while deciding where to stay in Barcelona for beach lovers. Staying here means the Mediterranean Sea is just a few steps away from your hotel. It’s an expensive but perfect place to stay for a family vacation. Every tourist must visit this area, so don’t hesitate to get accommodation here if your budget allows.
Best Hotels in La Barceloneta
La Barceloneta is known as one of the most luxurious and modern areas of Barcelona, but only a few luxury hotels and resorts are located here. Tourists rank this area among the best places to stay in Barcelona. It’s home to some iconic waterfront hotels and resorts where tourists can enjoy stunning sea views and lively life on the beach. Consider the following hotels located in Barceloneta when planning where to stay in Barcelona:
- W Barcelona: It’s a beautiful 5-star hotel located on the beach. It offers luxurious rooms and suites with seaside views from the window. Its rooftop nightclub is the best place to enjoy music, dance, and have drinks with your partners.
- Sofitel Barcelona Skipper: Another 5-star option for a classic stay with comfort is Hotel Sofitel Barcelona Skipper. We were warmly welcomed by the staff, who interacted with us in a cheerful manner. The rooms are well-furnished, and the beds are comfortable, which are the essential requirements for travelers.
Things To Do In La Barceloneta
Living near the seaside is always full of fun and happiness, and Barceloneta offers even more with its beautiful beach and lively streets. Although it’s an expensive area, there is no reason to avoid staying here if you can afford it. The best thing to do in Barceloneta is, of course, enjoying the beach, but there are many other activities to explore, which are as follows:
- Enjoy sunbathing at the beach
- Try freshly cooked seafood and paella at restaurants
- Stroll through La Barceloneta Market
- Enjoy the nightlife at rooftop bars and nightclubs
- Enjoy sunrise and sunset over the water.
- Don’t miss an opportunity to enjoy water sports
- Walk along the shore
Pros and Cons of Staying in La Barceloneta
Pros
- Best for waterfront stays
- Modern and luxurious lifestyle
- A more relaxing environment than the central areas
- Best place to enjoy seafood
Cons
- It can be crowded in summer
- Expensive and limited living options
El Raval: A Vibrant Neighborhood of Barcelona
It’s the area where we stayed for a week and found it to be one of the best places to stay in Barcelona. The famous tourist street “La Rambla” and many other tourist spots are located here. The area is surrounded by central and busy neighborhoods, including the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla, and it’s also adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea. El Raval offers both historical and modern living, which makes it a perfect place to stay for travelers.
Make sure to book a hotel here if you want to live in Barcelona like a local. Despite all of this, I don’t think it’s a good place to stay with family and kids, as it can be a busy and noisy area.
Best Hotels in El Raval
El Raval is a residential area and is one of the best places to stay in Barcelona to experience local life. Many excellent hotels offer a range of budget-friendly, stylish accommodation options in El Raval. We decided to stay near La Rambla, and that’s why we booked a hotel in El Raval. Below are the best hotels to stay in El Raval:
- Barcelo Raval: It’s a big 4-star hotel that offers some premium facilities to its guests, such as a fitness center, solarium, and a pool on a 360° terrace. Rooms are beautifully designed to provide comfort, privacy, and a relaxing environment.
- Hotel Casa Camper: We stayed here for a week, and it was a comfortable, enjoyable experience with amazing facilities. Room service was efficient, and all the staff were professional and friendly. Major tourist attractions are also easily accessible from the hotel.
- Casa Lit Barcelona: It’s located near the Mediterranean Sea and many other tourist-friendly places. This 3-star hotel offers accommodation with necessary amenities at affordable prices. Your safety, privacy, and comfort are their top priorities.
- Hotel 1898: It’s a 4-star hotel located right on the famous La Rambla street. The hotel is established in a historical building, but offers modern luxuries like elegant rooms, a spa, and a rooftop pool on a terrace. Plaça de Catalunya and the Gothic Quarter are easily accessible from the hotel.
Things To Do In El Raval
Knowing the things to do in El Raval will definitely influence your decision about where to stay in Barcelona. El Raval is a residential area adjacent to central areas, including L’Eixample and the Gothic Quarter. That’s why there are many activities available for tourists. Some of them are listed below:
- Walk along La Rambla street
- Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA)
- Buy fresh food from La Boqueria Market
- Enjoy shopping at local shops
- Try local food, coffee, and other drinks in local cafes
Pros and Cons of Staying in El Raval
Pros
- Best place for foodies
- Best place to experience local life
- Many hidden gems can be found
- Nightlife is amazing
Cons
- Not good for families
- Loud and crowded on weekends
El Born: Enjoy The Artistic Vibes And Historic Charm
El Born is surrounded by all the above-discussed neighborhoods except El Raval, so there is no reason not to consider this area when planning where to stay in Barcelona. History, culture, and modern life are perfectly combined in this area to create a unique atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Some part of El Born faces the waterfront, which makes it one of the best places to stay in Barcelona with sea views. We visited this area many times to explore its medieval streets and amazing cafes and restaurants. El Born is popular among tourists for its central location, rich history, and cultural attractions.
Best Hotels in El Born
El Born is famous for enjoying nightlife in Barcelona, which means it’s not an ideal place for tourists with families. It’s a small area but offers many affordable accommodation options. Barcelona Zoo, the Chocolate Museum, and many other tourist spots will be within walking distance if you book a hotel here. Some of the best hotels for travelers in El Born are:
- Numa Seda Barcelona: It’s a 3-star hotel serving tourists in Barcelona with hospitality and comfort. Major tourist attractions aren’t far from the hotel, and the metro station is also nearby, which makes it an ideal option for budget travelers.
- Borneta: Enjoy a 4-star stay in Hotel Borneta, located a few steps away from Barcelona Zoo. Rooms are simple but well-furnished, and the staff is welcoming and professional. All necessary amenities are offered to guests to offer them a comfortable, relaxing stay.
- Pensión Ciudadela: Another great option to consider when deciding where to stay in Barcelona is Pensión Ciudadela. It’s a 3-star hotel that offers a family-friendly, peaceful environment to travelers. Rooms are well-decorated and well-maintained to ensure a clean, cozy, and relaxing stay.
- Park Hotel: This 3-star hotel is worth considering while deciding where to stay in Barcelona for many reasons. Park Hotel is housed in a historical building in a prime location near the zoo and Barceloneta beach. Don’t miss the panoramic views from the rooftop pool area.
Things To Do In El Born
El Born is one of the best places to stay in Barcelona for its central location and vibrant atmosphere. Strolling through the narrow streets makes you feel like you’re visiting Rome. Many historical and cultural places, as well as modern architecture, are here, where tourists can learn about the Spanish culture and traditions. Some family-friendly activities are also available, which make it a preferable area when planning where to stay in Barcelona. Some important things to do in El Born are:
- Visit the historic Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
- Admire the artworks in the Picasso Museum
- Relax in Parc de la Ciutadella
- Visit the Barcelona Zoo
- Explore local markets and shops
- Enjoy El Born’s nightlife
- Enjoy cocktails in bars
- Walk towards Barceloneta and experience sea views
Pros and Cons of Staying in El Born
Pros
- Best for shopping
- Rich history and culture
- Small and walkable area
- Great dining options
- Adjacent to City Center
Cons
- Expensive area
- Narrow and busy streets
- Limited parking space
Poblenou: A Modern & Peaceful Neighborhood
Poblenou is a little-known, but one of the best places to stay in Barcelona. It would be a top priority during your search for where to stay in Barcelona if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Poblenou is located at some distance from the city center, and its streets are wide, clean, and less crowded as compared to other central areas. This area is not only famous for its relaxing environment, but also for the best bars, cafes, and restaurants. Tourists living in other areas come here just to enjoy Tapas at local restaurants. The waterfront views in Poblenou are amazing because of its pretty beach.
Best Hotels in Poblenou
Finding a good hotel in Poblenow won’t be a problem because the area is located in a part of the city where not many tourists stay. That’s why you can get accommodation here cheaper than in other parts of the city. We visited some hotels in Poblenou and found the following best to stay for tourists:
- Eurohotel Diagonal Port: Enjoy your trip to Barcelona by choosing Eurohotel Diagonal Port when deciding where to stay in Barcelona. It offers beautiful sea views from your room’s window. Hotel management ensures you a comfortable, safe, and secure accommodation during your trip.
- Hotel Best 4: It’s a beautiful hotel located near the Bogatell Beach. Hotel Best 4 offers all necessary amenities along with luxury services such as a fitness center, spa, air conditioning, luggage storage, and many more. It’s one of the best places to stay in Barcelona, as it offers a peaceful environment and easy access to the beach.
- Acta Voraport: This 3-star hotel can also be a good option while deciding where to stay in Barcelona, as it offers affordable accommodation and easy access to other parts of the city. Its rooftop pool and terrace make it feel like more than a 3-star hotel.
- Four Points by Sheraton Barcelona Diagonal: It’s a Marriott Hotels project that needs no introduction. The friendly and welcoming staff, a clean and safe environment, and comfortable rooms make it one of the best hotels in Barcelona for families.
Things To Do In Poblenou
El Poblenou is a laid-back district in Barcelona that offers many things to do for tourists. It’s an underrated area that isn’t visited by many tourists exploring Barcelona. It’s important to mention the beachside beauty of this area, which adds to its charm and enjoyable atmosphere. After visiting Poblenou, we were amazed and wondered why this place isn’t popular among tourists, because we experienced a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and enjoyed some tasty local cuisine. Below is a short list of things to do in El Poblenow:
- Enjoy swimming in Bogatell Beach
- Walk or cycle in Parc del Poblenou
- Stroll along Rambla del Poblenou
- Explore the street art and performances
- Visit local bars and restaurants to enjoy local drinks, desserts, and meals
- Take photos in front of the Glòries Tower
Pros and Cons of Staying in El Poblenou
Pros
- Affordable accommodation
- Home to the best restaurants and bars
- Beautiful waterfront
- Calm and relaxing environment
Cons
- Far from Central Barcelona
- Fewer luxury accommodation options
Gracia: The Artistic Heart of Barcelona
Another one of the best places to stay in Barcelona is Gracia, which is home to Park Güell and many other tourist places. What makes Gràcia the best for tourists is its local charm, cultural places, and calm atmosphere away from the noisy city center. The southern edge of Gracia is very close to the iconic Sagrada Familia, while the northern part is hilly and more beautiful. If you’re looking for a quieter place while still being close to major tourist attractions, then you should prefer Gracia when deciding where to stay in Barcelona.
Best Hotels in Gracia
Gracia is a great place to stay in Barcelona for budget travelers because many cost-efficient accommodation options are available here. Whether you want to stay close to Sagrada Familia or stay up in the mountains to enjoy city views from the top, Gracia is a perfect choice. Below are some of the best hotels in Gracia:
- Le Palacete by Sweett: Enhance your experience by staying in Le Palacete Hotel, where you can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere, modern amenities, and a beautiful interior. It’s located near the Sagrada Familia, which means easy access to Barcelona’s top tourist spot.
- Hotel Catalonia Park Güell: It’s a 3-star hotel located near the famous Park Güell. There are many reasons to consider it when planning where to stay in Barcelona, besides its location. It offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and many other amenities that can make your trip enjoyable.
- Radisson Blu 1882 Hotel: Want to stay very close to Sagrada Familia? Radisson Blu 1882 is a perfect choice for you. It’s located just 250 meters away from the iconic landmark. This 4-star hotel takes care of its guests by offering excellent services, modern facilities, and a comfortable stay.
- Balmoral Hotel: It’s one of the best hotels to stay in Barcelona. Balmoral Hotel is housed in a modern building and offers a 4-star stay to tourists. You can enjoy luxury services such as a spa, Turkish bath, gym, buffet breakfast, and many other amenities by staying here.
Things To Do In Gracia
Gracia is a beautiful neighborhood of Barcelona, which is famous for its Bohemian atmosphere, lovely plazas, and artistic vibes. The hilly area is perfect for watching the whole of Barcelona from the top. Staying in Gracia means experiencing the artistic and cultural side of the city. Travelers can enjoy cheaper accommodations while staying near the top tourist attractions. Gracia is one of the best places to stay in Barcelona for families. It offers many things to do for fun and relaxation. Some of them are as follows:
- Discover the colorful mosaics in Park Güell
- Enjoy shopping in Carrer de Verdi
- Explore Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia
- Visit Casa Vicens
- Try tapas at local restaurants
- If visiting in August, attend the Festa Major de Gràcia
Pros and Cons of Staying in Gracia
Pros
- Affordable accommodation
- Close to major tourist attractions
- Best area for families
- Stylish restaurants and bars
Cons
- Not a central location
- Walking in hilly streets can be difficult
Where Not To Stay In Barcelona
Preparing yourself on where to stay in Barcelona is as important as knowing where not to stay in Barcelona. Barcelona is generally a tourist-friendly city, but some areas may not be ideal for travelers for certain reasons. The crime rate is high in some areas, and some are very far from tourist places. Staying in such places can ruin your trip and make it difficult to enjoy your vacation. Booking a hotel in such areas should be on your things not to do in Barcelona list. We found the following areas not best for travelers:
- Nou Barris: Staying in Nou Barris isn’t recommended for first-time travelers because it’s not located in the central city. Major tourist attractions are far away from here, which means a waste of money and time.
- Sant Andreu: It’s also not a good place for first-time travelers because of the distance from major tourist attractions and being a local residential area, where tourists don’t have many things to do. So, don’t consider it when planning where to stay in Barcelona.
- Sants Montjuïc: Tourists come to Barcelona for fun and enjoyment, but Sants Montjuïc is a quieter and less convenient area. Don’t consider it when planning where to stay in Barcelona if you’re traveling for the first time or with family.
- Sant Gervasi – Galvany: Distance from the city center, high crime rate, and local atmosphere make it not an ideal choice to stay in Barcelona. The hilly terrains in some parts and fewer entertainment options are also the reasons behind not recommending it for staying in Barcelona.
Travel Resources Used By Travelingsters
Hotel Booking: booking.com
Guided Tours: getyourguide.com
Airport Transfers: Welcome Pickups
Bicycle Tour: Donkey Bike Tour
VPN: Nord VPN
Online Taxi Services: Taxi Barcelona, Uber
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
Making our travel perfect is our biggest priority because we spend money on it. Spending some time looking for the best places can help you get accommodation in the right place to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable. We research where to stay in Barcelona before arrival and choose a location in central Barcelona near La Rambla. It was our great decision to stay there as it made our trip more convenient, enjoyable, and comfortable. We visited dozens of hotels in Barcelona to prepare this guide for you. We hope it will help you choose the best places to stay in Barcelona for your trip.
