The most popular Barcelona neighbourhoods range from the city’s historic quarters to up-and-coming areas designed with the citizen in mind.
In this complete guide to the Barcelona neighbourhoods, we explore the different areas of the city to take sure you don’t miss out on the culture, history and diversity each one brings.
Whether you’re looking for a jam-packed afternoon in areas bustling with tourists and locals alike or a quiet stroll along the beach, Barcelona and its neighbourhoods have something for everyone.
Table of Contents
El Gòtic or the Gothic quarter
Arguably the most historic of the Barcelona neighbourhoods, here you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time. Discover the origins of the city and its Roman ruins at the Museu d’Història and get lost exploring in its charming medieval streets with artisan stores and hidden bars and cafés.
The true heart of the city is also home to Barcelona’s stunning cathedral in Gothic Catalan style, the Pont del Bisbe bridge – one of the city’s most photographed spots – and Plaça Reial, a stunning square and popular nightlife spot. Discover our one-day guide to the Gothic quarter here.
Our modern three-bedroom Macca apartment is located in this Barcelona neighbourhood steeped in history and is a perfect choice to explore it.
El Born
El Born is one of our favourite Barcelona neighbourhoods and if you’ve read our Born guide you’ll know why: picturesque squares, thought-provoking museums, traditional bars and innovative eateries, not forgetting its alternative boutiques.
If you’re looking for things to do in El Born, we’d recommend going to a concert at the Palau de la Música concert hall to experience this modernist gem in all its glory. The Basilica Santa Maria del Mar is one of the city’s oldest churches with stunning stained glass windows, and makes for the perfect afternoon plan.
Eixample Dreta and Eixample Esquerra
This expansion district has become synonymous with Barcelona. We can’t get enough of its stunning architecture, wide avenues and sophisticated vibe. This Barcelona neighbourhood spans north of Plaça de Catalunya, encompassing Passeig de Gràcia – with either side being referred to as ‘Right’ (Dreta) and ‘Left’ (Esquerra).
This extensive neighbourhood has something for everyone, from shopping for the latest luxury brands, discovering art at the Fundació Antoni Tàpies, or marvelling at masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí – including Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and the Sagrada Família.
You can discover more about this beautiful area our complete guide to Eixample here. And if you’ve fallen in love with Eixample Esquerra, we’d recommend staying in our romantic ArtBlue penthouse with two bedrooms.
Gràcia
One of the most charming of the Barcelona neighbourhoods is Gràcia: once the holiday destination of those who lived in the centre of the city, this small village was eventually engulfed by the metropolis and now forms part of it.
Explore this Barcelona neighbourhood on foot to soak up its village atmosphere and enjoy its pretty squares. It’s also home to Gaudí’s first project: the summerhouse of Casa Vicens, and it’s also within walking distance of the marvellous Parc Güell.
Barceloneta and Port Vell
Once the fishing quarter of the city, this Barcelona neighbourhood is now one of the most popular given its seafront location. This urban beach area is also perfect for catching some rays, playing volley ball and exploring its numerous outdoor brunch stops, coffee shops, bars and restaurants.
Barceloneta is also close to the city’s Port Vell (Old Port) at the end of La Rambla, the Maritime Museum and the city’s aquarium, a perfect plan for those visiting with family.
To explore this Barcelona neighbourhood more, we’d recommend our stunning one-bedroom Colonial apartment on Passeig Colom, which combines traditional elements with modern design.
Raval
One of the most alternative, multicultural Barcelona neighbourhoods, Raval is brimming with street vibe. Home to cultures from all over the world, this area enjoys great diversity – visible above all in its diverse cuisine, second-hand stores and eclectic bars.
Raval is also home to MACBA – the Contemporary Art Museum of Barcelona – which celebrates the most up-and-coming artists with regular exhibitions and workshops. This wonderful neighbourhood also runs parallel to one of the most famous streets in Barcelona – La Rambla. Our three-bedroom Parsifal apartment is just off the La Rambla and steps away from its Liceu Opera House, which opened in 1847.
