Networking in Barcelona for Digital Nomads

Barcelona is a vibrant city that offers a fantastic mix of work, leisure, and networking opportunities for digital nomads. Whether you’re looking to connect with fellow remote workers, attend events, or simply enjoy the city’s rich cultural offerings, Barcelona has something for everyone. 

Yet, we also understand that this huge network can be overwhelming, especially in a city where there is always something going on. Digital nomads from around the globe can feel reassured that Barcelona is English-speaking friendly, making networking that little bit easier. All the events, groups and spaces below work with English as their main language.

In this article, we’ve compiled a guide to help digital nomads network and make connections while in Barcelona.

If you’re a digital nomad planning to stay in Barcelona, or you’ve just arrived, check out our extensive guide to being a digital nomad in Barcelona.

Best Co-Working Spaces in Barcelona

Co-working spaces are excellent for meeting other digital nomads and professionals. Here are some of the top co-working spaces in Barcelona:

• Aticco: Aticco has several locations across Barcelona, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a strong community of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. Their regular networking events and workshops make it easy to connect with others.
• WeWork: WeWork, with multiple locations in the city, provides a professional environment with high-quality amenities. Their community events, happy hours, and networking sessions are great for making new connections.
• Impact Hub Barcelona: Impact Hub focuses on social impact and innovation, making it an ideal place for mission-driven professionals. They host various events, including talks and workshops, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Cloudworks: Cloudworks offers stylish, centrally located spaces with stunning views of the city. They provide a range of networking events and opportunities to engage with other members.
• OneCoWork: OneCoWork is known for its beautiful spaces and strong community. Located in prime areas like Marina Port Vell and Plaça Catalunya, it’s perfect for digital nomads looking to network in a professional setting.

Finding Events Online and Offline

Connecting with other professionals and digital nomads can be done through various platforms and events, both online and offline. A helpful starting point:

• Meetup: Meetup is a great platform for finding events and groups based on your interests. Whether you’re into tech, entrepreneurship, or language exchange, there’s a Meetup group for you.
• Eventbrite: Eventbrite lists numerous events happening in Barcelona, from professional conferences to casual meetups. It’s a good place to find networking opportunities.
• Facebook Groups: Join Facebook groups such as “Digital Nomads Barcelona” and “Barcelona Expat Life.” These groups regularly post about upcoming events and gatherings.
• Co-working Space Events: Many co-working spaces organize their own events, workshops, and networking sessions. Keep an eye on their calendars and participate actively.
• Professional Networks: Platforms like LinkedIn and Internations offer events specifically for professionals and expats. These events are tailored for networking and professional development.

Some of our favorite online groups include: 

• Barccino: a unique English-language collaborative platform for the start-up, tech and innovation communities in Barcelona. Discover information on events, latest news and like-minded entrepreneurial nomads.
• Barcelona Entrepreneurs & Digital Nomads boasts an online community of over 2,000 digital nomads in Barcelona all looking to collaborate and network.
• The Barcelona Digital Nomads group organises co-working days, shares information specific to Barcelona, and focuses on digital networking events and job opportunities.
• The Community of Digital Nomads in Barcelona, or CODINO, is a group of fantastic location-independent workers based in Barcelona. Whether you’re looking to network, for a new business partner, or for help with living in Barcelona in general, this is the place to be.
• Girl Gone International Barcelona is a group specifically for the community of women living and working in Barcelona, offering networking and support.

Where to Meet Other Digital Nomads

There is no shortage of options when it comes to places to meet up in Barcelona. But if you’re new to the city, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are a few suggestions:

• Cafes and Coffee Shops: Barcelona is home to many cafes that are popular among digital nomads, such as Federal Cafe, Nomad Coffee, and Satan’s Coffee Corner. These spots are great for casual networking.
• Beach Areas: Beaches like Barceloneta and Bogatell are not just for relaxation; they’re also popular hangout spots for digital nomads. Look out for beach volleyball games or group meetups.
• Language Exchange Events: Language exchange events are a fantastic way to meet locals and other expatriates. Tandem and Couchsurfing offer regular language exchange meetups in Barcelona.
• Networking Events: Regularly attending networking events and conferences like Barcelona Tech City meetups or startup events can help you meet like-minded professionals.

English-Speaking Communities and Gatherings

Don’t worry if you don’t speak Spanish or Catalan, there are plenty of English-speaking options. Here are a few suggestions: 

• Internations: Internations is a global expat network with a strong presence in Barcelona. They organize regular events and activities, making it easy to meet other English-speaking expatriates.
• Barcelona Expats: This community offers a range of activities and meetups for expatriates. From wine tastings to hiking trips, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with others.
• English Theatre and Comedy Shows: Check out theatres like Teatre Gaudí and the Barcelona Improv Group for English-speaking performances. These events are a great way to enjoy local culture and meet other expats.
• Cinema Events: Yelmo Cines and Cinema Maldà often screen movies in English. Attending these screenings can be a fun way to meet other English-speaking movie enthusiasts. Read our guide to Barcelona’s English cinemas to find out where they’re located. 

Tips for Networking and Making Connections

1. Be Proactive: Don’t wait for networking opportunities to come to you. Be proactive in seeking out events, joining groups, and engaging with others.
2. Follow Up: After meeting someone new, follow up with a message or invite them for a coffee. Building connections requires effort and follow-through.
3. Be Open and Friendly: Barcelona is a friendly city, and being open and approachable can help you make connections more easily. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with strangers at events or cafes.
4. Learn Basic Spanish or Catalan: While many people in Barcelona speak English, knowing some basic Spanish or Catalan phrases can go a long way in building rapport with locals and showing respect for their culture. Here are a few Catalan phrases we think would help you make a great first impression. 
5. Use Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Twitter can be useful for staying updated on events and connecting with other digital nomads. Follow local influencers and event organizers.
6. Volunteer: Volunteering for local events or causes can be a great way to meet people and give back to the community.

Barcelona is a fantastic city for digital nomads, offering numerous opportunities to network, make connections, and enjoy a rich cultural experience. By exploring co-working spaces, attending events, and engaging with the local community, you can build a strong network and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.