Best neighborhoods to stay in Barcelona
There is a certain reason why Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in the world. Regardless of if you are studying in this city or just visiting it, you will definitely feel the magic of it. The details in the buildings along with the atmosphere of the streets make you never want to leave Barcelona.
The city is quite big and there are many different places to explore. Even though there are many things to see in Barcelona, you should definitely check out these cool neighborhoods in town which are great for students to stay.
THE GOTHIC DISTRICT
The Gothic District is probably one of the most renowned neighborhoods in Barcelona. Situated in the center of the city, El Barrio Gotico showcases the medieval remains of Barcelona, because it is here where the city’s most important historical events took place, including its foundation as a Roman enclave.
No matter where you look, you will see monuments and many street performers. In addition, this district is home to many different events and festivals, which means that it is always animated.
While visiting the Gothic Quarter, you should definitely check out Bar La Plata for old-school tapas, and La Teteria if you want to relax and eat or drink healthy food. In case you want to be in the epicenter of Barcelona´s nightlife, this is probably the place to be!.
Photo: Tokyographer
Tip: You can join our Bodegas and Tapas Tour that immerse travelers into the quintessential world of tapas and drinks
EIXAMPLE
This neighborhood takes its name from the Catalan word that means expansion. It is built outside the old Barcelona medieval walls.
Nowadays, it is home to the most famous monuments in the capital of the Catalonia region, the locals know part of it as the Golden Quarter. I mean, you can’t really talk about Barcelona without mentioning one of Antonio Gaudi’s works of arts. The neighborhood has many buildings designed by the famous architect, including Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, and Casa Balto. Oh, and for lunch or dinner, you should definitely give Cuina d’en Garriga a try. L´Eixample is a great neighborhood to live as a student due to its connectivity and central location.
Tip: in case you are into authentic food and you love tapas, why don’t you take a look at our food experience in Eixample? A tour packed with stories and where the food artisans behind the scenes of local cuisine are ready to greet you.
EL RAVAL
El Raval is one of the cheapest neighborhoods in Barcelona to live. It is quite a multicultural neighborhood as there are many expats living here, more than 60 languages are spoken along its streets. In addition, it is one of the main meeting points for foreigners. Also, here you can find quite a selection of exotic bars.
Oh, and you should also check out La Boqueria market, the most visited one in the world, and spend some time at the eclectic Angels Square where one of the best museums in the city, MACBA (the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona) sets the scene along skaters and graffiti spread along walls. After all, the city is renowned for its art and its artists, so why not give it a try?.
photo: Luis Irisarri
POBLENOU
Poblenou, or literally “New Town” is one of the most industrialized areas of Barcelona. This neighborhood is quickly becoming the new place to be, as there are many creative agencies, co-working spaces, and more and more people are moving to the neighborhood.
If you happen to pass by, check out Nømad Roaster’s Home and Els Pescadors. Oh, and why not a match of volleyball on the beach? Yes, if you choose to live at El Poblenou, you´ll access the Barcelona beach in no time!
GRACIA
Probably the best time of the year to go to the Gracia neighborhood in August. Why? Because this is when the local festivities of the neighborhood take place. Gracia comes to life as both the houses and streets are decorated according to different themes. It is a must see.
The neighborhood is a cool place to live. It used to be a village outside Barcelona, and one way or another it keeps a spirit around it. Young people usually gather around in Plaza del Sol to have a drink on the street, but mostly to hang out. There are also many great bars to check out (like Bobby Gin) and hang out with your friends. The prices are moderate and you can always admire the great views of the city.
EL BORN
Literally the ¨Jousting Field¨, El Born used to be the area in Barcelona packed with merchants and where the aristocracy settled back in medieval days, and once Pablo Picasso in modern times. Nowadays the neighborhood hosts a good number of small museums and art galleries, tapas and wine bars, chic boutiques and an artistic edge. It is somehow an expensive area, but with an irreverent charm.
Go to Barcelona, and do not forget to put these neighborhoods as they are definitely worth checking out.
In case you are moving to Barcelona, we recommend you using a student accommodation service or a room finder that will help you out finding the perfect place to enjoy your stay in this fantastic Mediterranean city. And in case you are hungry for more information about Barcelona, we invite you to immerse yourself into one of Barcelona Eat Local´s culinary adventures. One way or another, you only live once!