Where to Stay in Barcelona: 6 Areas & Hotels w. Price (2024)

Hola amigos! Hope you’re ready for an incredible guide on where to stay in Barcelona! I lived in this wonderful city for a couple of years and I am happy to share my guide about the 6 most amazing areas to stay in for tourists. 

Shortly, Barrio Gotico is the best place to stay in Barcelona, with fab attractions and hotels! But I went the extra mile and compared a myriad of accommodation options to give you the best picks in all the neighborhoods!

The hotels that made it to my list are also sorted by price so literally anyone can find something good that suits their budget, and in literally 2 clicks!

Your only task is to book your hotels in advance! Barcelona is not cheap, and good accommodation will surely sell out super early!

If you’re in a hurry…

Here is the short list of the best hotels in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter:

• Best luxury hotel – Hotel The Serras
• Best mid-range hotel – Catalonia Portal de l’Angel
• Best budget hotel – Onix Liceo 

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Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

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Which area should you choose?

Check out this Barcelona neighborhood map that will help you visualize all the areas I’ll talk about in this post:

Barcelona is divided into 10 official areas named “districts,” and all are super different! 

But fear not! Today, I’ll help you find the 6 most amazing ones for tourists:

• Where to stay in Barcelona for first-timers: Gothic Quarter
• Best area to stay in Barcelona for families: La Barceloneta
• Best place to stay for luxury: Eixample
• Where to stay for nightlife: El Born
• Best neighborhood for a local vibe: El Raval
• Best area to stay in Barcelona for relaxation: Gracia

1. Barrio Gotico (Gothic Quarter) – best place for first-timers

Barrio Gotico, also known as Barri Gòtic or the Gothic Quarter, is actually one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and is the Old City Center!

This is a very touristy area, buzzing with shops, museums, events, and notable attractions like the Barcelona Cathedral (Cathedral of the Holy Cross) and ancient Roman walls. 

The famous avenue La Rambla is the center of this neighborhood, and you can also find the popular La Boqueria Market there – one of the most famous food halls, where you can go to buy authentic ingredients and food! 

What I loved about this neighborhood was its authenticity. It really lives up to its name “gotico”! The narrow alleys and cobblestone streets will awaken the inner artist in everyone!

PRO TIP: since Barcelona is so crowded at times, I highly recommend checking this post, which has tips on how to skip lines to the most famous attractions in town!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Hotel The Serras – Pablo Picasso lived in this building! Now the 5-star hotel is a dream come true for all tourists! I am sure you will fall in love with the rooftop infinity pool, the Michelin-starred restaurant, and the beautifully decorated rooms!
•  The Wittmore – I love the elegant design of the rooms at this hotel, which offers amazing city views! The adults-only hotel features an outdoor swimming pool where you can catch scenic sunsets and a restaurant. 

Mid-range (€100 – €200)

• Catalonia Avinyo – enjoy your coffee by the rooftop pool of this hotel, which has bright and modern rooms! The accommodation also offers a delicious breakfast and a fitness center. 
• Catalonia Portal de l’Angel – set in a 19th-century building, this hotel offers an outdoor pool, great breakfast options, and lots of nice spots for shopping and dining around. Their rooms are simple yet super chic, and some even have city views!

Budget (up to €100)

• Hostal Benidorm – here’s a great and affordable place in the Gothic Quarter that is set within walking distance from the beach. The rooms are clean and modern, and you can even stay and relax in the lounge area.
• Onix Liceo – a budget hotel that has spacious rooms with a flat-screen TV. When you’re not out and about, chill by the pool or on the terrace.

2. La Barceloneta – best area for families

Want to spend as much time at the beach as possible? Then there’s no better place than La Barceloneta!

That’s right, here you’ll find a very long coastline with fabulous beaches where you can enjoy the Spanish sun and swim all day!

Barceloneta is also a great spot for families as it has such fun attractions like the Aquàrium Barcelona, which is one of the best things to do with kids in the city! Let’s be honest for grownups, too!

Another great thing about this area is that you’ll find many seafood restaurants where you can taste the real Spanish cuisine, think Gazpacho, Paella, oh yum!

NOTE: while La Barceloneta is generally a family-friendly area, you should know that Port Olimpic has the best nightclubs in Barcelona, so expect loud music and maybe some tipsy people. 

Luxury (€250 and up)

• W Barcelona – this hotel is a huge landmark! You can notice its sail-like structure from afar! The accommodation offers a spa center where you can relax, a fab infinity pool, and rooms with breathtaking views of the beach!
• Hotel Arts Barcelona – one of the best boutique hotels in Barceloneta on the beach that stands up with its cool outdoor pools, panoramic city views, and incredible spa where you can completely relax after a day of exploring the town!

Mid-range (€150 – €250)

• Permar Playa – jump from your bed straight on the beach while staying at this super-comfy hotel that offers spacious apartments with a kitchen, a seating area, and free Wi-Fi.
• Som Nit Born – this is a beautiful guest house, only a 10 minutes walk from the beach, located in the middle of a wide range of tapas bars and restaurants that serve traditional Spanish cuisine!

Budget (up to €150)

• Hotel 54 Barceloneta – enjoy the marina views from your room at this hotel that comes with a modern design, a terrace, and a bar where you can chill after a day at the beach!
• Barceloneta Beach & Sight Apartment – an amazing beachfront apartment for 3 people, fully equipped kitchen and a cute living room area. A great value for money!

3. Eixample – nicest area in Barcelona for luxury

Honestly, this one is by far one of the best neighborhoods in Barcelona! 

Eixample was built on a grid system called “superblock.” It’s geometric, and some of the best city planners worked on it. 

I myself lived in Eixample – it felt like I was in an open-air museum filled with incredible attractions like Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces, Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, and La Pedrera! 

Famous Avenida Diagonal cuts through the geometrical superblock and it is super convenient since most of the attractions I mentioned above are located on that street. 

In terms of accommodation, as you’d expect, most options here are luxurious, making it the perfect place for those who want to splurge on this holiday. 

Luxury (€300 and up)

• Monument Hotel – set in Enric Batllo’s house from the 19th century, just a 5 min walk away from Casa Batllo and La Pedrera. This hotel offers a Michelin-starred restaurant, elegant rooms, and a spa center!
• Ohla Eixample – when I said that Eixample has some of the best boutique hotels in the city, I wasn’t kidding! During your stay here, you will be spoiled with a heated outdoor pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and gorgeous, spacious rooms!

Mid-range (€200 – €300)

• Ona Hotels Mosaic – an amazing hotel with air-conditioned and spacious rooms with a private terrace! Located in a historic building in the heart of Rambla Catalunya, the hotel is also very close to Gaudi’s houses, Passeig de Gràcia, and tons of tapas bars.
• HCC St. Moritz – this modern hotel boasts super comfy rooms with lots of space! You’ll also find a restaurant that serves breakfast and a bar. By the way, staying here means you’ll be close to unmissable attractions.

Budget (up to €200)

• Rodamon Barcelona Hostel – set in a 19th-century building, this hostel offers simple rooms and dorms with access to a communal lounge area and kitchen. A great place to make international friends!
• 360 Hostel Barcelona Arts & Culture – here’s another good hostel with nice rooms. You’ll also have access to a shared kitchen and a terrace. This hostel is super close to Placa de Catalunya, so you can rest assured that you are close to Barcelona’s heart.

4. El Born – best zone to stay in Barcelona for nightlife

Are you a night owl looking to dance the night away? Then search no more, as El Born is the best area to stay in Barcelona for young adults looking to party, Spanish style! 

Paradiso is truly one of my favorite speak-easies in the WORLD, check it out (I think it is in the list of top 50 bars in the world). The entrance is through a fridge door and coctalks are super fun!

Check out my post on the best places to go out in Barcelona for more options. 

I advise you to take advantage of the daytime and explore the streets in this area! You’ll find attractions like Santa Caterina Market, a food hall almost as popular as Boqueria, and the Picasso Museum, which is a must-see! 

TIP: if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions while in town, you could buy one of the city passes! Find the best deal in our detailed comparison of Barcelona passes.

NOTE: if you have your heart set on El Born, bear in mind that it is a very lively and busy area, so expect a lot of noise and watch your belongings.

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Doquesa Suites – set in a building from the 18th century, just a 6-minute walk from the beach, this hotel has super chic and clean rooms with access to a cool rooftop pool where you can catch some incredible sunsets and swim!
• H10 Port Vell – start your night on the rooftop terrace of this hotel that has a pool, or head straight to the bar on-site for some pre-drinks! The hotel offers a restaurant and rooms with a mini-bar.

Mid-range (€120 – €200)

• Ciutat de Barcelona – one of the best affordable boutique hotels that has a rooftop swimming pool, a restaurant, and stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi where you can relax after a night out in town! 
• Barcelona Hotel Colonial – close to the beach and some attractions, this great hotel offers beautiful rooms with large windows and wooden floors. Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast on-site before heading out!

Budget (up to €120)

• Factory Gardens Barcelona – the rooms of this hotel are very simple and clean and will offer everything you need for your stay, including free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.
• Pension Ciudadela – sleep like a baby after a night of partying in Barcelona’s clubs in these hotel rooms, which offer a TV and a private balcony.

5. El Raval – best neighborhood to stay in for the local vibe

If you want to experience real Barcelona life, with its good and bad sides, El Raval is your choice!

Its multicultural vibe and fabulous attractions, like the Barcelona Maritime Museum and Güell Palace (not to be confused with the park), will make you fall in love with this place.

In between attraction visits, you can recharge your batteries in all the hipster cafes; Departure Coffee Co. is a great one, and you can shop in the boutique shops around. 

This area is so cool that even just walking on its busy streets with numerous Indian markets will be so much fun. However, as with every packed area, I remind you to watch your belongings.

In terms of accommodation, I’d say although the prices may be similar to the other areas, you can find a better value for money.

P.S. If you’re looking for more fun and unusual attractions in town, we’ve got a whole post with lots of sites!

Luxury (€150 and up)

• Hotel 1898 – one of the best boutique hotels set in the heart of El Raval! It is actually a 19th-century building that was restored and transformed into luxury accommodation with a heated rooftop pool, a cool restaurant, a sun terrace, and more!
• Catalonia Ramblas 4* Sup – at this hotel set within walking distance from Placa Catalunya, you can taste authentic Catalan cuisine, bathe in the awesome outdoor or indoor pool, or get an awesome massage!

Mid-range (€100 – €150)

• Hotel Raval House – is an amazing middle-priced accommodation that also has an outside swimming pool, awesome rooftop terrace, and some delicious breakfast options, all for accessible, middle prices!
• Gaudi Hotel – Do you want to stay in a stunning hotel in Barcelona where you will have a view of Park Guell on the terrace? Then this is the place to be! Gaudi Hotel has very clean and modern rooms, a great bar, laundry and ironing services and more!

Budget (up to €100)

• Hostal Operaramblas – boasting some amazing modern rooms with tiled floors and free Wi-Fi, this hotel is surely a keeper! It also offers a 24-hour front desk and great city views.
• Ronda House – offering a great location in one of the best neighborhoods, this hotel comes with spacious rooms that have a bright decor, a delicious breakfast, and free Wi-Fi.

6. Gracia – where to stay in Barcelona for relaxation

This capital city is surely not quiet! Its streets are buzzing with music (especially during the weekend), waves crashing on the shores, and dancing!

But rest assured, you can still find some tranquil areas in Barcelona, like Gracia, a big neighborhood and the safest place to stay in Barcelona. 

Gracia is perfect for long exploring walks on its quiet streets, late coffee dates, and people watching in places like Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia. 

Home to many gorgeous attractions, such as the unbelievable Park Güell (read how to buy tickets), Gracia is the kind of place where siesta is a must!

Did you know that Gaudi actually lived in Park Güell until he died? It was his residence for almost 20 years. 

You can’t miss out on a visit there! It’s the most enchanting place I’ve ever been to! It immediately transports you into a world of fantasy!

Luxury (€230 and up)

• Radisson Blu 1882 – want to enjoy coffee alongside a view of the famous attraction La Sagrada Familia? Then check out this hotel, which offers an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace, and bikes to rent out! 
• Hotel Casa Fuster G.L Monumento – ever wanted to stay in a building that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Now it’s your chance! This gorgeous hotel has elegantly decorated rooms, a sauna, and a roof terrace.

Mid-range (€130 – €230) 

• Anita’s Bed and Breakfast – feel at home in this super cozy B&B that offers a lounge area with books and games and a terrace. 
• BcnStop Parc Güell – set within walking distance of Park Guell, this accommodation offers a spacious apartment with a fully equipped kitchen and a private balcony.

Budget (up to €130)

• Hotel Ronda Lesseps – here’s a great budget hotel that comes with spacious rooms that have a flat-screen TV, a yummy breakfast, and a bar.
• Hotel Gracia – set in one of the best neighborhoods in town for relaxation, this hotel offers spacious family rooms, an airport shuttle, and free Wi-Fi.

👑 Luxury price:	€280
🏨 Mid-range:	€150
🛏️ Budget:	€80
📍 Best area:	Barrio Gotico
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Hotel The Serras
💵 Mid-range hotel:	Catalonia Avinyo
👛 Best budget hotel:	Onix Liceo

BONUS 1: Best apartments in Barcelona

Maybe you’re the type of tourist who prefers a cozier, homey feeling when they’re traveling, or maybe you’re traveling with a group of friends?

In that case, I have a treat for you: a list of the best apartments in Barcelona! 

I already ordered them from most to least expensive, so all you have to do is book your favorite!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Modern Apartment – this is definitely one of the best luxury apartments in Barcelona! Offering a central location near the Gothic Quarter (and lots of tapas bars), this place boasts 4 rooms, a full kitchen, and a balcony.
• Zen Studio – such a gorgeous apartment with great style! Perfect for 3 guests, the accommodation has all the amenities you need, including a kitchen and a TV.

Mid-range (€100 – €200)

• Up Suites Bcn – you’re going to love this apartment set in Eixample that has such a modern design, spacious rooms, a kitchen, and a living room area with a TV where you can relax.
• CB88 – offering classic decor, this apartment in Eixample comes with 2 bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchen where you can cook for yourself (and spare some money)!

Budget (up to €100)

• Central Studio – an affordable studio near the Gothic Quarter that has a bohemian vibe going on! The accommodation is equipped with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
• SUNNY TERRACE Flat – a chic apartment in Gracia perfect for 4 people. It has a cozy interior design, and a lovely ou

BONUS 2: Best hotels near Barcelona El Prat Airport

Whether you have an early flight, a layover, or you just need to be close to the El Prat Airport, then you might consider booking a hotel near it!

The airport is located around 20 min by car from the city center if there is no traffic. There is also metro in the airport and you can be in the city center in about 40 min.

• Luxury: BAH Barcelona Airport Hotel – set 1.5km (less than a mile) from the airport, this amazing hotel offers quiet rooms where you can relax, an outdoor pool, and 2 on-site restaurants. Free shuttle service provided!
• Mid-range: Ciutat del Prat – such a great place that offers a free shuttle bus and a delicious breakfast! The accommodation is 4 km (3 miles) from the airport and has family rooms.
• Budget: Airhostel Barcelona Airport – are you traveling on a tight budget but still looking for accommodation close to El Prat? This is one of the cheapest places to stay closer to the airport and the hostel has an affordable shuttle service!

FAQs about where to stay in Barcelona

Conclusion

So glad you stayed until the end of this guide on where to stay in Barcelona!

It was long, but we covered so much in this Barcelona city overview! From the best neighborhoods in town to top hotels, I even threw in the most amazing apartments in Barcelona and great hotels near the airport!

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options? Then check out my 2 favorite hotels in town, maybe it’ll help you decide:

• The Wittmore – one of the best boutique hotels in the heart of Barcelona, with an outdoor pool and rooftop terrace.
• Catalonia Avinyo – enjoy the Spanish sun by the rooftop pool of this hotel, which has a great location and a bar.

On that note, I do recommend booking your hotels in advance! Barcelona is becoming more and more popular, and trust me, the good ones will sell out fast!

Don’t hesitate to ask me questions in the comments section below! I’ll be happy to help you out!

Happy exploring,

Yulia

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