Before I went to Barcelona for a year, I was faced with the big challenge of finding the best neighborhood to live in. This article will help you find the right neighborhood to live in Barcelona, whether for vacation or long-term, but you will also find many other tips for exploring this unique city. E.g. my best restaurant recommendations, which sights you can find in which district and so on.
Means of transport:
You can reach a lot of things in the city on foot and that's what I would recommend the most, because it allows you to discover the little corners and alleys that make it so charming. Of course you can also take the bus or metro locally. In the one year I was there, I only used a 10 ticket for buses and trains. If you live locally for a longer period of time, e.g. to study like I did, you will need a NIE number. You can use this number to register for bike sharing on site.
From the airport I recommend the Aerobus Barcelona. You can buy your ticket online in advance (€11.85 return). The bus stops at 3 different stations in the city. Placa de Catalunya,Placa de Espana and Carrer Sepulveda. These stations usually cover most areas so that your accommodation is within walking distance.
Costs on site:
For an average salary of €30k, life in Barcelona is relatively expensive and the price level is comparable to that in Germany. I paid around €600 per month for my shared room (more on this below). The prices in the supermarket are comparable to those in Germany. Fruit and vegetables are a little cheaper. When you go out to eat you pay around €2-8 per tapa. I also liked to order a pizza for around €8.
Safety:
Overall, I always felt safe in Barcelona, even alone as a woman. However, I recommend that you always pay attention to your valuables, especially in high season and in tourist areas.
Apartments and shared rooms:
If you plan to live in Barcelona for a longer period of time, you are certainly looking for a shared room or an apartment. First of all, I strongly recommend that you visit the accommodation on site or at least take a video tour, as there are often rooms that only have windows into a small courtyard or have no windows at all. The best way to find a shared room is through Facebook groups. The search for an apartment is usually done through brokers and the tenant usually has to pay the broker's commission, which is around 10%.
Update: The new Spanish housing law (ley 12/2023) has come into force since May 26, 2023. It is now forbidden for the tenant to pay the commissions. The agency fees are billed exclusively to the landlord. This update only applies to long-term contracts (5 years or longer). Short-term contracts (from 32 days to 11 months) and tourist rentals are not covered by this law.
The neighborhoods of Barcelona
One of Europe's most exciting cities, Barcelona is rich in cultural diversity and offers something special for every traveler. If you are planning to visit this wonderful city, then the different neighborhoods of Barcelona are an important aspect of your travel planning. Here you can find out more about the charming neighborhoods and their unique features.
Barceloneta: A maritime paradise in Barcelona
Barceloneta has a rich history closely linked to the port of Barcelona. Originally created as a neighborhood for fishermen and port workers, it has undergone significant transformation over the years and a visit to Barceloneta would not be complete without spending time on the beach. The famous Barceloneta Beach stretches along the district, offering golden sands and the deep blue Mediterranean. Here you can sunbathe, join sports classes, swim, play beach volleyball or just enjoy the sea breeze. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals who enjoy the sunny beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Barceloneta is also a culinary paradise. The numerous fish restaurants along the coast serve freshly caught fish and seafood in all variations.
Try the famous "paella", a Catalan rice dish with seafood that is particularly tasty in this district.
Sights and Activities:
Apart from the beaches and restaurants, Barceloneta has more to offer. Here are some of the main attractions and activities:
- Museu d'Història de Barcelona: This museum offers insight into Barcelona's history, including the time when Barceloneta was a fishing village.
- Water Sports: If you are adventurous, you can try water sports like windsurfing, kite surfing and stand-up paddling.
- Chiringuitos: Visit the small beach bars known as "chiringuitos" and try refreshing cocktails or local drinks.
El Raval: The bohemian district of Barcelona
Located in the heart of the city, El Raval has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The district is basically to the left of Las Ramblas, which is a famous 1,2km long street connecting the port with the Placa de Catalunya. El Raval is originally known as a slum and has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. Today it is a creative and multicultural district characterized by artists and immigrants. A walk through the narrow streets of El Raval will lead you to a wealth of cultural treasures.
Nevertheless, I would like to emphasize that I would advise against being alone in this area at night, especially in narrow streets.
Sights and Activities:
Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA), which houses an impressive collection of modern art.
CCCB (Centre for Contemporary Culture of Barcelona) is another cultural hotspot that offers exhibitions, concerts and events.
The Rambla del Raval is a lively street with sculptures and art installations that is worth a stroll.
Carrer de Joaquín Costa: This street is a paradise for vintage lovers. Here you will find vintage clothing stores, retro accessories and much more.
Gracia: The charming bohemian district of Barcelona
Gracia has a fascinating story. Originally a city in its own right, it became part of Barcelona in the 19th century. Despite this, it has retained its own village feel, making it a unique place in the city. Gracia is located above the striking street Diagonal.
A great place to start your journey through Gracia is the Plaça de la Vila de Gracia. This charming square is surrounded by cafes and shops and is a popular meeting place for locals. Here you can experience the relaxed life in Gracia up close.
Sights and activities:
Park Güell as one of Gaudí's great masterpieces
Carrer de Verdi is a lively street in Gracia, known for its restaurants, bars and the Verdi movie theater
If you have the chance to visit Barcelona in August, be sure to experience the Fiesta de Gracia. This annual street festival transforms the streets of Gracia into a colorful and lively fiesta with music, art installations and traditional activities.
Casa Ramos: This cafe is a hidden gem and a great place to enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat.
Eixample: The heart of modernity in Barcelona
Barcelona, a city known for its cultural diversity and stunning architecture, has at its heart a neighborhood that combines all of these characteristics - the Eixample. Developed in the 19th century, this neighborhood is a masterpiece of modernist architecture and a pinnacle of Catalan creativity. A walk through history the Eixample district is famous for its modernist architecture, best expressed in the works of the legendary architect Antoni Gaudí. Eixample is located in the upper part of Las Ramblas.
For me, Eixample is the number 1 tip for living in Barcelona. Here you are not directly in the busy tourist areas, but you can still reach everything on foot within a few minutes. I also found this neighborhood to be the safest.
Sights and Activities:
The Sagrada Família Basilica is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the Eixample. This unfinished masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí is one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
Passeig de Gràcia is one of Barcelona's most elegant shopping streets and a tribute to the Modernisme movement. Here you'll find luxurious boutiques, historic buildings and other works by Gaudí, including Casa Batlló and Casa Milà.
The Casa de les Punxes, also known as Casa Terradas, impresses with its Gothic-inspired towers and fascinating facade.
The Mercat de la Concepció is a colorful market with fresh produce and delicious snacks.
Enjoy Barcelona from above! The Eixample district offers some of the best rooftop bars in the city, offering breathtaking views of the city.
El Born: Where history and trend come together
El Born has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Over the years it has undergone various transformations, but its historical significance has always remained present. A walk through the narrow streets of El Born takes you through time and allows you to feel the atmosphere of past centuries. El Born is located to the right of Las Ramblas.
Sights and Activities:
The renowned Picasso Museum houses an impressive collection of works by the famous painter Pablo Picasso.
The Passeig del Born, a historic square, was once a site for jousting tournaments and festivities. Today it is a popular place for events and markets.
The Palau de la Música Catalana, an impressive modernist concert hall, is an architectural gem and offers concerts in a unique setting.
Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar is an impressive Gothic church, also known as the "Cathedral of the Sea"
If you want to experience an authentic feeling in Barcelona, I recommend the tapas bar El Xampanyet. A real insider tip. However, it is relatively small, so I would definitely advise you to make a reservation.
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