Barcelona, one of the most popular cities of Spain, is a buzzing, vibrant, and eclectic European city with loads to offer tourists visiting the city.
Because of its popularity among tourists, there are also plenty of accommodation options. It can get a bit overwhelming when trying to find where to stay in Barcelona, which is why we have created the ultimate Barcelona accommodation guide.
From budget-friendly hotels and hostels to chic and classy hotels, we’ve covered all the bases when it comes to knowing the best places to stay in Barcelona.
All you need to do is decide what type of accommodation you are looking for, and we’ll have the perfect spot for you.
Where to stay in Barcelona: Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Barcelona
Barcelona is a large city, broken up into several different neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, as well as pros and cons, so we thought it was best to first lay out the best neighborhoods in Barcelona to stay in and why. This will help you in deciding which area to look for accommodation in as well. No matter where you decide to stay though, make sure to still explore the other neighborhoods while in the city. There is so much diversity on offer, with each neighborhood offering its own special charm.
Barceloneta
You’re never further than five minutes from the beach while in Barceloneta – so if the beach is the main Barcelona attraction in your eyes, you may want to check out accommodation in Barceloneta. Though, here is where you will also see the most backlash on tourism as the residents what to keep their neighborhood local – you’ll notice the independence flag of Catalonia flying proudly from most balconies here.
You’ll be welcomed into Barceloneta as long as you respect the locals and support the smaller local businesses. Take it as an opportunity to truly ‘live like a local’ in Barcelona – enjoy the beautiful beaches, small restaurants with delicious foods and quaint shops.
- Luxury hotel: Hotel Arts Barcelona is a 5-star hotel. It boasts amazing panoramic views from its unique location on the waterfront.
- Mid-range hotel: Hotel 54 Barceloneta is a 3-star hotel, located on the beachfront. You can walk to the attractive Born district in 10 minutes, and Barceloneta Metro Station is a 7-minute walk away.
- Budget hotel/ hostel: Residencia Campus del Mar
Find accommodation in Barceloneta
El Born
If you’re looking to be in the center of the action, surrounded by the old city, artisan shops and popular restaurants, then El Born is the best place to stay in Barcelona. It is touristy, so be prepared for that. It’s also within walking distance to the beach, Barceloneta, the Gothic Quarter, and several public transport stops.There are plenty of photo opportunities with the street art, flags and buntings lining the streets. It’s also home to the Picasso Museum, if you’re interested in the more historic artform (Note: it’s free on the first Sunday of the month!).
El Born is split into Upper El Born and Lower El Born. Upper El Born is more local and residential while Lower El Born is the more touristy side with a large pedestrian area lined with hip bars and restaurants.
- Luxury hotel: Decô Apartments Barcelona – Born, situated in the heart of the city’s Old Town, the perfect choice for place to stay.
- Mid-range hotel: Hotel Oasis is located just 250 m from França Railway Station and 100 m from Barcelona’s Born district.
Gràcia
Known for its nightlife and youthful energy, Gràcia has a small village feel while still remaining in Barcelona. This neighborhood is rarely visited by tourists as it’s a bit on the outskirts, though is a great neighborhood to visit for an afternoon drink that turns into a fun night out. If you’re after enjoying the local vibe, or perhaps on your third or fourth trip to Barcelona then Gràcia is the perfect neighborhood to stay in.
El Raval
Commonly referred to as the red-light district of Barcelona, El Raval is one of the more eccentric neighborhoods in Barcelona. Some may refer to El Ravel as seedy and gritty, though if you look past the rather eclectic mix of people here you’ll find the charm that this neighborhood has to offer.
If you’re looking for ethnic food, then a walk through the streets of El Raval will have your taste buds screaming. Residents here are a mix of Chinese, Pakistanis, South Americans, Middle Easterners and Eastern Europeans – each bringing their local cuisine. The neighborhood is filled with restaurants and bars.
- Luxury hotel: Barceló Raval is set in Barcelona’s vibrant Raval district. Just a brief 5-minute stroll from the MACBA Modern Art Gallery, and a mere 400 meters from Liceu Metro Station, Las Ramblas, and the renowned Boqueria Market.
- Mid-range hotel: Abba Rambla Hotel is in the Raval District, just over a quarter mile from Las Ramblas and Liceu Metro Station.
El Barri Gotic
Also known as the Gothic Quarter, El Barri Gotic is one of the most famous neighborhoods in Barcelona. The gothic streets have been seen in several movies and music videos, and often used to sell Barcelona to tourists. Though, while the neighborhood is most well-known for its architecture it has a lot more historical relevance. There are several famous churches in the area, including a Cathedral, as well as a few historic plazas. The narrow medieval streets are filled with trendy bars, clubs and Catalan restaurants.
- Find accommodation in El Barri Gotic
Poble Sec
Calling all foodies! If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, with loads of opportunities to eat like a local then Poble Sec is the neighborhood to check out. The streets start to come alive at night with all of the small tapas bars scattered along the pedestrian-only Carrer de Blai. You’ll get some delicious cheap eats and drinks recommended by the locals.
There’s not too much else in this neighborhood, though it’s well connected with the Metro to easily explore the rest of what Barcelona has to offer.
Find accommodation in Poble Sec
Where to stay in Barcelona: Barcelona Accommodation Guide
Now that you know all about the best Barcelona neighborhoods to stay in, let’s jump into the best Barcelona accommodation. From easy on the budget hostels and cozy boutique hotels to luxury five-star hotels and apartment rentals – we’ve covered them all.
If there’s also a specific feature that you’re looking for, then check out our unique accommodation guide that highlights a few properties with specific features – from the best swimming pools to the best city views.
Budget-friendly Hotels in Barcelona
We know that not all budgets extend further than the basics, but that doesn’t mean that you have to stay in a dodgy hotel in some back alley.
We’ve found a few budget-friendly hotels in Barcelona that are still modern and comfortable.
Chic & Basic Born
Located in the centre of the charming Born neighbourhood, the Chic & Basic hotel chain is for travelers looking for something budget-friendly though still modern and stylish. Housed in a 19th-century apartment block, this hotel is bright and upbeat with plenty of street cred. Facilities are limited, though there is an affiliated restaurant downstairs where guests can get a buffet breakfast.
Onix Fira
Onix Fira is a budget-friendly hotel in Barcelona’s city center, overlooking Joan Miró Park. The rooms are basic, though clean and comfortable with amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars, and air-conditioning. Features include a small rooftop swimming pool, private parking and daily buffet breakfast.
Petit Palace Museum Hotel
Part of the tech-savvy Petit brand, Petit Palace Museum Hotel is a contemporary no-frills hotel in Barcelona’s city center – a few blocks from Plaza Catalunya. There’s not much to the property, though it’s good value for its location. Features are limited to a lobby with lounge area, a small bar and buffet breakfast. Rooms include high-tech amenities like flat-screen TVs, iPod docks and laptops.
Hostels in Barcelona
Gone are the days of dark and grungy hostels. There are loads of fun, fresh, and modern hostels in Barcelona that cater for students, young travelers and even older travelers looking to explore a more interactive accommodation style. Below is a list of a few of the top hostels in Barcelona, offering great features, locations, and friendly vibes.
P.S – check out our guide on staying at a hostel.
Rodamón Hostel
Located on the top of famous Passeig de Gracia, just a short walk from bustling Gracia (perfect for bohemians and nightlife). The interiors are clean and modern, with a cozy Nordic feel in the common areas. Their in-house bar, located a block away from the hostel, serves a variety of tapas and Catalan cuisine. There’s also a sunny terrace to relax in and a fully-stocked kitchen to cook up some delicious meals. They also offer free walking tours, free bike tours, free alternative walking tours and original tapas tours.
Casa Gràcia
I had the opportunity to stay at Casa Gracia in Barcelona once, and let me tell you, the location is absolutely fantastic! Not only is it conveniently close to public transportation, but the place itself exudes a captivating beauty with a delightfully old-fashioned charm.
Casa Gràcia is also located at the end of Passeig de Gràcia, close to the bohemian Gràcia district (which is also perfect for a fun night out). This is a great spot for solo-travelers, small groups as well as couples. It’s a bit more expensive than other hostels due to its great location, cool design and numerous events on the go (like tapas tours, yoga, and DJ nights). They also throw in a free breakfast.
Shared and private rooms are available, as well as apartments. Facilities at Casa Gràcia include a communal terrace, lounge, kitchen, dining area and a 24-hour front desk.
Hostel One Sants
This lively hostel is located 150 m from Badal Metro Station. Hostel One Sants offers a casual, laid back vibe – perfect for solo travelers. They offer free day and night time activities as well as free dinners, both perfect mingling opportunities for solo travelers. There’s also a sunny terrace to chill out on and free Wi-Fi. Only dorm beds are available, either in the four-bed dormitory or six-bed dormitory.
Generator Hostel Barcelona
Located 500-meters from the fashionable Passeig de Gracia Avenue, Generator Hostel Barcelona is quite centrally situated. The Gràcia district, which has plenty of boutique shops and bars, is only 200-meters away and there are metro stops within a five-minute walk. There’s a daily buffet breakfast (for an added fee), as well as quite a funky common room with pool table and other games. Private rooms and dormitories are available, as well as female-only dormitories.
Boutique Hotels in Barcelona
If cozy, intimate and welcoming is your kind of vibe then you’ll love the below list of boutique hotels in Barcelona.
The limited number of available rooms means that the staff are extra devoted to making your stay in Barcelona the most unforgettable one.
Mercer Hotel Barcelona
The 28-room Mercer Hotel Barcelona is a boutique luxury hotel located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, close to the Cathedral. This boutique hotel is set in one of the city’s ancient buildings, next to the Roman walls. The stylish rooms have chic décor with original beamed ceilings and exposed brick walls, some overlooking the interior courtyard with orange trees. There’s also a swimming pool with pool bar and on-site restaurant and bar.
Hotel Margot House
The interiors of Hotel Margot House are instantly calming and welcoming, with its neutral color-palette and fresh décor. This hotel is set in front of Casa Batlló, in a residential building in the heart of Passeig de Gracia (Passeig de Gracia metro station is in front of the hotel and Sagrada Family is 3 metro stops away). The nine rooms feature modern furnishings, with a light and fresh look and feel. There’s a delicious breakfast buffet each morning, and a cozy library room to relax in with a snack during the day.
Casa Bonay
Located in the peaceful Dreta da l’Eixample neighborhood, the 67-room Casa Bonay is housed in a 19th-century Neoclassical building. The interiors feature a simple palette of whites, blues and greens with original mosaic floors. The hotel features a Southeast Asian restaurant, tapas restaurant/cocktail bar and lounge, beach/jungle shack rooftop restaurant, and coffee shop. They also have an exclusive rooftop space for guests featuring sunbeds, an orchard, outdoor showers for cooling off, city views, and complete restaurant service.
Mid-range Hotels in Barcelona
So you’ve got a bit more budget to work with and are looking for something a bit more higher class, while not too over the top?
We’ve pulled together a list of a few mid-range hotels in Barcelona which we think will work perfectly.
The Corner Hotel
Set just 800-meters from Casa Batllo, The Corner House is centrally located in the Eixample neighborhood. The interiors are contemporary with a cosmopolitan design encompassing the essence of the city. The pool and terrace are a welcome treat, offering a quiet oasis in the busy city. The 72 rooms are modern and fresh, with some overlooking the city. The hotel’s Hall & Lounge offers the perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, tapas, cocktails, and dinner.
Ciutat de Barcelona
Ciutat de Barcelona is in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, it can get a bit noisy at night (so ask for a back room if this is going to bother you). The rooftop terrace with Gaudiesque plunge pool is a definite highlight here. While the pool is small, it’s perfect for a quick dip to cool off after a hot day and the surrounding deck is the perfect spot to enjoy a few quiet sundowners.
There is also a tapas-style restaurant, where a breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner are served. It also offers a bar with craft beers and a wide selection of wines.
Catalonia Portal De L’Angel
Catalonia Portal De L’Angel is housed in a traditional 19th-century building, located between Plaza de Catalunya and Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. It has retained much of its original design in terms of both the architecture and interiors. They have a quaint garden terraces which also features a small outdoor swimming pool. There’s a gourmet bar serving a variety of dishes and beverages, plus room service.
The rooms here are simple, though offer enough (and possibly more) amenities to make your stay comfortable.
Luxury Five-Star Hotels in Barcelona
If you’re looking to completely splurge on your Barcelona accommodation, then we’ve found the best hotels for you.
Offering complete five-star luxury from start to finish, you’ll find a little piece of heaven at each of these properties.
Hotel The Serras
Set in a historic building where the famous painter Pablo Picasso started his career in 1896, the luxurious Hotel The Serras still maintains the buildings original façade. With its central location opposite the harbor in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, this hotels offers everything one would expect from a five-star hotel. Features include a rooftop infinity pool, 1-Mevhelin-starred restaurants, and rooftop terrace and bar. Personalized services include airport pick-up, limousine, concierge and valet parking.
The 28 rooms and suites overlook either the Mediterranean Sea or the inspiring Merce Street in the Gothic Quarter and feature state-of-the-art features and amenities.
Hotel Arts Barcelona
This design hotel is situated right on the Barceloneta Beach, overlooking both the beach and the Barcelona city center. Its unique design and stylish interiors are a talking point among guests, along with its contemporary art collection and Michelin-starred restaurant. Other luxurious features include a fully-equipped spa and beauty salon, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and a few restaurants and bars.
Almanac Barcelona
Just steps away from the fashionable Paseo de Gracia Boulevard and the central Plaza Catalunya, Almanac Barcelona enjoys an ideal location for travelers to Barcelona. The interiors are lush and modern, with the panoramic rooftop bar and terrace, featuring exclusive pool and sun lounge, being a main highlight here. Other key features here include a spa with sauna and steam pool, fitness center, top class restaurant and bar, and option for private dining.
Mandarin Oriental Barcelona
For the ultimate luxury experience in Barcelona, check out Mandarin Oriental Barcelona on Passeig de Gràcia. Everything about this hotel is exquisite, from the architecture to the interiors and top-quality service and features.The hotel’s head chef is the world-famous Carme Ruscalleda, the only woman that holds 7 Michelin stars. There are a few on-site restaurants including local Catalan cuisine, all-day cuisine, al fresco dining and delicious tapas. The spa offers a range of treatments as well as indoor pool, hot tub, Hamman and 24-hour fitness center.
Apartments/ holiday rentals in Barcelona
Apartments / holiday rentals are ideal for larger groups of travelers and family travelers. It means that you have more space and privacy as well as more functional amenities (like fully-equipped kitchenettes and private laundry facilities).
Here are a few great options for apartments in Barcelona.
Related Read: Guide to Renting a Holiday Home
Destination BCN Universitat Apartments
Destination BCN Universitat Apartments offers 20 stylish apartments in Barcelona. All are located in the stylish Eixample neighborhood, making them really convenient for exploring the city. Each apartment has its own individual identity and striking original feature in combination with a stylish décor. They are stocked with fully-equipped kitchenettes (including oven and dishwasher), lounges, dining areas, bedrooms and furnished balconies.
Prices from €312 (one bedroom) and €454 (two bedrooms) – minimum of two nights required
Apartments SixtyFour
Located in one of the most emblematic buildings of the Paseo de Gracia, the most exclusive area of Barcelona and opposite Gaudí’s Casa Batllo. Each apartment has wooden floors and elegant modern décor. Living areas come with a double sofa bed, and there are separate bedrooms (either one, two, or three bedrooms). Kitchens include an oven, ceramic hob and dishwasher.
Prices from €99 (one bedroom), €161 (two bedrooms) and €233 (three bedrooms)
Inside Barcelona Apartments Mercat
Inside Barcelona Apartments Mercat feature one and two bedroom apartments in the central neighborhood of El Born. They are situated a 12-minute walk from the beach and next to Ciutadella Park. Each apartment has wooden floors with a fresh, elegant and functional design. They include kitchens (with oven, dishwasher and washer-dryer), lounge area, and separate bedrooms. Each apartment includes an outside balcony with seating area and sun loungers.
Prices from €94 (one bedroom) and €99 (two bedrooms) – minimum of two nights required
Accommodation With….
…the best views in Barcelona
Grand Hotel Central
Centrally located, just a 17-minute walk from the beach, Grand Hotel Central is a design hotel with stunning views overlooking the Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral from its rooftop pool and bar area. Housed in an early 20th-century building, this hotel holds loads of character in its architecture which is perfectly paired with its chic interiors.
Features here include a restaurant, fitness center, trendy rooftop bar, massage service, bicycle hire and luxurious bedroom amenities.
W Barcelona
W Barcelona is a striking sail-like structure next to Barceloneta Beach, designed by world-renowned architect Ricardo Bofill. The hotel offers stunning views of both the city and ocean. Features here include a spa, infinity pool, rooftop bar, and two gourmet restaurants. The rooftop bar, ECLIPSE, on the 26th-floor is the best place to take in the stunning panoramic views with a cocktail in hand. The hotel also has two swimming pools and direct beach access.
…the best pools in Barcelona
Catalonia Portal de l’Angel
Catalonia Portal de l’Angel’s standout feature is most definitely its garden and swimming pool – which is hard to come by in central Barcelona (situated between the Gothic Quarter and Plaza Cataluña). The outdoor swimming pool is large with surrounding sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as an adjacent glassed-in restaurant. Besides from the beautiful courtyard, the interiors of this 19th-century building are exquisite.
…a central location in Barcelona
Hotel Barcelona Catedral
Hotel Barcelona Catedral is known for its peaceful atmosphere, despite its central location. Situated in the Gothic area, within close walking distance to several attractions like Las Ramblas, Plaza Catalunya and the beach. It’s also surrounded by plenty restaurants, bars, and shops.
Extra features here include an outdoor pool, restaurant, rooftop terrace and a fitness center – they also offer free walking tours of the historic city center twice a week.
Catalonia Passeig de Gràcia 4* Sup
Located next to Barcelona’s Passeig de Gràcia Boulevard, this hotel is centrally located for exploring the city’s main attractions. Gaudí’s Casa Batlló is 500-meters from the hotel, and you can walk to La Pedrera in 13 minutes. The impressive Palau de la Música Catalana is a seven-minute walk away. The Passeig de Gràcia Metro Station is just 200-meters away.
Features here include an outdoor pool, fitness center, restaurant serving a buffet breakfast, Catalan specialties, brunch, and high tea.
…a quiet beach location in Barcelona
Lugaris Beach
Lugaris Beach is located less than 200-meters from Bogatell Beach in the quiet neighborhood of Poble Nou. Facilities at the Lugaris Beach include a tour desk, babysitting and shuttle service. Guests can make use of car and bike rental. Accommodation includes apartments with a bright and contemporary design, equipped with kitchens, living areas and separate bedrooms. The area offers plenty of bars, restaurants, and a shopping centre. Plaza Catalunya and Las Ramblas in central Barcelona can be reached in around 20 minutes by metro.
…an adult only policy in Barcelona
Occidental Atenea Mar
Occidental Atenea Mar is an adult-only hotel situated 150-meters from Barcelona’s Nova Mar Bella Beach. Features include a hot tub, sauna, fitness center, restaurant, snack bar, and an infinity pool surrounded by hydromassage beds and seats (plus Balinese beds and sun loungers). There are also many bars and restaurants on the nearby seafront promenade.
…a Cathedral view in Barcelona
Hotel Colon
Guests are spoilt with a rooftop terrace set against a cathedral backdrop at Hotel Colon. The rooftop is decked out with a bar and restaurant overlooking the square, in listening distance to the performers that play music each evening below. It truly is a beautiful spot! Added benefits here include a spa and the fact that the hop-on-hop-off bus stops right outside – making hopping onto this tour super convenient!
And if you’re budget can’t afford any of the above hotels, you can always try CouchSurfing! We hope that you’ve got a bit more guidance now on where to stay in Barcelona.
Prices correct at time of writing.
Not sure what to get up to in Barcelona? Read our Things to do in Barcelona: Activity Guide for inspiration!
Travel tip shared by Bridget Langer for Travel Dudes
