Where to Stay in Barcelona in 2024: Neighborhood Guide + Best Hostels & Hotels

written by local expert Jane Elmets

Jane always knew she wasn't destined for a desk job... She has travelled all over the world and is passionate about noodles, sloths and her hiking boots! When she isn't busy adventuring around the world, you can find her reviewing travel gear and dishing out travel tips to all the places she's visited.

Looking for tips on where to stay in Barcelona? We lived here for a while a few years ago and have a ton of information on where to stay, including which neighborhoods are ideal to base yourself in.

The dreamy city of Barcelona in northeastern Spain is the perfect vacation spot. Known best for its art and architecture, it’s renowned not just for its cultural attractions but for its amazing beaches and stellar nightlife. If you’re traveling through Spain, visiting Barcelona is a must.

Check out our list of the best Barcelona neighborhoods and places to stay, no matter what your budget is. The most terrific thing about Barcelona is there’s always something for everyone, regardless of what you’re looking for!

Where to Stay in Barcelona: Neighborhood Guide

Here’s a breakdown of the main neighborhoods in Barcelona where you’ll find accommodation options. Each neighborhood is starkly different, so if you’re feeling wild, stay a different night in each.

El Born

The El Born neighborhood of Barcelona is full of cute cafes, charming narrow streets, and the local flavor that sets it apart from the more touristy areas of the city. It’s a great place to explore Barcelona from, and it’s close to some must-see spots, like the Picasso Museum and Ciutadella Park.

El Born is largely Barcelona’s Old Town, making it a fun place to stay for a blast from the past. Besides the winding medieval streets, this neighborhood also has some awesome nightlife, with tons of small bars to stop at for a drink (or five) at the end of the day.

Recommended Hotels in El Born

open square with terraces, buildings and trees

Barri Gòtic

Barri Gòtic, or Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, is famed throughout the world for its charming mess of cobblestone streets and grand historic monuments that put Barcelona on the map in the first place.

This area has been inhabited since way back in Roman times but has some modern updates that make it an awesome place to stay if you want to be in a central location.

This is definitely the heart of tourist central in Barcelona, but luckily, Barri Gòtic is no more than a 20-minute walk away from any of the other neighborhoods in the city as well as the major attractions.

Besides the wildly old-timey feel the Gothic Quarter exudes, it’s also well-regarded for killer dining, awesome shopping, and great accommodation options.

Recommended Hotels in Barri Gotic

gothic buildings with arch in barcelona

Las Ramblas

In the center of Barcelona lies Las Ramblas, a series of streets around a grand, tree-lined pedestrian mall, providing a stark contrast to the medieval parts of the city that run rampant around this boulevard.

Las Ramblas is one of Barcelona’s most popular destinations, and for good reason too. During the day, you can check out street performers and souvenir shops, while at night the area comes alive with all the magic of a Spanish twilight.

There are loads of places to stay around Las Ramblas, but you’ll mostly find tons of high-end hotels in this area to accommodate those who come to Barcelona for one thing, and one thing only: shopping.

Recommended Hotels in Las Ramblas

aerial view of barcelona with long avenue lined with trees

Eixample

Home to high-end shopping and boutique galleries, the district of Eixample is divided into left and right sections, with Passeig de Gracia at the center. Here you’ll find a mix of the historic and the new, with some of the city’s best restaurants and scenic architecture too.

This is one of the most upscale areas of Barcelona, with a rich residential area for the city’s finest. It’s also in close proximity to some of the most famous sights in the city, particularly Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia.

Recommended Hotels in Eixample

residential home formations in barcelona, spain

El Raval

On the other end of the spectrum, we have El Raval, once one of Barcelona’s roughest neighborhoods. Today, after thorough gentrification efforts, El Raval is one of the hippest places in the city.

You’ll find lots of independent shops and boutiques here selling quirky goods, as well as delicious restaurants and tiny, little bars. This is a great place to stay on a budget and you’ll find that there’s plenty to do in the area by ways of art and culture!

Recommended Hotels in El Raval

narrow street lined with houses in bareclona

Gracia

Along the same lines as El Raval, Gracia is a hip residential neighborhood in the heart of Barcelona with a bohemian feel. Trendy cafes, local grocers, busy squares, and popular restaurants make it a desirable location for young and old alike.

Gracia is awesome because it gets you away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowd but still puts you in a good position to visit the rest of the city. People actually call it the village within Barcelona!

Recommended Hotels in Gracia

flowers outside of shop with chalkboard sign

Barceloneta

Finally, the beachy neighborhood of Barceloneta.

Barceloneta actually used to be a fishing village until the city’s most popular beach became overrun with tourists — and the rest is history. Today, Barceloneta is a lively district on the water where you can find the freshest seafood around.

It’s within walking distance from both the Gothic Quarter and El Born, so if you want to stay on the beach without sacrificing the rest of the city’s attractions, this is the place to do it!

Recommended Hotels in Barcelonetta

beach with city buildings in background

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Map of Where to Stay in Barcelona

Need a visual guide on where to stay in Barcelona? Here’s a rough map of all the neighborhoods to give you a better idea which area to choose from.

map of where to stay in barcelona

What’s the Best Area to Stay in Barcelona?

If it’s your first time visiting Barcelona, a stay in Barri Gòtic will serve you well. In this district, you’re able to fully immerse yourself in the rich history of the city without sacrificing today’s modern comforts. Get around by foot, eat at delicious tapas bars, and be the tourist you are. It’s your first time in Barcelona after all!

If you’re looking for a less touristy stay, go for accommodation in either the El Raval or Gracia neighborhoods. Both are known for being quieter (due to fewer tourists) but bursting with local life. Since these districts are outside of the center of the city, hotels and hostels will also be much less expensive than those in places like Barri Gòtic, El Born, or Las Ramblas.

Taking a luxurious vacation and looking for a stay to match? Spring for a suite in Las Ramblas or Eixample, where you’ll find gorgeous hotels with five-star amenities. Plus, staying here puts you just steps from some of the best shopping in Spain, and what would a luxurious vacation be without treating yourself?

Finally, if you’re making your way to Barcelona for the sun, book a room in the Barceloneta area. Not only can you enjoy the best beach in the city, but you’re also a quick walk away from other major attractions you may want to see — that is if you can pull yourself off the sand for an afternoon.

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Best Places to Stay in Barcelona

As I mentioned, there’s a place to stay for everyone in Barcelona. With such a wide range of accommodation options, there is plenty of budgets stays as well as high-end hotels, making it a city suitable for any traveler, no matter their budget.

Here are our top picks of hostels and hotels to stay in Barcelona.

Best Budget Stays in Barcelona

Most budget stays in Barcelona are in the form of hip and trendy hostels, but you can find the occasional private room for under $100 a night, too!

Kabul Party Hostel

Room type: 4-Bed Mixed Dorm | 6-Bed Female Dorm | 6-Bed Mixed Dorm |  8-Bed Mixed Dorm | 10-Bed Mixed Dorm | 22-Bed Mixed Dorm
Wifi: Yes
Location: Edge of Gothic Quarter

If you’re a frequent hostel guest, you know that there’s a party hostel in pretty much every city in the world — Barcelona is no exception.

Kabul Party Hostel offers dorm beds for a mind-boggling low price, especially given its location in the Gothic Quarter. The active, social environment of this hostel means nightly parties and bar crawls, as well as a games room and bar on-site. It’s definitely named a party hostel for a reason!

The bunks are simple but comfortable enough and have curtains for privacy, too. Perfect spot to meet people and experience some of Barcelona’s nightlife.

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

Sant Jordi Gracia

Sant Jordi Gracia
Sant Jordi Gracia

Room type: 4-Bed Mixed Dorm | 6-Bed Mixed Dorm | 8-Bed Mixed Dorm
Wifi: Yes
Location: Gracia

This trendy hostel is an amazing place to stay for under $30 a night. Located in a central part of Gracia, Sant Jordi is the perfect place for a hip, quiet stay with easy access to everywhere else in the city.

The dorms are simple but with cool greens and whites accents, it feels new and modern. The beds are comfortable and each guest gets their own locker, too! With chill lounge spots and common areas, it’s almost inevitable that you’ll meet other cool travelers to swap stories with or grab dinner.

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

Hostal Colkida

Room type: Economy Double | Budget Double | Twin | Double | Standard Triple | Triple
Wifi: Yes
Location: Eixample

One of the most reasonably priced private rooms in the city, Hostal Colkida has rooms in Eixample that put you right in the center of one of the most lively districts of Barcelona.

While the rooms here are pretty basic, they’re super clean and well kept, offering an impressive value for the price. The interior of the hotel features regal marble floors and spiral staircases that give it a romantic lavishness that’s hard to resist.

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

Editors Note: If you are looking for the best budget accommodation in Barcelona check out this list of best hostels in Barcelona.

Best Mid-Range Accommodation in Barcelona

Mid-range hotels are typically around $100 a night (give or take) and are a huge step up from hostels. You’d be pleasantly surprised once you see how far your money goes when picking one of these mid-range options in Barcelona!

Park Hotel

Park Hotel
Park Hotel

Room type: Single | Twin | Double | Superior Double | Triple
Wifi: Yes
Location: El Born

For a lovely hotel in El Born that won’t break the bank, stay at Park Hotel! Mirrors and modern decor make the rooms here feel bigger than they are, which is a welcome addition from the some of the shoebox-looking rooms in the rest of Barcelona.

The beds are comfortable and the space is well-decorated, giving each room a homey feel that’s still elegant. But the best part? The amazing rooftop swimming pool and lounge!

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

Hostal Aslyp 114

Hostal Aslyp 114
Hostal Aslyp 114

Room type: Standard Twin | Twin | Superior Twin | Double
Wifi: Yes
Location: Eixample

I’m here to let you know that yes, it is possible to stay in Barcelona’s most upscale neighborhoods without spending a fortune. This hotel in the Eixample district is a prime example of this.

Hostal Aslyp 114 makes use of fun, colorful accents against whites and blonde hardwoods which gives an elegant vibe to the space. While the rooms are simple (and super affordable), they manage to have the feel of a hotel rather than a hostel. The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows opening out onto expansive views of the beautiful city below.

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

Gaudi Hotel

Gaudi Hotel
Gaudi Hotel

Room type: Single | Twin | Double | Superior Twin | Superior Double | Triple | Quadruple
Wifi: Yes
Location: Las Ramblas

Gaudi Hotel is the perfect value for a mid-range hotel, combining style with comfort and an unbeatable location. Just 150 feet from Las Ramblas, the Gaudi Hotel is a charming place to stay right in the thick of things. The lobby is beautifully decorated in an art nouveau style, with a traditional and elegant room with plenty of space.

The best part is the private balconies attached to some of the rooms! With quadruple rooms available, this hotel is a perfect place for families or small groups to stay.

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

Best Luxury Stays in Barcelona

Last but not least: the best of Barcelona’s hotels. These hotels are renowned for their unbeatable amenities, cozy guest rooms, and staff that’s there to cater to your every need.

A luxury stay in Barcelona is one that you’ll remember for many years to come, that’s for sure.

W Barcelona

W Barcelona
W Barcelona

Room type: Sky King | Fabulous Sky King | King | Twin | Sky Twin | Fabulous Sky Twin | Studio Suite | Corner Suite
Wifi: Yes
Location: Barceloneta

If you want to stay near the beach, it’s gonna cost ya, but it’s totally worth the splurge at the W Barcelona.

Sitting right on the beachfront area with direct access to Barceloneta Beach, you’ll wake up to sea views every morning before starting your day. The guest rooms are stylish, chic and modern, with cozy accents to make you feel right at home.

When you’re not enjoying your room or out exploring, take a dip in one of the two pools, pay a visit to the spa, or enjoy a drink on the marina to watch yachts roll in and out of the city! Talk about a stay in style.

Alternatively, you can check out one of the most popular rooftop bars in Barcelona which is also situated at the hotel!

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

Hotel DO Placa Reial G.L.

Hotel DO Placa Reial G.L.
Hotel DO Placa Reial G.L.

Room type: Twin | Single | Superior Double | Junior Suite
Wifi: Yes
Location: Las Ramblas

It doesn’t get much better than a stay at Hotel DO, sitting right in the middle of Plaça Reial next to Las Ramblas.

This ultra luxury hotel is modern and funky while retaining traditional elements crucial for a five-star stay. Besides the gorgeous rooms, Hotel DO has a spa, fitness area, and pool and beach chairs sitting on the roof to soak in the sun and take in views of the entire city.

The food at this hotel also can’t be missed, whether it’s served in the lavish dining room or in your bed upstairs.

You won’t regret a splurge at this hotel because you’ll be staying like royalty!

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel

Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel
Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel

Room type: Single | Superior Double | Superior Twin | Deluxe Double | Deluxe Twin | Premiere Room with Balcony | Superior Double with Sea View | Suite with City View | Junior Suite with Balcony | Luxury Suite | Romantic Room | Family Suite | Superior Triple | Family Junior Suite | Luxury Quadruple
Wifi: Yes
Location: Barcelona Port

One last luxury stay that’ll make your head spin from its beauty is the Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel, sitting in Barcelona’s World Trade Center.

This five-star hotel overlooks Barcelona’s main port while still being only a quick walk to Las Ramblas and other central areas in the city. The rooms here are modern, with hardwood floors, large windows, and balconies to enjoy the sea views from. There’s also a rooftop pool for guest enjoyment, as well as a gym and a terrace.

With the way this hotel was designed, you’ll feel as if you’re aboard the most extravagant cruise ship in the world. But not to worry, you’ll be landlocked in comfort the entire time.

Check availability and compare prices: Booking.com 

View More Barcelona Hotels

Now that you know all that there is to know about staying in Barcelona, which neighborhood are you rushing to first? Since they’re all unique and diverse in what they offer visitors, you’re sure to be astounded no matter where you choose to stay!

PS: After you’ve booked your accommodation, plan your stay with our guide on things to do in Barcelona.


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