Where to Stay in Barcelona
Visiting Barcelona for the first time and wondering where to stay? I’ve lived in the city for 2 years, and visited several times before making the move, so I’ve got first-hand experience of the best neighbourhoods. My guide to where to stay in Barcelona for the first time covers 7 of my favourite areas, and the one I’d recommend avoiding.
If you’re heading to Barcelona for the first time, you’ve probably started researching where to stay and came across the names of lots of different neighbourhoods. And now you’re feeling a bit lost and not sure which one to pick? I feel you.
When I first visited Barcelona in 2014 I was in your very same shoes. 6 years later, I’ve been back to Barcelona plenty of times on holiday, and 2 years ago, myself and my boyfriend moved over permanently from England.
As you can probably tell, I’m a big fan of the city, and all the neighbourhoods (or Barrio’s in Spanish) within it. In this article, I’m going to give you an overview of where to stay in Barcelona, what each neighbourhood is known for, as well as some of the best things to do in each one.
Plus, to help make planning your trip a little easier, I’ve added in a few of my favourite hotels in each place.
QUICK TIPS FOR VISITING BARCELONA
Get this: Barcelona Travel Card (unlimited access to public transport)
Don’t miss: This cocktail making class (the best thing I’ve done Barcelona)
Bucket list experience: This sunset sailing cruise including tapas & wine
Flights: Find the cheapest flights to Barcelona with Skyscanner
Stay: Find the most affordable hotels in Barcelona on Booking.com
Pack: A waterproof phone case (don’t leave your belongings on the beach)
Some links in this post are affiliate links. It won’t make a difference to what you pay, but I may earn a small commission if you purchase something I’ve recommended. I’m really grateful for your trust in my advice, and if I wouldn’t recommend it to a friend, I won’t recommend it to you.
Where to stay for your first time in Barcelona
Which location you choose for your first time in Barcelona entirely depends on what you enjoy doing.
My number one recommendation would be to choose a neighbourhood that allows you to easily walk around the city. Walking around Barcelona ensures you don’t miss the incredible architecture, medieval streets, and quirky bars you might want to pop into.
I’ll take you through all of the neighbourhoods I’d recommend, what they’re best for, and my favourite things to do in each one. I’ve also made a few suggestions of my favourite hotels in each neighbourhood.
1. El Born: Where to stay in Barcelona for nightlife
The picturesque neighbourhood of El Born is made up of medieval, winding streets with plenty of character. The neighbourhood dates back to the 13th century and the name El Born comes from the Catalan word bornejar, meaning “to joust”.
Legend has it that during medieval times, jousting tournaments were held on Passeig del Born – one of the main streets running through the neighbourhood. These days, Passeig del Born is lined with bars – and its one of my favourite places for a night out in Barcelona.
Born is lively, busy and so much fun. If anyone asks me where to stay in Barcelona for the first time, I’ll always say Born. It’s home to some of my favourite restaurants in the city, and its the perfect place to stay if you enjoy a good atmosphere, music and a night of dancing.
Where to stay in El Born
If you’re looking for luxury, this 5* hotel is the perfect choice. There’s an incredible rooftop bar with panoramic city views, a restaurant headed up by a Michelin-star chef, as well as a gym and an outdoor swimming pool.
Each of the 100 bedrooms are finished immaculately, finished with luxury Italian linen and custom designed furniture. Some even have private terraces overlooking the city.
This hotel is right next to Ciutadella Park, one of the largest green spaces in the city. Imagine waking up and starting your day with a relaxing stroll in the sunshine. Rooms are modern and comfortable, and some have views over the park.
There’s also brilliant rooftop bar which is the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail after a long day exploring the city.
Best things to do in El Born
✔️ Try a new skill at a cocktail-making class
My favourite thing I’ve ever done in Barcelona is take a cocktail making class. It’s a really fun activity and a brilliant way to learn how to make your favourite drinks and impress your friends.
Born has some of the best bars in the city, so it’s the perfect place to do it. This class includes 4 cocktails with tapas, a glass of cava, and you’ll get the recipes to take home.
These classes get booked up fast! Secure your tickets here – you get free cancellation so it’s risk free
Pay a visit to Picasso’s old neighbourhood and learn all about his time in the city. You’ll visit his favourite spots and see the school he studied at.
Afterwards, you’ll have a guided tour of the Museu Picasso to view his earlier artwork and how it evolved during his time living in Barcelona.
You’ll learn about lots of incredible buildings you might otherwise miss, and find a new appreciation for their history.
✔️ Wander around Parc de la Ciutadella
Ciutadella Park is one of the best green spaces in Barcelona, covering over 70 acres. It was designed by Josep Fontserè in collaboration with other architects including Gaudi, who’s responsible for many beautiful buildings across Barcelona.
It’s also home to Barcelona zoo, a beautiful waterfall and a large lake in the middle, where you’re able to hire rowing boats.
✔️ Go on a food and drink walking tour
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Barcelona’s culture, is to learn about the food. This “Tipsy Tapas Food Tour” explores Catalonia’s history with drinks and tapas.
You’ll visit 4 of the best tapas bars in Born to sample delicious food, with a drink included at each stop. You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, who will tell you about the traditions of Catalan cuisine.
Don’t miss out on this incredible walking tour – make sure you secure your tickets ahead of time!
Moco Museum started life in Amsterdam, with the aim of making fine art more accessible to the public. In 2021 they opened their second location in Barcelona, in the 16th-century palace, Palacio Cervelló.
Expect artwork from names such as Damien Hirst, Yayoi Kusama and Andy Warhol, with a dedicated Banksy exhibition.
If you buy a Barcelona card (which gets you unlimited public transport) you’ll also get a discount on the Moco Museum and 25+ museums
Where to eat & drink in El Born
- Puntal
- Orvay
- Eldiset
- Fast Eddies
- Marlowe
- Porteno
- Stereo
- Guzzo
- Pax 49
- Le Motif
2. Eixample: Where to stay in Barcelona for your first visit
Eixample, meaning “Expansion” in Catalan, was developed at the end of the 19th century, and it feels quite different to the rest of Barcelona, with its wider, more modern streets. This is the neighbourhood I call home, and so it goes without saying I absolutely love it.
If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time, Eixample is a brilliant city centre base. You’ll be able to walk to most of the sights – most of the famous Gaudí buildings are here. Plus, there’s endless choices of bars, restaurants and shops, and hotels for every budget.
Where to stay in Eixample
Casa Bonay is one of the most stunning hotels in Barcelona – the design is immaculate inside and out. There’s plenty of space to relax or enjoy a drink, and you’ll usually find a DJ playing in Libertine, the hotel restaurant.
The hotel has 2 rooftops – one with sunbeds, an orchard and an outdoor shower for guests to enjoy. The other’s a restaurant also open to the public, serving up salads, local tapas and BBQ food.
Any hotel where your room comes with a private terrace and bathtub is a winner in my eyes. So the fact you can bag a room at Praktik Essens from £89 is pretty hard to believe.
The rooms are beautiful and it’s in a brilliant location just a few minute’s walk from Passeig de Gracia. As if this hotel couldn’t get any better, they have happy hour every day from 6pm-8pm where you can get FREE, yes free, wine and snacks.
Best things to do in Eixample
The Sagrada Familia is the most iconic landmark in Barcelona, and with good reason. It was designed by Gaudi and has been under construction since 1882. Its completion date has been pushed back multiple times with the latest rumours saying it’ll be finished in 2026.
Despite it still being worked on, it’s a truly incredible building, and it’s even more stunning on the inside. If there’s one thing I recommend you do whilst you’re in Barcelona, it’s get tickets to see this fascinating church.
The Sagrada Familia is the most popular attraction in Barcelona and the queues can get very long. Don’t miss out on seeing it and book skip the line tickets here
✔️ See the UNESCO-recognised Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is probably my favourite building in Barcelona, it’s absolutely beautiful. It was owned by Josep Batlló, an industrialist who had factories across Barcelona, and he gave full creative freedom to Gaudi for its design.
The original plan was for the building to be demolished, but Gaudi instead suggested a renovation, and it was reformed between 1904 and 1906.
It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must visit during your trip to Barcelona. It’s won several awards for its exhibitions and was declared the best monument in Spain in 2022.
Casa Batlló attracts 1million visitors each year so make sure you book your tickets before your trip.
✔️ Go shopping on Passeig de Gracia
Passeig de Gracia is one of the main streets in Barcelona, running from Plaza Catalunya to Gracia. It’s home to some of the most incredible architecture in the city, as well as lots of luxury and high-street shops.
If you’re in need of some retail therapy in Barcelona, you’ll want to head here.
✔️ Visit Casa Milà
Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, was also designed by Gaudi between 1906 and 1912 for the Milà family. They lived on the top floor, and rented the rest out as apartments. Still to do this day, people live in a few of the apartments.
The building is absolutely fascinating, full of incredible spaces to discover, as well as a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the city.
Book skip the line tickets to Casa Milà so you don’t waste time queuing!
Where to eat & drink in Eixample
- Parking Pizza
- Libertine Cocktail Bar
- La Whiskeria
- The Alchemix
- Tandem Cocktail Bar
- AmoVino
- Sumac & Mambo
- Albé
- Arigato
- El Nacional
- Soma
3. Gràcia: Where to stay in Barcelona for an authentic experience
Gràcia is a charming neighbourhood bordering Eixample to the South and Sarrià-Sant Gervasi to the west. For a long time, it was an independent village, but it became part of Barcelona during the city’s expansion in 1897.
Despite this, its still maintained its village feel, and the neighbourhoods Catalan roots is very present here. Gràcia’s a brilliant place to stay on your first visit to Barcelona if you want to experience a more traditional side to the city.
There’s always something going on in Gràcia – it’s not uncommon to stumble upon a street party as you’re wandering around. If you’re visiting in August, you can’t miss Festa Major – a week long festival where the residents of Gràcia compete for the best-decorated street.
It’s taken really seriously – the level of skill that goes into each display is really impressive, and a true reflection of Gràcia’s community feel.
Where to stay in Gràcia
This boutique aparthotel is just a short walk from Casa Milà and Casa Batlló and features 21 bedrooms and apartments.
The apartments are the perfect choice if you want a bit more space, they come with a kitchen, and a separate living room and dining area.
A continental breakfast is included in the room rate, and there’s also a beautiful rooftop terrace.
I think the roof terrace sells this hotel all by itself – it’s absolutely stunning. Imagine sitting here in summer, drink in hand, overlooking the Sagrada Familia.
There’s 182 rooms and suites, all with a modern feel. Outside there’s an outdoor pool, larger than you’ll find at most hotels in Barcelona, a downstairs bar, and free bikes if you don’t fancy walking around the city!
Best things to do in Gracia
Park Guell is one of my favourite places in the city, I visited it on my first trip to Barcelona in 2014, and have been back several times since moving there permanently.
It was designed by Gaudi as a luxury housing development but never completed, and was eventually donated to the city as a public park. The architecture is so impressive and it’s a chance to see Gaudi’s style and creativity come to life.
It’s also where Gaudi used to live, and you’ll be able to visit his former home and see his furniture and other pieces he designed.
Park Guell is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona and tickets constantly sell out. Book your tickets in advance so you don’t miss a chance to go!
✔️ Watch a movie at Cine Verdi
Cine Verdi is one of the only cinemas in the city that shows films in their original language. So if it’s a rainy day whilst you’re in Barcelona, this is the perfect place to visit.
Where to eat & drink in Gracia
- Bloc 34
- Omu
- Amazonica
- Al Norte
- Intrepid
- Mo Veggie lab
- Tasta
4. El Poblenou: Where to stay in Barcelona for both the beach and the city
Poblenou used to be Barcelona’s industrial district, but it’s undergoing a lot of renovation and it’s now quickly becoming the creative hub of the city.
There’s brilliant brunch spots, tapas bars and Barcelona’s notorious club – Razzmatazz. Els Encants, Barcelona’s eclectic flea market with a fabulous mirrored ceiling, also calls Poblenou home – and it’s the perfect place to while away a morning.
The one thing to be aware of if you’re staying in Poblenou is that it’s currently undergoing a lot of construction so there might be some noise. Don’t let that put you off though, you’ll be spending most of your time out exploring the city, and Poblenou makes a great base for your first time in Barcelona.
Where to stay in Poblenou
The Hoxton is my favourite hotel in the whole of Barcelona. There’s 240 design-led bedrooms, some with freestanding bath tubs and views of the Sagrada Familia.
There’s two restaurants – Four Corners serves up Detroit style deep dish pizza on the ground floor, and Tope offers a Mexican-inspired menu on the rooftop.
On the rooftop, there’s a brilliant pool exclusively for guests, perfect for those summer days in the city.
This Barcelona hotel has it all – movie screenings, a swimming pool, gym and a rooftop bar.
The rooms here feel very university-like – think pinboards, posters and bright colours. They’re simple but equipped with everything you need for the weekend.
If you fancy going all out, book the Playroom. It’s 3x the size of the other rooms and comes with its own private bar!
Best things to do in Poblenou
✔️ Explore Palo Market Fest
Palo Market Fest is a street market that takes place over the weekend at the Palo Alto venue in Poblenou.
There’s local vendors, food and drink stalls, and live music and DJs. The event goes from day to night and has a real festival feel to it.
Where to eat & drink in Poblenou
- Tope at The Hoxton
- Four Corners Pizza
- Little Fern
- Can Dende
- Three Marks Coffee
- Càmping
5. Gothic Quarter: Where to stay in Barcelona for seeing the sights
The Gothic Quarter (or Barri Gòtic) is the neighbourhood most people associate Barcelona with. It’s the old city and its iconic medieval streets and grand Gothic architecture are like something out of a fairytale.
It’s an amazing place to base yourself for your first time in Barcelona, getting lost amongst the maze-like alleyways of the old town.
There’s lots of beautiful squares, filled with bars and tapas joints, and at the heart is Barcelona cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century and is a must-visit on your trip! Staying in the Gothic Quarter’s a great option if you want to be able to walk to most places.
I’d personally avoid staying too close to Las Ramblas. It’s a brilliant place to visit for a couple of hours but it’s very touristy and over-priced, so I wouldn’t spend too long there.
Where to stay in the Gothic Quarter
Mercer is a 5* luxury hotel just a few steps away from Barcelona cathedral. There’s a rooftop pool and poolside bar, as well as an interior courtyard with its own orange trees.
The 28 rooms are full of character with original beamed ceilings and exposed brick walls. Some bedrooms have balconies overlooking the street, and if you really fancy treating yourself, the Suite comes with a large private terrace.
This boutique hotel is in the middle of the Gothic Quarter, with 17 beautifully-designed rooms (some even with free-standing baths).
Plus, the building’s a converted 17th-century palace, so you’ll get a real-feel for authentic Barcelona life.
Best things to do in the Gothic Quarter
✔️ Wander down Las Ramblas
Las Ramblas is a tree-lined street dividing the Gothic Quarter and Raval. The tree-lined road is probably Barcelona’s most famous street and whilst it’s definitely worth a quick visit, I wouldn’t spend too much time there.
It’s very expensive, and a spot known for pickpockets. Make sure you keep your belongings where you can see them, I have this bag and I absolutely love it. It’s a shoulder bag so it’s really easy to keep on the front of your body where it’s safe.
This is my favourite bag for a city break in Barcelona. It’s waterproof and fits so much inside, and it’s really affordable. It’s really popular & regularly sells out so make sure you grab one for your trip!
✔️ Visit Mercado de la Boqueria
Mercado de la Boqueria is Barcelona’s most famous public market, and one of the oldest in Europe.
It’s a great place to grab a snack or a fresh juice, and if you can find a free seat at one of the restaurants, I’d recommend trying some of the tapas there!
✔️ Wander down Carrer del Bisbe
Carrer del Bisbe is one of the most recognisable streets in the whole of Barcelona. It connects the cathedral Cathedral Square with the Plaza de Sant Jaume and is known for the iconic Pont del Bisbe.
The stone arch bridge was designed by Joan Rubió i Bellver in 1928 and runs over the street. It’s one of the most beautiful photo spots in the city, but make sure you go early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
This gothic-style cathedral is one of the most beautiful buildings in Barcelona. It was built between the 13th and 15th centuries and has incredible ornate features like gargoyles, and sculptures of angels.
Inside is just as beautiful, comprised of vaulted ceilings, chapels and intricate stain glass windows.
The cathedral is open to visitors daily and tickets include access to the internal courtyard garden and the rooftop, which has stunning views over Barcelona.
Make sure you secure your ticket for the cathedral ahead of time so you don’t miss out!
For an amazing view over the cathedral, head to the rooftop bar at Hotel Colón. You don’t need a reservation.
Where to eat & drink in the Gothic Quarter
- The rooftop at the Colón Hotel
- Mercado de La Boqueria
- Bistrot Levante
- Pullitzer Terrace
6. La Barceloneta: Where to stay in Barcelona for the beach
The Barceloneta neighbourhood was a former fishing village, and has grown into one of the busiest parts of the city. If you’re a fan of the beach, Barceloneta’s the perfect place for you, as the neighbourhood leads directly onto the coast. Aside from that, I wouldn’t really recommend it. Most of the bars and restaurants on the beach are over-priced, so you’ll probably spend most of your time heading back into the city.
On top of that, I definitely wouldn’t plan your trip around the beach. I’m sure I’ll annoy some people with this statement, but I’m really not a fan of the beach in Barcelona. Yes it’s great to have a beach in a city, but it’s over-crowded and the water’s not that clean.
If you are going to visit the beach in Barcelona, please make sure there’s always someone watching your valuables. Or, you could buy a waterproof bag that you can take in the sea with you. A busy beach means there’s unfortunately always opportunists.
Where to stay in Barceloneta
This luxury 5 star hotel overlooks the sea and has 2 outdoor pools, a spa and a 2-Michelin star restaurant.
There’s 483 bedrooms with something for every budget and group size. Some of the rooms have incredible sea views and if you’re feeling fancy, they even have penthouses, spread over two floors with a separate kitchen and dining area.
It’s located next to the port so there’s restaurants and bars around, and you’re only a short walk from Barceloneta beach.
Best things to do in Barceloneta
✔️ Spend a day at the beach
If you’re expecting crystal clear water and a deserted cove, you definitely won’t find it in Barcelona. It’s a city beach, so it’s busy and a bit grimy. But, it’s still an great place to spend the afternoon when the sun’s shining.
If you’re heading to the beach, I’ve got two recommendations:
- My biggest piece of advice would be not to leave your valuables unattended. Pickpocketing happens a lot on the beach (I’ve seen it), so don’t give anyone the opportunity to get your stuff. I’d suggest either taking it in turns to go to in the water so there’s always someone on the beach with your belongings, or, getting yourself one of these waterproof cases for your phone. That way, you just take it in with you.
- Don’t buy the drinks from the vendors on the beach. They’re made down side streets where there’s a really big chance of them being contaminated, and you don’t want to ruin your holiday by getting sick.
✔️ Get the cable car to Montjuïc
Montjuïc, meaning “Jewish Mountain” is a hill overlooking Barcelona. It’s where you’ll find the Olympic Stadium, Montjuïc Castle and some of the most beautiful green spaces in the city, including Jardins de Joan Brossa and Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera.
Unlike London, Barcelona isn’t packed full of green space, so gardens like this are a welcome relief from the city.
One of the best ways to explore Montjuïc is to take the cable car. It stops at 3 stations on the way up, giving you a chance to explore the whole area.
If you’re visiting Barcelona in the summer, don’t miss the Olympic swimming pool on Montjuïc hill. Entry costs €5 and it offers the most magical views over the city.
Make sure you secure your cable car ticket in advance so you don’t end up having to walk up in the heat. Barcelona gets very hot in the summer, don’t say I didn’t warn you!
One of my favourite things to do on any holiday is get out on a boat, and this 2-hour sunset sailing tour is the perfect way to spend an evening in Barcelona.
Your ticket includes tapas and wine, towels, blankets, an English-speaking guide and music on board. Whether you’re on a girls trip or a couples getaway, it’s make your trip even more memorable.
Where to eat & drink in Barceloneta
- Refresc House
- Cecconis
- La Roseta
- Myra
7. Sarrià-Sant Gervasi: Where to stay in Barcelona for a more chilled-out break
Sarrià-Sant Gervasi’s a beautiful neighbourhood in the North of the city, and a great base for your first time in Barcelona. It’s safe, quiet and charming, so it’s the perfect spot if you’re not a fan of the hustle and bustle.
There’s less going on here than in other areas, and it’s not very close to the main sights – it’d take you an hour to walk to the Sagrada Familia from Sant Gervasi. But you’ll find hotels here are cheaper than in other parts of Barcelona, and if you don’t mind sitting on a train for a bit longer, it’s a great option!
Where to stay in Sant Gervasi
This is one of the best boutique hotels in Barcelona. There’s 18 individually designed rooms, all with a neutral, modern design, and each one featuring either a Hammam or a hydromassage bath tub.
There’s a spa and wellness centre with a sauna, outdoor pool and a hot tub. Breakfast is included and there’s a brilliant Mediterranean restaurant on site.
Best things to do in Sant Gervasi
✔️ Visit Tibidabo
Tibidabo is a mountain located in the Northwest of Barcelona. As well as being home to an incredible Gothic church, it’s also where you’ll find one of the oldest theme parks in the world.
Tibidabo theme park has been in operation since 1901 and has roller coasters, a Ferris wheel and a haunted house.
It’s a brilliant place to visit if you’re staying in Barcelona longer than a few days and have some time to spare.
✔️ Explore the rainforest at the Science Museum
If you’re visiting Barcelona with children (or if you aren’t – I love it!), the Science Museum is a brilliant activity. It’s most famous for its flooded forest, which recreates the Amazon rainforest.
From the outside there’s an underwater section where you can watch the fish swimming around, and you’re also able to walk through it.
It’s one of the most fascinating things I’ve ever seen and I’d definitely recommend a visit here if you’re interested in science and nature.
The Bellesguard Tower is another of Gaudi’s incredible creations, and is the latest of his buildings to be opened to the public.
He was inspired by the medieval castle of Martin I, the last king of Barcelona, who lived in Bellesguard until he died in 1410.
It’s a beautiful place to visit as so much history lies in the grounds of the tower, and its often thought of as one of Gaudi’s most important pieces of work.
Grab your tickets to Bellesguard Tower in advance, one of Gaudi’s most symbolic pieces
Where not to stay in Barcelona for a first time visit
I wouldn’t spend too long overthinking what area’s best, Barcelona’s a really walkable city, and the public transport is brilliant.
The neighbourhoods are all so close to each other you’ll often find yourself walking from one to another without even realising. That being said, there’s one neighbourhood I probably wouldn’t recommend for tourists and that’s El Raval.
Bordering Sant Antoni and the Gothic Quarter, Raval has quite a bad reputation for high crime rates. Whilst the majority of people live in Raval and don’t have any issues, I really wouldn’t recommend staying there as a tourist.
I’ve always promised I’d give the same advice on this blog that I’d give a friend. And I’d tell my friend not to stay in Raval. It can be quite overwhelming at night, and if you’re wandering around drunk trying to figure out which way your hotel is, you’ll stand out like a sore thumb.
I want you to enjoy Barcelona for the wonderful city it is, and not have your experience tainted by the neighbourhood you choose to stay in.
Visiting Barcelona, FAQs:
Is Barcelona a walkable city?
Yes, Barcelona’s a very walkable city, it’s really easy to walk between the main sights. In fact, it’s how I’d recommend you explore it. Walking is the best way to discover the incredible buildings and architecture you’d miss if you were on the metro.
Which part of Barcelona is best to stay in?
I’d recommend staying in Born, Eixample or the Gothic Quarter. They’re centrally located, safe, and have plenty of brilliant bars and restaurants. Plus, they’re really well connected to the rest of the city. Born & the Gothic Quarter are the older parts of the city, and Eixample is more modern.
How many days do you need in Barcelona for the first time?
If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time, I’d recommend 3-4 full days. This will give you enough time to see the Sagrada Familia, visit some of Gaudi’s famous buildings, spend an afternoon at the beach and experience the incredible food scene.
Is Barcelona cheap or expensive?
Compared to the UK, Barcelona is a much more affordable destination. You can get a beer for €2 and dinner for less than €10. However, in comparison to other parts of Spain, it is more expensive. So this entirely depends where you’re travelling from.
What time of year should you visit Barcelona?
I’d recommend visiting Barcelona in May, June or September. It’ll be warm enough to sunbathe at the beach, but comfortable enough to walk around in. Barcelona gets VERY hot in the summer and it’s almost unbearable. In August, most Spanish go on holiday, so a lot of places close down.
The wrap-up: Where to stay in Barcelona for the first time
I wouldn’t stress too much about where to stay in Barcelona for your first time visiting. It’s easy enough to walk in between neighbourhoods and the metro station is fantastic for getting around, so you’ll have a brilliant time wherever you choose.
