A complete guide to where to stay in Barcelona (+ the best places for first-timers and hotels near Las Ramblas, Barceloneta beach and with a pool).
Located right on the Catalan coast, Barcelona stretches from the turquoise Mediterranean waters to the green Serra de Collserola hills. It’s Spain’s second-largest city and the perfect mix of lively beaches, historic streets and delicious tapas.
However, given Barcelona’s size, deciding where to stay, especially if it’s your first visit, can be tough. That’s why I put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the best neighbourhoods for sightseeing, nightlife, or a stop before your cruise. Plus, I’ve included recommendations for fantastic beachfront hotels and some stunning spots with rooftop pools.
Where I stayed in Barcelona
On my last trip to Barcelona, I stayed in the middle of the Eixample district, just near the iconic Las Ramblas boulevard. I picked this spot because it’s super central, perfect if you want to hit all the main tourist attractions. Many places were within walking distance, and anything farther was just a quick metro ride away. Plus, Plaça de Catalunya, where the airport shuttle stops, was just a 10-minute walk away.
💖 My favourite hotel in Barcelona: Antiga Casa Buenavista
Perfect for: sightseeing – just a short walk from a metro station and Plaça de Catalunya
What I loved: nice swimming pool with a sun terrace, excellent breakfast
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
Antiga Casa Buenavista was the perfect base for my Barcelona trip. I loved the location, just steps from Universitat metro station, which made getting around super easy. Line L2 took me straight to Sagrada Família, while Casa Batlló was just a short stroll away. I also appreciated the little touches, like the complimentary iced tea and lemon water by the pool. And breakfast? Let’s just say the homemade cakes and brownies were a sweet way to start the day!
Readers’ most booked hotel in Barcelona
Searching for an excellent hotel in a convenient location? Look no further than Olivia Plaza Hotel – with over 3,500 reviews, it’s one of the most booked hotels in Barcelona.
Olivia Plaza Hotel – Most booked hotel
Perfectly located right on Plaça de Catalunya and just steps from the iconic La Rambla, Olivia Plaza Hotel is an ideal base for exploring Barcelona. The hotel offers stunning views of the square and has a lovely terrace bar that’s great for a relaxing drink. Its Nineteen Restaurant & Terrace serves a delicious mix of Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine, and has an impressive wine and cava list. The gourmet breakfast is a real highlight, with freshly baked pastries and plenty of sweet and savoury choices.
Where to stay in Barcelona, Spain (My top picks)
- Dreta de l’Eixample – for first-timers (Catalonia Passeig de Gràcia – best hotel in Eixample)
- La Rambla (northern end) – for sightseeing (H10 Universitat – best hotel near Las Ramblas)
- Best hotel in Barcelona with a pool – Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa
- Best hotel near Barcelona-Sants – Barceló Sants
- Plaça de les Drassanes – before a cruise (Duquesa de Cardona – best hotel near the port)
- El Born – for nightlife (Catalonia Catedral – best hotel in El Born)
- Barceloneta – for beach (H10 Port Vell – best hotel near Barceloneta)
- Best hotel close to the airport – Salles Ciutat
Tips for booking a hotel in Barcelona
Public transport proximity – the city’s tourist attractions are spread out, so make sure to book a hotel near a metro station. L2 (purple line) takes you to Sagrada Família and Passeig de Gràcia (the city’s most famous shopping street), while L3 (green line) – to Park Güell and Plaça de Catalunya (transportation hub). And L4 (yellow line) gives you access to the beach.
Visiting Barcelona for the first time? Then take a look at my complete Barcelona itinerary, which covers all the popular attractions and my favourite tapas restaurants.
Dreta de l’Eixample – where to stay in Barcelona first time
Barcelona is made up of 10 distinct neighbourhoods, or barrios, each with its own character and charm. These are further divided into smaller districts, making the city feel like a collection of mini-worlds. The city centre is generally considered to be the Old Town (Ciutat Vella) and the eastern side of L’Eixample. This is where you’ll find many of Barcelona’s must-see sights, including the iconic Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s famous houses and the Gothic Quarter.
For first-time visitors, the best place to stay in Barcelona is definitely Eixample, especially the Dreta de l’Eixample area. This iconic neighbourhood is known for its wide, tree-lined avenues and unique octagonal blocks with charming courtyards. Also, Eixample is home to many of Gaudí’s masterpieces, including Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera.
The neighbourhood was developed in the late 19th century to connect the Old Town (Ciutat Vella) and the former nearby suburbs (for example, Gràcia). In fact, l’Eixample in Catalan means an extension. The district spans a wide area, all the way from Plaça d’Espanya in the west to Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes to the eastern end. I’d recommend staying in Dreta de l’Eixample, which is the most central part of the district.
Don’t miss out! Book your skip-the-line tickets for Sagrada Família and Park Güell. With over 25,000 visitors per day, lines are huge – save hours and get straight inside.
Why stay in Dreta de l’Eixample for first-timers
- Dreta de l’Eixample is the most central and convenient area for first-timers
- you’ll be able to walk to many popular sights, including Sagrada Família, the Gaudí houses and the Gothic Quarter
- for high-end shopping, head to Passeig de Gràcia, the city’s most famous shopping boulevard
- excellently connected to the rest of the city with multiple metro lines running through the area
- easy access to the airport via the shuttle Aerobus from Plaça de Catalunya
Whenever I’m in Barcelona, I always stay in Dreta de l’Eixample, it’s hands down my favourite neighbourhood. Centrally located and close to just about everything, it’s the perfect base for exploring the city, especially if it’s your first time. You can easily walk to El Born, one of the trendiest areas packed with tapas bars and cosy restaurants. And if you’re craving the beach, it’s just two quick metro stops away on the yellow line (L4). Some of my favourite brunch places here are Cremat Lounge, EatMyTrip (best pancakes in the city) and Billy Brunch & Garden.
Best hotels in Eixample
Catalonia Passeig de Gràcia – Best 4-star
Catalonia Hotel is perfectly situated next to the famous shopping street Passeig de Gracia Boulevard and Plaça de Catalunya, where the airport shuttle stops. The hotel’s restaurant, Les Delícies, offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine. And there’s also a small pool and a sun terrace if you want to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Seventy – Second best 4-star
Seventy Hotel is right in the centre of the Eixample district, making it easy to walk everywhere. Plus, Passeig de Gràcia, with its shops and cafes, is just a short stroll away. The rooms are modern with a Mediterranean charm and large windows that let in plenty of light. And after a day of exploring, you can enjoy a treatment with natural, vegan products at the wellness centre or just relax in the rooftop pool.
Hotel El Palace – Best 5-star
Originally opened in 1919, El Palace, with its gorgeous neo-classical façade, will transport you back to a world of elegance and glamour. The hotel offers two dining options – Amar al Mar Restaurant, a rooftop restaurant, and the Bluesman Cocktail Bar. You’ll also find a nice outdoor pool and a unique Mayan-style spa, where you can experience a traditional Temazcal sauna.
The One – Second best 5-star
Located right between the famous shopping street Passeig de Gràcia and the iconic Sagrada Familia, this hotel is a perfect base for exploring the city. At Somni Restaurant, you can enjoy authentic Mediterranean and Catalan flavours. Don’t miss the rooftop bar, with its plunge pool and panoramic city views. The spa is a real treat as well, featuring an experience pool and a Finnish sauna.
Room Mate Pau – Best 3-star
Room Mate Pau is a fantastic budget-friendly choice, located just steps from Plaça de Catalunya and the Gothic Quarter. The rooms are spacious and feature comfortable beds. Plus, you can start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast served on the charming indoor terrace.
Midtown Apartments – Best apartments
Tucked at the corner of Casp and Bruc Streets, this spot offers stylish, modern apartments perfect for your stay. There is also a rooftop pool, where you can relax while enjoying the city views. Easy access by foot to the major sights, with plenty of restaurants and supermarkets nearby. Plus, luggage lockers are available if you need to store your bags.
Las Ramblas – best area to stay in Barcelona as a tourist
If you’re heading to Barcelona to explore its famous sights, choosing the right area to stay in makes a big difference. While the Sagrada Família is the city’s most iconic landmark, I actually don’t recommend staying right next to it. Despite its popularity, it’s a bit isolated from many of the other main attractions. Broadly speaking, you can divide the city’s must-see spots into four zones: Passeig de Gràcia and the adjacent Gothic Quarter, Sagrada Família and Park Güell.
To give you an idea of distances: it’s about 2 km (1.2 miles) between Casa Batlló and the Sagrada Família, and roughly 4 km (2.5 miles) between Park Güell and the Gothic Quarter. So, staying somewhere central, ideally between Passeig de Gràcia and the Gothic Quarter, will make getting around much easier. Plus, it will save you from long walks or metro rides.
As I’ve mentioned, Dreta de l’Eixample is a fantastic spot for both sightseeing and first-timers. Just keep in mind that, depending on your hotel’s location, you might have to walk 10–15 minutes to reach the nearest metro station. So, my best tip is to pick a place near a metro stop on line L2 (easy access to get to Sagrada Familia) or L3 (Plaça Catalunya and all the famous Gaudí houses).
Actually, I made this same mistake on my very first trip to Barcelona. The hotel was super central, not far from a few metro stations (at least according to the map) and just a 5-minute walk from Passeig de Gràcia. It was great for first-timers and shopping, but not ideal for sightseeing, since I had to walk about 10–15 minutes just to catch the nearest metro. So, on my next visit, I decided to stay near Las Ramblas, around Plaça de Catalunya, and honestly, it was a much better experience.
La Rambla (Las Ramblas) is one of Barcelona’s most famous and iconic streets – a tree-lined pedestrian boulevard stretching about 1.2 kilometres (just under a mile). It runs through the Ciutat Vella district, the city’s historic centre, and borders the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) to the east and El Raval to the west. At its northern end, you’ll find Plaça de Catalunya, which marks the boundary between Dreta de l’Eixample and Ciutat Vella. If you want super-easy access to pretty much everything, staying near Plaça de Catalunya is your best bet.
Just a heads-up: La Rambla is super touristy, and pickpockets are more common, especially in the southern end. That’s why I’d suggest staying near the northern end, near Plaça de Catalunya, instead of right on La Rambla. It’s safer and still really convenient.
Plaça de Catalunya is Barcelona’s central square and main transport hub, making it super easy to reach major attractions either on foot or by metro. From here, you can easily stroll to iconic spots like La Pedrera, Casa Batlló, and the charming Gothic Quarter. The square itself is beautiful, with fountains, gardens, statues, and shady trees. Around it, you’ll find tons of restaurants and bars, easy to grab a coffee or a meal whenever you need a break.
Why stay near Las Ramblas (the northern end) as a tourist
- most central area for sightseeing – you can walk to the famous Gaudí houses and the Gothic Quarter, and Sagrada Família is just a 5-minute metro ride (purple L2 line)
- easy access to the airport – the shuttle bus Aerobus stops at Plaça de Catalunya, as well as regional and suburban trains (Plaça de Catalunya Train Station)
- Universitat and Catalunya metro stations connect you to the entire city (via metro lines L1, L2, L3, L6, and L7)
Best hotels near Las Ramblas
Catalonia Square – Most popular 4-star
Perfectly located for sightseeing, just steps from Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, and Las Ramblas. The rooms are modern with extra-comfy beds, and some even feature a private plunge pool and sun terrace. And the breakfast is a real treat, featuring smoked salmon, local cheeses, and fresh-squeezed orange juice.
H10 Universitat – Best rated 4-star
H10 Universitat is perfectly located just moments from Plaça de Catalunya and La Rambla, making it great for sightseeing on foot. Rooms are modern and spacious, with super comfy beds, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring. Don’t miss the hotel’s Twenty One Terrace, where you can sip a cocktail while enjoying beautiful views of the city skyline.
ME Barcelona – Best 5-star
Located right on Passeig de Gràcia, ME Hotel is the perfect base for your city adventure. You can savour fresh Mediterranean dishes in the garden at BELBO Terrenal or enjoy delicious Italian eats at BELBO Fasto. Plus, the rooftop pool offers stunning views, and the organic spa is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
Yurbban Ramblas Hotel – Best 3-star
Located right on the Las Ramblas boulevard and only steps from Plaça de Catalunya, Yurbban Ramblas Hotel is a great, affordable choice. This boutique hotel features a rooftop terrace with lovely city views, where you can enjoy a complimentary wine hour and snacks. Breakfast here is a highlight, with delicious local produce, pastries, traditional Catalan dishes, and fresh juices.
Rambla 102 – Best apartments
Situated right on Las Ramblas and just steps from the Boquería Market, this property offers modern soundproofed apartments. Each suite comes fully equipped with a kitchenette, washing machine, and dryer. Perfect if you’re looking for the comfort of home while exploring Barcelona!
Best hotels in Barcelona with a pool
When I was planning my trip to Barcelona, one thing really stood out – almost every hotel I looked at had a pool. Rooftop pools, garden pools, tiny plunge pools, you name it. And after spending a few days there, I completely understand why. In the summer heat (and let’s be honest, Barcelona gets really hot), that cool water is more than just a luxury, it’s a lifesaver. Whether you’ve been hiking up to Park Güell or spent the day exploring Gaudí’s masterpieces, having a pool to dip into before dinner is the ultimate treat.
As I’ve already mentioned, finding a hotel with a pool in Barcelona is surprisingly easy, even in the heart of the city. This is especially true if you’re browsing four-star and higher. If you have the option, I’d suggest choosing one with a rooftop pool. There’s just something magical about watching the city from above, cocktail in hand, with toes in the water. To make your search a bit easier, I’ve rounded up some of the best hotels in Barcelona with a pool below.
Just a heads-up – most outdoor pools are seasonal and close during the winter months. Heated outdoor pools that stay open in winter are rare. So, if a pool is a key reason for booking a particular hotel, make sure to check in advance whether it will be open during your stay.
Catalonia Magdalenes – Best 4-star
Catalonia Magdalenes is tucked away in the Gothic Quarter, just a short walk from Las Ramblas and Plaça de Catalunya. The highlight is the glass-enclosed rooftop pool, offering fantastic views over the city and the Barcelona Cathedral. The hotel also has a small spa area with a jacuzzi and Turkish bath. And on-site Gastrobar serves up a tasty selection of Mediterranean dishes and tapas.
Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa – Second best 4-star
This hotel has a fantastic central location, just a short walk from Plaça de Catalunya and the Gothic Quarter. The rooftop pool is a great place to relax, with sun loungers and beautiful city views. There’s also a cosy spa area with an indoor plunge pool, and you get 30 minutes of free access each day. I love the daily wine o’clock, where complimentary red and white wine, sangria, and cheese are served.
Ohla Eixample – Best 5-star
Just steps from Passeig de Gràcia, Ohla Eixample offers a luxurious stay in the heart of Barcelona. The rooftop heated infinity pool is open all year and offers great city views, along with a bar that’s perfect for a drink at sunset. The hotel also has two restaurants on-site – the Michelin-starred Xerta, which serves dishes from the Terres de l’Ebre region, and Kintsugi, which focuses on Japanese cuisine.
Best hotels near Barcelona-Sants
When travelling through Spain by train, there’s one name you’ll see again and again – Barcelona-Sants. Located just west of the city centre in the Sants-Montjuïc district, it’s the city’s main railway station. Whether you’re arriving from Madrid on the speedy AVE or heading off to France, this is most likely where your journey will start or end.
Although Barcelona-Sants (Estació de Sants) is a bit away from the main tourist areas, it’s very well connected to the rest of the city by metro. The blue Line 5 (L5) takes you to Sagrada Família in about 15 minutes, while the green Line 3 (L3) will get you to La Rambla and the Gothic Quarter in 20minutes. Plus, the airport train (R2 Nord line) runs directly to Sants, making transfers to and from El Prat Airport super convenient.
Still, I wouldn’t recommend staying near Barcelona-Sants unless you have an early train to catch and only one night in Barcelona. The area is mostly residential, and getting from your hotel to the main attractions will usually take at least 30 minutes. Plus, if you want to have dinner in the city centre, expect even more time spent commuting than you might want.
That said, if you need to stay close to Barcelona-Sants, here are my top hotel recommendations for the area.
Barceló Sants – Best 4-star
Right above Barcelona-Sants station (just follow the ‘H’ signs when you get off the train), this hotel is the closest you can get to the station. The rooms are modern with a fun orbital space station theme and offer impressive city views. You’ll also find a great restaurant called Oxygen and an Orbital Bar to relax in after your journey.
Nobu Hotel – Best 5-star
If you’re after a luxury stay near Barcelona-Sants, Nobu Hotel is the perfect choice. It boasts the city’s highest rooftop, complete with a pool and a bar. On the 23rd floor, you’ll find a restaurant with breathtaking views of the city. Plus, there’s a spa offering a sauna, steam room, and water circuit, ideal for some well-deserved relaxation.
Catalonia Roma – Best 3-star
Only a short walk from the railway station, Catalonia Roma is a great option for travellers on a budget. The hotel boasts a nice rooftop pool with great views. Plus, the breakfast is delicious with many gluten-free options.
Plaça de les Drassanes – Where to stay in Barcelona before cruise
If you’re starting your cruise from Barcelona, it’s well worth arriving a day or two early. It gives you time to relax, especially if you’re coming from overseas, and a chance to explore one of Europe’s most colourful cities.
All cruises in Barcelona leave from the main port, which is situated near the city centre. Specifically, the cruises depart from the World Trade Center Dock and Moll Adossat Dock, which are located just a short distance apart.
The best area to stay in Barcelona, if you’re embarking on a Mediterranean cruise, is Plaça de les Drassanes. It is conveniently situated near the Port of Barcelona, one of Europe’s busiest cruise ports. At the same time, the square is within walking distance from La Rambla, Barceloneta Beach and a short metro ride from the tourist sights (green metro line L3).
Why stay near Plaça de les Drassanes before cruise
- Plaça de les Drassanes is a great location to stay before a cruise, as the square is within walking distance from the port, the Gothic Quarter and the beach
- easy access to the city centre and tourist attractions (green metro line L3)
Best hotels near Plaça de les Drassanes
INNSiDE by Meliá – Most popular 4-star
INNSiDE by Meliá is an ideal place to stay before setting off on a cruise. Perfectly located near the Port of Barcelona, it’s also just steps from the Paral·lel metro station. Line L3 will take you to Gaudí’s famous houses, while line L2 goes straight to the Sagrada Família. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and some even offer great views of the city.
Duquesa de Cardona – Best rated 4-star
Duquesa de Cardona is in a great spot, just a short walk from the Port of Barcelona, super handy if you’re catching a cruise. The hotel has a rooftop terrace with amazing views and two small plunge pools to cool off in. When it comes to dinner, you’ve got two Mediterranean restaurants to choose from: La Terrassa del Duquesa, with stunning views over Port Vell, and Olentia, offering tasty dishes in an elegant setting.
Serras – Best 5-star
Serras is the perfect choice to begin your cruise journey in style and create lasting memories. The hotel is set in a historic building where Pablo Picasso began his career back in 1896. It features an infinity rooftop pool with views of the sea and Marina Port Vell. And when you’re hungry, you can enjoy Mediterranean and Catalan dishes at Agreste Mar, Informal, or grab a drink at Le Nine bar.
Sixties Ramblas – Best 3-star
Sixties Ramblas is a great choice if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option. This stylish hotel has a quirky 1960s theme, and there’s even a vintage car in the lobby! The location is excellent too – close to the port and just steps from Las Ramblas and the Drassanes metro station.
El Born – best area to stay in Barcelona for nightlife
Barcelona is one of those cities that truly comes alive after dark. Whether you’re into craft cocktails, late-night tapas, or rooftop bars, the city offers something for every type of night owl.
El Born is one of the best places to stay in Barcelona, especially if you’re into cocktails, tapas, and a great nightlife scene. Set in the heart of the Old City (Ciutat Vella), this neighbourhood is full of charm, with narrow medieval streets, trendy bars, and stylish restaurants around every corner. Plus, it’s just a short walk to both Barceloneta Beach and the Gothic Quarter, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the best of Barcelona, day and night.
El Born is split into two distinct areas. The lower part is a labyrinth of narrow medieval streets, full of character and charm, where you’ll find artisan boutiques and hidden tapas bars. The upper part is quieter and more residential, offering a peaceful escape just a few steps away from the action. And at the heart of the neighbourhood is Passeig del Born, a pedestrian street packed with tapas spots and cocktail bars.
For seriously good cocktails, I loved Mariposa Negra and Dux Gin & Cocktail Bar, both had a great vibe and some of the best drinks I had in Barcelona. If you’re more in the mood for tapas, head to El Casal Café Bar and Ziryab Fusió Tapas Bar (my favourite spot for tapas).
Why stay in El Born for nightlife
- El Born is the perfect location for nightlife and dining out, close to the beach and tourist attractions
- discover the unique flavours of Barcelona by joining this Tapas Walking Tour with food, wine, and a bit of history (over 4,200 excellent reviews)
- 2 metro lines (yellow line L4 and red line L1) connect you to all the different major sites in the city
Best hotels in El Born
Catalonia Catedral – Best 4-star
Fabulous location, just around the corner from the Barcelona Cathedral and a short walk to Las Ramblas and El Born. From the hotel’s Ascent Restaurant, you can admire the views of the Portal de l’Àngel and the Palau Pignatelli, while enjoying Mediterranean cuisine. Plus, there’s a great rooftop pool with views of the cathedral.
H10 Cubik – Second best 4-star
Situated right between Plaça de Catalunya and the El Born neighbourhood, this hotel offers the perfect balance for both sightseeing and nightlife. You’ll find a rooftop bar and a plunge pool with incredible views of the cathedral. The rooms are modern, spacious, and come with super comfy beds for a great night’s sleep.
Ohla – Best 5-star
For a luxurious stay, treat yourself to a room at Ohla Hotel. Located near the Palau de la Música Concert Hall, this elegant hotel features a rooftop pool with great views over the city. It’s also a food lover’s dream, home to Caelis (a Michelin-starred restaurant), alongside La Plassohla for delicious tapas and Monsieur Rouge, a great steakhouse.
Hotel Suizo – Best 3-star
Nestled between the Gothic Quarter and El Born, Hotel Suizo is a fantastic budget-friendly choice. One of the highlights is the breakfast – there’s even a hot chocolate machine and a good selection of gluten-free options. Plus, the Jaume I metro station is right outside the door, making it super easy to get around the city.
Decô Apartments – Best apartments
If you prefer the comforts of home while travelling, Decô Apartments is a perfect option. Located in a beautifully preserved 19th-century building, these modern self-service apartments feature original details like wooden beams and stone walls. Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchenette, giving you the freedom to cook. The location couldn’t be better as well, right in the heart of the El Born neighbourhood, with bars, restaurants, and sights just steps away.
Barceloneta – where to stay in Barcelona near the beach
If you’re heading to Barcelona for a beach getaway, you’re in for a treat. The city is home to some stunning stretches of coastline, where you can enjoy the golden sands and the Mediterranean Sea – all just minutes from the city centre.
One of the best areas to consider is Barceloneta, the city’s classic beach neighbourhood. This former fishing village still retains its authentic charm with narrow streets and seafood restaurants. In my opinion, it’s the perfect area if you want to combine beach days with nightlife and great tapas spots. Barceloneta is also close to the Gothic Quarter, so you get the best of both worlds – beach and city within walking distance. Plus, there are four beaches to choose from – Sant Sebastià, Barceloneta, Sant Miguel and Somorrostro.
Just a little further northeast, you’ll find La Vila Olímpica del Poblenou. This modern neighbourhood was developed for the 1992 Olympics. The beaches here, like Nova Icària and Bogatell, are less crowded than Barceloneta.
The nearby neighbourhood of El Poblenou is another excellent choice, especially if you’re after a more local vibe. It’s home to some of Barcelona’s top beaches, including Playa del Bogatell and Mar Bella Beach.
If I had to pick between Barceloneta, La Vila Olímpica del Poblenou, and El Poblenou, I’d go with Barceloneta. It’s the closest to El Born and the Gothic Quarter, making it super convenient for exploring the historic heart of the city. Plus, it’s better connected by metro, which makes getting to the main attractions quick and easy.
Why stay in Barceloneta for beach
- Barceloneta is the best location for beach lovers, just steps away from the Old Town, La Rambla, the bars and restaurants in El Born
- watch the sun sets over Barcelona by taking this Sunset Catamaran Cruise (over 3,000 excellent reviews)
- 4 main beaches to choose from and a short distance away from the sandy beaches of Nova Icària and Bogatell
- easy access to Plaça de Catalunya (where the airport shuttle bus stops) and the main popular attractions (yellow line L4)
- for some shopping and great views over the port, head to the Maremagnum shopping centre
Best hotels in Barcelona near the beach
Hotel Paxton – Most popular 4-star
Located in El Poblenou, just a short walk from Llacuna metro station and Playa del Bogatell, this hotel is a great choice for beach lovers. You can relax by the infinity pool or hang out on the sun terrace with nice city views. The hotel’s restaurant, Yolo, serves tasty Mediterranean food, perfect after a day of exploring or chilling at the beach.
H10 Port Vell – Best rated 4-star
If you want to be close to the beach and the city’s old town, H10 Port Vell is a top pick. It’s just steps away from the Gothic Quarter, right near Barceloneta metro station, and within easy walking distance to Barceloneta Beach. Plus, the rooftop terrace is a real gem, with a plunge pool and great views of Port Vell and the Mediterranean Sea.
Sofitel Skipper – Best 5-star
Ideal location, just a 3-minute walk from Barcelona’s largest beach and close to the Gothic Quarter. You can relax by one of two pools – the ElCielo rooftop pool with views of the Mediterranean, and the Blue Pool in a quiet garden. The hotel’s restaurant, Tendiez Bar, serves Mediterranean food made with fresh, local ingredients.
Acta Voraport – Best 3-star
If you’re travelling on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice comfort or location, Acta Voraport is a fantastic pick. It’s conveniently close to Llacuna metro station and Playa del Bogatell. Plus, it features a rooftop infinity pool where you can enjoy amazing views of the city skyline.
Best hotels in Barcelona close to the airport
If you’re flying into or out of Barcelona, you’ll likely pass through Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport. It is better known simply as Barcelona El Prat or BCN. Located just 15 km southwest of the city centre, it’s Spain’s second busiest airport and the main international gateway to the city.
Getting into Barcelona from the airport is easy. If you’re staying near Plaça de Catalunya, the Aerobús is the most convenient option (30-40 minutes journey time). Another option is the R2 Nord Rodalies train, which connects the airport to central stations like Sants and Passeig de Gràcia. Just keep in mind that it only departs from Terminal 2. So, if you’re arriving at Terminal 1 (like most international flights do), the train won’t be much help, so stick with the Aerobús or grab a taxi. Speaking of taxis, a ride to the city centre typically costs around €45, depending on your exact destination.
I usually don’t recommend staying near the airport unless it’s just for a quick overnight before an early morning flight. There’s only one hotel inside the airport itself, Sleep & Fly, but it’s pretty basic. If you want something more comfortable, I’d suggest looking at other nearby hotels (most of which offer free shuttle). Here are my top recommendations for places to stay near Barcelona Airport.
INNSiDE by Meliá – Nearest to the airport
INNSiDE by Meliá is one of the closest hotels to Barcelona El Prat Airport. It’s just a short drive away and has clean, spacious rooms, great for a quick overnight stay. Plus, the hotel offers a free shuttle that runs regularly between the airport and the hotel, so getting back and forth is easy.
Salles Ciutat – Best 4-star
If you’re after a bit more comfort, Sallés Hotel Ciutat del Prat is a great option. It has an indoor heated pool, a sauna, and a rooftop terrace with lovely views. The on-site Sinfonia Restaurant serves Mediterranean dishes, and if you’ve got an early flight, breakfast starts as early as 4 AM. There’s also a free airport shuttle, available on request, which makes getting to your terminal easy.
FAQs about where to stay in Barcelona
The city centre includes the Old Town (known as Ciutat Vella in Catalan) and the eastern side of L’Eixample. The Ciutat Vella is the historic core of Barcelona and comprises several neighbourhoods, including the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), El Raval, El Born, and Barceloneta.
The best place to stay in Barcelona is the Olivia Plaza Hotel. It’s perfectly located on Plaça de Catalunya, just steps from La Rambla, making it an ideal base for exploring the city on foot.
The best area to stay in Barcelona is around Plaça de Catalunya. It’s the city’s main square and a major transport hub, so getting around, whether by metro or on foot, is super easy. From here, you can walk to some of the city’s most iconic sights like La Pedrera, Casa Batlló, and the beautiful Gothic Quarter.
Stay in Dreta de l’Eixample. This neighbourhood is centrally located, safe, and home to Gaudí landmarks like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, with plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. You’ll also have excellent metro connections and can easily walk to the Gothic Quarter, Passeig de Gràcia, and Plaça de Catalunya.
Two of the safest and most traveller-friendly neighbourhoods in Barcelona are Eixample and Gràcia. Eixample is central, easy to navigate, and known for its wide, well-lit streets, perfect for walking day or night. Gràcia, on the other hand, has a more local, village-like vibe, it’s quiet, friendly, and feels very safe.
Not the best option. Although staying near the famous church sounds appealing, the area is crowded, lacks atmosphere, and feels quite disconnected from the rest of the city. Most major attractions are a metro ride away, so it’s not the most convenient base.
Yes, there is one hotel inside the airport called Sleep & Fly. It’s basic but convenient for early flights. For more comfort, there are several nearby hotels offering free shuttle services.
Pin for later
