If you’re like me you’re sick of hostels.
You also probably don’t see the sense in splurging on a hotel if you’re out all day sightseeing.
Luckily there’s a happy medium to be found: spending less but getting the privacy of your own holiday apartment in Barcelona. And I’m gonna show you how to do it properly.
Also! Make sure you keep reading on to my free apartment finder service.
Don’t need me? Skip ahead to Booking’s Barcelona apartments page clicking the button below:
Barcelona Holiday Apartments
Index
1 – My top 12 apartments in Barcelona
2 – How to book your apartment
3 – Why you should book with Booking
4 – Why rent an apartment in Barcelona?
5 – Barcelona apartment rental hacks
6 – My free apartment finder service
Top Apartments in Barcelona
After being in touch with readers and doing some research myself I’ve made a list of some of the best apartments in Barcelona.
I’ve taken into account the needs of my typical blog reader (location, rating, and price): if these are the top of nearly 2000 holiday apartments there’s surely a good reason!
Still haven’t found anything? I suggest writing me below or checking out the deals on Airbnb.
There’s a €2.48 city tax per person per day not included in online booking portal prices.
All properties have WiFi and towels included.
INSIDE BARCELONA APARTMENTS MERCAT
€90.00+ | Rating: 9.3 | Size: 65 m² | Metro: Barceloneta (L4) | Area: Born
This beautifully renovated apartment block near Ciutadella Park and the Picasso Museum is particularly good for young couples. You’ll be near some of the city’s best bars and restaurants.
Even though it’s super central in the Old Town it’s found in a calm pedestrian street and you’ll also be within striking distance to the beach – just a 20 minute walk.
Amenities: flat screen TV, terrace, AC/heating, kitchen, washing machine, dining room.
From airport: Aerobus to Universitat + bus H16 to Parc de la Ciutadella + 5 minutes walking.
🚌 Heading to Barcelona? Make sure you know how to get around Barcelona on public transport first.
LODGING APARTMENTS GUELL GAUDI
€95.00+ | Rating: 8.7 | Size: 68 m² | Metro: Alfons X (L5) | Area: Guinardó
This spacious apartment is just steps from the legendary Park Guell.
Here you get great value for small groups and families – the latter of which will take full advantage of the huge park. This recently renovated apartment can accommodate up to 5 people.
Being so high up also gives you an amazing view from the small balcony. If you are looking for calm without being too far from the main attractions, this is the perfect apartment!
Amenities: flat screen TV, AC/heating, balcony, kitchen, dining room, two bathrooms.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya + metro L4 from Urquinaona to Alfons X + 5 minute walk.
ASPASIOS SAGRADA FAMILIA APARTMENTS
€130.00+ | Rating: 9.3 | Size: 60 m²+ | Metro: Sagrada Familia (L2, L5) | Area: Eixample
This elegant and modern apartment offers both two and three bedroom versions.
You’ll feel like you’ve just bought a new apartment in one of the hottest places in town, right around the corner from epic Sagrada Familia church! You’ll get a priceless view of it from the terrace.
This is another great option for families – because it’ll get super quiet at night as it’s an area far from the clubs of the old city.
The hosts here also give personable service rarely seen around these parts 😉
Amenities: flat screen TV, view, AC/heating, terrace, kitchen, dining room.
From airport: Aerobus to Universitat + metro L2 to Sagrada Familia.
FEELATHOME MOZART APARTMENTS
€90.00+ | Rating: 8.8 | Size: 65 m² | Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5) | Area: Gracia
These modern apartments are found in the most authentic neighbourhood in the city: Gracia. They’re especially adept for couples, families, or groups of friends between 2 and 5 people.
The calmness of the area makes it the perfect place to take advantage of your personal terrace. You’ll also be in the middle of some of the city’s best boutiques, restaurants, and much more.
And as the name says: you’ll feel at home!
Amenities: flat screen TV, terrace, AC/heating, kitchen, dining room, washing machine.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Espanya + metro L3 to Diagonal + 7 minutes walking.
Bordeta Barcelona
€200.00+ | Rating: 9.5 | Size: 85 m² + | Metro: Hostafrancs | Area: Sants
Families looking for something that feels more like an upscale home than an apartment in Barcelona should go for this newly furnished flat that’s received a 9.9 rating for families.
The extra bathroom is a great way to avoid early morning fights and confusion! This huge and clean apartment comes with all the fixings including an amazing welcome pack and some of the best customer service via owner Pilar.
The highlight is the gorgeous balcony.
Amenities: flat-screen TV, fan/heater, kitchen + oven, dining area, Nespresso machine.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Espanya+ 10 minute walk.
Apartments Sixtyfour
€300.00+ | Rating: 9.3 | Size: 80 m² + | Metro: Passeig de Gracia | Area: Eixample
When I think of couples looking to spoil themselves with a little luxury my mind goes to this spacious beauty right on Barcelona’s main shopping street Passeig de Gracia.
The high ceilings and super comfy boutique furniture have a habit of keeping you relaxed like home. Looking off the balcony and seeing Barcelona life walk by will get you up off the couch though and into the area’s many amazing tapas bars.
Again, couples have rated this apartment a 9.6 so this could be a great honeymoon option.
Amenities: flat screen TV, fan/heater, full kitchen, washing machine, dining area.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya + 10 minute walk.
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Apartamentos DV
€80.00+ | Rating: 8.8 | Size: 26 m² + | Metro: Badal | Area: Sants
You’ll get all you need with a spacious bedroom and modern furnishings. The bigger rooms even have their own jacuzzi. This is the perfect choice for those attending conventions at the Fira Barcelona at Plaça Espanya.
You’ll find this in an accessible yet quiet neighbourhood.
Amenities: flat screen TV, air conditioning/heating, fully equipped kitchen, desk, bath.
From airport: Train from Terminal 2 to Sants Estacio + 5 minute walk.
Midtown Apartments
€55.00+ pp | Rating: 9.5 | Size: 95 m² + | Metro: Urquinaona | Area: Eixample
The three-bedroom one here is ideal for groups or stag dos and is a great jumping off point for something stylish and modern without breaking the bank. With four single beds, a double, and a sofa bed this is also great for clubbing weekends.
Spotless cleanliness and a what’s-what of products from irons to oil for cooking in the slickly fitted kitchen mean no stone is left unturned – there’s even swipe cards for left luggage facilities.
Did I mention the rooftop terrace with city view and private swimming pool?
Amenities: flat screen TV, fan/heater, full kitchen, hardwood floors, dining area.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya + 10 minute walk.
Blue Apartments
€70.00+ | Rating: 7.9 | Size: 55 m² + | Metro: Selva del Mar | Area: Poble Nou
Families looking for value and relaxation a bit outside of the city chaos should look up this Barcelona apartment which is just 150 meters from the beach and a variety of parks.
In the one bedroom apartment you rarely find such a fully-functional apartment including kitchen and living room at this price. Reviewers have raved about the comfortable beds, tranquility of the area, and friendliness of the host.
Another convenience is its proximity to the convention centre at El Forum, though to get super central to places like La Rambla it’s only a quick €10.00 taxi.
Amenities: flat-screen TV, fan/heater, full kitchen, kitchen, dining area.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya + 20 minute metro to Selva de Mar + walk.
Be Apartments
€89.00+ | Rating: 7.9 | Size: 20 m² + | Metro: Jaume I | Area: El Gotico
You’ll find all the freedom of home in this cosy super central apartment that has been recently renovated and fully-equipped for all your holiday needs.
There is a basic but modern kitchen with a small dining area. The double bedroom with hardwood floors is a favourite and rates 9 with couples. 400 m from La Boqueria Market and 700 m from the Barcelona Cathedral.
Amenities: flat screen TV, heating/air conditioning, hair dryer, wardrobe.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya + 10 minute downhill walk.
Warm Home
€60.00+ | Rating: 7.7 | Size: 30 m² + | Metro: Verdaguer | Area: Eixample
A very appropriate and straightforward name for this utilitarian apartment which allows any couple or small family the ability to stay really central without taking out a second mortgage.
From here you’ll be able to do most of Barcelona’s main attractions walking. The owner is also super accommodating and has been known to bring you a bottle of wine on check in!
One downside? There is a shared bathroom for the three apartments.
Amenities: flat-screen TV, city view, fan, fridge, microwave, oven, lounge access.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya + walk to Passeig de Gracia + metro to Verdaguer.
BCN-Accommodation
€95.00+ | Rating: 7.9 | Size: 37 m² + | Metro: Catalunya | Area: El Gotico
It doesn’t get any more central than this apartment for rent on the legendary Rambla.
If you’re more interested in value and location than the latest furnishings this is for you. It’d be a great holiday apartment for young couples or people looking for nights out. There are options for 3, 4, or 5 adults (with 3 costing the same as 2).
Tourists have raved about the comfortable beds and cleanliness. Also very efficient Wi-Fi.
Amenities: flat screen TV, fan/heater, balcony, full kitchen, dining area, bath.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya + 5 minute walk.
Park Guell Apartments
€95.00+ | Rating: 7.1 | Size: 60 m² | Metro: Alfons X | Area: Guinardó
This huge apartment right near legendary Park Guell is fantastic value for families.
Being right up in the mountains gives you fantastic views. The massive terrace is big enough to play host to a BBQ for 20 – but don’t get any ideas! This recently furbished apartment sleeps up to five.
If you’re looking for relaxation without being too far from Barcelona’s attractions this is it.
Amenities: flat screen TV, fan/heater, city view, full kitchen, dining area.
From airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya + bus 24.
Bcn Sagrada Familia Apartments
€110.00+ | Rating: 7.0 | Size: 50 m² + | Metro: SP-Dos de Maig | Area: Eixample
This sleek grey-toned apartment for rent comes in both single and two bedroom versions. Really well-furnished. You’ll hardly find a better holiday apartment so close to the legendary Sagrada Familia and yet it’s just far east enough that you get cafes and restaurants with local prices.
Tourists rave about the balcony and super fast Wi-Fi and it’s another great option for couples – lively during the day but quiet at night.
Amenities: TV, air conditioning, city view, full kitchen, coffee machine, dining area.
From airport: Aerobus to Universitat + metro to Sant Pau-Dos de Maig.
How to Book a Barcelona Holiday Apartment
Once you’ve selected the property at Booking you’ll be taken to the payment page.
At this stage you’ll be able to enter your basic details – and if needed your payment information. Keep in mind for many properties you can simply book no money down.
It’s here that you’ll be able to get in contact with the property to make any special requests.
As mentioned before, with Booking.com’s intuitive site you should be able to find all the information you need, but if you need any additional help make sure to write me in the comments below and I’ll help you the best that I can.
5 Reasons to Book with Booking.com
Since starting to use Booking about a year ago I’ve had some pretty cool experiences in cities like Helsinki, Istanbul, and Saint Petersburg.
I don’t see how this would be any different for my adopted city Barcelona.
Here’s why:
1 – You’re Guaranteed the Best Price
Not only is it rare to find a better price on nearly 2000 Barcelona apartments to rent with any other platform, but if you do find one Booking.com has a price match guarantee.
Save a few euros and put it toward one of Barcelona’s great restaurants instead.
2 – 123,550,000 Reviews Can’t be Wrong
There’s no better way to ensure you’re not getting ripped off.
With well over one hundred million traveler reviews on accommodation this is the greatest database of lodging comments ever assembled.
The result is the most democratic and informative ranking system ensuring optimal choice.
3 – You Get Enormous Flexibility
Restrictive owner-imposed cancellation policies of sites like Airbnb make it difficult to change up your Barcelona itinerary.
With Booking.com you’ll find many properties with free cancellation and no prepayment.
4 – The Perks
Once you’ve made five reservations on Booking you’re elevated to Genius status.
This entitles you to 10% discounts and a dedicated customer service hotline not seen by regular users.
Depending on the property it could also get you:
- Welcome drinks and/or chocolates
- Early check in
- Late check out
- Free airport shuttles
Look for the yellow ‘.genius’ logo next to a property to see what perks you’ll receive.
5 – It Trumps any Other Apartment Rental Site
From its super in-depth holiday apartment filtering system to the massive collection of photos to superior customer service teams it’s no wonder Booking counts 1.2 million room nights a day.
It’s 100% risk-free with no hidden fees and annoyances found on owner-direct sites like:
- Massive security deposits
- Extra guest surcharges
- Cancellation surcharges
- Credit card scams
- Fake photos
Why Rent an Apartment in Barcelona?
Every time I’m in a new city I first look at the holiday apartments on offer because:
- You can do what you want. When you have an apartment to rent you can decide when you come and go, no key leaving, you can invite friends over for dinner etc.
- You have more space compared to a hotel room. This is definitely something to value especially if you’re travelling to Barcelona with kids or with a bunch of friends on a stag do etc.
- You’ve got a kitchen! Another very important point. Once you’ve exhausted Barcelona’s best restaurants maybe you want something cheaper and healthier.
- It’s cheaper and usually of a much higher quality than a hotel, especially booking with Booking.
Cheap Barcelona Apartment Hacks
- Check my article on the best area to stay in Barcelona to select the right neighborhood.
- For Spain the cheapest rates are available about six weeks before your stay.
- When searching make sure to make use of the many filters to the left of the screen.
- Read under the apartment info block to make sure there aren’t any cleaning fees.
- Always write the apartment owner with your arrival time and contact info.
- If you’re still stuck use my Barcelona apartment finding service (below).
My Barcelona Apartment Finding Service
If the options above didn’t make the cut make sure you get in touch ASAP.
I’ll help you find the best apartment to rent for your needs if you simply write me:
- The exact dates of your stay.
- Number of people.
- Type of group (solo, couple, friends, family etc.).
- Budget.
- The type of holiday you want.
Just write in the comments below. The service is free of charge so feel free to go wild with any ridiculous requests, I don’t have anything better to do on a Sunday morning do I? 😉
Get at Me in the Comments Below
Yes, I know I’m sounding like a broken record but please get at me with any questions about your Barcelona apartments in the comments below.
Also – whether it’s question about your Barcelona holiday or a comment about the website I am always here to listen.
Also don’t be afraid to join the Barcelona apartment discussion by first giving me a like on Facebook and then joining my group I’m Off to Barcelona – here you can ask any questions, air out grievances, and chat with thousands of Barcelona travelers.
Anything goes!
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July 4, 2019 at 9:23 pmHi! We are a family of seven with five teenagers. We are looking for one double bed and five singles. Or two double beds and three singles. July 28-31. I’ve been on Booking.com. We don’t want a sofa bed. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks so much.
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July 4, 2019 at 9:23 pmHi! We are a family of seven with five teenagers. We are looking for one double bed and five singles. Or two double beds and three singles. July 28-31. I’ve been on Booking.com. We don’t want a sofa bed. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks so much.
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July 5, 2019 at 9:20 am
Team MemberAshHi Melissa, With such a specific and unique number of guests, the fact that it is high season, and now that we're getting into 'last minute' territory it's looking more and more like you may have to be a bit more flexible on your needs. I've been looking through lists on Booking and even other apartment sites and most of them have sofa beds, or have an arrangement which doesn't include exactly two double beds and three singles. Casa Guell seems to be the best quality one that has the most amount of beds so people don't have to end up sharing. There's also Sagrada Familia Sant Pau Park Guell that looks to have a decent amount of beds, somewhat in line with your needs but not exactly. There is a huge list of apartments to sift through, I am afraid it's only a matter of finding the one which seems the least annoying for you guys at this point... :( If you don't find anything on Booking I suggest trying Airbnb as a last resort, though in high season on short notice there won't be so much selection and the prices will be exaggerated. Cheers, Ash-
July 5, 2019 at 2:14 pmThank you for the great website and quick reply. Are you familiar with enjoybcn and the Dali apartment? This looks like a match. Also, we arrive at midnight, is the aerobus available at that time? With a group our size, is CityPass the best option? Also going to Asturias later in the week, my husband's family's origin. Any suggestions? Melissa
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July 6, 2019 at 11:22 am Team MemberAshHi Melissa, No problem at all :) Unfortunately my apartment familiarity is not so good so I can't comment on the ones you mentioned... I would tend to go with the reviews on Booking. The Aerobus will be operative until 1:05 am so you should be fine. For the City Pass if you're doing a proper sightseeing trip, first timers, looking to see a lot... it's the perfect pass to get and I'd suggest it. Just make sure you're at least going to use all the stuff included. If on the other hand you have some people who don't want the Bus Turistic, some who don't want Sagrada etc... there's no shame in buying the tickets individually! About Asturius unfortunately I have never been :( It's definitely on the list though! Asturius Hacks maybe in 2022 ;) Ash
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June 10, 2019 at 7:53 amHi, Great website and I have got so much info for my trip! We are 4 adults travelling in mid-august and we need a place with 2 bedrooms/bath (preferably an apartment). Can you suggest which of the above option would work, as I see some of them are sofa-beds or suitable for 2 people etc.?
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June 10, 2019 at 11:37 am Team MemberAshHi Vinutha, Thanks a lot for the kind words :) I've said this to multiple people, and unfortunately you're in for a tough one booking for high season since the hotel and apartment occupancy rate is already in the 90%+ range for these dates :( Most of the rooms for four adults at this point also usually only have sofa beds and one room... however, I have run a test search for a weekend in mid August wanting two rooms for four adults and having the ratings higher than 7.0. There are 23 properties matching this criteria. One that stood out for its location and quality was the White Flats Sant Antoni. You may also want to take a look at Piso en Poble Sec or Suite Place Barcelona. In entering Booking I would simply use the filters on the left to cast a bit of a wider net given most things are booked up already... as you can see many of the remaining apartments are even 3-4 rooms :( Please let me know if I can help further! Ash
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June 8, 2019 at 4:18 amHi Ash, planning a last minute trip to Barcelona. Dates are June 26th to July 3rd. Four of us, parents and two teenagers. Please help us find something central. Thanks so much!!
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June 8, 2019 at 8:48 am Team MemberAshHi Anjana, This will be a tough one last minute since the hotel and apartment occupancy rate is already in the 90%+ range for these dates :( I'd expect to be paying quite a bit of money for the luxury of being central, around €200 a night. For super central I'd choose Be Apartments or BCN Accommodation (described above) though there are some other great options like Plaza Espanya Pool (highly rated and the kids would love the pool) or Bed&BCN Gracia II (which is probably the most economical). In the end you can always run a search for your dates and guest numbers for the Gothic Quarter but it appears there's only one (!) apartment left given your parameters. I would simply use the filters on the left to cast a bit of a wider net given most things are booked up already. Please let me know if I can help further! Ash
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May 12, 2019 at 7:55 amMay 23-May 26; female, travelling solo, looking for place to stay in/around Gothic Quarter; must have BALCONY looking out on city not courtyard (size of balcony doesn't matter just need to be able to step out of room/get fresh air/not feel closed in, feel the city's heartbeat); budget up to around 220 euros a night (if necessary). Would love bathtub but not essential. Love holiday rentals but hotel may make more sense this time since daily front desk guidance would probably make things easier. Artsy; love exposed brick etc. rather than sleek/modern but sleek/modern will do. Want clean, safe and. . . BALCONY to step out on. Plan is to just leisurely explore the city; do some walking/foodie tours/shopping for unique pieces, etc. THX
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May 13, 2019 at 10:33 am Team MemberAshHi Denise, Thanks for writing in and being very specific with the requests... this makes it easier to help :) Obviously living here I haven't stayed in too many places to I would first suggest getting some ideas in article on the best area to stay in Barcelona. https://www.barcelonahacks.com/best-area-to-stay-in-barcelona/ In clicking the blue buttons you'll also be taken to the world's largest hotel/holiday apartment review database where you can sort the results by date, budget, area, and virtually any other available amenity like breakfast, swimming pools, gym/spa etc. I've run a search using your date, budget, the need for a bathtub and terrace, and also top be in or around the Gothic Quarter and it has come up with some very interesting results. Of particular interest in this list were the Vincci Gala, the Hotel Ambit, and the Exe Cristal Palace. I have heard only good things about these hotels and you'll also see that they've got reviews of 8 and higher which is always a massive plus. Please let me know though if you have any more questions :) Cheers, Ash
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April 11, 2019 at 11:02 pmHi Ash! Thank you for all the great tips! I will be traveling to Barcelona the second week of June ( 6/6-6/11) along with 4 other females. We were looking into AirBnBs but are crazy expensive. Could you give me some advice as of what do you think would be the best place to stay? For budget I would say no more than 120-150 per night. Thank you so much!
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April 12, 2019 at 9:09 am Team MemberAshHi Karen, This is unfortunately the bad time about coming in high season... 120-150 a night for something central is pretty tough to swing. Airbnbs really like to gouge around this time... I would recommend looking for an apartment on Booking a bit further out perhaps in Eixample or further. I see some around your budget like Apartments Gaudi and Lodging Sagrada Familia which aren't too far out and have decent ratings. There are also the Camp Nou Apartments which I see are reasonably price. In all there are 245 properties more or less within your budget in the area (including some very far out)... I would suggest toggling the amenities menus on the left for what you're looking for and then simply use the map function to find the most central ones. Hopefully you can get something good :) Ash
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April 10, 2019 at 3:32 pmHey Ash, your site is awesome! I can't believe how well organized and robust the information is. I can really sense your passion for the city with each article I've read. Three of us (American males aged 32-33) are coming for a week between June 8th and June 13th, and having a fourth friend meet up with us June 14th & 15th. I've been to Barcelona twice before, and absolutely loved it each time. Last time I stayed in El Born with my wife, and it was awesome for that, but this trip I think we could use a bit more energy/nightlife. I hesitate to stay in Eixample because I'd like to be walking distance to the beach, so I've been looking in Gothic Quarter/El Born for stuff but it is pretty thinned out on Airbnb & VRBO. Wanted to reach out to you here in case you know of something that I haven't looked at that would fit our group better. I haven't spent a ton of time in Eixample, but it seems like maybe there are some more posh cocktail bars up there based on your site? That could be cool, but I also want to make sure we have the most walkability possible, and leave some time for some (slightly) more energetic spots (not 18-year-olds puking at the clubs) but just a bit more of a house party feel if that even exists in Barcelona, which is why I think I like the idea of Gotico based on your blog. Hope that's not too exhaustive! Thanks for making such a wonderful site!
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April 11, 2019 at 9:38 am Team MemberAshHi Shane, Thanks so much for the great compliments on the site, makes the work worthwhile :) You're on the right track with El Gotico because here you'll have your pick of the litter as far as bars and it's close enough to walk to most major places. I would find something in that area... that said, Eixample is a great choice because it's got tons of bars but it is a very big area.... you should be looking to stay in "Dreta Eixample" or the "Sant Antoni" area to make sure you're not so far out. As far as a house party vibe goes though I'm thinking of Raval - but keep in mind that this area is also famous for quite a bit of petty crime. Shouldn't be a problem for 3-4 men walking around and in control of their faculties, but a lot of people prey on drunk people so I'd be careful. Hope this helps :) Ash
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April 11, 2019 at 2:36 pmThanks for the quick response Ash! Also thanks for the tip on the subset of Eixample - that is very helpful. Regarding El Raval - I've heard in several places now that the area is "seedy" or "the most dangerous in Barcelona." In your opinion, is it really worth visiting or are you better off hitting up every other area and leaving it for last. Really just wondering what I'm missing out on if I don't go? For instance, I see that you are from Vancouver (prob my fav city in North America btw), and I believe Downtown East Side is considered the most dangerous part of town there, but it intersects with Gastown - which was probably my favorite neighborhood in the whole city. Long story short, just wondering if you think there are truly any can't miss parties/restaurants in El Raval that would be worth risking the pick pockets (assuming that's the worst of the crime there?). Thanks again for all your insight!
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April 12, 2019 at 9:33 am Team MemberAshHi Shane, That's a very interesting parallel you make there... you are totally right that the amazing Gastown can become shady in just a 30 second walk around the corner. Raval is much less concentrated and the whole drug addict element is more hidden (thank god)... it's more of a purse snatching/take advantage of drunks area. For four guys I wouldn't suspect you'd have any trouble, in fact if you've been on La Rambla it's kind of the same deal. Be on your guard and nobody will mess with you. Dangerous? I have never felt in danger and I lived in Raval for 6 months. I would recommend having a walk through during the day and maybe checking out the CCCB or MACBA if you're interested in museums. Also, the street Joaquin Costa has a ton of cheap but delicious fast food type places (I recommend Bishmillah Kebabish if you want a decent sit down kebab/basic curry place... €5-6 gets you full) and cool bars like Betty Ford's (amazing name eh? haha) and Almirall (one of the last throw back speak easy type bars of it's time and a great place to try a vermut)... ALSO! Sorry for being so long winded... two of favourite restaurants in the whole city are in this area and they're owned by the same guy Edu. They are Louro and Arume... they're super popular (the cocktails and tapas are sick) and often packed out but you can reserve a table no money down using the form you'll find in my article: https://www.barcelonahacks.com/best-restaurants-in-barcelona/ I wouldn't really party the night away in this area as it's lacking clubs (aside from Moog) but a good aperitivo/drink in the early evening before moving on to greener pastures is recommended... especially if you've already been here and seen the other neighbourhoods. I wouldn't skip Raval. Ash
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April 6, 2019 at 7:59 pmHi Ash. Firstly, I just wanted to say thank you so much for all the advice on your blog - it's been so useful and helpful in planning our trip. Really appreciate you taking the time to put together a hub of information for us first-time travellers. Me and my mum are planning our first trip to Barcelona - we are currently looking at staying for a week from Saturday 6th July to Saturday 13th July. We want to stay somewhere central, within walking distance of all the major tourist attractions (or within close walking distance to metro/transportation links) but also somewhere that's quiet to sleep at night. I'm currently looking at private rooms in an Airbnb centrally-located which are around €60-70 a night so around £450 for the two of us for a week. I was just wandering if you possibly know of any centrally-located apartments that would suit our criteria and within our budget? Do you have any good Airbnb recommendations? I did check out some of your recommendations in this post but unfortunately a lot of them within our budget are all booked up. Thanks very much in advance!
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April 7, 2019 at 10:49 amFurther to this, and doing a little bit more research, we were at first considering staying in the Gothic Quarter for its central location. However, after reading your replies to some of the other comments, I'm thinking perhaps it may be a bit too noisy for what we are looking for. As I mentioned, me and mum are going for a girly city break, and whilst we definitely will be trying your tapas and bar recommendations, we are not interested in wild nightlife. To clarify, we want to say somewhere central, safe, and somewhere that is quieter at night for us to get a good sleep after a long day of sight-seeing. Which, on reflection, I think the gothic quarter may not be the best option now for us. Based on this, which neighbourhood would you recommend that we stay in? Sorry to ramble! Thanks Ash.
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April 7, 2019 at 5:03 pm Team MemberAshHi Lauren, Thanks so much for the kind words :) Let's see, you've given me quite a bit of information and so I've convinced myself that you should probably go for El Born. It’s super central and got some hustle and bustle but it’s also pretty devoid of nightlife so it’s a peaceful place. It’s also near Ciutadella Park and closer to the beach than say the Gothic Quarter. Unfortunately living in the city I don't have a lot of holiday apartment experience... in my article on the best area to stay in Barcelona I’ve got info on the Born area and if you click the buttons there you’ll be taken to Booking which you can sort for apartments only in the review database… you’ll be able to filter results by budget and amenity etc. Unfortunately it being high season I don't see much central that will be terribly agreeable with your budget, though you're on the right track by going on Airbnb because that's usually where the deals are. That said, toggling the budget function on the Booking website may unearth some deals as well. Please let me know if you have any more questions
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April 6, 2019 at 12:35 amHi, We are a family of 5 (kids are 19, 16 and 14) and we are planning a quick visit to Barcelona in mid-June for a few days before we head north by car. I have two questions. First, which of your suggested apartments would you recommended for our family (we are fit, happy to walk, would love to be close to main sites and restaurants). Second, where would you suggest picking up a rental car--should we head back to the airport for the best deal? We plan to return the car in Madrid. We would love to make the most of 2 1/2 days max in Barcelona. Thanks very much for your help--I really appreciate it. Take care.
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April 6, 2019 at 5:06 pm Team MemberAshHi Allison, The family one above that I'd recommend if you're a fit family would be the Blue Apartments since it's quite near the beach and will give you more of an outdoorsy feel. It's also better value than the Bordeta (also above)... that said, if you want a great city experience the Bordeta is a fantastic option. I have never picked up rental cars at the airport... generally there are most of the companies near Sants Estacio as it's a major hub... I would try and pick it up there especially if staying at the Bordeta as it's very close. Also, picking it up from the airport will tack on extra time and money which seems unnnecessary... did you see a really good deal or something? Ash
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February 22, 2019 at 6:43 amHi Ash, My husband and I will be coming to Barcelona in June with our 2 year old son (he will be two months shy of turning 3) and (at the time) almost 8 month old daughter. We will also be bringing our 22 year old niece to help watch the kids while we get some time to ourselves. We prefer to not schlep two car seats, is it realistic to think we can get away without bringing car seats and rely solely on public transport? Tentative itinerary - June 2019 1.BARCELONA (2 nights) - ideally something easy to get to from the airport using public transport, I'm thinking El Born? But also needs to have easy public transport (no car seats) to get to the train station (to go to San Sebastian). (Prefer an apartment) 2.San Sebastian (4 nights) 3.BARCELONA (1 night) - we will be coming from the train station on the 15th and needing to be at the cruise port on the 16th. Recommendations on where to stay that is convenient for both? (Apartment or hotel are fine) 4.Cruise (7 nights) 5.BARCELONA (2 nights) - we will be getting off the boat and spending two more nights before leaving Spain. Where to stay? (Apartment or hotel are fine) Thanks!!
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February 22, 2019 at 11:17 am Team MemberAshHi Dana, The public transport system here covers a ton of ground and if you don't mind carrying your kids or pushing a stroller I don't see how there would be any issues. Renting a car can also be a pain as the city wasn't designed for cars, parking ix expensive and quite restricted, and as mentioned the metro gets you pretty much everywhere. For striking distance to the airport transport as well as super convenient transport to the train station I'd recommend the Be Apartments. For the cruise port it would be super convenient to book Bcn Accommodation as it's really close. For any of the options I would recommend the Gothic Quarter considering your specifications and I've got a general hotel search here with Booking that you could jump off of by toggling the amenities etc in the left hand column. I don't have a lot of experience staying in places as I live here, but using the world's greatest hotel review resource at Booking can give you all the info you'll need! Hope this has been of help :) Ash
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