If you’re considering a move to Barcelona—whether it’s for work, study, or simply a change of scenery—you’ll want to make sure you’re in the know about the best places to live.
After all, relocating somewhere new calls for careful consideration and research. That’s especially true if you’re coming from abroad and might not be exactly sure where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of five great places in Barcelona for expats! We’ll be looking at neighborhoods with great international communities and amenities, all within easy reach of the city center. Ready to find your perfect spot in Barcelona? Read on, and we’ll take you through some of our top picks.
Barcelona’s Old City (El Born & El Raval) – Hip and Historic
Barcelona’s Old City is a vibrant area with plenty to offer. Whether you’re looking for an urban lifestyle or a more laid-back existence, the Old City has something for everyone. Both El Born and El Raval offer plenty of culture, restaurants, and nightlife – making them the perfect places to call home if you’re an ex-pat looking for an exciting social life.
The Old City is also known for its deep history. El Born and El Raval are teeming with old-world charm, including cobblestone streets and winding alleys filled with unique shops, cafes, and art galleries that exude the city’s historic grandeur. Plus, it’s just steps away from La Rambla – one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks – giving you easy access to some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
In short, if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere with a hint of historical flair, Barcelona’s Old City is the perfect place to call home.
Gracia, – Charming and artsy neighborhood
If you’re an ex-pat looking to experience the best of Barcelona, Gracia should definitely make it onto your list. This charming, artsy neighborhood is the perfect place to soak in the vibrant culture that exists here.
Gracia is known for its stunning cobblestone streets and colorful homes that line the narrow alleys. There’s also plenty to explore in this neighborhood – you can stroll around Plaza del Sol, catch a movie at Verdi Cinema, or visit some of the many museums and art galleries that are scattered throughout this area. And if you’re looking to settle down, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from!
Plus, Gracia is conveniently located – it’s just a short walk away from the city center, so you’ll be able to enjoy all of Barcelona’s attractions without traveling far. Despite being close to everything Barcelona has to offer, living in Gracia remains relatively affordable and peaceful compared to other areas.
Poblenou – Up and Coming Beachside Community
If you’re looking for a beach and still want to be close to the city, then you can’t go wrong with Poblenou in Barcelona. This up-and-coming area has everything you could want-a great beach, lots of restaurants, shops, bars, and nightlife as well as easy access to the city’s public transportation system.
A rising star
Poblenou is quickly becoming one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Barcelona. It’s close to the main attractions of Barcelona, yet it’s still relatively undiscovered by tourists. As a result, the locals have maintained their culture and way of life, which gives each area its own unique character.
Convenience and Amenities
Poblenou offers plenty of convenience and amenities for its residents. You’ll find plenty of grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, post offices, and more-all within walking distance from wherever you live in the area. This makes any errands or shopping trips incredibly convenient for those living in Poblenou.
Cultural Attractions and Entertainment
When it comes to cultural attractions and entertainment, Poblenou really shines. Whether you’re looking for art galleries or dance clubs, Poblenou offers something for everyone,
including festivals throughout the year that celebrate the local culture & cuisine! So if you’re looking for a place where you can experience Barcelona’s vibrant culture while still being close to its attractions, Poblenou might just be perfect for you!
Sarria-Sant Gervasi – Quiet, Green, and Family-Friendly
If you’re looking for a quiet, green, and family-friendly place to live in Barcelona, then Sarria-Sant Gervasi is the perfect choice for you. Located in the north of the city, it’s known for its leafy parks, peaceful residential streets, and great schools.
Plus, it has tons of amenities that ex-pats need: supermarkets, banks, transportation links, and more.
Proximity to nature
Sarria-Sant Gervasi is close to some of Barcelona’s biggest parks—notably those run by the city’s Jardins de Joan Brossa—which are ideal for outdoor activities like jogging or cycling. Plus, there are plenty of spots to get a bit of sun on hot days, like beaches at Bogatell, Mar Bella, and Nova Icària, all just a short metro ride away.
Food hubs
There are lots of places that serve up amazing food in this part of town too: take La Granja 3.0 near Parc de l’Oreneta, for example—they have an awesome selection of tapas and craft beer. Or if you’re in the mood for something different, then don’t forget about Pakta—a Nikkei restaurant with an unforgettable menu.
Sarria-Sant Gervasi is a fantastic choice for ex-pats who want to live a laid-back lifestyle in the midst of nature and delectable food because of all these factors, so be sure to check it out!
Eixample Spacious Apartments in the Center of It All
If space is what you need, then Eixample is the place for you. This district has lots of large apartment buildings with plenty of square footage for ex-pats, which can be hard to find in Barcelona’s center. It’s a great neighborhood to explore as well since there’s a mix of old and new, from renovated buildings from the 1800s to contemporary skyscrapers.
Eixample is home to some of Barcelona’s most famous places: La Sagrada Familia, Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, Passeig de Gràcia, and Plaça Catalunya are all within easy reach. The Metro runs regularly here, making it easy to access the rest of the city.
You won’t go hungry here either; there are plenty of restaurants and cafes for every budget within walking distance. And if you want nightlife, there are lots of bars and clubs to choose from too!
Barceloneta – Beach Life in the Heart of Barcelona
Barceloneta is the perfect choice for any ex-pat looking to enjoy beach life in the heart of Barcelona.
Nestled on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea, Barceloneta is a popular tourist destination known for its lively atmosphere and gorgeous beaches. Here, you can take a stroll along La Rambla del Mar, watch the sunset over La Barceloneta beach, or grab dinner at one of the many restaurants that overlook the city skyline.
The area is also well-connected via several public transport lines, which make it easy to get around and explore Barcelona’s other neighborhoods. Plus, there are plenty of nearby shopping and entertainment options to keep you busy day and night!
If that wasn’t enough to convince you, Barceloneta also offers some of the best rental prices in Barcelona. On average, one-room apartments are priced from €500 to €700 per month, while two-room apartments can go for up to €900 per month. Not bad for such an amazing location!
All said and done, living in Barceloneta gives you unique access to one of Barcelona’s most vibrant neighborhoods—enjoying all its sunny beaches, nightlife spots, and charming cafes—without breaking your budget.
Conclusion
The five areas outlined above represent some of the best places for expats to live in Barcelona. Whether you’re looking for a lively, vibrant atmosphere, a relaxed, laid-back vibe, or a cozy, intimate neighborhood, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.
It’s important to do your research and decide which neighborhood best suits you before committing to a place to live in Barcelona – the right area can make your experience as an ex-pat significantly more enjoyable. From a rich cultural scene to a thriving nightlife, there’s plenty to discover and explore in the city. No matter which of these five areas you choose, you’ll be sure to have an exciting and fulfilling time living in Barcelona.
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