The most elegant and relaxed neighbourhoods in Barcelona
In such a diverse city as Barcelona, there are different options for every taste, specially, when talking about neighborhoods and accommodation
By Fabiola Chirinos
11/04/2016
From its beginnings, the city was limited by walls that protected it from attacks. But after its growth in 1860, some independent villages were added to the Catalonian capital. These villages turned into neighborhoods that even nowadays keep their essence and identity, giving way to a wide range of options for tourist accommodation.
The most popular neighborhoods are usually El Born and the Barrio Gótic, due to their proximity to the most important places of interest in the city. The Barceloneta is frequently visited by those who want to spend more time near the beach. Tourists who enjoy bohemian and out of the ordinary places go to Grácia. And for those who prefer more luxurious facilities and quieter environments to rest should start jotting down.
Sarriá Sant Gervasi
One of the most exclusive neighborhoods in the city. Being a residential area, it is somewhat removed from the most touristic places, but it provides a closer look at the lifestyle of the local folk, unforgettable sights of the Catalonian city and an area full of elegance where sophisticated homes abound. You will find cafés, bakeries, bars and stores with artisan products. Many people agree that it is here you may eat the best spicy potatoes [patatas bravas].
For those who enjoy sweeter flavors, we recommend Foix de Sarriá. They usually have a delightful selection of cakes, meringues, pastries, and rolls. Another place to visit that you will enjoy is The Chocolate Factory. The fragrance you experience when going past the store will win you over. Inside, you may choose among a wide variety of chocolate.
The boutiques in the neighborhood offer original garments. If you want to support local proposals, you should take a look around. You will find more than one unique item for sure that you will not want to take off. In this neighborhood you’ll find squares, parks and green areas where you can enjoy fun and relaxing afternoons with your family. Should you decide to stay here, you’ll discover that its public transportation is very well connected to the ones from the other neighborhoods, so there are no excuses not to enjoy Barcelona to its limits.
Sant Martí
Ok, it is a district and not a neighborhood. A district that apart from being surrounded by beaches, is not particularly quiet; it is very elegant though. Sant Marti was always an industrial area of Barcelona. With the evolution of technology, it has become an innovative, sophisticated neighborhood, with avant-garde design buildings that perfectly portray the essence of the district.
Despite the new constructions and the modernity that dominates the neighborhoods, in Sant Martí there are still old residential buildings and classic apartments. Family houses contrast with corporate buildings and this makes the unique ambiance that characterizes neighborhoods in this area.
Sant Martí is a good example of how innovation can have its place in cities without jeopardizing the identity of the place. Explore the streets and don’t lose the opportunity to visit areas from Pobl Nou to the beaches and the Port Olímpic.
Les Corts
This neighborhood is considered the most vibrant area of the district which has the same name. Les Corts, in the beginnings, was a rural area reserved for royalty. That is the reason why there you will find the Pedralbes monastery and the Jardins de Pedralbes. In the latter, cultural activities, concerts and festivals usually take place, especially in summer.
Life in the neighborhood is really quiet and invites residents and visitors to go for a walk in the squares, parks and gardens, where you can also have a look at the rural past of this neighborhood.
Due to its location within a financial district, you’ll find a variety of good quality bars and restaurants, along with prestigious brand stores on its streets. Soccer lovers will be close to the Camp Nou stadium. They can go to a match, take a tour in the field or visit the museum. From here, you may go to any other area in Barcelona you want to visit, the subway is well connected and you can walk to places of interest nearby, such as Plaza Espanya that is a 15-minute walk away.
Poble Sec
For many people, it has the most privileged location, since besides being a quiet residential area it is located between Paral.el Avenue and the Colina de Montjuic. On one side, there is a popular avenue that leads from the Espanya to the World Trade Center; on the other side, there is a hill full of history, recreational attractions and a unique view of the city.
On the streets of Poble Sec you’ll find a lot of places to go out for tapas. Enjoy its bars and cafés, and visit the restaurants in the area; the gastronomic proposals here are usually the best.
The authenticity of this neighborhood enchants many people. Its location so near downtown is a plus for tourists who want comfortable and quiet places without being too far from the major places of interest in the Catalonian city. Its squares are the perfect places for residents to get together to chat, dance and have a nice time outdoors.