Barceloneta (Districts)

Video presentation of the Barceloneta neighbourhood

Why Stay Here?

The 1992 Olympic Games caused a transformation of the city's seafront, and Barceloneta was one area that was part of that process.

If you want to enjoy the classical elements of a sun, sea and sand destination, then Barceloneta is the part of Barcelona that you'll want to stay in. It has a number of bars and restaurants in addition to one of the first beaches of the city, making it one of the most popular areas of Barcelona. This zone features residents of all kinds: retired folks, families, immigrants and of course, tourists during the summer months. If you're convinced that this is the area for you, then take a look through our monthly rentals and enjoy life in Barceloneta.

Attractions

Barcelona Aquarium

Obviously the main unmissable feature of the neighbourhood is Barceloneta's beach. During the summer months, it can feel very overcrowded, but during the low-season it's the perfect place to take a stroll, where along the way you'll encounter various modern sculptures. If you visit during the early hours, you'll even be treated to a beautiful sunrise over the Mediterranean. Just be sure that whatever you do on the beach, you follow one rule; don't leave your belongings out-of-sight. The large crowds attract lots of potential for thieves.

The district also has four main squares. On Carrer Maquinista there is Plaça Pompeu Gener, close to Barceloneta Market is Font del Mercat and another little further down is the Plaça del Poeta Boscà. The most emblematic plaza though, is still Plaça de la Barceloneta close to Passeig Joan de Borbó. It's here that you can admire the marvellous Parish of Sant Miquel del Port that was built way back in 1755.

If you want to see some remnants of the fishing village that once was, then head on down to Carrer Almirall Cervera and look for the Casa dels Pescadors, which has fascinatingly been adjourned with ceramics. There is also Barcelona Aquarium, which, while not the biggest aquarium in Europe, does have the largest number of Mediterranean species on the continent.

Information for students

Not bad as a view from your apartment, right?

Barceloneta is one of the districts in Barcelona that's in demand by students. Who doesn't want to live 5 minutes away from the beach by foot? All in a central location. Luckily for you, you can use this argument and more to convince your parents to help you want private student accommodation in this neighbourhood.

There are a few universities around here, among them are Pompeu Fabra University's Nursing School (Escola Universitària d'Infermeria del Mar) and Health and Life Sciences (Facultat de Ciències de la Salut i de la Vida), as well as the Nautical Faculty of the Polytechnic University of Catalonia.

If you're not going to one of those universities, don't worry because there are also a number of local libraries where you can study quietly, like Barceloneta Library - La Fraternitat, the Nautical Faculty Library and the Campus Universitari Mar Library. It's also acceptable — weather permitting — to study at Barceloneta Beach or Parc de la Barceloneta, where you can enjoy the fresh maritime air.

Obviously another attractive aspect for living here as a student is that you can also keep in shape between classes by practising sports. There are places to skate, cycle or simple walk along the coastal pedestrian path. You can participate in sailing classes, surfing, standup paddle-boarding and basically any maritime activity. There's also the Sant Sebastià Municipal Sports Centre where you can join the gym and other activities.

Where to Eat

Barceloneta

There's no shortage of restaurants, cafés and bars in Barceloneta. There's a wide selection from all kinds of cuisine, but there are three types of dishes that you'll likely find in a majority of establishments in this neighbourhood, they are Paella, seafood and fideuá (a noodle type dish). The first recommendation is a restaurant that's simply called Barceloneta that serves these three dishes, among others. The quality of the product is undeniable; they always serve up great food

If you want to eat on the beach then try Wok to Walk, a delicious wok takeaway. Plant your bottom down on the sand and take in the sun's rays while you admire the warm tides slowly lapping at your feet.

Everyone loves a good hamburger... Or a veggieburger if you're that way inclined. One thing is for sure, you'll love MakaMaka Beach Burger Café on Passeig de Joan de Borbó. They have burger and non-burger dishes of all kinds, and the ambiance is really trendy.

Nightlife

Shoko Barceloneta, Barcellona

Barceloneta is one of the most lively areas at night. If you're here during the summer and getting flustered with all that hot weather, then make a note to visit IceBarcelona. The concept is rather simple; it's a bar... Made of ice. You'll have 45 minutes and all the winter clothing is provided. It certainly makes for an original and fun experience.

Shôko is a very elegant club lounge by the seafront, where you can first dine out and then afterwards go dancing.

Club Catwalk is a nightclub where you can dance till the early morning. There are 3 styles to choose from; House music in the 'Main Room', R&B, and funk. The rooftop terrace gives you a chance to chill out for a bit or chat more peacefully with someone you've just met. It has some lovely views over the sea.

Shopping

Maremagnum

If you like locally sourced products on offer at marketplaces, then don't miss the Mercat de la Barceloneta where you can get all the fresh produce you need.

For some retail therapy, there's Maremagnum. This shopping centre has a wide variety of stores, but its strong point is fashion, featuring H&M, Zara, Mango and more. There is also an official FC Barcelona store where you can get authentic team merchandise. It also has well-equipped facilities like WiFi, parking and a chill-out spot. The perfect place for an evening of shopping!

Getting Around

L4 - The Yellow Line

Getting to and from Barceloneta is simple, and because the area is so small it's hard to get lost.

The neighbourhood is served by one Metro station, Barceloneta on L4.

There are also buses that pass through the neighbourhood, and it's common to find taxis passing by around the north border of the area.

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