Sant Antoni (Districts)
Sant Antoni — Next to the city centre and with its own marketplace
Sant Antoni is a neighbourhood that's ideally located in Barcelona. It's within walking distance from numerous restaurants and bars but far enough to be able to sleep quietly at night. The area is very popular thanks to its renowned marketplace as well as its old books and collectable items fair — a weekly celebration every Sunday morning.
Sant Antoni is part of the Eixample Esquerre district and can be found just west of Plaça de Catalunya and just east of Plaça d'Espanya, meaning it's within walking distance from many majors parts of the city like Las Ramblas, Paral·lel and Montjuïc. We show a video in which you'll discover the Sant Antoni neighbourhood according to its residents. We also tell you the reasons to stay here, local attractions, best places to eat and where to shop. You may also be interested to know where are the local libraries, green parks and places to practise sports. If you'd like to discover Barcelona on foot, then Sant Antoni is ideal because practically everything is within reasonable walking distance.
Video presentation of Sant Antoni, Barcelona
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Why Stay Here?
Sant Antoni is perfect for anyone who wants to stay around the city centre but without the restless nights that usually entails. If you're looking for a lively time though, you don't have to look far, because you can simply walk to a neighbouring area, like Raval or the northern part of Eixample, where you'll find lots of exciting places to spend the night. The zone is full of life, yet at the same time rather simple. If you're already thinking about staying here then you can start by taking a look at our selection of monthly rentals.
What to see
The most famous attraction in the area is Sant Antoní Market, which was created by Antoni Rivera i Trias in 1882. It has been undergoing renovations for a number of years but it's still possible to admire its architecture from the outside. The stalls from the market are still in the area too. Many sell clothes and accessories, but there are also groceries with fresh local produce. Basically everything you need at a good quality with a good price.
As mentioned earlier, the Sant Antoni market is a great place to shop, but not only that, because on the sundays there is also organized a Traditional market of books and stamps where fans can exchange or sell their collections with other collectors.
Information for students
The Sant Antoni neighbourhood welcomes many students to its location between Plaça de Catalunya and Plaça Espanya, two central points in Barcelona. If you're interested in this neighbourhood, then you can consult our list of student flats and stay in the epicentre of Barcelona's activity.
You'll be interested to know that Sant Antoni is one of the neighbourhoods with a high quantity of language schools as a large number of foreign students are looking for apartments in the area. Among them, you'll find the Institut Europeu d'Idiomes Sepúlveda, Eldar Exam Center, Scandinau Club, Cultural Center Nòrdi, Center d'Estudis Aites and Tandem School.
If your exams are approaching or you simply want to read quietly, you should visit one of the local libraries such as Joan Oliver library or 'BIB de Sant Antoni'. There's even a special library for the blind by ONCE, the Spanish National Organization of the Blind. If it suits you, you could even take your books and notes and go to one of the parks. They are quiet and small; ideal for when you are looking for calm and to get a tan. The parks are Jardins de Tete Montoliu, Jardins dels Tres Tombs and Jardins Maria Manonelias.
Apart from relaxing or studying in these parks, you can also find basketball, football and other facilities for sports. Although, you can always go to the Aiguajoc Borrell Municipal Sports Centre.
Where to Eat
The district is also characterized by the presence of many small bars, some of tapas, from the most traditional to the most alternative. Here's a selection of the ones we think are the best:
Bar Tickets
The Adrià brother's Bar Tickets is ideal for a drink with friends. With a modern style, it offers four different sections where you can try seafood, grilled dishes, desserts and appetizers. The restaurant is very pretty with a good atmosphere. The tapas are very elaborate. The price is a bit higher than average, but you won't be disappointed.
Bar Ramón
This is the ideal place for those who want to sample healthy and creative tapas, there are all kinds for all tastes and at a good price with excellent music.
Federal Coffee
If you want to try something different, Cafè Federal is definitely a great choice. Created by two Australians, the menu includes a wide variety of proposals to eat at any time of the day. The waiters are very friendly, food is delicious and its atmosphere is particularly welcoming.
Babelia Books & Coffee
Though, if we talk about places to spend an afternoon in the company of a good book, we cannot fail to mention Babelia Books & Coffee where you can choose from an infinite number of books and a wide variety of teas and coffees. It's a colourful and relaxing environment in which to spend a few hours immersed in reading or chatting with friends.
Florida
Florida has a restaurant with a refined relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a lunch or dinner between colleagues thanks to its extensive menu and a large selection of international and Spanish dishes. The staff is friendly... And the tiramisu is really something wonderful!
Sirvent
Sirvent is not just one of the most famous horchaterias in the city (a horchateria is where you can grab a local drink called "Horchata"), recently it has also lent its name to a large and bright restaurant that's right in the heart of the neighbourhood. The restaurant is the ideal meeting place to have a good lunch with business colleagues thanks to its large selection of sweet and savoury products. We warn you though, their stuffed croissants could become an addiction...
Excursions in Barcelona
To make the most of Barcelona and fill your trip with unforgettable experiences and emotions, we offer you the excursions through the Catalan capital organized by our friends - the GetYourGuide team. Choose your excursion and fall in love with Barcelona:
Nightlife
Tarannà
This place is full of the "alternative" vibe that practically defines the neighbourhood of Sant Antoni. It's a cozy corner to have a coffee with friends and enjoy the typical products of the season, or perhaps drink a good wine. If only a little bit "hipster".
Bar Calders
One of the most historical places in Barcelona, without a doubt. In the evening you'll see it become animated with lots of people who have come to enjoy a snack with a good ole vermouth on the outdoor tables.
Moritz Brewery
Last but not least, the king of the neighbourhood is the renowned Moritz brewery. Not only is it a great place to enjoy modern tapas along with a wide selection of beers, but it also has a museum inside with a small merchandising store. Parties and events can be arranged here too. It's a good place to have a lunch and eat great food.
Sant Antoni Festival
Every January, the residents of Sant Antoni celebrate the Festival of Sant Antoni. This traditional neighbourhood festival is very popular among the residents. There is a traditional Correfoc, Giants Parade, multiple concerts and much more, making it a truly unmissable event. If you want to find out more about this Catalan festival, read this article:
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Sant Antoni Festival
Jan
12
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Jan
21
The Festival of Sant Antoni takes place in January with the Awakening, the Giants Parade and the Correfoc.
Shopping
If you are looking for furniture shops, you'll love Vanolt, where you can find very elegant objects and antique furniture. There are also many clothing, accessories and shoes shops scattered throughout the area. Among other things, the neighbourhood is also known for its large selection of technology and I.T. stores that offer better prices than many of the big stores.
In addition to the presence of almost all supermarket chains, the area also offers a very large quantity of colour through its fruit and vegetable stores that stock high quality seasonal produce at very competitive prices. A treat for both the eyes and the tastebuds.
There's not only fruits and vegetables in local bio shops like Monônes. You'lll also find many natural and environmentally sustainable products including grains, milk, meats, breads and more.
Every year from December until January, the Three Kings Market returns to the Sant Antoni neighbourhood. You will find a variety of sweets, toys, gifts, crafts and more! If you want to find out more about this incredible market, take a look at this article:
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The Three Kings Market on the Gran Via
Dec
19
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Jan
07
Come and eat delicious churros and discover the handmade products on offer at the Three Kings Market on the Gr...
Getting Around
It's very easy to get around the city from Sant Antoni. In this area alone you have a choice of Metro lines 1, 2 and 3.
Sant Antoni
Universitat
Paral·lel
Depending on which part of the neighbourhood you're staying in, it will only take 10 - 15 minutes to reach Plaza Catalunya or Las Ramblas on foot.
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