Barcelona is the Catalan capital and it’s a vibrant city that has it all. Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun, try a bit of tapas or experience everything arty and cultural, the neighbourhoods of Barcelona all offer you something a little different. Here’s a little teaser of what you can expect…

La Barceloneta

Get the best of both worlds in beachside Barceloneta. Once an 18th^-century fishing village, this modern neighbourhood is now a popular choice with tourists and it’s easy to see why. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life as you dip your toes in the Mediterranean waters. The beach boasts a whopping 1,100 metres of soft sand, where you can try your hand at water sports or simply bask in that Spanish sun.

A fish feast has to be on the cards in La Barceloneta, as it’s home to some of the city’s best seafood restaurants. Get your fresh fish fix at La Peninsular or grab some tasty tapas at Meson Barceloneta.

Barri Gòtic Quarter

The beating heart of Barcelona’s old city is its Gothic Quarter. Get lost in the narrow streets that are packed with unique charm – parts seem untouched from the past 200 years. With nods to its dark and ancient history everywhere, it’s hard to not be intrigued by this historic neighbourhood.

Make sure to visit the cathedral, a perfect example of the exquisite gothic architecture Barcelona has to offer, and it’s just as breath-taking inside as it is out. Tip: don’t miss out on taking the lift to the top for more of those striking city views!

Gràcia

Originally an independent town before it was swallowed up by the rest of the city, Gràcia still holds on to that independent spirit. It’s quintessentially Catalan, buzzing with independent galleries, boutiques and bars. If you want to live like a local, Gràcia is your place so grab yourself a drink and simply soak up the atmosphere in the square of Plaça del Sol.

Gràcia’s crowning jewel has to be Parc Güell. This colourful masterpiece was created by the world-famous architect, Antoni Gaudí. It’s hailed as the largest green space in Barcelona, with sweeping city scenery and all covered in mesmerising mosaics, so it’s no surprise that Parc Güell is a top attraction.

L’Eixample

Want a little more luxury? L’Eixample has you covered. Translated literally as ‘Expansion’, it’s a relatively new area but one that has plenty to offer. Calling all shopaholics! L’Eixample has loads of shops for you to get your retail therapy fix. Make sure to visit Passeig de Gràcia, which is lined with high-end and international designer stores.

L’Eixample is also where you’ll find many of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants, so it’s an ideal area for the foodies who fancy splashing a bit of cash.

The main event? The iconic and unfinished, La Sagrada Família. Despite being under construction for the past 140 years, it remains one of the most visited attractions in Spain and it’s a total must-see.

El Raval

El Raval is something of a diamond in the rough. If you want to experience a heady mix of cultures here in Barcelona, then El Raval is well worth a trip. The diversity of this neighbourhood means you’re treated to a melting pot of exotic cuisines.

Centrally located, you’ll be in prime position to visit all the legendary spots in Barcelona, as well as being just a stone’s throw away from the tree-lined boulevard of Las Ramblas. Fun exuberates all along there. Throw a euro or two for the ‘human statues’, pick up a souvenir or stop a while and watch one of the many street performers.