Where to Stay in Barcelona for the First Time: A Complete Guide

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Find your Perfect Hostel in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of those cities I keep coming back to. I was living there, but it is not only to visit friends and family. It is really one of my favorite citites in the world. Each trip uncovers a new street, a cozy cafe, or a hidden corner that makes me fall in love with it all over again. 

That’s why I’m writing this guide: to help you figure out where to stay in Barcelona for your very first visit. If you’re a solo traveler like me, picking the right location is everything. You want to be safe, close to the action, and still get a genuine feel for local life without spending your entire travel fund on accommodation.

Trust me, it can be done if you know where to look.

First-Time in a Hostel? 17 Basic & Advanced Tips to have a great Time

Top Neighborhoods to Stay in Barcelona

Gothic Quarter

If you’re asking yourself where to stay in Barcelona for that classic “old-world” experience, the Gothic Quarter is a must. It’s full of narrow alleys, quirky shops, and historic buildings that seem straight out of a storybook.

Best place to stayed is right near a tiny plaza here and woke up to the chatter of locals grabbing coffee nearby. It felts incredibly authentic. Gothic Quarter accommodation Barcelona style is best for history lovers who want a central base, although it can get pretty busy with tourists.

Gracia

Whenever people ask me where to stay in Barcelona for a chilled-out vibe, Gracia is the first place I recommend. It used to be its own village, and it still retains that laid-back, bohemian feel.

The local squares are great for lounging with a drink or people-watching, and I love wandering its tree-lined streets. If you’re a solo traveler wanting a more relaxed environment, Gracia accommodation Barcelona picks are best for that “homey” neighborhood feel.

Eixample

Eixample is known for its wide boulevards, modernist architecture, and some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. If you’re hoping to see Gaudí’s masterpieces up close, this is a prime location. You can find amazingly beautiful apartments here and feel like you are in the heart of Barcelona’s design scene.

Eixample accommodation Barcelona options are ideal for architecture buffs and anyone looking for easy access to upscale shopping and dining.

Top 10 tips for your first time in Barcelona

• Get a public transport pass only if you plan to move around the city a lot.
• Try local dishes like pan con tomate—simple but totally delicious.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, especially around La Rambla.
• Learn a few basic Catalan or Spanish phrases—it goes a long way.
• Book popular attractions like Sagrada Família in advance to avoid long lines.
• Explore beyond tourist spots; venture into local markets for fresh produce and a real taste of daily life.
• Stay aware of your surroundings at night, but don’t let fear stop you from experiencing the nightlife.
• Pack comfortable shoes because you’ll walk more than you think.
• Make time to relax in a plaza or park—you don’t have to rush every day.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Still not sure? Pick my Favorite Hostel in Barcelona

#1 Top Hostel in Barcelona: Onefam Paralelo

This is the overall best rated hostel in Onefam Paralelo. The overall rating is 9.7. You cannot go wrong here.

It is your safest bet in case you are not sure which hostel to pick.

The price for a dorm at Onefam Paralelo starts from $19.80.

Check out Onefam Paralelo here

Hostels in Barcelona are the best option - Here’s why

I’ve stayed in all sorts of places here, but I keep coming back to hostels. They’re social, budget-friendly, and a great way to meet people from around the world. You can swap travel tips, join group activities, and save money at the same time.

It’s like an instant community, which is perfect for solo travelers who want to be part of something without giving up personal freedom.

Top Picks: The Best Hostels in Barcelona

Best for Hostel Newbies

Onefam Paralelo9.7

from €17.02 | More Details

Best for Female Solo Traveler

Barcelona Central Garde...9.5

from €23.78 | More Details

Best Party Hostel

Onefam Batlló9.6

from €12.51 | More Details

This is not an ad. We help you find the perfect hostel and compare prices from Hostelworld and Booking. You can save up to 23.7%

Final Recommendations

At the end of the day, Barcelona is a city that gives back whatever you put into it. The neighborhoods each have their own special feel, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to where you should stay.

My best advice? Pick an area that fits your style, stay open to new experiences, and give yourself the freedom to get a little lost. You might just discover a favorite cafe, a new friend, or a part of the city that feels like home.

Now’s the perfect time to pack your bags and see for yourself what Barcelona has in store.

Backpacking Barcelona? Here’s What You Need to Know

These are the guides I wish I had before visiting. I’ve been there, had fun, did some minor mistakes, and now I’m passing the best tips on to you. Safe travels!

Must-Read

How to Pick a Hostel in Barcelona

What to Expect (and what not!)

Where to Stay in Barcelona as a Solo Traveler

Best Areas and how to get around

Backpacking Barcelona

All those cool and unique experiences we are looking for!

I stayed in a Backpacker Hostel in Barcelona

My experience and what you can expect

Solo Travel Barcelona

My experience and what you can expect

About the author: Anna Kiefer

My travels have taken me from the vibrant streets of Vietnam to the tranquil beauty of Spain, each destination adding a new chapter to my journey. For me, travel isn’t about counting countries or ticking off lists; it’s about the freedom it brings and the stories that unfold with each new adventure. At Hostelgeeks, my goal is to infuse our brand with this sense of freedom and discovery.

Whether it’s finding the perfect 5 Star Hostel or sharing a hidden gem in a bustling city, I’m here to ensure that our travelers get more than just a journey – they get an experience that resonates with the joy of exploration and the freedom of the open road.