As a travel writer based in Barcelona, I often get asked about the different areas of Spain’s hottest city, and which Barcelona neighborhood is best to stay in. Here are my picks for a convenient homebase so you can see as much as possible on a 3 Day trip to Barcelona.
Getting to Know the Barcelona Neighborhood of Ciutat Vela
Ciutat Vella is one of the more frequented areas of Barcelona. The name of the district actually translates as “Old Town” because this is a very old part of the city. The area consists of la Rambla and the street Laietana and is divided into three neighborhoods.
When traveling through Barcelona you should spend a lot of time in the Ciutat Vella, an area packed with dining, culture and shopping perspectives. The old lanes of this neighborhood are perfect places to explore and get to know the city.
This is probably the best location to rent an apartment in Barcelona if you are looking for holiday accommodation.
Barcelona’s Old Town is Divided Into Three Popular Neighborhoods
Ciutat Vela encompasses three distinct areas. They are Raval, The Gothic Quarter and Borne, with another linked neighborhood of Barceloneta at the port.
El Raval was once a very poor neighborhood of Barcelona; it now is a cultural mix of people from all over the world. The structures and buildings are very antique and give the neighborhood character. Raval is filled with bars and nightlife. However, with its long history prostitution some say it can be dangerous.
The Gothic Quarter is another old neighborhood of Barcelona with antique buildings and structures. The Cathedral of Barcelona is located in the Gothic Quarter as well as other famous museums and historical sites.
El Borne, once an old and almost antique neighborhood, has been renovated and transformed into a magnificent part of the city. With restaurants and nightlife illuminating the city, the Borne district is perfect for shopping or dining.
Barceloneta and the Barcelona Beachfront District
Barceloneta is the area at the end of Cuitat Vella next to the port. This area was originally developed for all the fishermen and workers who were by the water. Locals always found it a great place to get some Catalan specialties, including paella with seafood. For others, it is the perfect Barcelona neighborhood to take a stroll.
The 1992 Olympics transformed much of the city, however. That’s when a two-mile promenade and sand beach was built north of Barceloneta. It’s called Passeig Maritim and is especially popular summer evenings.
The great thing about Barcelona is that it is a very accessible city, with well connected public transport. The main central districts, the port and the beach all within walking distance. That’s important when you want to fit in as many Barcelona family attractions as you can in a short visit.
That’s why with only three days in this special city, I recommend to you Ciutat Vela as the pefect place to stay.
John Benjamin is a travel writer based in Barcelona, Spain who love a good walking tour.
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