Barcelona is a popular vacation spot and many visitors become overwhelmed with all the options. To help you make the most of your trip, our team of experts has put together this guide that will ensure you make the most out of your stay in Barcelona.
Our top recommendation for where to stay in Barcelona is booking a hotel near a metro station. Not only will this save you money, but it also allows you easy access to public transport or walking around the city.
1. Decide on a Location
Vacationing in Barcelona is a dream come true for art-lover, history buffs and food connoisseurs. Whether you’re planning an epic family adventure or just an intimate break for two, there is sure to be a villa in Barcelona that meets all your requirements.
When selecting your vacation rental, it’s essential to choose a location that is easy to get around and offers access to the city’s major attractions. When making your selection, take into account whether you would prefer being close to a metro station or on the main street of your chosen neighborhood.
If you prefer to walk to everything, stay near Las Ramblas – Barcelona’s main pedestrian and shopping boulevard with 1.2 km of shops, bars and restaurants. Be sure to explore the Gothic Quarter as well; its oldest streets date back to Roman times.
The Eixample district is a popular tourist destination, featuring Gaudi’s iconic works such as Sagrada Familia and Casa Mila/Casa Batllo. This vibrant area offers visitors an exciting glimpse into Catalonian culture while getting acquainted with some famous monuments.
Gracia is a rapidly developing neighborhood of Barcelona that offers a more rural vibe and attracts fewer tourists. Although not as centrally located as other neighborhoods in Barcelona, Gracia provides visitors with an exciting alternative while staying in one of Barcelona’s finest villas.
Villas are the ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of sightseeing or enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife. Families who want to share the cost of renting with their children or friends have many great options; and if you’re bringing your pets along for vacation, consider vacation rentals in central locations where they’ll feel welcome and easy to take care of while you’re gone.
2. Book a Villa
Villa vacations in Madrid are an excellent way to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. These stunning properties are conveniently situated near some of its top attractions, providing guests with an exclusive way to stay in one of Europe’s most exciting cities.
Barcelona offers plenty of places to stay, but if you want the best villas in town, you’ll need to be creative and hunt out hidden treasures. Many of the most stunning properties aren’t located right in the city centre – they tend to be found closer to neighbouring suburbs or out on the edges where you can take in stunning views of either the sparkling sea or majestic mountains.
Booking a villa in these areas offers many benefits, such as historic buildings with an eye-catching aesthetic. Plus, these accommodations tend to be large and feature plenty of outdoor space – ideal for groups that enjoy spending time outdoors.
If you’re traveling with a large group of friends or family, consider renting a villa in the Eixample district of Barcelona. Here, some of Barcelona’s most stunning architectural treasures were built during the 19th century and boast incredible character and design features.
Modernist homes often feature pools, which will surely please your group after a long day of sightseeing and eating. A refreshing dip in the pool is sure to help everyone unwind!
Rent a villa near Sitges, an idyllic seaside village only an easy train journey away from Barcelona’s vibrant metropolis. Here, you can enjoy 17 sand beaches, award-winning restaurants and hiking in the nearby mountains for a truly relaxing break.
If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona with friends, it is essential that you reserve your accommodation as soon as possible. Especially during high season (June-August), when the city becomes overrun with tourists and local hotels are usually fully booked.
3. Plan Your Activities
When planning a villa vacation in Barcelona with friends, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to guarantee an enjoyable trip. First and foremost, plan your activities ahead of time; this will save you from waiting in line at popular attractions and save money on tickets.
If you only have limited time in Barcelona, consider purchasing a city card or pass that offers discounted admission to many of the top sights as well as savings on public transportation and other travel options. Likewise, booking tours and excursions ahead of time is another great way to save money and skip waiting in lines.
Planning an itinerary before arriving in Barcelona is essential to guarantee you see all the key attractions and sights during one visit. To do this, decide which sites are essential and which can be left off your list.
Before planning where you’ll stay in Barcelona, it is recommended that you pick a location near a metro station so that you can easily explore all the best neighborhoods the city has to offer.
Another great option is to reserve a rental car ahead of time. This can be an economical and convenient way to get around town, particularly if you’re traveling with family or friends who aren’t comfortable walking.
For a cost-effective way to see the city’s iconic landmarks and museums, take the subway. The TMB system offers an extensive and reliable public transport network that can transport you almost anywhere within its boundaries.
When planning a summer visit, it’s wise to purchase your tickets as soon as possible. Doing so can help you avoid long lines at popular attractions and save on entrance fees. You have the option of purchasing individual site tickets or opt for a multi-site pass which includes multiple attractions like Sagrada Familia or Parc Guell.
When planning your trip, it’s wise to look into events or festivals taking place in the area. These can be an excellent chance to soak up culture and witness the city at its most vibrant. However, keep in mind that these events tend to be very busy and crowded, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
4. Arrive in Barcelona
When planning a villa vacation in Barcelona with friends, there are a few things you should keep in mind. These tips will guarantee your time here is both enjoyable and stress-free!
When selecting a place to stay in Barcelona, proximity to the city center should be taken into account. If you choose an area that’s far away, access to some of its major attractions may be difficult and it could also take you an extended walk back home after a full day of sight-seeing.
Another consideration when planning your travel itinerary is safety. In a bustling tourist area like Barcelona, pickpockets may target tourists. That is why it’s essential that your hotel has either a safe in the room or at the front desk so that all valuable documents such as passports, credit cards and cash can remain secure during your stay.
Furthermore, it’s imperative that you never leave your wallet or phone unattended in any public area of the city. The best way to ensure these items remain safe is by having a trusted friend or family member watch over your belongings while you’re out and about exploring the area.
If you plan on staying in the city for an extended period, it is essential to purchase travel insurance. This will safeguard against any damages that could occur while away and give you peace of mind if something were to happen to your luggage.
Planning ahead for your visit to Barcelona is essential, so that you don’t end up waiting in long lines or on overcrowded buses. Booking timed-entry tickets for popular attractions in advance can save both money and time!
Finally, don’t forget to book your flights and accommodations ahead of time. Not only will this save you money and time, but it also eliminates the stress of having a place close or your tickets being sold out!