Barcelona: Best budget hotels near the city’s nightlife
The Spanish are good at partying. Dinner at 10 p.m. and off to the clubs by 1 a.m. or 2 a.m. is a normal sequence of events in Barcelona and throughout Spain. While it is said that Madrid has better “marcha” (a party scene) than Barcelona, trust me, you will not be bored or lack in fiesta options in this city.
So where to stay if your into experiencing the nocturnal side of Barcelona? Depends a bit on what sort of nightlife you’re after.
The cozy Hosteria Grau in El Raval
Bohemian – “I want to hang out in small bars, hear live blues, and not spend much cash.”
Then your hotel is either Hosteria Grau, in El Raval or Pension Mari-Luz in the Gothic Quarter.
El Raval and the Gothic area are more or less separated by Las Ramblas. These areas can be seedy, but also have a lot going on from 10 p.m. onwards. I like El Raval’s Jazz Si for live music almost any night of the week. Here you can catch flamenco, jazz, rock and more. After a show, bar-hop along Carrer Joaquín Costa.
Over on the Gothic Quarter side, try Cafe Royale for live music (schedule here) or Harlem Jazz Club. Find many laid-back bars lurking down alleyways and cobblestone streets. Try side-streets off Plaça Reial, and the streets that branch off of the post office, such as Carrer Ample, Carrer de la Mercè and Carrer d’En Gignas.
The Hotel del Mar is near nightlife and the beach.
Club Scene – “I want to dance the night away in a trendy night club.”
I’m not much of a clubber, but friends who are recommend the area around Hotel Del Mar.
Staying here will put you within walking distance of the many popular night clubs that span the boardwalk, officially named Pssg Marítim de la Barceloneta. Most of the nicer clubs are located right in front of Hotel Arts and the enormous, glittering, Frank Gehry fish. You’ll find less appealing clubs around the adjacent port.
Posh Party – “I want something more high-end.”
Posh is found in up-town. The Astoria Hotel will put you close to live music venue and club, Luz de Gas, as well as the many bars and restaurants bustling along Carrer d’Enric Granados.
More hotel picks
Check out our Barcelona guide to read more of Regina’s budget hotel recommendations for Barcelona.
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