The 7 best neighborhoods to live in Barcelona for students – covering nightlife, culture, student accommodation, safety and proximity to language schools.
If you’re looking to study Spanish in Barcelona then you’re on the verge of an incredible adventure.
No doubt you’re excited just thinking about it. But with that excitement might be some uncertainty:
Where will you live?
How much will it cost?
Will you feel at home during your language journey?
These are all normal concerns.
In this blog post, we’re highlighting the 7 best neighborhoods to live in if you're attending one of the top language schools in Barcelona, like Speakeasy BCN.
Our student advisors regularly help students just like you secure student accommodation in Barcelona. So these areas aren’t just our recommendations, they’re also where students have had the best experiences.
Curious to know where your perfect Barcelona home might be?
Read on!
Barcelona: The most popular student city in Spain
Madrid might have more universities in total (21 compared to Catalonia’s 12) but when it comes to attracting international students, Barcelona takes the lead.
While Madrid hosts around 32,000 foreign university students each year, Barcelona saw as many as 39,000 in the 2020-21 academic year.
So, what makes Barcelona the most popular student city in Spain?
For starters, Barcelona is home to some of the top universities in the world. Both the University of Barcelona (UB) and Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona consistently rank among the global top 200 in the QS World University Rankings.
Many of the city’s programs are taught in English, making it an even more appealing destination for international students.
But it’s not just academics that make Barcelona stand out. The city is the most visited in Spain, outpacing Madrid, thanks to its pleasant Mediterranean climate, stunning mountains and rich cultural offerings.
It’s no wonder students from around the world are drawn to study here.
And this is also true for those looking to learn Spanish.
The best city in Spain to learn Spanish
We ranked Barcelona as the #1 city to learn Spanish in Spain as it boasts the highest concentration of Spanish language schools for international students.
The quality of education in Barcelona is world-class.
For example, at Speakeasy BCN we offer fully immersive Spanish classes and we double up as an official examination center. We're also accredited by the Intituto Cervantes meaning you can get a student visa for Spain just by applying to one of our Spanish courses.
But if you’re looking for where to live in Barcelona...it’s likely you've already decided on Barcelona.
So on to the important question: Where to live in Barcelona?
Below we’ll dive into the best neighborhoods for international language students.
What’s the best neighborhood to live in Barcelona for students?
It’s easy to imagine yourself living in Barcelona’s iconic Gothic Quarter, surrounded by historic sights that people travel the world to see.
Or perhaps you'd prefer being right on the beach, with the Mediterranean at your doorstep.
Or what about within walking distance of a famous street market?
So many questions!
So where the best neighborhood to truly make the most of your Barcelona experience?
At Speakeasy BCN, our student advisors have helped countless students find the right accommodation, and they often ask about key factors like:
Nightlife
Culture
Student accommodation
Safety
Distance to language schools
The top language schools in Barcelona, including Speakeasy BCN, are all located on the edge of Barcelona's old town or just within the Eixample district.
This means some areas where many university students live – like Zona Universitaria de Barcelona – might be too far from your daily life as a language student.
As a language school, we wanted to create a guide that’s more appropriate for international students attending language programs.
With that in mind, we’ve ranked the seven best neighborhoods below!
1. L'Eixample
L’Eixample is characterized by its iconic grid pattern and wide avenues, making it one of Barcelona’s most visually distinctive neighborhoods. The district is home to architectural gems like La Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló. It’s a hub of modernist beauty.
Its central location, safety, and abundance of restaurants and shopping spots make L’Eixample highly appealing to language students.
Ranked first on our list, L’Eixample is ideal for those who want to be close to both their studies and the heart of the city.
The best neighborhoods within L’Eixample include:
L’Antiga Esquerra de l’Eixample
Sant Antoni
Dreta de l'Eixample
Nightlife: ★★★★☆
L’Eixample may not have the wildest nightlife in Barcelona, but its cocktail bars, trendy lounges, and spots like Fàbrica Moritz – home to Barcelona’s longest bar – make it a great area for a night out. The vibe is sophisticated, with more emphasis on tapas, cocktails, and craft beers than dance clubs, making it perfect for students who prefer relaxed evenings.
Culture: ★★★★★
L’Eixample is a cultural treasure trove, home to iconic architectural landmarks like La Sagrada Familia and Casa Milà. The neighborhood’s wide avenues and grid design also make it a pleasant place to explore, with plenty of hidden gems like the Mercat dels Encants and Joan Miró Park as well as the bustling Paseo de Gràcia with its high-end shops. This district is perfect for international students who want to soak up Barcelona’s history and modernist art.
Student Accommodation: ★★★★☆
The average price in L’Antiga Esquerra de l’Eixample for a homestay or shared room in an apartment start from around €500-€600, making it reasonable considering its central location. Shared residences are popular here, and many students appreciate the balance between price and proximity to amenities. Speakeasy BCN’s partner for student residences does not have a facility here – but it’s still easy to find students somewhere to stay.
Safety: ★★★★☆
Though one of the safest neighborhoods overall, L’Eixample does experience a higher number of incidents, particularly at night, due to its size and popularity. That said, it remains one of the more secure places for students. In 2024, it was the Barcelona district with the biggest drop in crime rates.
Distance to School: ★★★★★
Most language schools, including Speakeasy BCN, are located within or just on the edge of L’Eixample, making this neighborhood an excellent choice for students. Depending on your location within the district, you could be just a short walk or a 10-minute tram ride from class, offering unbeatable convenience.
2. Gràcia
Located just north of Barcelona’s city center, Gràcia offers a unique village-like charm while still being well-connected to the rest of the city. The neighborhood is known for its narrow streets and lively squares. It’s a neighborhood rich in culture and tradition, highlighted by the famous Festa Major de Gràcia, an annual street festival.
International language students love living here for its bohemian vibe, abundant cafés, and local markets.
As our second top-ranked neighborhood, Gràcia offers a balance of tranquility and vibrant community life – read on to discover why.
The best neighborhoods in Gràcia include:
La Vila de Gràcia
El Camp d’En Grassot-Gràcia Nova
Nightlife: ★★★☆☆
Gràcia has a vibrant nightlife, though it's more laid-back compared to central areas like El Born. Popular spots include Duvet, a trendy retro-style club that plays a mix of '90s hits and current dance music, and Canela, which offers salsa, rumba, and bachata for a more Latin vibe. While there are good options, the scene here caters more to locals and a slightly older crowd.
Culture: ★★★★★
Gràcia is a cultural hotspot. From Park Güell, Gaudí's world-famous park, to the Festa Major de Gràcia, a vibrant street festival, this area is steeped in tradition and artistic charm. The well-preserved 19th-century buildings, lively squares, and boutique shops create a local, bohemian atmosphere that international students love to immerse themselves in.
Student Accommodation: ★★★★☆
Finding affordable accommodation is relatively easy in Gràcia compared to more central neighborhoods. Students can find the cheapest homestays and shared apartments in any of the neighborhoods in the list – prices pay as low as €400-€550 a month. It offers a great balance of affordability and location, making it a top choice for international students. Speakeasy BCN’s partner Resa also has a shared student residence in Gràcia.
Safety: ★★★★★
Gràcia is one of the safest neighborhoods in Barcelona, especially when compared to areas closer to the city center. Its quiet streets and low traffic make it feel secure, and it's known for being a family-friendly district.
Distance to School: ★★★☆☆
While Gràcia is well-connected by public transport, with both green and yellow metro lines running through the area, it’s a longer walk to schools like Speakeasy BCN. You’re looking at about a 30-minute walk to the city center, but with the metro, you can reach it in under 15 minutes.
Image Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/joanbrebo/50094653697/in/photostream/
3. El Poblenou
Situated near the beach in northeastern Barcelona, El Poblenou is a trendy, up-and-coming district with a mix of modern and industrial vibes. It used to be the city’s industrial district. But in recent years it is emerging from decades of decline and urban decay into one of the best places to live in Barcelona.
El Poblenou is most famous for being home to Barcelona’s 22@ district, known for tech startups and innovation hubs. But it also boasts cultural spaces like the Palo Alto Market – an open-air street market that comes to life the first weekend of every month.
Students enjoy its relaxed atmosphere, proximity to the beach, and affordable rent compared to more central areas.
Ranked third, Poblenou is perfect for discovering a laid-back yet creative side of Barcelona.
The best neighborhoods in the district are:
El Parc i la Llacuna del Poblenou
El Poblenou
La Vila Olímpica del Poblenou
Nightlife: ★★★★☆
Poblenou offers a unique nightlife, mixing local charm with high-energy clubs like Razzmatazz, a five-club complex known for its diverse music and vibrant scene. It’s a hotspot for both students and locals looking for a night out, though it feels more relaxed than the city center. The combination of artisan beer bars and exciting nightlife makes this a great neighborhood for students who want variety.
Culture: ★★★★★
Poblenou is rich in creativity and innovation, with galleries, co-working spaces, and modernist architecture alongside historical gems like the Rambla del Poblenou. The monthly Palo Alto Market offers a mix of street food, live music, and local designer stalls, while the Design Museum and street art add to the artistic flair. It’s a blend of past and present, perfect for students looking to experience both Barcelona's industrial heritage and its vibrant modern culture.
Student Accommodation: ★★★★☆
Accommodation in Poblenou ranges from around €800 a month for homestays or a shared room in an apartment, making it more expensive than other areas outside the city centre. But students benefit from larger, newer apartments and loft-style living spaces, offering modern amenities close to the beach and creative hubs. Speakeasy BCN’s partner for student residences, Resa, has a facility in Poblenou near to the Parc de la Ciutadella, which is very popular.
Safety: ★★★☆☆
Poblenou is one of Barcelona's districts with a high proportion of reported criminal incidents occurring at night – 32% of all incidents. This is due to its nightclubs, particularly near Parc i la Llacuna del Poblenou. It’s not the safest neighborhood on the list, but it’s still considered more secure than the more tourist-heavy areas.
Distance to School: ★★★★☆
Poblenou is well-connected by public transport, and depending on your location, it can be a 20-30 minute trip to schools like Speakeasy BCN. Its proximity to both the beach and the city center makes it an appealing option for students looking for a balanced lifestyle.
4. Poble Sec
Nestled at the foot of Montjuïc, El Poble Sec offers both scenic views and a thriving cultural scene.
The neighborhood is famous for its lively Paral·lel avenue, known for theaters and tapas bars, and the nearby Magic Fountain at Montjuïc. Students are drawn here for its vibrant nightlife, accessibility to green spaces, and the overall local feel of the area.
As the fourth neighborhood on our list, Poble Sec is a place you’ll want to explore for its perfect mix of culture and nature.
Nightlife: ★★★★★
Poble Sec is home to some of Barcelona's most iconic clubs, including Sala Apolo, ranked among the top 40 in the world, and INPUT, a favorite for electronic music lovers. For something unique, La Terrrazza, an open-air club inside Montjuïc Castle, is an unforgettable experience. The blend of traditional and cutting-edge nightlife makes this neighborhood ideal for students seeking a fun night out.
Culture: ★★★★★
This neighborhood is rich in cultural attractions, from the Magic Fountain light and music show to the Joan Miró Foundation, and Montjuïc Castle with its stunning views of the city. Students can also enjoy the nearby Olympic Stadium and the vast Montjuïc Park for outdoor activities. Poble Sec’s cultural offerings make it a great spot for those looking to immerse themselves in both history and art.
Student Accommodation: ★★★★☆
Poble Sec offers a range of affordable accommodation options, with average rents lower than central districts. The area is popular with students due to its relatively low costs and proximity to both nightlife and cultural landmarks. You'll find shared apartments and studios in the €500-€600 range, making it a budget-friendly option for international students.
Safety: ★★★☆☆
With 35.6% of reported police incidents happening at night, Poble Sec can be more dangerous after dark compared to other areas. However, most residents and students feel safe, especially around the quieter residential parts of the neighborhood. It’s important to stay aware around popular nightlife spots.
Distance to School: ★★★★☆
Poble Sec is well-connected to public transportation, with metro and bus lines providing easy access to the city center. Most schools are just a 20-30 minute trip away, depending on your location within the neighborhood. Walking from Poble Sec to areas like L’Eixample or Ciutat Vella is doable, offering a scenic route through Montjuïc and other parts of the city.
5. El Born
Located right in the heart of the old town, El Born is a historic neighborhood brimming with medieval charm.
Landmarks like the Picasso Museum and Santa Maria del Mar church give this area a rich cultural edge. With its narrow, winding streets, quirky shops, and buzzing nightlife, El Born is a favorite among language students seeking an authentic Barcelona experience.
Ranked fifth, El Born is an area full of hidden gems for those who fall in love with it.
Nightlife: ★★★★☆
El Born offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, from trendy bars to small local spots, particularly around Passeig del Born and La Rambleta del Born. The area is lively, especially in the evenings, making it a great place for students to relax after classes. While it attracts many tourists, there are still plenty of authentic places to enjoy, giving it a local yet cosmopolitan vibe.
Culture: ★★★★★
El Born is a cultural gem, housing iconic landmarks like the Picasso Museum, Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar, and Palau de la Música. It’s perfect for students interested in history and the arts, with its medieval streets, art galleries, and historic buildings. Additionally, the neighborhood’s close proximity to Parc de la Ciutadella offers a lovely green space for students to unwind.
Student Accommodation: ★★★★☆
Though rent is a bit higher than other neighborhoods, accommodation can be found from €650 per month for a homestay or room in a shared apartment. The area’s central location makes it desirable, though prices reflect its popularity. Speakeasy BCN’s partner Resa operates a student residence in the area, and it’s a popular choice.
Safety: ★★☆☆☆
El Born, while not as notorious as Raval (see below), is still part of Barcelona's old town where petty crime, particularly pickpocketing, is common. Tourists are frequent targets, which can make it feel less safe. Students should stay alert in crowded areas especially around popular landmarks and nightlife spots.
Distance to School: ★★★★★
One of the best features of El Born is its proximity to top language schools like Speakeasy BCN, which are just a 10-minute walk away. Public transportation is excellent, with metro, bus, and tram connections making it easy to get around the city.
Image Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/sackton/5427313678/
6. El Raval
Positioned just west of the Gothic Quarter, El Raval is one of Barcelona’s most diverse and eclectic neighborhoods.
Once considered gritty, it has transformed into a cultural hotspot, home to the MACBA (Barcelona’s Museum of Contemporary Art) and an array of international eateries. Language students enjoy Raval for its affordable rents and vibrant multicultural community.
Ranked sixth, El Raval offers an edgier, alternative vibe that’s definitely worth checking out.
Nightlife: ★★★★☆
El Raval boasts an eclectic and vibrant nightlife scene, perfect for young people looking for a lively atmosphere. Popular venues like Jamboree offer a mix of hip-hop, Afro-beats, and live jazz, appealing to diverse musical tastes. Bars like the famous Bar Marsella, with its historical ties to figures like Hemingway and Picasso, add a bohemian touch to the district. El Raval’s nightlife is lively and varied, but it’s not without its gritty edges, making it exciting but sometimes unpredictable.
Culture: ★★★★★
El Raval is a cultural powerhouse in Barcelona, home to iconic sites like the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA), the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB), and the bustling Mercado de la Boqueria. The area is steeped in artistic and historical significance, with a multicultural vibe. This makes it ideal for students who love art, culture, and exploring different lifestyles. El Raval is also home to Plaça Reial, a popular spot with a vibrant energy day and night.
Student Accommodation: ★★★☆☆
Rental prices in El Raval are reasonable compared to other central areas, with shared accommodation starting at around €700 per month. Speakeasy BCN’s partner for student residences also operates a facility in El Raval. While the prices are attractive, the area’s central location and vibrant scene make it a popular choice for students looking for an affordable, yet exciting, place to stay.
Safety: ★★☆☆☆
El Raval has a reputation for being one of the less safe areas in Barcelona, especially at night. Petty crime, like muggings and pickpocketing, is common, particularly around tourist hotspots. It is also one of the poorest areas in the city, which can contribute to its higher crime rates. While it’s culturally rich, students should remain cautious, especially in crowded or isolated areas.
Distance to School: ★★★★★
One of the major advantages of living in El Raval is its proximity to many top language schools, including Speakeasy BCN, which is just a 5-10 minute walk away. The area is also well-connected by public transport, with tram and bus routes that make it easy to travel around the city. For students focused on convenience and centrality, El Raval is one of the best options in Barcelona.
7. La Barceloneta
Right along the Mediterranean coast, La Barceloneta is Barcelona’s famous seaside neighborhood. Known for its long sandy beach and fresh seafood restaurants, it’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists. International students love living here for the relaxed beach lifestyle and stunning sea views, though it tends to be a bit more touristy than other areas. Ranked seventh on our list, La Barceloneta is ideal if you want to make the most of Barcelona’s coastline.
Nightlife: ★★★★★
La Barceloneta is home to some of Barcelona’s most famous beachfront nightclubs, including Opium, Pacha, and Shôko, all of which feature in the top 100 clubs worldwide. These clubs attract big names in EDM, like David Guetta and Tiesto, and are perfect for students looking for high-energy nights out. The area is lively and ideal for party-goers, with stunning views of the sea adding to the vibrant nightlife.
Culture: ★★★☆☆
La Barceloneta’s main cultural attraction is its beach, but the neighborhood also boasts the Port Vell harbor and the local Mercado de la Barceloneta. While it’s more about enjoying the sun, sea, and sand, students can still find a local vibe among the historic fisherman’s houses and explore some of Barcelona's maritime heritage. It’s a more laid-back, beach-centric cultural experience.
Student Accommodation: ★★★☆☆
Accommodation in La Barceloneta can be expensive, with prices ranging from €800 to €1,500 per month for a room in a shared apartment, making it one of the pricier areas in the city. Speakeasy BCN’s partner Resa has a student residence here, but overall the neighborhood's popularity with tourists drives rental prices up. It’s a great choice if you want to live by the beach, but be prepared to pay for it.
Safety: ★★☆☆☆
La Barceloneta is known for petty crime, especially pickpocketing and scams like beachside conmen. Nearly half of all police reports in the area are filed at night, making it one of the more dangerous neighborhoods after dark. Students should remain cautious, particularly in busy tourist areas along the beach.
Distance to School: ★★☆☆☆
While La Barceloneta is beachfront, it’s relatively far from most language schools. A walk to Speakeasy BCN can take up to 40 minutes, and while public transport is available, it doesn’t always offer the most direct routes. Expect a 30-minute bus or tram journey, making it less convenient compared to more centrally located neighborhoods.
Still unsure? Get help from Speakeasy BCN’s student advisors
Still unsure about where to live in Barcelona?
At Speakeasy BCN, our student advisors are here to help you compare options and find the perfect neighborhood for your stay.
You'll be able to get answers to questions like which neighborhoods are most popular with other students, what price ranges you can expect, and even get help finding accommodation that fits your needs.
Please note, we offer this service exclusively to students who have booked a Spanish course with us.
If you’re ready to start your language journey and need guidance on where to live, head over to our courses page to find the best option for you!
Posted in Moving to Barcelona
Learn and improve your Spanish in Barcelona, one of the world's most vibrant and exciting cities.
Here at Speakeasy you'll find courses for all abilities and timetables, an incredible team of talented and motivated teachers and classmates to share your interests and passions. And if you need a visa for your stay, then of course we're able to help and advise.
Start your learning Spanish in Barcelona adventure
Let us know if you have any questions about our courses, our school and life at Speakeasy.