Welcome to Barcelona—a city that will steal your heart, your troubles, and maybe your wallet…
The city is a major destination on the backpacker trail in Europe, thanks to its budget-friendly hostels, incredible transport connections, vibrant culture, and lively 24-hour social scene.
Activities on a budget in Barcelona
If you are a budget backpacker don’t immediately discount Barcelona. There are plenty of cheap activities to do in Barcelona.
While it’s touristy and certainly not a local spot, wandering through La Boqueria Market for fresh fruit or a budget-friendly snack is 100% worth it. If you are grabbing lunch head to to Bar Central for some insane fresh fish dishes. If you are after a more local market experience the colourful rooftops of Mercat de Santa Caterina.
Sightseeing is rarely free these days but Bunkers del Carmel is where the locals go for panoramic city views. Grab some snacks and a bottle of wine and head there for a mellow Spanish sunset.
One of the best tips we have is that many of the city’s top museums offer free entry on Sundays after 3 p.m. These include the famous Museu Picasso and the MNAC which are well worth the visit.
La Rambla is one of Barcelona’s most iconic streets. Yes, it’s ridiculously touristy but also a great spot to soak in the city’s energy. Along the way, you’ll find street performers, quirky little souvenir shops, and locals rushing about their day. It’s also home to the famous Mercado de La Boqueria, where you can grab fresh fruit juices, cheap tapas, or even a picnic lunch.
Barcelona’s beaches are also free to enjoy— Barceloneta Beach is the most famous and closest to the city, it’s also the most crowded. This is where tourists and locals alike flock for a quick dip, a game of beach volleyball, or a beer from one of the countless beach vendors.
If you’re looking for a more chilled-out experience, head a little further along the coast to Bogatell Beach. It’s less touristy, with a more relaxed atmosphere, and you’ll find plenty of locals enjoying a quieter day by the sea. The perfect place for a peaceful afternoon of sunbathing, swimming, or even catching up on that travel book you’ve been lugging around.
Best places to eat in Barcelona
Cheap Eats
While Barcelona is known to ramp prices up for Tourists it has no shortage of backpacker-friendly options. For cheap tapas, head to Blai Street in Poble Sec, where you can grab Pinchos for just €1 each. Another insanely good value option is Bo de B, near Barceloneta, which serves massive, fresh sandwiches for under €5. Another great spot for cheap tapas is La Xampanyeria in Barceloneta, where you can grab some bites and a glass of cava for under €10. If you’re trying to save, one of the best ways is to head to neighbourhood markets like Mercat De Ninot for fresh produce or cheap meals.
Which areas to stay in Barcelona
Barcelona’s Old City is a charming maze of narrow, cobblestone streets that make it one of the most walkable areas in the city. The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) is the heart of this historic district, offering iconic landmarks, medieval architecture, and endless tapas bars. Las Ramblas, the bustling pedestrian street, cuts through the Gothic Quarter, drawing tourists with its lively atmosphere and street performers. This area is perfect for those wanting to be in the thick of things, though it can get quite noisy, especially on weekends.
El Born, just next to the Gothic Quarter, is a slightly quieter, more artistic area—an ideal place to stay if you want to be close to the action but still get a good night’s sleep. Its streets are filled with artisan shops, small tapas bars, and cozy restaurants. El Born offers a more local vibe while still being within walking distance of major attractions like Parc de la Ciutadella and Picasso Museum. Many travelers find El Born the perfect middle ground—charming, vibrant, but a little less hectic than its Gothic neighbour.
For a more laid-back, residential feel, Gràcia is the spot. It has a village-like atmosphere, filled with quaint squares and bohemian cafes, but is still close enough to all the main attractions by metro or a short walk. This area is great for those who want a quieter stay, while still being near fantastic restaurants and shops. Eixample is another alternative if you want a bit more peace and quiet, offering wide avenues, stunning modernist architecture, and a more local vibe while being well-connected to the rest of the city.
