A beach-themed stay in Barcelona: aaaand relax!

Yes, Barcelona is a big city, but it’s also a pretty seaside resort. With its miles of sandy beaches, beach huts, nautical activities, ports and nightlife, it’s the perfect destination for some summer sun! What’s more, it’s extremely accessible from most big cities in Europe and, indeed, elsewhere. Time to top up your tan?

Budget flights to Barcelona

Unsurprisingly, plane tickets are more expensive during the summer months. There are savings to be had, though, if you follow the tips below:

• Book well ahead: obvious, but essential! By booking two or three months in advance, you should be able to get tickets for summer travel at the same price as those on sale the rest of the year.
• Visit in July: flights are considerably cheaper in July than in August. The difference in price between a flight on 31st July and one on 1st August can be enormous… so travel earlier, if you can.
• Visit between seasons: the beach is still fantastic in June, September and October, and will be much less crowded than in high summer. Flights will also be cheaper, so it’s a win-win situation.

Staying near the beach

As there are several miles of coastline around Barcelona, you should be able to find something which is ideal for you whilst still being near the beach.

• Barceloneta: this fishing quarter has kept its character, despite the influx of partying tourists in the summer. There are plenty of restaurants and bars, and it’s easy to get to from the city centre. However, there aren’t many hotels in the area: most of the accommodation on offer is in apartments.
• Vila Olímpica: this area plays host to exclusive hotels, a marina, internationally-renowned nightclubs (Opium, Shôko, Catwalk etc.) and seaside restaurants. The perfect location for party animals with a substantial budget!
• Poblenou: the beaches in this quarter are furthest from the centre of Barcelona, meaning they attract fewer tourists and are better for families. There are a number of fairly expensive hotels along the sea front, but prices get considerably lower as you head slightly further inland.

Looking for a budget-friendly option? Renting an apartment is a good choice. If you prefer to stay in a hotel, there’s a wide choice of establishments near the beach, for all budgets, here. Popular options include the Barcelona Princess and the Diagonal Zero.

Our guide to Barcelona’s beaches

Find the beach for you

Once you’ve arrived and settled in, it’s time to head for the beach. Different beaches offer different environments, so read our guide to Barcelona’s beaches to find one that’s just right for you: hip, family-friendly, lively or peaceful.

Renting deckchairs and parasols

Parasols and deckchairs are available to rent pretty much everywhere for around 6 euros/day.

Activities

Once again, there are plenty of options! There are children’s play areas all along the coastline, whilst activities for teens and adults include beach volleyball and various watersports.

Eating and drinking at the beach

If you’re not intending to leave the beach at all during your stay in Barcelona, we have some good news for you: you won’t even have to move far to find food and drinks.

Beach bars

Beach bars (xiringuitos) will be your go-to for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with snacks in between. Find out all you need to know about these little huts, open from June to September, in our dedicated article.

Seaside restaurants

For something a little more substantial and a little more elaborate, Barcelona has plenty of seaside restaurants. Open year-round, they’re better-equipped than the beach bars. They’re far from the cheapest options in town, but then you’re paying extra for the surroundings!

Finally, don’t forget the sun cream! Follow our weather man’s advice to tan safely.

Now, where did we put our bucket and spade?