Welcome to our Barcelona digital nomad guide! Barcelona is a city that blends modern innovation with rich history, making it a popular destination for remote workers. With its unique architecture, lively neighborhoods, and a growing community of digital nomads, the city offers an ideal environment to balance leisure and work.
- Why Barcelona?
- Best time to visit
- Visas
- Accommodation
- Cost of living
- Itineraries
- Coworking spaces
- Public places for remote work
- Must-try dishes
- Transportation
- Essential services
- Top activities
- Networking
- Best neighborhoods
- Top places to visit
- Tips for digital nomads
- Basic phrases in Spanish
- FAQs
- Other useful information
This guide will help you find your way around the city, from accommodation for rent in Barcelona and the cost of living to local dishes and well-known coworking spaces. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a more extended stay, Barcelona promises a memorable experience.
Why Barcelona?
Barcelona is one of the top destinations for digital nomads, not only in Spain but in Europe, mainly because of its mix of rich culture, excellent infrastructure, and mild climate. It offers a rich historical experience, a growing tech scene, and modern amenities. With lots of coworking spaces, public spots, and cafes suitable for remote work, Barcelona attracts creative professionals, solopreneurs, and freelancers looking for a balanced work-life experience.
Its combination of beach, urban life, housing in Barcelona and mountains makes it a perfect option for those who want both relaxation and productivity.
Find cheap apartments for rent in Barcelona
Best time to visit Barcelona
Barcelona’s Mediterranean climate ensures hot summers and mild winters. The best times for stays in Barcelona are fall (September-October) and spring (April-June). During these periods, the weather is very pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller. This offers a more relaxed environment for digital nomads. Avoid a visit in August when many businesses close for holidays and many locals leave the city.
Visas
Spain offers various visa options for digital nomads. Non-EU citizens can apply for the Schengen visa, which allows a 90-day stay in a 180-day period. For longer stays, nomads can consider the Spanish Freelance Visa or the Spain digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to stay up to one year with the possibility of renewal. EU citizens can live and work in Spain without a visa.
IMAGE: Source: Photo by Dennis van den Worm on Unsplash
Accommodation
Barcelona offers a wide and diverse range of accommodation for digital nomads. Neighborhoods such as Gràcia, Eixample, and Poblenou offer excellent stays near networking events and coworking spaces.
Accommodation options
Digital nomads in Barcelona can find housing through Flatio, offering short, medium, and long-term rentals. Options include fully furnished apartments, studios, and shared flats, with choices available in both central areas and quieter neighborhoods. Shared living is also becoming increasingly popular, providing private rooms in communal spaces, which are ideal for connecting with others and reducing costs.
Housing data
When it comes to finding accommodation Barcelona, digital nomads can choose from different housing in Spain ranging from shared flats to private apartments. Rental prices in the city obviously vary depending on the neighborhood, the property size, and the amenities offered. Here’s an overview of rent estimates, which can help you get an idea of what to expect:
Average rent estimates:
- Studio apartment in central neighborhoods (e.g. Eixample, El Born, and Gràcia):
- €900–€1,200 a month
- 1-Bedroom apartment in central neighborhoods:
- €1,200–€1,500 a month
- 2-Bedroom apartment in central neighborhoods:
- €1,500–€2,000 a month
- Studio apartment in outer neighborhoods (e.g. Sants, Poblenou):
- €700–€900 a month
- 1-Bedroom apartment in outer neighborhoods:
- €900–€1,200 a month
- Shared apartments/rooms (Various neighborhoods):
- €400–€700 a month (depending on size of the room and location)
Factors influencing rent:
- Neighborhood: Central areas like Gràcia and Eixample are more expensive, while outer neighborhoods like Sants or Poblenou are more affordable but still well-connected.
- Apartment size and furnishing: Fully furnished apartments are generally more expensive. Apartments with recently renovated interiors and modern amenities tend to command higher rents.
In Barcelona, short-term rentals (under 30 days) are strictly regulated, so digital nomads often go for medium-term rentals (1–6 months), which offer more flexibility without long-term commitments.
Flatio: Flexible, deposit-free stays in Barcelona
Are you looking for flexible, reasonably priced, and deposit-free accommodations to rent in Barcelona? Take a look at the listings on Flatio and we believe you will find a suitable living space in the city center and beyond.
Cost of living in Barcelona
Barcelona offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other cities in Western Europe. A digital nomad’s monthly expenses generally range from €1,500 to €2,500, according to their lifestyle choices. Here’s a breakdown:
- Rent: €700-€1,200/month for a 1-bedroom apartment in a central area.
- Groceries: €200-€300/month.
- Coworking space: €100-€250/month.
- Public transport: €40-€55/month for an unlimited travel card.
Itineraries
For digital nomads balancing exploration and work, a flexible stays in Spain is key. Below is a suggested itinerary:
- Day 1: Explore the Gothic Quarter and La Sagrada Familia.
- Day 2: Work from a remote work-friendly café in Gràcia, visit Park Güell in the afternoon.
- Day 3: Spend the morning in a coworking space in Poblenou, followed by a beach walk in the evening.
- Day 4: Take a day trip to Montserrat.
- Day 5: Visit the Museu Picasso, work remotely in El Born district, and enjoy tapas in the evening.
If you’re planning a longer stay, here’s a suggested plan for a 1-month and a 1-month plus stay in Barcelona:
1-month itinerary:
- Explore iconic landmarks: The Gothic Quarter and La Sagrada Familia.
- Work remotely from cafes or coworking spaces in Poblenou and Gràcia.
- Visit Museu Picasso and Park Güell in the afternoons.
- Enjoy beach walks and tapas in the evenings.
- Attend local networking events.
- Take day trips to Montserrat and nearby Sitges.
- Relax at Parc de la Ciutadella and enjoy a Flamenco show.
1-month plus itinerary:
- Take a cooking class to dive deeper into local culture.
- Visit the National Art Museum of Catalonia.
- Enjoy bike tours and wine tasting in the Penedès region.
- Spend leisurely days at Barceloneta Beach.
- Connect with fellow digital nomads through meetups and collaboration opportunities.
IMAGE: Source: Photo by Tomáš Nožina on Unsplash
Co-working spaces in Barcelona
Barcelona hosts many coworking spaces that cater to digital nomads and remote workers.
- Aticco Workspaces: With multiple locations, Aticco features modern spaces with very fast Wi-Fi and networking opportunities.
- MOB (Makers of Barcelona): A community-focused coworking space offering a mix of workshops and events for freelancers.
Public places for remote work
For those who want to work in public spaces, Barcelona offers many remote work-friendly locations, such as:
- El Nacional: A beautiful gastronomic venue ideal for a quiet morning of work.
- Cafés in Gràcia: Quaint spots such as Café Camelia offer a relaxed atmosphere and free Wi-Fi.
- Parc de la Ciutadella: A great choice for those who want to work outdoors in a peaceful setting.
Must-try dishes in Barcelona
The food scene in Barcelona combines traditional Catalan cuisine with modern influences. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Pa amb Tomàquet: Simple bread with tomato, salt, and olive oil.
- Fideuà: A noodle-based seafood dish, which is similar to paella.
- Crema Catalana: A local version of crème brûlée that’s served with a distinctive caramelized sugar topping.
- Patatas Bravas: Spicy fried potatoes, which are served with aioli.
IMAGE: Source: Photo by Rosy Ko on Unsplash
Transportation
Barcelona has a very efficient and relatively affordable public transport system, including trams, buses, and metro lines, which makes it easy to navigate. Here’s an overview:
- Metro: The best way to explore the city. A single ticket costs less than €3, and a 30-day unlimited travel card (T-Usual) costs less than €60.
- Bicing: Barcelona’s bike-sharing system, which is a great choice for short commutes.
- Taxis and Ride-sharing: Services like Cabify and Uber are available.
Essential services
For digital nomads, accessing essential services in Barcelona is relatively easy:
- Healthcare: Public healthcare is available. However, private healthcare services (such as Sanitas) are usually preferred by expatriates for their efficiency.
- SIM cards and internet: You can buy SIM cards from operators such as Orange, Movistar, and Vodafone. Reliable home internet is available through top providers, or you can opt for coworking spaces that offer fast Wi-Fi.
- Banking: Digital nomads usually opt for online banking services such as N26 or Revolut. However, you may need to set up a local Spanish bank account for long-term stays.
Top activities
In Barcelona, you can experience a variety of activities to relax after a productive workday:
- Beach days: Relax on the beaches of Bogatell or Barceloneta.
- Hiking in Montjuïc: For outdoor enthusiasts, Montjuïc offers unique hiking trails and breathtaking views of the city.
- Art and museums: Visit the Museu Picasso or explore the contemporary art museum, MACBA.
Networking
The digital nomad scene in Barcelona is very active, with lots of networking events and meetups.
- Meetup.com: Regular nomad gatherings focused on tech, business, and freelance work.
- Facebook groups: Facebook groups where nomads organize events, share tips, and connect.
- Coworking events: Many coworking spaces like Betahaus offer events that are tailored to entrepreneurs and freelancers.
Best neighborhoods in Barcelona
Barcelona’s diverse neighborhoods have something to offer every digital nomad:
- Gràcia: Famous for its bohemian vibe, Gràcia is highly popular with freelancers and creatives.
- Poblenou: Barcelona’s tech hub, which is home to modern apartments and coworking spaces.
- El Born: A trendy area with art galleries, boutique shops, and tapas bars.
IMAGE: Source: Photo by Richard Hewat on Unsplash
Top places to visit in Barcelona
- La Sagrada Familia: The iconic basilica designed by Gaudí.
- Park Güell: A colorful public park that showcases Gaudí’s architecture.
- La Rambla: A bustling street filled with food markets, shops, and street performers.
- Montjuïc Castle: Offering amazing panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Tips for digital nomads
- Get a VPN: If you plan to work remotely from cafes and public spaces, having a reliable VPN service ensures secure internet access.
- Learn basic Spanish/Catalan: Many locals speak English, but it’s always appreciated to know some basic phrases in Spanish or Catalan.
- Choose the right accommodation: Platforms like Flatio typically offer better deals for medium-term stays than traditional rentals.
- Utilize coworking spaces: They offer not just reliable internet but also different kinds of networking opportunities.
Basic phrases in Spanish
- Hello: Hola
- Thank you: Gracias
- Goodbye: Adiós
- How much does this cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta esto?
- Where is the metro station?: ¿Dónde está la estación de metro?
- I don’t speak Spanish: No hablo español
Find apartments in Spain
FAQs
- Is Barcelona an expensive destination for digital nomads? The cost of living in Barcelona is moderate compared to other cities in Western Europe. You can expect to spend between €1,500 to €2,500 a month.
- Do I need to speak Spanish? Many people speak English in Barcelona. But it always helps to know basic Spanish or Catalan for day-to-day interactions.
Other useful information
- Safety: Barcelona is considered generally safe for travelers, but it’s advisable to watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Climate: Barcelona enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, which makes it an ideal year-round destination for remote workers.
Flatio: Rental accommodation in Barcelona
Why choose Flatio to rent accommodation in Spain? Discover the unique features that make us the perfect choice:
- Flexible, reasonably priced stays (from days to months)
- Wide range of accommodation options (rooms, apartments, houses, etc.)
- Utilities and Wi-Fi included
- Visa-friendly lease agreements
- Online signing of lease agreement
- Renting directly from hosts
- No deposit required for stays under 180 days (unless required by local laws)
- Balanced lease agreement, translated into multiple languages
- Very attractive cancelation policy
- StayProtection for Tenants: assistance with emergencies and accidental property damage
- Move-in Guarantee with a 24/7 emergency line
- 100% money protection
- Customer support available every day of the week
- No hidden fees
- Secure and simple payment system, including Bitcoin option
