Best Neighborhoods for Families in Barcelona

Barcelona, with its vibrant culture, Mediterranean climate, and cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a city that has become a hub for expats and digital nomads from around the world. For families looking to settle in this dynamic city, finding the right neighborhood is crucial. The city offers a variety of areas that cater to different lifestyles, with some neighborhoods boasting excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly activities. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Barcelona for families seeking a balance between city life and comfortable living.

Gracia

Gracia, once an independent town, has retained a strong community feel and is now one of the most charming neighborhoods in Barcelona. It's a hit with families due to its numerous plazas filled with cafes and playgrounds where children can play safely. The area is known for its artistic vibe and hosts the famous Festa Major de Gracia, an annual street festival that brings the community together. Families can enjoy cultural activities at the neighborhood's various theaters and independent cinemas.

Location: North of the city center, above Eixample

Real Estate: Average rental price for a 2-bedroom apartment is around €1,200, while a 3-bedroom can go for €1,500. Purchase prices average €4,500 per square meter.

International Schools: Gracia is home to several international and bilingual schools, including the Collège Ferdinand de Lesseps, which offers French curriculum from nursery to high school.

Where to Eat: Gracia has a plethora of dining options, from family-friendly restaurants like La Nena, which offers a cozy atmosphere, to health-conscious spots like Mama's Cafe.

Interesting History: The neighborhood's history as a separate town can be felt in its distinct architecture and narrow streets. The Plaça del Diamant is notable for its civil war bomb shelter, which can be visited on guided tours.

Parks: Parc Güell, one of Barcelona's most famous parks designed by Antoni Gaudí, is located on the edge of Gracia and is a popular spot for families.

Sarria-Sant Gervasi

Sarria-Sant Gervasi is known for being one of the most affluent and peaceful neighborhoods in Barcelona. It's a top choice for families seeking a quieter, more residential area with a high quality of life. The district offers numerous parks, such as Jardins del Turó del Putxet, and prestigious schools. It's a neighborhood where children can be seen playing in the streets and where local markets provide a sense of community.

Location: Upper part of Barcelona, extending from the edge of Eixample to the foothills of the Collserola mountains

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €1,400, and a 3-bedroom can be around €1,800. Purchase prices are around €5,000 per square meter.

International Schools: The area boasts several international schools, including the English School of Barcelona and Benjamin Franklin International School, offering education from nursery to high school with American and International Baccalaureate curriculums.

Where to Eat: Sarria-Sant Gervasi has a variety of restaurants, such as Vivanda, which offers a family-friendly garden terrace, and Foix de Sarria, a historic pastry shop and café.

Interesting History: The Monastery of Pedralbes, a Gothic monastery, is a historical landmark in the area that now houses a museum.

Parks: The neighborhood is close to Collserola Natural Park, the largest metropolitan park in the world, offering families ample space for outdoor activities.

Eixample

Eixample is a centrally located neighborhood known for its grid-like layout and modernist architecture, including Gaudi's famous Sagrada Familia. It's a family-friendly area with wide avenues, numerous playgrounds, and a variety of schools. The neighborhood is also home to many shops and restaurants, making it convenient for family outings.

Location: In the heart of Barcelona, stretching from the old city to the neighborhoods of Gracia and Sant Marti

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €1,300, while a 3-bedroom can cost around €1,700. Purchase prices average €4,800 per square meter.

International Schools: Eixample is home to several bilingual schools, such as the British School of Barcelona and the Escuela Suizo de Barcelona, offering Swiss curriculum in multiple languages.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood is filled with family-friendly restaurants, including the popular Cerveceria Catalana for tapas and the kid-friendly Cosmo Café and Art Gallery.

Interesting History: Eixample is the architectural playground of Antoni Gaudi, with landmarks like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera that offer a glimpse into Barcelona's modernist past.

Parks: Despite its urban setting, Eixample has several green spaces, such as the recently renovated Parc de Joan Miró, which features a large playground and sculptures by the famous artist.

Les Corts

Les Corts is a residential neighborhood that is perfect for families looking for a local experience away from the tourist crowds. It's home to the Camp Nou stadium, making it a dream location for football-loving families. The area has a good selection of schools and parks, including the beautiful Parc de Cervantes, known for its rose garden.

Location: West of Eixample, towards the western edge of the city

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €1,100, and a 3-bedroom can be around €1,400. Purchase prices are around €4,200 per square meter.

International Schools: Les Corts is close to several international schools, such as the American School of Barcelona and the Deutsche Schule Barcelona, offering German curriculum.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood has a variety of dining options, including the family-friendly La Riera, known for its traditional Catalan cuisine.

Interesting History: The Maternitat de Les Corts complex, a former maternity hospital, is now a beautiful set of buildings housing various public services and a park.

Parks: Parc de Cervantes is a highlight of the area, especially during the annual rose festival when the park's thousands of rose bushes are in full bloom.

Poblenou

Poblenou combines the charm of a traditional neighborhood with the innovation of the city's tech and creative district, known as 22@. It's a family-friendly area with a relaxed atmosphere, close to the beach and boasting wide pedestrian streets like Rambla del Poblenou, perfect for strolls and outdoor dining. The neighborhood has several parks and playgrounds, as well as a variety of schools.

Location: Eastern part of Barcelona, along the Mediterranean coast

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €1,200, and a 3-bedroom can be around €1,600. Purchase prices average €4,300 per square meter.

International Schools: Poblenou is near international schools such as the Lycée Français de Barcelone, offering French curriculum from nursery to high school.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood is known for its variety of eateries, including El 58, which offers a family-friendly tapas experience, and Can Recasens, a historic deli and restaurant.

Interesting History: The Can Framis Museum, a former textile factory turned into a contemporary art museum, reflects the industrial past of Poblenou.

Parks: Parc del Centre del Poblenou is a modern park designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, providing a green oasis for families in the urban setting.

Sants-Montjuic

Sants-Montjuic is a diverse district that includes the tranquil residential area of Sants, the green spaces of Montjuic hill, and the cultural attractions around Plaça Espanya. It's a great neighborhood for families who enjoy outdoor activities, with the Montjuic Castle, Magic Fountain, and the Olympic Ring all within easy reach. The area also has a good selection of schools and sports facilities.

Location: Southwest of the city center, encompassing the hill of Montjuic

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €1,000, and a 3-bedroom can be around €1,300. Purchase prices average €3,800 per square meter.

International Schools: The area is close to international schools such as the Akua School, which offers a bilingual education with a focus on sustainability.

Where to Eat: Sants-Montjuic offers a range of dining options, from the traditional Catalan cuisine at La Torre de l'Hereu to the family-friendly La Caseta del Migdia, nestled on Montjuic hill with stunning city views.

Interesting History: The Palau Nacional, which houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia, is a historic site that offers a journey through Catalan art history.

Parks: The sprawling Montjuic Park is the largest in Barcelona, featuring gardens, sports facilities, and museums, making it a favorite among local families.

Sant Andreu

Sant Andreu is a neighborhood that has managed to preserve its village-like atmosphere, making it a welcoming place for families. It's a bit further from the city center, which means more space and quieter streets. The area has a strong sense of community, with local markets, traditional festivals, and family-run businesses. There are also several schools and parks, including the Parc de la Pegaso.

Location: Northeastern part of Barcelona, away from the tourist-heavy areas

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €900, and a 3-bedroom can be around €1,100. Purchase prices average €3,500 per square meter.

International Schools: Sant Andreu is close to international schools such as the Escola Internacional del Camp, offering a multilingual education with a focus on innovation.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood is home to family-friendly restaurants like Versalles, known for its traditional Catalan dishes, and La Maquinista shopping center, which offers a variety of dining options.

Interesting History: The Fabra i Coats factory, a former textile mill, is now a cultural center and a testament to the neighborhood's industrial heritage.

Parks: Parc de la Pegaso is a popular spot among families for its large playground, picnic areas, and sports facilities.

Horta-Guinardo

Horta-Guinardo, located on the northeastern edge of Barcelona, is a district that offers a mix of urban living and natural spaces. It's a great choice for families who value a quieter lifestyle but still want to be connected to the city. The area has a village feel with its narrow streets and historic squares, and it's home to several parks, including the Parc del Laberint d'Horta, which features a historic maze.

Location: Northeastern part of Barcelona, including the hillsides of the Collserola range

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €850, and a 3-bedroom can be around €1,000. Purchase prices average €3,200 per square meter.

International Schools: The district is near international schools such as the Oak House School, which offers a British curriculum with a strong emphasis on Spanish and Catalan.

Where to Eat: Horta-Guinardo has a variety of local eateries, such as Tast & Gust, which offers a family-friendly menu with a modern twist on traditional dishes.

Interesting History: The Parc del Laberint d'Horta is not only a beautiful park but also the oldest of its kind in Barcelona, with a history dating back to the 18th century.

Parks: The neighborhood is known for its green spaces, including the Parc del Laberint d'Horta and the Parc de la Creueta del Coll, which features a large lake and swimming pool.