Barcelona Digital Nomad Guide 2025

Are you a digital nomad considering a stay in Barcelona Spain?  Whether you’re looking for a workation of a couple of weeks or planning to spend several months here, Barcelona digital nomads can have a fantastic time in the city, enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle and making the most of what Barcelona has to offer.

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In this digital nomad guide to Barcelona, I’ll share why I think Barcelona is the perfect digital nomad destination, and all of the information you might need to come to Barcelona as a digital nomad!

This article is written in collaboration with Barcelona Turisme

Contents show

Why Come to Barcelona as a Digital Nomad?

Why should you choose Barcelona as a digital nomad?  I adore Barcelona.  It is my favourite city in the world and I spent several years living and working here before I left to become a digital nomad myself.  

I now come back to the city every year, for varying periods from a couple of weeks to my most recent stay of 3 months.  For digital nomads, Barcelona is an incredible place to stay and live.  I could go on for hours about why Barcelona is worth visiting, but I’ve tried to summarize it in a few key points!

As well as general reasons to visit Barcelona, I’ve also included specific reasons why digital nomads in Barcelona will enjoy their time here.

Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Before travelling to Barcelona, make sure you book accommodation and popular attractions ASAP as hotels and tickets can sell out.

🛌 MY FAVOURITE HOTELS IN BARCELONA:

$$: Sercotel Hotel Rosellon - stunning view of Sagrada Familia from some rooms and roof terrace

$: Chic & Basic Lemon Boutique Hotel - great value hotel near Plaça Catalunya

$: Fabrizzio's Petit Hostel - clean and friendly hostel with private rooms and shared dorms

⭐ TOP 3 BARCELONA ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:

1: Park Guell Admission Ticket - colourful mosaic terraces and gorgeous views

2: Sagrada Familia Skip the Line Ticket - a must-see in Barcelona!

3: Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour - stunning Modernist Building & rooftop terrace

❗BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS❗

Although Barcelona is a safe city, pickpockets are a problem here, particularly in popular tourist areas and on the metro.  Use a theft-proof backpack and consider getting some hidden-pocket clothing to keep your belongings safe.

Why Visit Barcelona?

There are many reasons why you should visit Barcelona, it really is a city that has it all.  No matter what you like doing, eating or drinking, you will find it here.

La Sagrada Familia - Barcelona Digital Nomad Guide
La Sagrada Familia – Barcelona Digital Nomad Guide

One of the things Barcelona is famous for is its exceptional architecture, most notably the awe-inspiring works of Antoni Gaudí. From the iconic Sagrada Família to the whimsical Park Güell and the extraordinary Casa Batlló, everywhere you look there are beautiful buildings.

With its deep-rooted history and proud Catalan identity, Barcelona offers a rich cultural experience – it is a Spanish city that isn’t really Spanish at all, with a unique Catalan culture. You’ll get the best of both worlds in Barcelona, and the chance to learn Catalan and/or Spanish during your time here.

You can explore the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinth of streets, visit the imposing Cathedral, and discover ancient Roman ruins beneath the city centre. Barcelona is also home to a range of world-class museums, such as the Picasso Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Maritime Museum and many more.

The FC Barcelona Museum is the most visited museum in Europe, and football fans won’t want to miss the chance to see Barça (although there are currently extensive renovations going on at Camp Nou so matches are being played at the Palau Sant Jordi until November 2024, but the museum remains open with a viewing area to see the stadium). 

Barcelona’s location on the Mediterranean coast adds an extra layer of charm to the city that few other places can match. Its beautiful sandy beaches, stretching from Barceloneta to Forum, offer the perfect spot to unwind, soak up the sun, and indulge in some beachfront dining – or a drink or two at a xiringuito beach bar.

Trust me, there is nothing better than tucking into a plate of seafood in the sunshine with a view of the sea!  And if you go a little further north or south you’ll find more beautiful beaches to enjoy all along the Costa Brava and Costa Daurada within easy reach of the city.

Barcelona is a food lover’s paradise, with a world-class culinary scene that blends traditional Catalan flavours with innovative techniques. From local tapas bars to rustic restaurants and Michelin-starred dining, you’ll love eating in Barcelona

Delicious Seafood Black Rice - Arros Negre in Barcelona
Delicious Seafood Black Rice – Arros Negre in Barcelona

Barcelona has plenty of markets too where you can find fresh local produce and try some tapas at one of the bars inside the markets.  While La Boqueria on La Rambla is the most famous market in Barcelona, make sure you explore the markets in other neighbourhoods like Santa Caterina Market, Barceloneta and Sant Antoni to name a few.

Barcelona is known for its lively festivals that showcase the best of Catalan culture. Watch in awe as castellers build gravity-defying human towers during the festival of La Mercè in September, or browse the book stalls and rose-filled streets during the Sant Jordi (St George’s Day) festival in April.

The city also hosts renowned music festivals, such as Primavera Sound, Sónar and Cruilla, as well as the biggest international stars who perform to sell-out crowds at the Palau Sant Jordi Stadium. 

As well as city-wide events, it seems that barely a week goes by without some sort of celebration, live music performance, festival or market somewhere around the city.  It is impossible to get bored in Barcelona!

Casteller Human Tower at a Barcelona Festival
Casteller Human Tower at a Barcelona Festival

Well, that’s a few reasons why you should visit Barcelona, but why should you come here as a digital nomad to live and work in Barcelona?

Is Barcelona Good for Digital Nomads?

The short answer is YES!  As well as all the reasons I’ve mentioned above, these are some of the reasons why Barcelona is especially great for digital nomads:

A Perfect Location

Barcelona’s location and excellent transportation infrastructure make it easily accessible from major cities worldwide. The city is well-connected through its international airport, served by most airlines as well as high-speed trains to other cities in Spain and Europe.

In addition to getting there in the first place, Barcelona also has an extensive public transportation system, allowing for easy travel within the city as well as convenient day trips or weekends away to explore more of Catalonia and Spain.

Get to Know Barcelona Better

Given all of the amazing reasons to visit Barcelona, staying here for a longer period of time will give you longer to get to know the city, to learn more about the Catalan culture and to experience the real Mediterranean lifestyle.  You’ll be able to discover more of Barcelona, seek out its hidden gems and really feel at home here.

I first lived in Barcelona for a year as a student and I fell in love with the city.  Barcelona is special, and once you’ve lived here it never leaves you.  Get lost in the streets of the Gothic Quarter, buy fresh produce at your local market, enjoy delicious Catalan cuisine, and experience the fantastic nightlife from cosy cocktail bars to beach-front nightclubs.

The Gardens of Casa Vicens - a Hidden Gem in Barcelona
The Gardens of Casa Vicens – a Hidden Gem in Barcelona

Support for Digital Nomads in Barcelona

Not only that, but the Barcelona Tourism Office are actively supporting digital nomads and people who come for a workation in Barcelona, helping you to make suitable arrangements and to settle in once you’ve decided to come here.  

Barcelona Turisme has a wealth of Barcelona digital nomad tips and information about the city to help you make a move to Barcelona whether just for a few weeks or for much longer. 

Barcelona Card Workation

You can also buy the Barcelona Card Workation for €35 which is valid for up to 6 months and gives you free entry to various museums as well as discounts at other top attractions in Barcelona. 

You’ll get free admission and skip the line to museums including the Picasso Museum, Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, Fundació Joan Miró, Fundació Antoni Tàpies, museums that are part of the Museu d’Història de Barcelona, Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona, Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona, Museu Egipci de Barcelona and more.

You’ll also get discounted entry to other attractions like Casa Amatller, Barcelona Aquarium, Casa Vicens, Museu Maritim de Barcelona, Palau de la Musica Catalana, Poble Espanyol, Sant Pau Recinte Modernista, and more, and discounts on the Barcelona Bus Turistic, walking tours and the Golondrinas Boat tours.  

If you want to enjoy Barcelona’s top attractions while you’re here, you’ll definitely save money with this card – check out all the details and available discounts here.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa

Spain’s new Digital Nomad Visa makes it easier than ever to live and work in Spain as a digital nomad.  The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa will allow you to stay for between 1-5 years as you work remotely as an employee of another company or as a freelancer.

Read on for more details about the visa and how to apply, or check out the details and requirements for that here.

A Strong International Community

Barcelona is a large cosmopolitan city and has an international community to match.  No matter where you are from you are bound to find other people from there who have come to live in Barcelona.  It is easy to make friends as there are lots of social events, workshops, networking opportunities and language exchanges so you can settle in quickly and easily.

Joining these communities not only fosters personal connections but also opens doors to potential work collaborations and professional growth, offering endless opportunities to expand your network while enjoying your Barcelona digital nomad experience.

Street Art in Barcelona at the Three Towers Park in Poble Sec
Street Art in Barcelona at the Three Towers Park in Poble Sec

A Creative Hub

Creativity is everywhere in Barcelona.  The city is renowned for being a creative hub, for artists, entrepreneurs and startups who all flock here.  If you’re looking for somewhere to spark your creativity then this is the place – simply strolling down the street you are surrounded by unique architecture and street art, or pay a visit to one of the art museums.

It’s hard not to be inspired in a city this beautiful, and with lots of other digital nomads and entrepreneurs around you can share ideas and come up with your next new business plan!

A Dream Work-Life Balance

Barcelona embodies the essence of a healthy work-life balance. The locals cherish their leisure time, with extended lunches, evening socializing, and a laid-back lifestyle. As a digital nomad destination, Barcelona encourages you to embrace this mindset.

Take breaks to recharge at the beach, savour delicious tapas at a local restaurant, or participate in outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains or practising yoga in one of the city’s parks. The balance between work and play in Barcelona ensures you return home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Inspiring Work Environment

Barcelona has a variety of inspiring workspaces tailored for digital nomads and freelancers. From trendy coworking spaces to shared offices and cute cafés, you’ll find a variety of environments to enhance your productivity and encourage collaboration with the people you meet.

Imagine working from a rooftop terrace with a view of the Sagrada Familia, or a settling into cozy café in the Gothic Quarter, surrounded by centuries-old architecture. Whatever your preferred working style is, you’ll find the perfect place to get inspired here!

Working on the Terrace at Aticco Co-Working in Barcelona
Working on the Terrace at Aticco Co-Working in Barcelona

How Long Should Digital Nomads Stay in Barcelona?

The beauty of Barcelona is that you could spend as little as week here and still have a great experience, or take as much time as you need to really feel at home here.  You could come to Barcelona for a short workation, or apply for a digital nomad visa and spend a year here, or more if you extend it!

If you’ve not heard the term workation before, it refers to a combination of work and vacation.  You take your laptop and work remotely from a fabulous location where you can enjoy the lifestyle and benefits of living abroad for a short period of time, without quitting your normal job, and without moving abroad permanently.

Workations vary in length from a few days to several months, but you will need to discuss what is possible with your employer and decide on your own personal preferences.  These days remote work is much more common than it used to be, so if you work from home there’s no reason why you can’t work from Barcelona instead!

Do You Need a Visa to Work as a Digital Nomad in Barcelona?

Generally, if you are planning to stay in Barcelona for a short time, if you don’t need a visa to travel there as a tourist, then a workation or digital nomad stay of between 30 and 90 days doesn’t require a visa. 

If you are from outside Europe and want to stay in Barcelona for longer than a couple of months you will need a visa.  As I mentioned earlier, the new Spain Digital Nomad Visa has made it much easier for digital nomads to spend more time in Spain, and of course, Barcelona.

A British Passport with different currencies and coins around it
The Digital Nomad Visa Makes it Easier for UK Nationals

Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa launched in late 2022, and is the best way for non-European digital nomads to stay in Barcelona for up to year, with the option to extend the visa up to 5 years.  

It is designed for people who work online either working remotely for a non-Spanish company or employer, or self-employed people who freelance to non-Spanish companies.  

If you are self-employed, you can also work for a company located in Spain, as long as it is less than 20% of the total amount of your professional activity.

If you have a partner or spouse they can also get on the visa with you, as well as dependent children.

Spanish Digital Nomad Visa Application Criteria

Before you apply for the digital nomad visa for Spain, there are various requirements you need to meet, including:

Personal Attributes

You’ll have to be over 18 and have no criminal record either in Spain or in your country of residence

Education/Experience

You will need to have a degree or at least 3 years of work experience in your field.

Proof of Employment

You need to show you have been working for a foreign company for at least 3 months before you apply, either permanently or in a freelance capacity, with a contract and a certificate from the company showing the length of the contract and consent for you to work remotely in Spain.  

Minimum Income Requirements

Your income must be at least double the monthly Spanish national minimum wage, which is currently €1080 per month – so you’ll need to earn at least €2,160 per month as an individual, which is €25,920 per year. 

The Spanish Government website states that is approximately £2140 per month or £25700 GBP per year but with current exchange rates that should be around £1889 / £22,668 GBP in the UK, or approximately $2349 / $28,188 USD.  

If you have any family members you will need to earn more as they will be dependent on you – one family member would add an extra 75% of the Spanish minimum wage, and any additional family members would be another 25% of the minimum wage.  You’ll be asked to prove your income with payslips, bank statements etc. 

You’ll also need to pay the visa processing fee which is currently €68,95.

Translation of Documents

All documents must be translated into Spanish by an official translator, and all foreign documents must be legalized by the consulates of the issuing country.

More Information

The Spanish government website has more information about the requirements here, and this website has more details about the application process, although in some cases they are different which is confusing – you may want to hire a lawyer in Barcelona to help you with the visa process to make sure you get it right! 

Once you’ve completed your application the approval should be within 10 days, or possibly longer if more information is requested.  

Digital Nomad Insurance

Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel, and one of the requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain is health insurance. Remember to check the details of the policy carefully before you purchase any insurance.  

SafetyWing offers a range of insurance products that were created by nomads for nomads.  SafetyWing global health insurance for remote workers and nomads covers medical needs worldwide, including in your country of residence in most cases.  It is charged on a yearly contract so could be suitable for a stay in Spain.

LEARN MORE ABOUT NOMAD HEALTH INSURANCE

SafetyWing travel medical insurance can be purchased even if your trip has already started, and you can pause and resume coverage with flexibility. You’re covered in 185 countries and you don’t need to let them know about your itinerary in advance.

SafetyWing travel medical insurance is charged on a month-by-month basis so it’s perfect for people like me who don’t know where they’ll be next month! Check out their website to find out more about the coverage they offer.

LEARN MORE ABOUT TRAVEL MEDICAL INSURANCE

Any Downsides of Barcelona Digital Nomad Life?

The only real downside compared to other workation destinations in Europe would be the cost, as Barcelona is relatively expensive to live in compared to other second cities like Porto or Manchester for example. 

It is one of the most expensive places in Spain to live (after Madrid), but it is still cheaper than other European cities like London and Paris, and US cities like San Francisco and New York – the benefits of being in Barcelona definitely outweigh the costs!

Overtourism can be an issue in the peak summer months, especially if you come to Barcelona in August when the city is flooded with tourists and many of the locals leave.  If you’re planning to come to Barcelona on a workation I’d recommend coming in the shoulder season, April-June, or from September-November onwards. 

Barcelona in winter is lovely but it can get chilly as some apartments aren’t well insulated from the cold.  That said, during the off-peak times you’re likely to find lower prices on flights and accommodation, and fewer crowds so you can enjoy living and working in Barcelona that much more!

Barcelona is also infamous for being a pickpocket hotspot, so keep a careful watch on your belongings, especially on the metro and in busy areas like La Rambla.  A theft-proof backpack is a digital nomad Barcelona essential!

Kite Surfing in Barcelona
Kite Surfing – Off-Season Water Sports in Barcelona!

Digital Nomads Barcelona Budget

If you are earning enough to qualify for the digital nomad visa you won’t have a problem affording life in Barcelona.  Some areas are more expensive than others, in particular the tourist hotspots, and prices do vary but these costs give you an idea of what to expect.  

Approximate costs as of November 2023 

1 bedroom apartment on short-term lease, including bills: €1500+ (can be higher in the summer) 

Double en-suite room in a shared apartment on a short-term lease, including bills: €950

Single room in a shared apartment on a short-term lease, including bills: €700

Sandwich from a bakery: €3

Daily lunch menu: €12

Evening meal out: €30+

Bottle of wine in a restaurant: €15 – €20+

Supermarket bottle of wine: from €5 

Public Transport: €2.40 for a single, 10 journey ticket €11.35 for 1 zone

Taxi from the Airport: €30+ 

Monthly Gym membership: €40+ plus sign up fee 

Where to Live in Barcelona as a Digital Nomad?

Barcelona is divided into distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character and atmosphere.  Where you decide to stay in Barcelona will depend on what kind of area you prefer and how long you will be staying, as well as what time of year.

If it is your first time in Barcelona, you’ll probably want to be somewhere close to the action, in a central location so you can enjoy the very best of this beautiful city right on your doorstep, but if you already know the city then a quieter, more local neighbourhood away from the hustle and bustle might be better.

This Barcelona neighbourhoods map gives you an idea of the location, and the descriptions below should help you decide where to live in Barcelona. 

The map is a rough guide and I would recommend going to see an apartment before you sign a contract, or booking somewhere with lots of positive reviews so you can be as sure as possible you are getting a good place.

The Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter is my all-time favourite area in Barcelona and in my opinion, is the best place to stay when visiting Barcelona for the first time.  It is one of the oldest and most charming neighbourhoods in Barcelona, I just love it!

El Barri Gòtic (as it is called in Catalan) is known for its narrow maze of streets and stunning architecture, with many buildings dating back to medieval times and it is a fabulous place to explore and uncover some hidden gems.  Avoid La Rambla, and the whole area is usually busy with tourists though, and can be noisy at night if you live near a bar.

El Born

El Born is a trendy neighbourhood next to the Gothic Quarter, known for its lively nightlife, excellent restaurants, and fashionable boutiques that fill its narrow streets.  There are plenty of museums, galleries and cultural centres here too, which add to its charm.

A downside of El Born is that its popularity also makes it a fairly expensive place to stay, so if you’re visiting Barcelona on a budget this might not be the best for you.  However, there are some gorgeous apartments to choose from in this lovely neighbourhood.

Pretty Street in El Born Neighbourhood
Pretty Street in El Born Neighbourhood

Barceloneta

If you want to come to Barcelona and spend a lot of time on the beach, then Barceloneta is the best place for you.  Barceloneta is an old fishermen’s neighbourhood located on the beachfront, known for its lively atmosphere, excellent seafood restaurants, and beautiful sandy beaches.

Barceloneta is a popular place to stay for young people wanting to party and hit the beach, so it can be noisy in the evenings as the streets are narrow, and hot in the summer if your apartment doesn’t have air-con.

Rental apartments and Airbnbs tend to be on the small side due to the style of the buildings, and prices here are at a premium, especially during the summer season.

Poblenou

Poblenou is a hip, up-and-coming neighbourhood in Barcelona that is becoming increasingly popular with young people and creative types. It is located close to the beach and has a colourful street art scene, as well as art galleries, studios, and creative spaces.

However, it is quite far away from the main attractions in the city, although quite well connected by bus and metro.  Prices are reasonable here because of the location outside the centre, but you have everything you need right there.

Colourful Street Art in Poble Nou
Colourful Street Art in Poble Nou

Eixample

The Eixample means “Expansion” and this large district was created when the Old Town grew too large for the city walls enclosing it.  It is a spacious neighbourhood with wide, tree-lined streets in square blocks and impressive modernist architecture, with many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Sagrada Familia, Hospital Sant Pau and Casa Batlló found here.

In addition to its architecture, Eixample is also a great area for shopping and dining. This is where you’ll find high-end boutiques and designer stores, especially on the iconic Passeig de Gracia. Eixample is also a great place for nightlife, with many excellent restaurants as well as trendy bars and clubs, in particular around the University. 

Gràcia

Gràcia is a bohemian neighbourhood known for its lively street festivals, pedestrian-friendly streets, and quirky shops and cafes.  Gràcia is a lovely place to stay for those who want to experience the local culture, with a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere than some of the more touristy areas of Barcelona like the Gothic Quarter.

El Raval

I have mixed feelings about the Raval.  On the one hand, El Raval is a lively, multicultural neighbourhood with great bars and restaurants and cheap accommodation so it’s a great place to hang out, but on the other, it is one of the least safe areas of Barcelona.

Some people say that El Raval is one of the areas to avoid in Barcelona, so for that reason, I would not recommend it for solo female travellers or anyone who likes to wear expensive jewellery, as pickpockets and robberies are not uncommon.  However, you shouldn’t have any problems here during the day and just exercise more caution at night.

Botero Fat Cat Sculpture in El Raval
Botero Fat Cat Sculpture in El Raval

Sant Antoni & Poble Sec

Sant Antoni is close to the city centre, but doesn’t have many of the main attractions of Barcelona so is relatively free of tourists.  Poble Sec is between Sant Antoni and Montjuic.  Both are a local neighbourhoods with excellent markets, restaurants and bars.  There are lots of places to work and grab a coffee with reliable Wi-Fi and accommodation costs are reasonable. 

Sants

Sants is a residential area located just south of the city centre. It is known for its local shops and markets and is a great place to stay for those who want to experience the everyday life of Barcelona without battling with crowds of tourists.

It is close to Montjuic and is also home to the main train station in Barcelona, so if you’re planning to explore more of Catalonia outside the city then it could be a good option for you.  If you’re going to be in Barcelona for New Year’s Eve, Sants is close to the main fireworks display so is a good choice to be walking distance from the party!

The MNAC Art Museum at Montjuic
The MNAC Art Museum at Montjuic

Pedralbes / Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is a wealthy, upscale neighbourhood located in the hills above the centre of Barcelona.  The area is popular for its beautiful parks, elegant mansions, and exclusive shops and restaurants. It is quite far from the main attractions in Barcelona, apart from Tibidabo and Park Guell, but you can get lovely views of the city from there.

Accommodation for Digital Nomads in Barcelona

Barcelona has a wide variety of accommodation options for digital nomads and workations, although you may end up competing with tourists in the peak months.

Hotels in Barcelona

For short stays you can be quite comfortable in a hotel in Barcelona, so you can go out and sample the fabulous food in Barcelona for every meal, perhaps with breakfast included in your stay. 

However, if you would prefer to prepare some of your own meals or are staying for a longer period of time, having a lounge area and kitchen space can be more comfortable, and feel more like you are living in Barcelona and not just visiting.  I use Booking to look for short-term hotel and apartment stays.

Barcelona Rental Apartments

Holiday rental apartments and Airbnbs are popular in the city, although prices aren’t much lower than hotels for short stays, you can find some decent discounts for long-term stays over a week or a month.

Co-living in Barcelona

Barcelona co-living apartments and hostels are great if you are on a budget or want to feel more like part of a community.

Hostels & Hybrid Hotels

There are plenty of hostels in Barcelona that cater more for travellers than digital nomads, but if you are just starting out as a digital nomad then it doesn’t get cheaper than a bed in a hostel dorm – although you might sacrifice sleep!

For more privacy but you could consider a private room in a hostel so you can still get a good night’s sleep and use the shared kitchen and social spaces.

There are also some hybrid hotels which are a cross between hostels and hotels and offer more shared areas for co-working and relaxing, like Generator and The Social Hub.  The Social Hub has extra perks for stays of over 2 weeks, such as free access to coworking spaces, a 24/7 gym, shared bikes and an events program.

Claire's Bedroom in a Co-Living in Barcelona
Claire’s Bedroom in a Co-Living in Barcelona

Co-Living Apartments 

Coliving apartments in Barcelona are usually made up of large apartments with several bedrooms that are each rented out privately, with shared bathrooms and living spaces like a kitchen, lounge and terrace area.

These can also be useful for meeting other digital nomads.  Most will have extra perks like co-working spaces, or free passes to co-workings, and social events, although some have minimum stays of 3 months. 

For a single room with a shared bathroom prices start from around €600 a month including bills for short-term rentals, and for a double room with en-suite in a co-living you can expect to pay closer to €1000, which is still cheaper than renting your own place.

However, you can’t control who you will be living with.  I rented a room in a co-living apartment in Barcelona run by Aticco Co-Working, but ended up sharing with two people who had full-time jobs in Barcelona, and one masters student, so that didn’t help me make friends with other digital nomads.

While the apartment was great, I realised that I hadn’t lived with other people since University, and had forgotten how annoying it is to deal with other people’s mess and argue over who takes the bins out!  So, next time I’ll look for my own apartment I think! 

The Lounge in Claire's Co-Living Apartment in Barcelona
The Lounge in Claire’s Co-Living Apartment in Barcelona

Rental Accommodation in Barcelona for Digital Nomads

Websites which have short-term rentals for digital nomads in Barcelona include:

Palma Coliving is a beautiful 3200m2 villa with a private swimming pool close to Park Guell.  It’s within easy reach of the city centre but feels like a world away from the hectic traffic and busy streets of Barcelona. 

There are 10 bedrooms with a maximum capacity of 15 people, as well as shared co-working spaces, a kitchen, communal lounges, a games room, BBQ areas and a lovely garden for relaxing and enjoying the Barcelona sunshine.  

Not only that but the team arrange regular activities to enjoy both in the house with the other co-livers, and in the community so you can meet local people and immerse yourself in Catalan culture.

You can also get a 100€ voucher discount on your booking with Palma Coliving with the code “CLAIREbyPalma”. Make sure you include the code on your application form to get your discount!

Pool and House at Palma Coliving Barcelona
Pool and House at Palma Coliving Barcelona | Courtesy of Palma Coliving

Karisma is a whole building dedicated to co-living for digital nomads.  They seem to have a stricter application process and emphasise the digital nomad community, collaboration and growth for your online business.

Flatio offers short-term rentals in Barcelona for digital nomads, business travellers, students and anyone looking for a fully furnished room or apartment for a short to mid-term stay.  There are options for co-living apartments in Barcelona as well as whole apartments.

Aticco is a co-working company which also offers co-living spaces in Barcelona, as well as some private one-room apartments.  The monthly rental includes some passes for their co-working spaces, and access to their social events, as well as bills. 

This is the option I chose, and although the apartment was great I didn’t have much luck with my flatmates, unfortunately as they accept anyone, not just nomads.

Booking is a good place to look for apartments as well as hotels, but mainly for short stays as they don’t tend to have discounts for long stays.

Airbnb remains a popular option, and there are lots of apartments and rooms in Barcelona to choose from, including many with discounts for long stays.

Barcelona Turisme can also offer assistance to help you find the perfect place to stay, check out the options on offer on the website here.

Co Working in Barcelona

If you want to work from an office or a co-working space in Barcelona, there are plenty of coworking spaces all over the city so you can find one close to wherever you are staying.  

A Co Working Space in Barcelona at Betahaus
A Co Working Space in Barcelona at Betahaus

Some of the top co-working spaces in Barcelona include:

Aticco Coworking Barcelona, Poble Nou & Various Locations

Aticco has 5 different coworking spaces in Barcelona spread across the city.  I visited Attico Med which is on the beachfront in Poble Nou.  There is plenty of desk space where you can choose to work, or head upstairs to the terrace with views of the Mediterranean.

I loved how sociable Aticco was, with most people heading up to the terrace for a post-work drink – and who wouldn’t with views like that?  There is also a swimming pool for after work or for a quick dip to cool off and have a break before heading back to work.

Aticco also arranges various social events to help you to meet people and to become part of the community, and they have coliving spaces in the city too.

Prices start from €35 for a day pass, and there are various options available for how often you want to use the facilities, for example 5 days in a month costs €125 or 10 days costs €179.

Attico Med Coworking in Barcelona
Attico Med Coworking in Barcelona

Betahaus, Gracia

Another fabulous co-working space in Barcelona is Betahaus in the Gracia neighbourhood.  It is housed in an old shoe factory and spread over 5 floors with a mix of flexible working desks and permanent desks, as well as soundproofed booths for zoom and phone calls on each floor, and leafy terrace areas.

They offer the ultimate in flexibility, with packages based on hourly rates, not daily, and each hour you use is split into 15 minute segments, so if you stay for 25 minutes, only 30 minutes will be deducted from your package.

The staff were super friendly and welcoming, and there are regular events from Halloween parties to evening beers, workshops and ping pong tournaments.  For me, this is the best co-working in Gracia.

A Terrace at Betahaus Co Working Barcelona
A Terrace at Betahaus Co-Working Barcelona

Cloudworks Casa Les Punxes, Eixample

If you want to work in an iconic Modernist building in Barcelona, look no further than Casa Les Punxes on Avinguda Diagonal.

This beautiful building offers coworking and office spaces on their Coworking Flex or Fix passes starting from €260 a month, or access to the common areas in the lobby, office and terrace on their Social Pass from €150 a month.

Casa Les Punxes hosts various social, networking and wellbeing events on the terrace, from yoga to Creative Coffee mornings, afterwork drinks and more.

The Rooftop at Casa Les Punxes Barcelona CoWorking
The Rooftop at Casa Les Punxes Barcelona CoWorking

Best Cafes to Work in Barcelona

There are hundreds of cafes in Barcelona where you can set up a laptop and get some work done if you prefer not to pay for a co-working space. 

Of course, you’ll have to pay for food and/or drinks, and be sure to choose somewhere large enough that you won’t be stopping any customers from eating – don’t hog a table when others want to use it!  If you’re not sure, ask before you set up your laptop.

Weekends are usually no-gos for working in a cafe in Barcelona as they are full of people brunching! 

What larger chain cafes lack in personality, they make up for in space and wifi.  I usually look for a couple of places close to where I’m staying and stick with those, but these are a couple of my personal faves.

Sandwichez

Sandwichez is a reliable chain of Barcelona cafes you can find dotted around the city.  With every order, you get a code for an hour and a half of free wifi, so it’s a great spot to catch up on some work.  If you plan to stay for a few hours, pace your ordering so you can maximise your wifi time.  Other similar chains include Buenas Migas and 365.  

Federal 

Not only is Federal a fantastic brunch spot in Barcelona, but it is also a lovely open space for co-working.  The wifi is decent, coffee is excellent and you can grab some tasty food while you work.  The one in the Gothic Quarter is my personal favourite but you’ll also find a Federal in Sant Antoni and Poble Nou too.

Claire Working in a Cafe in Barcelona
Claire Working in a Sandwichez Cafe in Barcelona

Other Digital Nomad Services in Barcelona

As it is a large city, Barcelona has everything you might need to live and work happily here.

Barcelona Digital Nomad Gym Memberships

It seems like there is a gym on every street in Barcelona.  Some have monthly or 3-month membership offers so you can sign up without committing to a full year.  Once you’ve found a place to stay then look for a gym nearby.  Gyms with pools and leisure facilities are usually more expensive but you should be able to find somewhere for around €40 a month.

I joined an AltaFit gym 5 minutes walk from my apartment, which had a €15 sign-up fee, then charged me per month for however long I wanted.  The first incomplete month was even charged pro-rata, and they let me pay for the entire period upfront without messing around with bank transfers and direct debits. 

Barcelona Digital Nomad Communities

The best ways to meet digital nomads in Barcelona are usually through a co-working or co-living space, or through a specific community that arranges social and networking events for nomads.

There are Facebook groups for Digital Nomads like the Barcelona Digital Nomads group you can find here, although most of the posts are about finding somewhere to live.  This group for Entrepreneurs and Digital Nomads in Barcelona has more variety of posts including more social events and tax advice.

There is also a specific Digital Nomads Barcelona Meetup group as well which organises weekly social events aimed at digital nomads and remote workers, check it out here.

Barcelona Council also offer some free events for international residents, expats and digital nomads, you can see the events calendar here.

Other Social Events for Digital Nomads & Expats

If you just want to meet other people, whether that is locals or expats, MeetUp has a very active community in Barcelona with members from Barcelona, the rest of Spain, and from around the world.  There are events taking place every day and for every kind of activity!

Choose from sports like beach volleyball, morning yoga sessions, running clubs, social activities like language exchanges and evening drinks, to cultural events like theatre shows and comedy nights. 

Internations also has a strong presence in the city, although designed with expats in mind it’s still great for nomads, and you can find other more specific social groups like the American Society of Barcelona and International Women in Barcelona on Facebook or Linkedin, as well as on Meetup.

Looking for romance?  Dating apps or speed dating can be a good way to meet people too, as long as you’re upfront about what you’re looking for and how long you will be in town for.

Are You Coming to Work in Barcelona?

If you were considering Barcelona as a digital nomad destination, I hope I have convinced you to give it a go with this Digital Nomad Barcelona Guide!

Barcelona combines the best of both worlds for digital nomads, remote workers, bloggers and content creators seeking an exceptional lifestyle and experience.

The city’s inspiring work environment, strong digital nomad community, cultural immersion, accessibility, and work-life balance make it an ideal digital nomad destination for a workation or to come and live for longer periods with the digital nomad visa.

So, pack your bags, grab your laptop, and come and stay in the breathtaking city of Barcelona!

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