Eixample or Ciutat Vella for first-time Barcelona visit?
 

Hi everyone,
My husband and I are starting to plan a week-long stay in Barcelona for next March (I know I'm early, but want to make sure we make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime vacation). We have narrowed down our accomodation choices to apartment rentals in Eixample or Ciutat Vella. We would like to be in an area with a lot of local restaurants/wine bars, but one that also stays fairly lively into the evening. Which of these neighborhoods would you recommend? I really appreciate your insights!

Hi everyone,
Can anyone give me a better feel for these two areas? We're young 30-somethings and we'll definitely want to do some late-night dining/clubs preferably with locals (I speak Catalan decently, but have never been to Barcelona). I'm from NYC originally and am pretty tuned in to staying safe in a city, so I'm not overly concerned about Barcelona based on what I read. I'd appreciate any insights about whether Eixample or Cituat Vella (or another area) would be our best bet. Thanks!

We stayed in an apartment in Eixample last fall - and it was kind of interesting in that it was local feeling rather than touristy. But to me it felt pretty far out from the more lively action. We had debated whether we were going to opt for the apt. in Eixample or a hotel in El Born and had gone for the apartment -- and since it was my first trip I didn't know what to expect from the various 'hoods.

I loved El Born and Barri Gotic areas and wish we had stayed there. Like you I prefer a lively area with lots of nightlife and restaurants/wine bars that I can walk to - and that wasn't Eixample. I live in downtown S.F. and when I travel I like a similar kind of setting as my base, like the Marais in Paris or the Centro in Rome.

I can only tell you my personal experience, but if you're looking for something more lively, I would think about reconsidering the areas and maybe seeing what your options might be for El Born / Barri Gotic.

Hope that helps.

Thanks Venturegirl. That does help to give me a better idea of the areas. We'll look into El Born. I appreciate your help!

Al:

Bari Gotic or anywhere near the Plaza Catalunya, or even up Passeig Gracia would be far better for what you want than Eixample. You will enjoy Barcelona no matter what.
Stu T.

P.S. Al:

At 30-something you're calling this a once in a lifetime vacation! Shame on you....you've got a lifetime ahead of you...be positive and it will all come to you...! Change this attitude at once..y'hear!?

Stu T.