Barcelona Nightlife – A Starter Guide

Barcelona in recent years has hit the spotlight as one of the best tourist destinations in the world; La Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell, and Las Ramblas, there’s really no end to what you can see during the daytime here. As night begins to fall over the city though, you may feel a bit lost… What now? Everyone knows more or less what to do during the day, but where do you go for the best nights out? Luckily for you, Barcelona is a city with a nightlife for everyone. Whether you’re looking to have a quick drink with your friends, spend a night out clubbing the night away, jumping up and down at a concert to your favorite artist, or to simply just chill out, you’ve chosen the right city.

Barcelona Nightlife

Barcelona Nightlife – BeCool Club

For The Clubbers

When people think of nightlife, one of the first things that springs to mind are nightclubs, and in Barcelona, there’s certainly no shortage. This is the main part of nightlife here in the Catalan capital. If you really want to be at the heart of the nightlife, you should stay in a stay in the gothic district of the city. Ready yourself for an epic night out, because things are going to get crazy.

Opium Mar

If you’re into commercial music with a glamorous sort of atmosphere then this is the club for you. Of course which night you go on depends on what you’re into. House fans will want to go during “Hello Mondays”, and if you’re into seeing DJs perform live then you’ll want to go on “Sounday” which of course is Sunday. It’s the most expensive of the recommendations so let’s get it out of the way first… Entry is €20.

Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 34, 08003, Barcelona

Costa Breve

A very popular nightclub around the city center. They regularly play a good mix of old and new commercial hits, and they even sometimes throw in live music… or strippers. Its not open each day of the week, but each night it is opened has a specific spin, Thursday is University Life Style for student parties, Friday is Club Costa Night which you can get an invite for, and Saturday is regular Costa Breve. It’s a sort of young and flirty environment. The entry fee is good too, at only €12 with a drink.

Carrer d’Aribau, 230 08006 Barcelona, Spain

BeCool

This medium sized club is frequented by locals, and hosts an array of great DJs. One of the novelties of this particular club is the revolving dance floor, so try not to get too wasted. If you’re a fan of indie music, house, or techno, this is the establishment you’re looking for. Entry fee depends on the night and event, for instance Friday at 11:00pm they hold an acoustic night at an Irish pub a few meters from the club, and it’s free. Normally, club events here are around €12.

Pl. Joan Llongueras, 5, 08021, Barcelona

Mac Arena Mar Beach Club

Probably the best club to attend on a budget seeing as it’s free. It only runs during the summer though, so you’ll definitely want to check out Port Forum Beach in May. If you’re booking a holiday to Barcelona and are looking for the ultimate in budget nights out, then book in advance for the summer and spend your nights here.

Playa Port Forum, Sant Adrià de Besòs, 08930, Catalonia

Razzmatazz

Though it’s mainly a club, they often hold live stage events across many genres of music. It’s one of the most popular clubs in Barcelona and you’ll almost always see a queue to get in. Every Thursday from 12:00am to 5:00am “The Bus” is held where you can experience the best in underground music. Entry fee is €15 with a drink included.

C/ Pamplona 88, 1er piso, 08018, Barcelona

For The Rockers

Ok, not everyone is into clubbing, some people would rather rock out. Here’s some recommendations if that sounds a lot like you.

Metal Sants

This is a cozy little pub where you can request your favorite music. They play everything from death metal, viking metal, heavy metal…and many other sub-sub-sub-genres of rock! Even if you’re not a fan of metal don’t be intimidated, the atmosphere can be summarized as good cheap beer with friendly company.

C/ Vallespir 18, Barcelona, Catalunya, 08014

Magic

This is a more mainstream rock club, which hosts nights and live concerts. Prices are pretty typical for clubs in the city, at €7 or so. It’s a decent place to hear some rock whilst enjoying a club-type atmosphere, though it can get rather crowded.

Pg. Picasso, 40, Parc de la Ciutadella, 08003

Just Chill With Some Friends

Spanish people actually refer to bars with a relaxing atmosphere as “Bares Chillout”. You can find any old bar and have a drink with your friends on the terrace as there are many across the city, it’s probably as easy as catching the bus. Here are some suggestions though.

The Glass Bar

This bar is open each day of the week and has a modern, minimal environment. Drinks are around €3.50 for cocktails and €1.75 for wine/beer in the evening. You will also find local artists here, exhibitions, musicians, comedians and more. If you’re into football (AKA soccer) then you can catch big matches here too. You can also enjoy free WiFi.

Passeig Picasso, 20, 08003

El Bosc de les Fades

This beautiful bar located around Las Ramblas is themed to look like an enchanted forest. It’s a nice and interesting place to invite your friends to a drink. It’s not a place you’ll go every day, but it’s sure nice to check out.

Passatge Banca, 7, 08002, Barcelona

About The Author

Harriet Freeman is a travel specialist for OK Apartment Barcelona, an apartment rental agency that specialises in accommodation in Barcelona.