Barcelona – the ultimate guide for digital nomads
Welcome to the ultimate digital nomad guide for Barcelona, Spain – a city renowned as one of the top destinations for remote workers in Europe and across the globe. From affordable living costs and rich cultural heritage to fantastic neighbourhoods such as Gracia, Eixample, and Poble Sec, it’s no wonder that this vibrant Mediterranean hotspot is attracting digital nomads like moths to a flame.
With our comprehensive guide filled with invaluable tips on coworking spaces, accommodation options, networking events, attractions and much more; you’ll be well-equipped for an unforgettable work-life adventure in one of Spain’s most stunning cities.
Key Takeaways
- Barcelona is an ideal destination for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, cultural richness and almost year-round sunshine.
- El Raval, Gracia, Poble Sec and Eixample are some of the best neighborhoods in Barcelona for digital nomads to live in because of their accessibility, top-notch amenities, and vibrant communities.
- Digital nomads can choose from various accommodation options ranging from short-term rentals to co-living spaces or hostels depending on their budget. Betahaus Barcelona, MOB Coworking and Cloud Coworking are some popular coworking spaces for remote workers in the city.
Why Barcelona Is An Ideal Destination For Digital Nomads
Barcelona is an excellent destination for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, cultural richness, and ideal weather.
Affordable Cost Of Living
One of the biggest attractions for digital nomads considering a move to Barcelona is its relatively affordable cost of living, especially when compared to other major European cities.
A key factor that helps keep expenses down is the availability of budget-friendly accommodation options, which we will explore further in this guide. Additionally, Barcelona offers an abundance of low-cost or free attractions and leisure activities that can help you save money while still enjoying a high quality of life.
Cultural Richness
The cultural richness of Barcelona makes it a highly attractive destination for digital nomads seeking to immerse themselves in the unique blend of historical charm, artistic treasures and modern creativity.
This vibrant city is steeped in history with landmarks such as the iconic La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell designed by Antoni Gaudí and the enchanting Gothic Quarter at every turn.
Barcelona’s thriving arts scene offers an abundance of inspiration for creative minds too; visit renowned museums like the Picasso Museum or MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art) to admire magnificent collections spanning centuries.
Alongside these well-established institutions, you’ll find numerous smaller galleries dotted throughout town hosting cutting-edge exhibitions, showcasing upcoming local talents and offering opportunities for networking and collaboration.
Ideal Weather
Barcelona’s reputation as a top destination for digital nomads is greatly enhanced by its almost year-round sunshine, providing the perfect environment for those who thrive in warm climates.
The ideal weather not only allows digital nomads to explore this vibrant city more comfortably but also boosts their productivity and overall well-being. City dwellers can regularly take advantage of outdoor activities such as cycling around the beautiful neighbourhoods, picnicking at Park Guell, or taking a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea after a day’s work.
Best Neighbourhoods To Live In Barcelona As A Digital Nomad
El Raval, Gracia, Poble Sec, and Eixample are all great neighborhoods for digital nomads in Barcelona to live in due to their accessibility, top-notch amenities, and vibrant communities.
El Raval
El Raval is a buzzing neighbourhood in Barcelona that has become increasingly popular among digital nomads. It’s packed with trendy bars, top-notch restaurants and captivating sights to explore, making it an ideal spot for adventurous remote workers who love the hustle and bustle of city life.
However, visitors should be cautious as El Raval can also be known for pickpocketing incidents. Despite this, many expats and digital nomads flock to the area because of its lively atmosphere and cultural diversity.
Gracia
Gracia is a picturesque and trendy neighborhood in Barcelona that offers an authentic, local experience for digital nomads. Its narrow streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants serving Spanish cuisine.
Many digital nomads choose to live in Gracia due to its affordable cost of living compared to other popular neighborhoods like El Raval or Eixample. The average monthly rental cost for apartments in Gracia is €1,200, making it an ideal location for family-carrying digital nomads.
Betahaus Barcelona, a popular coworking space favored by local Spanish startups and international workers alike, is also located in Gracia.
Poble Sec
Poble Sec is a fantastic neighborhood for digital nomads in Barcelona. It’s known for its affordable co-working spaces and cafes with high-speed internet, making it an ideal location to work remotely.
However, Poble Sec isn’t just about work – the neighborhood has plenty of cultural attractions to offer as well.
What’s more, Poble Sec is located close to some of the city’s most popular areas such as El Raval and the Gothic Quarter, which makes it easy to explore Barcelona during your free time.
At night, you can enjoy the lively nightlife scene at one of Poble Sec’s many local bars and restaurants.
Eixample
Eixample is a trendy neighborhood in Barcelona that has become increasingly popular among digital nomads. Known as Barcelona’s 5th Avenue, it offers everything from co-working spaces to restaurants, bars, bakeries and shops.
Many digital nomads choose to live and work here because of its vibrant atmosphere and central location. Eixample is also home to Betahaus Barcelona, one of the city’s top co-working spaces where remote workers can rent office space on a monthly basis or attend events with other like-minded individuals.
Accommodation Options For your time In Barcelona – best places to look for accommodation
Digital nomads in Barcelona have a range of accommodation options to choose from, including short-term rentals, co-living spaces and hostels.
Short-term Rentals
One of the most popular ways for digital nomads to find accommodation in Barcelona is through short-term rentals. Websites like Airbnb and Spotahome offer a broad range of rental options at different price points, from apartments to shared rooms with locals.
Facebook groups are also an excellent resource for finding available flats or finding roommates who might be interested in sharing a flat.
According to our research sources, rent prices have increased by 26% annually in Barcelona, making it more challenging to find affordable housing options for digital nomads.
Co-living Spaces
For digital nomads in Barcelona, co-living spaces are becoming a popular choice for accommodation. Not only do they provide affordable rent and utilities, but they also offer the opportunity to build a community with like-minded individuals.
Starcity, located in the trendy neighbourhood of Poble Sec is one such option that provides shared living spaces alongside private studio apartments. The monthly fee includes access to communal areas, such as rooftop terraces and coworking spaces where networking with other remote workers is possible.
Being surrounded by people from different backgrounds can provide a sense of belonging and help ease feelings of isolation often experienced by digital nomads.
Hostels
For digital nomads on a tight budget, hostels can be an ideal accommodation option in Barcelona. Not only are they cost-effective, but many offer communal spaces and activities that allow you to quickly connect with other like-minded travellers and build your network.
One such hostel is the Casa Gracia Hostel which boasts a rating of 8.5 from over 3,200 reviews on Booking.com.
Other popular hostels include Generator Hostel Barcelona located in El Raval and Sant Jordi Alberg located in Poble Sec where you’ll find fun commmunity events such as summer BBQs or movie nights all year round.
Top Coworking Spaces In Barcelona- be part of the nomad community
Betahaus Barcelona, MOB Coworking, Cloud Coworking and OneCoWork are just a few of the top coworking spaces that digital nomads can explore in Barcelona.
Betahaus Barcelona
One of the top coworking spaces in Barcelona is Betahaus, which attracts digital nomads and creatives from all over the world. Spread across six floors, this vibrant space offers a co-working café plus multiple private offices and meeting rooms that can be booked by remote workers looking for a change of scenery.
What sets Betahaus apart from other coworking spaces in Barcelona is its thriving community of international professionals who are always eager to network and collaborate on new projects.
Its popularity among digital nomads has made it a go-to spot for those seeking an inspiring environment where they can work alongside like-minded individuals from around the globe.
MOB Coworking
Located in the quirky Poble Sec neighborhood of Barcelona, MOB Coworking is a top choice for digital nomads seeking a creative and collaborative workspace. This coworking space offers flexible membership plans designed to cater to freelancers, entrepreneurs, and startups looking to connect with like-minded professionals.
What sets MOB Coworking apart from other coworking spaces is its community-driven approach. In addition to providing a comfortable work environment, this platform hosts numerous events, workshops, and classes aimed at fostering collaboration among members.
Digital nomads can attend networking sessions built around various themes or participate in skill-sharing workshops held by local experts.
Cloud Coworking
One of the top coworking spaces in Barcelona is Cloud Coworking. This workspace offers a range of options for digital nomads looking for a productive and comfortable place to work.
Their locations are situated across key areas of the city, including Eixample, Gracia, and Poble Sec. The space provides an inspiring atmosphere along with free-flowing coffee and fresh fruit to keep you energized throughout the day.
Cloud Coworking is a part of the thriving coworking community in Barcelona, which makes it easy for digital nomads to establish new connections while growing their businesses and exploring all that this vibrant city has to offer.
OneCoWork
OneCoWork is one of the most popular coworking spaces in Barcelona, offering three unique locations throughout the city. With their Marina Port Vell, Plaça Catalunya, and Catedral locations, OneCoWork provides premium coworking spaces, private offices, meeting rooms, and event areas in central prime locations.
What’s more? OneCoWork is associated with some of the top coworking spaces in Barcelona related to the Digital Nomads Guide to Barcelona.
Best Cafes For Working Remotely In Barcelona
Satan’s Coffee Corner and Espai Joliu are top recommendations for digital nomads looking for great cafes to work remotely in Barcelona.
Satan’s Coffee Corner
Satan’s Coffee Corner is a must-visit spot for any digital nomad visiting Barcelona. Located in the heart of El Gòtic, this unique café serves up some of the best coffee you’ll find anywhere in the city.
Founder Marco Bartolomé comes from a family of coffee roasters and has brought his love and passion for java to his own shop. The café is featured in many digital nomad guides to Barcelona as an ideal place to work remotely.
Not only do they serve exceptional coffee, but they also offer vegan-friendly options making it perfect for those following dietary restrictions.
Espai Joliu
Espai Joliu is a must-visit cafe for digital nomads looking for an inspiring and peaceful space to work in Barcelona. This coffee shop stands out with its beautiful interior decor that includes plants, creating a relaxing atmosphere for remote workers.
The menu offers a great selection of drinks and food, making it ideal for long hours spent working on your laptop. Digital nomads consistently recommend Espai Joliu as one of the top cafes to work from in Barcelona due to its cozy and natural space.
Transportation in the city of Barcelona
Getting around Barcelona as a digital nomad is easy and affordable, with options including public transportation, bike-sharing programs, electric scooter rentals, and taxis – read on to learn more about the best ways to navigate this vibrant city!
Public Transportation
Barcelona has an excellent public transport system, which is both reliable and efficient. If you’re a digital nomad, this transportation network makes it easy to explore the city and get to your desired destination without having to worry about renting a car or finding parking space.
The metro network in Barcelona covers almost every part of the city, so you can easily access different neighborhoods from wherever you are staying. Additionally, Barcelona’s public transport system also extends beyond its borders and connects with other transportation networks in Spain and Europe.
Bike-sharing Programs
One of the most popular transportation options for digital nomads in Barcelona is bike-sharing programs. With over 7000 bikes available to rent, it’s a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around the city.
The PBSC Urban Solutions system makes renting a bike easy with monthly rental options or electric bike rentals. It’s an affordable way to explore the beautiful streets of Barcelona while getting some exercise at the same time.
Not only is it a practical mode of transportation, but it also allows you to take in all that this vibrant city has to offer at your own pace.
Electric Scooter Rentals
Electric scooter rentals are a popular and convenient transportation option for digital nomads in Barcelona. Many rental companies offer both scooters and bikes at affordable per minute rates, making them an economical choice for getting around the city.
One of the advantages of using electric scooters is that they allow you to explore Barcelona at your own pace, without having to rely on public transport schedules or worry about traffic congestion.
Furthermore, many streets in the city have designated bike lanes or segregated shared spaces where it is safe for you to use an electric scooter. Rental rates vary depending on the duration of your rental as well as the type of vehicle you choose.
Taxis
Taxis are one of the easiest and most convenient transportation options for digital nomads in Barcelona. They are typically easy to spot with their distinctive black and yellow livery, and they can be hailed from just about anywhere in the city.
The two main taxi services in Barcelona are Radio Taxi and Taxi Amic, which both have a reputation for being reliable and safe. As a digital nomad, it’s important to keep an eye on your budget when using taxis as they can be quite expensive compared to other modes of transport like public transit or bike-sharing programs.
Networking And Meeting Other Digital Nomads In Barcelona
Digital nomads in Barcelona can easily connect with others through various networking events, such as Meetup groups, coworking events, and startup events.
Meetup Groups
If you’re looking to meet other digital nomads and make connections in Barcelona, joining a local Meetup group can be an excellent way to do so.
For example, the Barcelona Digital Nomads group hosts co-working days, networking events, and social gatherings for members. Meanwhile, groups like the International Meeting Revolution also provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals from all over the world.
Coworking Events
Barcelona is well-known for being a hub for digital nomads, and there are plenty of opportunities to network with like-minded individuals through coworking events. These events not only provide an opportunity to meet new people, but they can also be a source of inspiration and motivation.
Whether it’s attending a talk on marketing strategies or collaborating with others on a project at a hackathon event, coworking events in Barcelona offer something for everyone.
Startup Events
Attending startup events is a fantastic way for digital nomads in Barcelona to network and stay up-to-date with the latest trends. These events bring together industry experts, entrepreneurs and investors, providing opportunities to gain valuable insights on growing businesses as a digital nomad in the city.
One such event is the Barcelona Startup Week, which takes place annually and offers participants an opportunity to meet fellow digital nomads, learn from experienced entrepreneurs and attend workshops focused on skills development.
Other popular events include Techstars Startup Weekend, which enables participants to pitch their business ideas to other likeminded individuals and work towards launching them within just 54 hours.
Things to do in Barcelona
Explore the whimsical and enchanting Park Guell, created by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, to take in breathtaking views of the city’s landscape.
Park Guell
Located in the Gracia neighbourhood of Barcelona, Park Guell is an iconic attraction that every digital nomad should visit. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, this park is a masterpiece that combines nature and architecture to create a surreal experience.
As you stroll through the winding paths of Park Guell, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona from different angles. The park also hosts a diverse range of flora and fauna; some parrots are among the species not native to Barcelona but now call this beautiful site home.
Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is a must-see attraction for digital nomads visiting Barcelona. By day, this area exudes historical charm with its narrow winding streets and stunning architecture.
Apart from its vibrant atmosphere, the Gothic Quarter also offers many hidden gems that are perfect for self-guided walking tours. This area attracts visitors searching for unique experiences such as intricate murals and street art or quaint cafes tucked away in small alleyways.
La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia is an incredibly unique and iconic monument that every digital nomad visiting Barcelona needs to see. It’s a massive church designed by Antoni Gaudi, one of Spain’s most famous architects, and its construction began in 1882.
The building has been under construction ever since and is nowhere near completion, but it still manages to attract millions of visitors each year who marvel at its intricate design.
One interesting fact about La Sagrada Familia is that despite being under construction for so long, it has never received any government funding and relies solely on donations from visitors towards the ongoing work.
Digital nomads should reserve tickets ahead of their visit to avoid the long queues that form outside the building every day.
Beaches
Barcelona’s beaches are a major attraction for digital nomads seeking a work-life balance. With Barceloneta Beach being one of the most popular in the city, you can expect to find stunning views, delicious food and lots of activities to keep you busy.
This lively beach offers a range of water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding and windsurfing, making it perfect for adventurous nomads who want to stay active while working remotely.
What makes Barcelona’s beaches unique is that they offer both stunning sea views and easy access to the vibrant energy of the city centre. This means that even if you decide to work from home or at one of the many coworking spaces in Barcelona during the week, you can still hit up one of these beautiful beaches on weekends or after-work hours.
Museums And Galleries
Barcelona is a city steeped in art and history, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads interested in museums and galleries. The city boasts several world-famous museums such as the Picasso Museum, Joan Miro Foundation, and Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA).
In addition to these notable museums, Barcelona also has numerous smaller galleries scattered throughout its streets. These spaces provide a glimpse into the vibrant local arts scene and feature works by emerging artists alongside established names.
Sports And Outdoor Activities an ideal destination for digital nomads who value staying active. The city boasts a wide range of opportunities to get outdoors and explore, including hiking in the nearby hills, kayaking along the coast, and cycling through the city’s various parks.
You can also head out on a sailing trip or join locals playing football on the beach. Additionally, Barcelona offers several gyms and fitness centres that provide modern equipment for strength training and cardio workouts.
With almost year-round sunshine, there’s never been a better time to enjoy some outdoor fun in this vibrant city.
Tips For Staying Productive And Healthy As A Digital Nomad In Barcelona
Establishing a routine, staying active and healthy, managing distractions, exploring the city, budgeting tips, and learning some local language can all contribute to a successful digital nomad experience in Barcelona.
Establishing A Routine
One of the biggest challenges of being a digital nomad is staying productive and focused while also exploring new places. In Barcelona, with so many enticing distractions and sights to see, it can be hard to find a balance between work and play.
To stay productive in Barcelona, consider setting specific work hours each day. This will allow you to schedule your outings around your work requirements and ensure that you get everything done in time.
Additionally, finding a quiet workspace where you won’t be distracted by the hustle and bustle of the city is key to maintaining focus.
Staying Active And Healthy
Living a sedentary lifestyle can be harmful to one’s physical and mental well-being. Luckily, Barcelona offers a range of activities and resources for digital nomads looking to stay active and healthy while working remotely.
Additionally, the city boasts an abundance of gyms, yoga studios, and fitness classes that cater to all levels of fitness. Many coworking spaces also offer wellness programs such as group workouts or meditation sessions.
Managing Distractions
As a digital nomad working in Barcelona, one of the biggest challenges is managing distractions. With its vibrant culture, bustling streets, and beautiful beaches, there’s always something going on in this city.
To avoid distractions and maintain productivity levels while working from Barcelona, digital nomads can use various tools such as noise-cancelling headphones or focus apps like Forest or Freedom.
It’s also essential to establish a routine that aligns with your work schedule and stick to it as much as possible. Additionally, seeking out coworking spaces can provide quieter work environments away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Exploring The City
As a digital nomad in Barcelona, there are countless opportunities to explore the city and its rich cultural heritage. From wandering through the Gothic Quarter’s winding streets to admiring Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces at Park Guell, there is always something new to discover.
Of course, exploring the city can also include outdoor activities like beach lounging or hiking Montserrat mountain just outside of town for stunning views of Catalonia’s countryside.
Don’t forget about trying traditional dishes like paella or tapas while sipping on a refreshing sangria at one of Barcelona’s many restaurants or bars.
Budgeting Tips
As a digital nomad in Barcelona, it’s important to budget wisely and make the most of your money. One way to do this is by finding affordable accommodation options like short-term rentals or co-living spaces.
Another tip is to take advantage of the city’s public transportation system, which is inexpensive and efficient.
In addition, exploring the city on foot or bike can be an inexpensive way to see all that Barcelona has to offer while staying active. It’s also worth noting that many of the top attractions such as Park Guell or Gothic Quarter have free admission days throughout the year.
Local Language Knowledge
Barcelona is located in the Catalonia region of Spain, which means that Catalan is the official language. While it’s possible to get by with just Spanish or English, having some knowledge of Catalan can go a long way in building relationships and making connections with locals.
Learning even basic phrases like “bon dia” (good morning) and “gràcies” (thank you) will show respect for the local culture. In addition to improving your communication skills, speaking multiple languages can also make you more employable as a digital nomad.
Cost of living in Barcelona
Here are some examples of the prices of food staples in Barcelona:
- Milk: €1.20 per liter
- Bread: €0.80 per loaf
- Eggs: €1.50 per dozen
- Cheese: €2.00 per kilogram
- Meat: €5.00 per kilogram
- Vegetables: €1.00 per kilogram
- Fruit: €1.50 per kilogram
These prices are for basic, generic brands. You can expect to pay more for premium brands or for specialty foods. You can also save money by cooking at home and avoiding eating out.
Spain Digital nomad visa
-
- The digital nomad visa is a residence permit that allows non-EU citizens to live and work remotely in Spain for up to 12 months.
- To be eligible for the visa, you must:
- Be a citizen of a country that is not part of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland.
- Have a valid passport and a health insurance plan that covers you for the duration of your stay in Spain.
- Have a minimum monthly income of €2,334.
- Be able to prove that you have the necessary skills and experience to work remotely.
- You can apply for the visa at a Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.
- The application process typically takes several weeks.
- Once you have been granted the visa, you will be able to live and work in Spain for up to 12 months.
- You can renew the visa for up to a total of 5 years.
Conclusion And Summary Of Key Points
In conclusion, Barcelona is a thriving destination for digital nomads seeking an exciting and affordable lifestyle. With its vibrant cultural scenes, beautiful weather, and numerous coworking spaces and cafes, it’s easy to adapt to life in the city.
Digital nomads can choose from various accommodation options ranging from short-term rentals to co-living spaces. The city also has excellent transportation options that make it easy to get around, including public transportations like buses or trains.
FAQs:
1. What are the best areas in Barcelona for digital nomads to work from?
Some of the best areas for digital nomads to work from in Barcelona include Gracia, Poblenou, and Eixample. These neighbourhoods offer plenty of coworking spaces, cafes with free wifi and a vibrant community of fellow remote workers.
2. Is it easy to find affordable accommodation for digital nomads in Barcelona?
Yes! There are many budget-friendly options available for digital nomads looking for accommodation in Barcelona. Some popular choices include hostels or Airbnb rentals that offer long-term discounts.
3. What are some must-visit places in Barcelona for digital nomads?
Barcelona is full of amazing attractions that make it a great destination for digital nomads. Popular spots include Park Guell, La Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and Montserrat Mountain.
4. How can I connect with other like-minded individuals as a Digital Nomad in Barcelona?
There are several online communities where you can connect with other Digital Nomads living or passing through Barcelona such as Meetup.com or Facebook groups specifically geared toward expats or remote workers.Make sure to attend meetups & networking events organized by these communities to build critical relationships while also exploring city’s beauty at same time.
