Hugging the Balearic Sea, La Barceloneta is a waterfront neighbourhood in Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella. It was established in the 18th century for residents relocated from Ribera during the construction of the Ciutadella. In addition to its sandy beaches, La Barceloneta is known for its cultural museums and tapas eateries.
Things to do in La Barceloneta
Occupying a 19th-century warehouse on the edge of the Old Port is the Museum of the History of Catalonia. It explores the history of the region from ancient times to the modern day, with audio guides helping to explain the exhibits. Learn about the hunter-gatherers who once occupied the area and the legacy of the Iberians, as well as the impact of the Franco dictatorship.
Directly across the port is the Aquarium Barcelona, which is home to more than 11,000 animals representing over 450 marine species. It is one of the largest aquariums in Europe, with the majority of species native to Mediterranean and tropical waters. A highlight of the aquarium is the 80-metre-long underwater tunnel where you can watch sharks and rays swimming overhead.
If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can mingle with the locals on the bustling sands of Platja de la Barceloneta, which stretches along the neighbourhood’s waterfront. It’s a popular place for swimming and socialising, with restaurants, cafes and juice bars backing the beach. Films are screened outdoors at the Cinema Lliure a la Platja, with the sound of the waves lapping nearby.
Getting around La Barceloneta
La Barceloneta is around 20 minutes’ drive from Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Inter-city trains connect to the Estacion de Francia on the edge of La Barceloneta and subway services stop at the Barceloneta Station. Buses also travel throughout the neighbourhood.