Marina Port Vell is not only perfectly positioned in the heart of Barcelona but is also part of one of the most traditional and charismatic neighborhoods in the city, La Barceloneta.
Traditionally, the life of this area was related to the sea: fishing, port activities, the construction of sailboats, etc., and it is that seafaring essence which La Barceloneta has managed to preserve to this day. Without a doubt, visiting the neighborhood of La Barceloneta is one of the most authentic experiences the city offers, and although the best way to discover it is through getting lost in its streets and alleys, we have highlighted a series of must-see places to guide your journey.
La Barceloneta Beach
How not to start with the protagonist of this neighborhood: its beach. La Barceloneta beach is one of the most iconic places in the city, serving as an oasis within the hectic urban life. Head there after a long day and choose from the endless possibilities to disconnect while enjoying unparalleled views: sunbathe on the beach, swim in the sea, practice a water sport, or just take a relaxing stroll down the promenade.
W Hotel
If you´re not much of a beach person, we´ve got you covered. The W Hotel also known as the Hotel Vela, offers day passes so non-hotel guests can also rejoice in their pools with breathtaking views overlooking the Mediterranean. The price for the day pass is 250€ and it includes towels, sun beds, a fruit platter, and a bottle of Veuve Cliquot.
Restaurante Julieta´s
When the post-beach or post-pool hunger strikes, take a short walk to Restaurante Julieta´s, right next to the W hotel. With a fantastic atmosphere that imitates that of bohemian Ibiza, great food and original cocktails, Julieta´s beachfront terrace is the perfect place to spend the afternoon. And if you want to do some terrace hopping, sister restaurant Anita´s is only a 3-minute walk away!
La Cova Fumada
For a more traditional vibe head over to La Cova Fumada. This family business that has passed through three generations, is the birthplace of the famous bomba, a deep-fried potato ball filled with minced meat and topped with aioli and brava sauce. Don´t miss the opportunity to try what is possibly the most typical tapa of Barcelona, created by María the grandmother of the current owner, in this establishment with almost 80 years of history.
Restaurante Barceloneta
If you´re looking for a higher end option where to enjoy a long sit-down lunch or dinner, Restaurante Barceloneta is the way to go. As one of the neighborhood classics since its opening in 1996, it serves the freshest seafood and one of the best paellas in town. All while enjoying the views of Marina Port Vell, Barcelona´s superyacht marina.
La Barceloneta Market
For a less touristy alternative to Mercat de la Boquería head to Mercat de la Barceloneta, the city´s seafood market par excellence located at the Plaça del Poeta Boscà. Built in 1887 and refurbished in 2007 by architect Josep Miàs, who won the City of Barcelona award for the project, here you will find bustling food stalls with fresh produce, lively tapas bars, and sit-down restaurants.
Catalonia History Museum
Conclude your visit to the Barceloneta neighborhood with a very enriching cultural experience by visiting the Museu d’Història de Catalunya. Don´t forget to take a good look at the building that houses it, since it is history itself, being the only preserved building of the old industrial port of Barcelona.
In La Barceloneta the past coexists with the present. Here you can breathe tradition and modernity, authenticity and innovation, but above all, the sea. Get to know this neighborhood full of life, color and history the next time you visit us!
