Barcelona Nightlife

For a city with just over a million and a half people residing there, Barcelona might have the best pound for pound nightlife in Europe. The problem is tracking it all. Many of the best dances, raves and parties are completely organic and don’t happen at the top nightclubs. That’s why it is important to keep your ear out and, if all else fails, ask those that look like they would know. Try the youth hostels for the latest nightlife info, too.

1. Bar Marsella - Carrer de Sant Pau 65 - website

No trip through the legendary Barcelona nightlife is complete without a trip to this famous, or infamous bar. Such celebrities as Hemmingway and Orwell drank here, and the décor hasn’t been updated much since. Always a hip, young crowd here.

2. Bikini - Carrer de Déu i Mata 105 - website

Another legendary space in Barcelona, but this one is for live music, DJs and dancing. For decades, Bikini has been the ultimate Barcelona dance destination and it is a must-visit for all tourists. Check the calendar for amazing live performances, too.

3. Boadas - Carrer dels Tallers 1 08001 - website

You might walk right past Boadas without realizing it is even there, but once you get past the rather pedestrian entrance, you’ll find Barcelona’s best martini and cocktail spot. Yet another drinking spot made famous by famous people who drank there and wrote about it! You can’t even get blotto in Barcelona without enjoying the history of the place!

4. Elephant - Paseo de los Tilos 1 - website

Elephant is quite simply the most happening nightspot in a city full of fashionable places to be seen. The only problem is, it is often times too exclusive. If you don’t have the magic password, or at the very least a good bribe for the doorman, you might not get to enjoy this spot in person.

5. Harlem Jazz Club -  Carrer de la Comtessa de Sobradiel 8 - website

Just as the name says, this is one of the best places in the city to chill out to some great jazz, but the space is small and on nights when there is live music or a special guest in town. Show up early for the best seats.

6. Jamboree - Plaça Reial 17 - website

If the Harlem Jazz Club is a quiet, bluesy place to hear jazz, Jamboree is its younger, more energetic brother. A combo dance club and jazz club, there is always something happening here.

7. La Cova Del Drac - Carrer de Vallmajor 33 - website

Another popular jazz club owned by the same folks that run Jamboree. With La Cova, you’ll often find more variety here with nights dedicated to things like bluegrass and even country. A fun space with no attitude; a rare combination in Barcelona.

8. La Vinya del Senyor - Plaça de Santa Maria del Mar 5 08003 - website

No good night out is complete without a wine bar that would be the envy of any city on the globe. With a list that appears almost like a dictionary, you are sure to find the vintage you prefer. A great place to end the evening.

9. Les Gens Que J'Aime - Carrer València 286 - website

Another bar that has stood the test of time, this space dates back to the 1960’s and is a favorite for folks looking to get away from the noise and attitude of many of the other bars and clubs.

10. Terrazza - Avinguda del Marquès de Comillas - website

An outdoor dance club that congers up memories of raves on nearby Ibiza. It is a surprisingly low attitude spot where people just want to dance and have fun. If you are there during the summer months, this place is always packed.