Oh Barcelona... you're so sexy, cultured and cool.

This Spanish city is composed of several distinct barrios (neighborhoods), making it one of the most eclectic cities in the world. Navigating can be a bit overwhelming so here are six neighborhoods with the best sights for Barcelona first-timers and seasoned visitors alike. Read through to the end for an interactive map of all the places I mention (and show) in this post!

GOTHIC QUARTER

+ EL RAVAL & EL BORN

The Gothic Quarter and adjoining El Raval and El Born make up one of the most iconic areas of Barcelona. As the center of the old city it houses loads of historic architecture like the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar (pictured below) with sprinkles of modern architecture like the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art.

Sants Montjuïc

Sants Montjuic has so many great sights to be seen! I personally loved the Barcelona Pavilion and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. The Catalan National Art Museum (MNAC) is also here and has some of the most romantic views of the city from its plaza (live music likely included).

Eixample

Eixample is a well planned neighborhood with wide, leisurely avenues and elegant chamfered blocks. In this neighborhood there are many elaborate Gaudi buildings that should not be missed including La Pedrera, Casa Batallo and Sagrada Familia.

Sant Marti

Sant Marti was not originally at the top of our must visit list, but fortunately we were able to squeeze it in! The Design Museum of Barcelona was a surprising treat from its incredible public grounds and excellent exhibitions (such as a tribute to Massimo Vignelli). We also stared at Agbar Tower which is oddly entrancing, and passed by a beautiful open-aired market.

Design Museum of Barcelona & Agbar Tower

Gràcia

Gracia, setback from the old city center, is where you can find Gaudi's Park Guell. Although a little out of the way, a few hours at the park is certainly worth the trek.

Barceloneta

And finally Barceloneta. Barcelona is greatly loved for have the benefits of a bustling city with access to beautiful beaches. I recommend bringing a light lunch and saving room for sangria and patatas bravas from one of the many nearby restaurants.