Why does Barcelona attract foreigners and investors?

Why should one pay attention to Barcelona?

This question interests many people, and for good reason. Barcelona is one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in Spain, second only to Madrid in terms of population. Approximately 1.6 million people live in the capital of the autonomous community of Catalonia. The official languages here are Spanish and Catalan, which gives the city a unique cultural atmosphere.

The harmony of urban life and nature

One of the distinctive features of Barcelona is its skillful combination of modern urban structures and traditional Mediterranean style. The city is located on the coast and offers residents and tourists access to the shoreline at any time of the year. The warm sea allows for enjoyment of swimming and fresh air.

There is a wonderful tradition here —sistaor daytime relaxation, which emphasizes a laid-back rhythm of life where active pursuits coexist with a relaxing atmosphere, reminiscent of resorts.

Cultural and educational center

Barcelona has established itself as a significant cultural and economic center of the country, with numerous prestigious educational institutions and universities. This creates excellent opportunities for educational and career growth. Additionally, the city attracts many Russian-speaking residents, and there are kindergartens and educational institutions that offer instruction in Russian, Spanish, and English.

Entertainment and leisure activities

When it comes to leisure, Barcelona offers a wide range of entertainment and cultural events. The city boasts more than 15 Michelin-starred restaurants, which confirms its status as the gastronomic capital of Catalonia.

The visual appearance of the city has been influenced by the work of the outstanding architect Antoni Gaudí. His unusual buildings, characterized by flowing lines and an original approach to space, have become symbols of Barcelona.

Transportation and accessibility

Airport"El Prat"is a major transportation hub, receiving flights from various corners of the globe, thereby maintaining a steady flow of tourists to the city throughout the year.

Administrative structure

Barcelona is divided into ten main administrative divisions:

• Old Town (Ciutat Vella)
• Eixample
• Sants-Montjuïc
• Les Corts
• Sarrià-Sant Gervasi
• Gràcia
• Horta-Guinardó
• Nou Barris
• Sant Andreu
• Sant Martí

All these areas are divided into 73 separate microdistricts, each of which has its own unique atmosphere and character.

Housing opportunities

In Barcelona, you can find accommodation to suit every taste and income level: from cozy studios in the city center to magnificent chalets in the Pedralbes area or villas with lush gardens in picturesque spots near Alta.

Moreover, purchasing apartments and penthouses often includes the presence of terraces—spacious open areas on the rooftops that become wonderful spots for relaxation in the mild climate of Barcelona.

The cost of a square meter of housing in Barcelona

The cost of a square meter of real estate in Barcelona varies significantly. Prices start at €2000 per square meter in the Meridiana area and can reach astronomical €19,000 on Passeig de Gràcia.

Reasons for foreigners buying real estate

Foreigners who buy apartments in this magnificent city do so for various reasons:

• Some come here for studying or employment.
• Others buyreal estate for vacation.
• Some invest in real estate with the aim of renting it out later.
• Someone is deciding to start a new life in Spain.

C2013 yearForeigners investing from €500,000 have a chance to obtain a residence visa in Spain.

Popular areas for investment

According to experts, among foreign buyers, areas like Sant Marti are particularly relevant, where affordable apartments can be found in Poblenou, popular among the middle class and immigrants, with prices starting from €1100 per square meter.

Eixample, located in the heart of Catalonia, attracts investors along with the upscale neighborhoods of Pedralbes and Sarrià, as well as the business center of Les Corts, where the average cost per square meter is around €5000.

Coastal area and rental market

The coastal area of Diagonal Mar is the most popular among foreigners, especially Russians, where prices can reach €15,000 per square meter.

There is also active development in the rental housing market in Barcelona. Short-term rentals cover minimum time frames of up to 32 days, and owners of such properties need to obtain special tourist licenses.

It is important to note that some time ago, the city administration issued8000 perpetual licensesfor short-term rental, however, at the moment new licenses are no longer being issued, as changes in rental legislation are planned.

Plans for renting and advice for investors

One of the recent issues of the municipal news reported that there are plans to create separate buildings for short-term rentals, where all apartments will be used exclusively for this purpose. However, the final rules are still under discussion.

Experts suggest that those who want to engage in short-term rentals should consider purchasing apartments that already have tourist licenses, although such offers are generally more expensive than the market average.10%.

A license is not required for long-term rentals. In the old part of the city and in the Diagonal Mar area, there are many properties suitable for short-term rentals, while neighborhoods like Pedralbes and Eixample are better suited for long-term tenants, especially for top executives of large companies.

The old town and its charm

The Old Town (Ciutat Vella) is the historical and architectural heart of Barcelona, attracting tourists and potential renters. This area is rich in historical landmarks and architectural masterpieces, making it an important segment of the real estate and rental market in the capital of Catalonia.

This area is home to both residential and commercial properties, providing a high level of appeal for those looking to explore the culture and atmosphere of the city.

A global overview of the Old Town of Barcelona

The old town of Barcelona is a delightful blend of several unique neighborhoods, each with its own distinct atmosphere. These include the Gothic Quarter, El Born, Barceloneta, and Raval. The historic center of the city is also famous for its main cathedral — the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia, known among locals as "La Seu." This is where the main tourist attractions are concentrated, along with a variety of bars and restaurants, as well as charming shops offering a range of brands and goods.

Population and atmosphere

The main residents of the Old Town are Catalans, who actively use their native language. About75%The population consists of them, while the remaining part is about25%It consists of immigrants who arrived from former colonies. This historic district is filled with vibrant life around the clock — there is activity and movement here both day and night.

Real estate and rental

Local residents and investors are happily purchasing real estate with the aim of renting it out to tourists, which provides a stable income throughout the year. For example, during the summer months, renting a two-bedroom apartment will cost approximately€180overnight. However, it is worth noting that this area is not particularly popular among those looking for permanent housing due to the high noise level, large influx of tourists, and difficult parking conditions.

Architectural features

Approximately70%The buildings here were erected before the twentieth century and require thorough inspection before purchase, as they fall into the category of "dilapidated" properties.

Eixample district

The Eixample district, also known as the "new city," was created in the nineteenth century in response to the need for the expansion of Barcelona. It has become one of the most sought-after places for real estate among our compatriots.

The layout of Eixample

Architect Ildefons Cerdà developed a plan that predetermined the presence of long, straight streets and square blocks with equal sides.133 meterswhich creates a truly amazing visual effect, especially from a bird's eye view. This area is divided into two parts by Balmés Street, where a railway ran in the mid-19th century.

Real estate value

The right side of Eixample has gradually become the heart of modern city life. Real estate prices here exceed€4000per square meter, while on the left side of the area you can find more affordable housing options.

Key streets of Eixample

One of the most significant streets in Eixample is Passeig de Gràcia, which connects Plaça de Catalunya with the Gràcia neighborhood. The buildings on this street, designed in the modernist style, create a unique open-air museum that attracts tourists from all over the world.

Quarter of Discord

In close proximity to Passeig de Gràcia lies the so-called "Disorder Quarter," which will be of interest to all architecture enthusiasts. This area got its name due to the astonishing variety of architectural styles created by four renowned modernist architects.

Conclusion

Each of these locations offers a unique atmosphere and a rich history, becoming an important part of Barcelona's cultural heritage and its multifaceted identity.

Architectural masterpieces of Barcelona

This building, created by Léo Morera, was designed by the famous architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. In the same area, there are two other buildings by Enrique Sagnier: the Amálie House, designed by Puig i Cadafalch, and the world-famous Casa Batlló, which became a masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí. On the famous Passeig de Gràcia, there is another renowned work by Gaudí – Casa Milà.

Palace of Catalan Music

Near Via Laietana Avenue, you can find a concert hall called the "Palau de la Música Catalana." This building is considered an outstanding masterpiece of modernism. Even if you don't plan to attend a concert, it's definitely worth taking a few photos of this stunning structure.

Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia, also known as the Temple of the Holy Family, is the most famous temple in Barcelona and has no parallels in the world. The original project was designed by architect Francisco de Villanueva, but in 1883, he was replaced by Antoni Gaudí, who significantly altered the original ideas.

The funding for the construction of the church was exclusively from donations by parishioners, which has been one of the reasons for the lengthy building process – as of now, only half of the structure has been completed. Experts believe that the construction is not expected to be finished before 2026, but local residents remain skeptical about this matter.

Popular restaurant Akilia

Just a few steps from the Sagrada Familia is one of the most popular restaurants in the city — the cozy establishment Akilia. It opened in 2002 and has a Michelin star. They serve large portions, and the menu includes interesting dishes such as:

• Blue soup with oysters
• Terrine of rabbit with foie gras in chocolate sauce

Getting to know Barcelona

Usually, getting to know Barcelona starts at Plaça de Catalunya, the city's central square. From here, you can head to the Gothic Quarter, which is rich in bars and restaurants, particularly around Plaça Reial, and then take a stroll through the Raval district and along the famous pedestrian street La Rambla, which is a significant tourist attraction.

At the end of La Rambla is the city's largest market — Mercat de la Boqueria. It's a must to stop here to try fresh fruits and vegetables, exquisite olives, and many other local delicacies, as well as to take vibrant photos.

Monument to Christopher Columbus

In just a few minutes' walk, you can find the monument to Christopher Columbus. Once you reach this spot, you'll feel the shift of eras as you immerse yourself in the eclectic and vibrant atmosphere of this lively city. Just a few steps away, and you'll find yourself at the waterfront, in the picturesque Barceloneta district.

Caution with personal belongings

We recommend being careful with your personal belongings, as petty theft is not uncommon in Barcelona. Among the many attractions of this city, the Barceloneta district stands out — a seaside area that, although part of the old town, is considered its newest section.

Real estate in Barceloneta

The cost of real estate here is approximately€2500per square meter. In addition, there is a significant amount of housing from the old stock in this area. The new version of Barceloneta was formed in 1992 for the Olympic Games, when this area began to transform. Previously, it was just an industrial site, and even earlier — a fishing village.

The glory of Barceloneta

Nowadays, Barceloneta is known as the most popular beach in the city, featuring a wide promenade and famous seafood restaurants that are renowned far beyond the region.

Museum and aquarium

In this area, there is the Museum of the History of Catalonia, which consistently attracts children with its engaging and interactive exhibits. There is also an aquarium with the longest underwater glass tunnel in the world.

Strolling through the streets

While strolling through the picturesque streets, visitors can easily reach:

• Mercat Barceloneta market
• a park that leads to the magnificent sea on Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta.

In the distance, to the left, there is a view of the Olympic port and village, as well as the unique round building of the largest biomedical research center in Southern Europe.

Restaurant Can Majó

After a walk on the beach, be sure to visit the restaurant.Can Majówhich is considered one of the best in the area. Then it's worth taking a stroll to the Saint Sebastian Tower, where the cable car station is located, leading to the top of Montjuïc Mountain.

Montjuïc: panorama and art

Montjuïc, which has an elevation of173 metersabove sea level, known for its convenient location and breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It is one of the largest urban parks on the European continent, covering an area of203 hectares.

Cultural attractions

In Montjuïc, you can find:

• the Palau Nacional Museum (MNAC), which houses a magnificent collection of Catalan art.
• Poble Espanyol is a unique "Spanish village" that represents an exceptional architectural complex.

It's also worth checking out the famous evening "singing fountains." This is an essential part of a trip to Barcelona and one of the main attractions of Montjuïc. Many travelers love to stay here for evening dinners, enjoying live flamenco dancing.

The Calm of Gracia

The Gracia district is one of the most distinctive and historic neighborhoods in Barcelona, which until the early 20th century was not part of the city limits. This area has a unique charm and atmosphere, with many cozy squares, cafes, and original shops, making it an ideal place for strolls and getting to know the cultural features of Barcelona.

Gracia maintains its uniqueness and charm, creating a pleasant contrast with the crowded tourist routes of the city.

The Charm of Gracia

In this picturesque neighborhood, narrow streets harmoniously blend with spacious terraces located on rooftops, which are just as cozy as the living spaces. Many apartments here retain their historical value, thanks to original arches with exquisite stucco work, mosaic floors, and balconies adorned with wrought-iron railings.

Festival Festa Major de Gràcia

Gracia especially attracts attention in early autumn when a large-scale event takes place here —Gràcia FestivalDuring the celebrations, the streets of the district turn into real centers of fun, where:

• people of different ages are dancing,
• bright parades are taking place,
• Wine and caipirinha are flowing like a river.

This area is home not only to the native residents of Barcelona but also to creative individuals such as artists and students. Here, you can also find several alternative theaters and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.

Gaudí's architectural heritage

In addition, one of Antonio's architectural masterpiecesGaudíisPark Güelllocated atcarrer d’olot, 5The park is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00 during the winter and until 21:30 in the summer.

Overview of the Diagonal Mar area

The Mar diagonal is one of the most sought-after areas for foreign, including Russian, investors in the real estate market who wish to settle near the seaside. There, purchases of apartments, modern studios, and luxury penthouses are made in contemporary residential complexes that offer their residents a wide range of services, such as a swimming pool and concierge service. These buildings were constructed in the early 2000s.

According to data provided by real estate companies, since February 2014, there has been the first positive trend in housing prices in this area following the economic downturn. The primary real estate market has sold out instantly, and only a few options are currently available in the secondary market.

Changes in the perception of the area

Initially, the local residents of Barcelona viewed the new Diagonal Mar district with a certain degree of skepticism and were reluctant to move here due to the higher prices compared to other parts of the city. However, in recent years, the situation has started to change.

Avenida Diagonal street stretches straight to the beach, and this place can be reached by both public transport and your own car. The city center is just a 15-minute drive away. There is a shopping center and a park in the area, which also adds convenience to living in this neighborhood.

Characteristics of the Poblenou area

It is worth noting that the name of the Poblenou district translates from Catalan as "new village," although the history of this place dates back about three hundred years. Previously, Poblenou was an industrial area, but in recent years, the residential sector has been actively developing here.

• This area is recognized as one of the most promising in the city.
• Work on its modernization is ongoing, with old factories being transformed into stylish lofts and modern studios.
• An efficient transportation system makes Poblenou attractive for both living and investing.

The average cost per square meter of real estate in this area ranges from3300 to 3500 eurosThe area is mainly inhabited by the middle class, and it is considered quite comfortable for living.

The prestigious Altazona region

The Altazona region, also known as "Upper Barcelona," is located in the northwest of the city, on the slopes of Mount Collserola, near the picturesque Tibidabo mountain. It features prestigious neighborhoods, including Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, Pedralbes, Bonanova, and Tres Torres.

• The cost of real estate in these areas is significantly high, reaching13,000-15,000 euros per square meter.
• This area is known for its magnificent landscapes.
• The high quality of life makes it extremely attractive for those looking to buy a home.

Certainly, when planning your trip to Barcelona, it's worth setting aside time to visit Tibidabo — one of the city's most recognizable and attractive landmarks. It is the final stop on the route that runs on the so-called "blue tram" and connects the seventh line of the metro with the Tibidabo funicular.

The charm of San Gervasi

Next to Tibidabo lies the wonderful neighborhood of Sant Gervasi, known as "Zona Alta," where you can find plenty of green spaces, prestigious educational institutions, and medical facilities, as well as modernist architecture. This area is famous for itselite real estate, high-quality restaurants and huge hotels.

A recent study conducted by the Barcelona City Council showed that San Gervasi is the most...elite neighborhoodCities. Here you can find the architectural masterpieces of the famous Antonio Gaudí, which makes this part of the city especially attractive to tourists. Be sure to visit one of his iconic works — the building of the Les Teresianes school.

Cultural and sports attractions

Within San Gervasi, there is also an outstanding science museum called Cosmo Caixa and the Royal Tennis Club, which hosts prestigious tournaments such as the Conde de Godo Trophy regatta. This area is home to the Royal Polo Club and the famous Tibidabo amusement park, which attracts both locals and tourists.

San Gervasi has become a favorite place to live for well-known personalities, including stars from theater, business, and politics. It takes just 10-15 minutes to get from San Gervasi to the center of Barcelona by car or on the seventh line of the FGC (Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya) trains.

Luxury neighborhoods and real estate

Located near Pedralbes, Bonanova, and Tres Torres, you can see luxurious villas and exclusive mansions surrounded by green parks. The average price per square meter in these areas ranges from€5000 to €7000and it's hard to find housing for less than€1 million.

• A quiet and calm atmosphere
• Comfortable and respectable life
• Proximity to well-known restaurants, such as Abac

In Pedralbes, there is a Russian consulate and an embassy district. These areas have historically enjoyed excellent demand among local residents and maintain a stable status as the most...prestigious placein Barcelona.

Trips outside the city

If you decide to leave the city, don't miss the Salvador Dalí Museum in Figueres, located about an hour and a half northeast. It's also worth visiting the medieval village of Rupit, built on solidified lava after a volcanic eruption. This area is full of mysterious legends about witches and enigmatic events, which adds an unforgettable atmosphere to your trip.

Visiting PortAventura with children

If you are planning to spend time in Barcelona with children, be sure to include a visit to the impressive amusement park "PortAventura" in your schedule. This entertainment complex is located near the city of Tarragona and can be reached in an hour by car via the AP-7 highway.

The surroundings of Barcelona

When mentioning the surroundings of Barcelona, one should not forget about the rapidly developing coastal area of Costa del Maresme, located just thirty-eight kilometers north of the capital city. From a bird's-eye view, the region appears as a narrow strip of land between the mountain slopes and the sea.

Picturesque towns around Mataró

Around Mataró, which is the administrative center of Maresme, there are interesting and picturesque towns:

• San Andreu de Llavanera
• San Vicenç de Montalt
• Premio de Dalt
• Premio de Mar
• Vilasaar de Mar
• Kalellia
• Santa Susanna
• Arenys de Mar
• El Masnu
• Cabrera de Mar
• Teia
• San Pol de Mar

Here you will find some of the most attractive villas near Barcelona. This modern area boasts excellent infrastructure and convenient transportation, which is definitely a big plus since it is just a few kilometers from the capital of Catalonia.

Advantages of Costa del Maresme

Costa del Maresmefamous for its numerous beautiful beaches and high-end restaurants. There are also ports, promenades, water parks, and sports centers that attract tourists. Due to the limited number of hotels and rental apartments, the tourist crowd does not create congestion here. In recent years, this region has increasingly attracted foreign investors interested in both permanent residency and a second home on the Catalonia coast.

Education and the real estate market

Costa del Maresme offers a wide range of prestigious educational institutions: it is home to both international schools and universities. Property prices vary from€30,000to€10 millionThe market value largely depends on the location and characteristics of the property. The closer the property is to tourist centers, the lower its market value will be, while the most expensive offers can be found in San Andreu and Calella.

Architectural monuments and cultural heritage

These places are famous for their numerous architectural landmarks, as in the nineteenth century, they were home to the residences of the upper caste of Barcelona. An interesting fact: in the past, living by the sea was not considered a status symbol, as fishermen inhabited the waterfront, while wealthy people preferred to move further inland.

Unique mansions of Costa del Maresme

On the Costa del Maresme, you can find unique mansions, with prices starting from€15 millionand may exceed this amount. The most prestigious areas are considered to be Supermaresme and Rocafreda, which are located near two well-known golf clubs, the port of Balisa, and the famous spa resort of Caldes d'Estrac.

Modernist architecture in Caldes

Strolling along Paseo de los Ingleses in the town of Caldes, you can enjoy the beauty of the stunning modernist mansions built in the early twentieth century, which in turn draws attention to this region and its cultural features.

The charm of the southern coast

On the southern coasts, located in close proximity to Barcelona, there are magnificent resort towns such as Sitges, Castelldefels, and Gavà Mar. These picturesque places offer a variety of options for purchasing real estate: from apartments by the sea to residential complexes in prestigious areas and luxurious villas surrounded by greenery.

The southern coast is famous for its endless beaches, stunning mountain landscapes, and well-developed tourist facilities. It is also home to renowned educational institutions of international caliber.

Transport accessibility

Thanks to the convenient train connections, you can reach the center of Barcelona in just 30-40 minutes, and the journey to the airport takes only 20 minutes. Additionally, you can reach the magnificent ski slopes of the Pyrenees in just a few hours.

Gava Mar

Hava Mar is known for its four kilometers of beaches and numerous sunny days, making it a popular destination for water and beach recreation. In 1995, the waterfront of this city received the prestigious FAD award for its unique architectural design, which respects the natural contours of the dunes, and a beautiful pine forest stretches along the coast.

Castelldefels - a city of sports

Castelldefels rightfully holds the title of "City of Sports," as it is home to judo schools, tennis sections, and clubs dedicated to basketball and football. Water sports are popular in this area, such as:

• yachting
• kitesurfing
• windsurfing

It's no surprise that famous athletes live and train here. The region harmoniously combines mountain and sea landscapes, and also offers great opportunities for recreation in the Garraf Natural Park.

Real estate in Castelldefels

The real estate market in Castelldefels offers both spacious houses and luxurious villas, as well as apartments with breathtaking sea views, catering to all buyers' preferences.

Sitges is the Spanish Saint-Tropez.

As for Sitges, this resort town is rightly compared to the famous Saint-Tropez. Here you will find numerous boutiques of fashionable brands and a variety of entertainment options both during the day and at night. Its proximity to Barcelona, the presence of prestigious golf clubs like the historic Terramar Golf Course, beautiful waterfronts for yachts, and around 300 sunny days a year make Sitges an attractive destination for both vacationing and permanent living.

Cultural events in Sitges

Sitges is also famous for its numerous cultural events, such as:

• annual carnival festival
• horror film festival
• vintage car rally
• a multitude of international congresses

A direct train from Passeig de Gràcia or Barcelona-Sants stations will take you to Sitges in just 45 minutes.

Housing selection

The variety of housing in this city is astonishing – from modern studios to historic apartments in the center and along the waterfront, as well as cozy family homes and luxurious villas with fantastic sea views.

Conclusion

In conclusion of our journey through the multifaceted and amazing city of Barcelona, I want to emphasize that this magnificent metropolis represents a unique blend of cultural heritage, modernity, and an inviting lifestyle.

Speaking of Barcelona, one cannot help but note how many opportunities it offers for both residents and visitors. From the wealth of architectural landmarks created by masters such as...Antonio Gaudíto a diverse culinary culture with more than15 Michelin-starred restaurants— the city gives everyone something of their own.

Investment opportunities

In addition, Barcelona attracts foreign investors due to its diverse real estate market. There is the possibility of obtaining a residence permit for those who purchase property worth from€500,000...makes the city especially attractive for those who want not only to invest but also to become part of this vibrant community. Every year, the number of people choosing Barcelona as their new home or second residence continues to grow.

Future changes in legislation

Nevertheless, it is important to consider the upcoming changes in rental regulations that may impact the short-term rental market. This highlights the importance of a serious approach to investments and compliance with current legal standards. Like in any major city, the real estate sector in Barcelona requires attention and understanding.

Result

In summary, I want to say that Barcelona is not just a city; it's a lifestyle. Here, you can enjoy the atmosphere of vacation relaxation while being in the heart of a vibrant urban life. All of this makes Barcelona not only a place you want to visit for a holiday but also a city where I would like to build my home and smile at each new day under the bright Mediterranean sun.