When I moved into a one-bedroom flat in Poble Sec it was my first time searching for an apartment in Barcelona, and I learned a lot throughout the process. From identifying red flags on Idealista listings to knowing the right questions to ask landlords, I've become quite skilled at finding a place in sunny Barcelona.

To help others who are wondering how to find an apartment in Barcelona, I've compiled a list of valuable tips and insights from my experience.

Is it Hard to Find a Place to Rent in Barcelona?

Finding a place to rent in Barcelona can be challenging, especially during peak rental seasons. The high demand for quality, affordable apartments and houses means fierce competition.

Prices are often high, particularly in popular tourist areas, making it tough to find something especially if you have a tight budget. Additionally, foreigners might need a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) to rent a property, as some landlords require it.

To increase your chances of finding a rental flat, dedicate at least an hour daily to your search and be prepared to compromise on some requirements. Flexibility is key; while it's important not to settle for less than you need, being too picky can prolong your search.

How do I find somewhere to live in Barcelona?

Finding somewhere to live in Barcelona can be a challenge, but there are several questions you need to ask yourself to help you with your search when looking for a flat to rent in Barcelona.

1. Are you looking for a short or long-term rental?

Short-term rentals are a popular option for those looking for a place to stay in Barcelona for a short period of time. Flatio is a great option, especially if you're looking for a mid-term rental of a few months, as it offers fully furnished apartments with flexible rental periods, catering to expats and digital nomads.

However, if you’re looking for a place to stay for an extended period of time, there are also a variety of websites that offer long-term rentals. You can find listings on websites such as Idealista, Fotocasa, Habitaclia, and Spot a Home. You can also check with local real estate agents who specialize in long-term rentals.

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Are you looking for roommates?

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you could consider sharing a flat or apartment with a roommate. There are websites such as badi, Roomorama, EasyRoommate, and Roomz that can help you find potential roommates. You can also look for expats groups on Facebook and post an ad there, I have seen a few people doing it successfully.

Are you on a tight budget?

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14 Tips to find an apartment in Barcelona as an expat

When looking for an apartment in Barcelona, there are several key considerations people should keep in mind.

Start your search early on using popular websites

Once you have decided on your budget and ideal location it is time to start searching for a flat. There are many websites that offer flats for rent in Barcelona. Some of the most popular websites are idealista.com, fotocasa.es, pisos.com and habitaclia.com. For a short-term stay I recommend Flatio. Unlike Airbnb, Flatio specializes in mid-term rentals, offering fully furnished apartments with flexible stays from a few weeks to several months—ideal for expats who need more stability without the long-term commitment.

These websites offer a wide selection of flats for rent, so it is important to be patient and take your time when searching for a flat. I personally found my first rental flat in Poble Sec using habitaclia.

2. Understand Rental Contract Duration

Rental contracts in Spain generally last a minimum of one year. If the tenant wishes to stay longer and the landlord does not need the property for themselves or immediate family, the contract can be renewed annually for up to five years. This ensures stability and long-term planning for both parties.

3. Be Mindful of the Mandatory Compliance Period

The first six months of any rental contract are mandatory, meaning the tenant cannot terminate the agreement without a justified cause during this period. This regulation protects landlords from sudden vacancy and ensures a stable rental period.

4. Avoid Advance Payments

It's illegal for landlords to ask for a year's rent in advance. If faced with such a request, be aware that it’s against Spanish rental law. Typically, rent is paid monthly, ensuring a fair and manageable payment schedule for tenants.

5. Beware of Squatters AKA Okupas

Squatters AKA Okupas are a big problem in Barcelona. Although you can´t predict whether or not your block of flats might be dealing with squatters in the future, you can try and look for any red flags. Ask your future neighbors about the safety of the property. Make sure your future flat has a strong and sturdy door with locks. Check how secure the flat’s main entrance is.

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5. Know Deposit Rules

The legal maximum for a rental deposit is two months' rent. Additionally, this deposit must be lodged with the tax authority of the respective autonomous community within 30 days of contract signing. Ensure you receive documentation proving this deposit, as it protects both parties and is crucial for any future disputes.

6. Don’t Neglect Legal Payment Methods

Spanish law requires rent payments to be made through traceable methods such as bank transfers. Cash payments are prohibited, providing a clear transaction record and protecting both tenants and landlords.

7. Be Careful of Real Estate Fees

Real estate agencies cannot charge tenants fees unless the tenant has engaged a personal real estate shopper service. Be cautious of any unwarranted charges and understand your rights to avoid unnecessary costs.

8. Consider Potential Temporary Contract Limitations

Contracts shorter than one year are classified as temporary. These contracts do not always allow you to register as a resident (empadronamiento), although this will depends on where in Spain you are located. Always ensure the temporary nature and specific reasons are clearly stated in the contract to avoid any legal issues or misunderstandings.

9. Request Contracts in English

Rental contracts should be available in both Spanish and English. If you do not understand Spanish, it’s highly advisable to hire a qualified lawyer or licensed real estate agent to review the contract. This ensures you fully comprehend all clauses and terms, preventing any legal or financial misunderstandings.

10. Be mindful of the location

You should also consider the neighborhood you will be living in. What most bloggers don´t tell you about trendy areas like Gracia, Poble Sec, Gothic Quarter, etc. is that they can get quite noisy during the summer, especially during the Summer fiestas in Barcelona. That’s why you should research the area well to make sure you won’t be disturbed by street activities that go on during the Summer. Although it might sound fun at first trust if you happen to live on a very busy street, between the music playing all night, tourists, and drunk people making noise the month of August will become hell on earth.

11. Keep an eye out for Airbnb rentals

Barcelona is filled with Airbnb. Although this is a great thing for tourists, for people looking for long-term rent, living in a block of fat with a lot of Airbnb can be a real struggle. As you can imagine, most people booking Airbnb are most likely tourists looking to party and enjoy the city. In the previous apartment where I lived, the block had 3 Airbnb rental flats. During peak season, it was impossible to sleep, because of the loud noise, music, etc. Unless this is not a problem for you, always ask the landlord about the other flats in the building.

12. Don’t neglect natural light

Always try to visit the flat during the daytime. This will give you a better idea of how much natural light it receives. Depending on whether you live in an exterior or interior flat, they might not actually have a single window in the flat that faces the street. There are also a lot of apartments in the old city located on dark narrow streets meaning that you can forget sunlight during most of the day.

13. Prepare an amenities checklist

Consider the high temperatures in Barcelona and decide if you need a flat with air conditioning. Also, check the wifi connection, which is essential for digital nomads, students freelancers, or anyone with a hybrid job planning to work from home. Make sure the property meets your lifestyle and professional needs.

14. Be persistent

Once you have found a flat you like, contact the landlord to arrange a viewing. This can usually be done via email, WhatsApp, or phone. I found that WhatsApp was the most effective way to communicate. Be insistent, it is a very competitive market, so make sure to keep on reaching out to them until you get a date for the viewing.

Last but not, make sure you read the contract carefully before signing it. You should also ask the landlord for copies of all documents related to the flat, such as bills and proof of ownership.

What documents do you need to rent a flat in Barcelona?

To rent a place in Barcelona or anywhere in Spain you will require the following documents:

Passport, NIE (Spanish ID) or any other form of ID.
Work contract, or any other evidence of employment.
Last three payslips.
A bank statement proving you have sufficient funds for the rent payments. This one is not mandatory but might help a lot.
Spanish bank account. For the landlords to withdraw monthly payments.

Best Places for Expats to Live in Barcelona

The "best" area for expats in Barcelona really depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Here's a breakdown of popular neighborhoods depending on what stage in life you are at:

For Those Looking for a Centric and Dynamic Location

Eixample

If you love being in the heart of the action, Eixample is the place for you. Although it is on the higher end in terms of budget, this district offers easy access to some of the coolest shops, restaurants, and bars. Be prepared for a bit of noise and higher rents, but the vibrant atmosphere and convenience make it worth it.

Gràcia

Also known as the hipster’s headquarters. Most expats live in Gràcia because it offers charming plazas, independent shops, and a lively nightlife. The community feel here is strong, but finding a rental can be competitive.

Gothic Quarter

With its Gothic architecture and bustling markets, it’s an immersive experience. It's bustling and touristy, with limited housing options.

For Families

Sants-Montjuïc

In my opinion, this is an underrated neighborhood that is centrally located. This diverse area offers a blend of traditional and modern living. With plenty of green spaces, family activities, and good schools, it’s ideal for families. However, some parts of the neighborhood are hilly and not close to the beach.

La Sagrada Familia

Offering a mix of residential and cultural living, La Sagrada Familia is great for families. The area provides access to parks, good schools, and of course close access to the one and only Sagrada Familia basilica.

Sant Antoni

A vibrant yet family-friendly neighborhood, Sant Antoni offers excellent markets, green spaces, and a welcoming community. It strikes a balance between lively and residential, making it a great choice for families.

For Those on a Budget

El Raval

El Raval offers more affordable housing options. However, the neighborhood has a reputation for being less safe. It’s lively and central, though it can be noisier and less polished than other areas.

Poble-sec

Close to Montjuïc and the city center, Poble-sec provides a good mix of affordability and convenience. It’s a great area for those who want to stay near central Barcelona without the high prices.

Sant Andreu

A more residential and quieter area, Sant Andreu offers affordable rents and a strong community feel. It’s further from the city center but well-connected by public transport.

Ultimately, finding a flat in Barcelona can be a challenging task, but it is certainly possible. With the right budget, documents, and patience, you will be able to find a flat that suits your needs.

Good luck with your search!

📜 Living in Spain Planning Guide 📜

Before Moving to Spain

🔍 Research the visa process, residence permits, and other essential documentation early on.

💡 Did you know it’s mandatory to have official documents translated by a sworn translator? Consider hiring a translation service like Translyt for handling any official documents.

💡 Important: If you're moving from a non-European country, private health insurance is required for your visa application.

🧑‍⚕️ Finalize your local health insurance plan with Innoinsure for comprehensive coverage, or opt for the digital insurance services of Feather or ASSSA.

If you are a digital nomad or need travel insurance, SafetyWing provides flexible coverage for individuals living abroad.

🐕 If your pets have joined you, use Petplan for their health insurance and well-being.

Once in Spain

🏠 Use platforms like Spotahome get 15% off with code: CTSPAIN15 or Flatio to find your new home in Spain. They offer verified listings and short- to long-term rental options.

Are you on a tight budget? Check out Trusted Housesitters for free accommodation in exchange for pet sitting (Get 12% off annual memberships with code 12TRUST).

💸 Money Transfers: Set up a reliable currency exchange and transfer service like XE Money Transfer to avoid high banking fees when transferring funds internationally.

🚗 Need a rental car? Use DiscoverCars to easily compare and find the best deals for car rentals in Spain.

💡 Can you live and work in Spain without speaking Spanish?

The answer is YES! But learning Spanish will make your life so much easier. Start learning Spanish using Preply’s language tutor to learn the basics, and expect to see massive improvements within the first few months.