Looking to rent a Vrbo in Barcelona for a city break or workation? With literally hundreds of apartments to choose from across the city, it’s hard to know where to start. Which neighbourhoods are the best, and how do you find the right property? You don’t need to worry, because we’ve done the hard work for you! After looking meticulously through the listings, in this guide we pick out 25 stunning Vrbo Barcelona apartments to consider for your next trip. We’ve included options in the popular neigbourhoods of El Born, Gracia, Poblenou, Sant Antoni, Raval and the Gothic Quarter.
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Why rent a Vrbo in Barcelona?
Vrbo is one of the leading alternatives to Airbnb for apartment rentals. We’ve been using it more and more to book stays for city breaks or remote working trips (workations), and we’ve begun to explore it further for longer-term stays too.
Vrbo has actually been around for more than a decade longer than Airbnb, having been founded in 1995. Barcelona was one of the first European cities they began operating in, and Vrbo apartments in the city now number well into the hundreds.
One of the reasons we like Vrbo is that it focuses on entire property rentals, so you don’t need to worry about filtering out hosted rentals or rooms within properties. You’re going to have the whole place to yourself.
So, why Barcelona? The chances are that if you’re reading this, you’ve already decided to visit. If it’s your first time, you’re in for a treat! It’s an incredible place that really has a bit of everything; history, art, ocean, mountains, stunning architecture, phenomenal gastronomy, and an all-round infectious vibrance.
Our 3-day Barcelona itinerary covers many of the top things to do while you’re in the city, however long you’re staying.
View over Barcelona from 500 metres high at Tibidabo Amusement ParkVrbo is great for working remotely in Barcelona
The freedom of remote working has given us new opportunities to explore more frequently. We’ve taken advantage of this to spend time working in European cities, and Barcelona provides a fantastic environment to set up office for a while.
Renting a Vrbo apartment is a great way to nail down a base for a remote working trip to Barcelona. Many properties have working spaces, such as a desk or table that can be repurposed. And, as an alternative to a hotel or other accommodation, you can make the space your own.
Our ultimate guide to taking a workation in Barcelona explains how you can make the most of visiting and working in the city.
Choosing the best Vrbo Barcelona apartments: our criteria
Before we get into the details of our recommended Vrbo Barcelona apartments, I’ll explain a little about our process for choosing the best properties.
Here’s a checklist of the main criteria we looked out for:
- Location. The VBRO apartments selected below are focused in five particular neighbourhoods, which each provide a desirable base for exploring the city. These are El Born, Gracia, Poblenou, Sant Antoni, Raval and the Gothic Quarter, and we give a background to each in the sections below. For more in-depth insights into the neighbourhoods, see our guide to the best areas to stay in Barcelona.
- Size. We’ve focused mainly on Vrbo apartments in Barcelona that are ideal for two people, whether a couple or friends exploring the city. However, some of the apartments do offer more bedroom space if you’re looking to travel in a group or as a family. Aside from beds, we also looked for apartments that have a decent amount of floor area and a spacious feel for staying and working.
- Character. Staying in an apartment with a compelling vibe, whether that’s because of its charming decor, period features or layout, can add a lot to your stay. So we’ve tried to select apartments that have something quirky or notable about them.
- Work space. Like us, you may want to spend time working remotely while you are in Barcelona. In this case, it’s a big bonus if the place you stay has somewhere you can set up with your laptop. With this in mind we looked for apartments that either have a work area with a desk, or another space that could be repurposed as one (such as a suitable table).
It’s not always possible to check every box on the list, but having these criteria as our reference points helped guide our choices. So, let’s take a look at the best Vrbo apartments in Barcelona…
Vrbo apartments in Barcelona: Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is located at the heart of Barcelona and is one of the main cultural spots of the city. This neighbourhood is known for its mediaeval touch in its streets, hidden plazas and architecture. It was built over 2,000 years ago (between 15 and 10 BC) as a crucial economic and commercial point for the country and the Mediterranean region.
Here, you’ll find some other city jewels, like Las Ramblas, a long tree-lined street with fantastic architecture and reputed busy shopping scene, where you can enjoy walks day and night.
Unlucky with a rainy day in Barcelona? Head to the Gothic Quarter, as this is where you will find many of the city’s best museums and galleries.
Other amazing spots around the Gothic Quarter are:
- Plaza Sant Jaume
- Cathedral Plaza (in front of the stunning Barcelona Cathedral). This is home to the city’s oldest Christmas market in December. See our guide to Barcelona in winter for more about this
- Santa Maria del Pi and San Felipe Neri churches
The weekly Gothic Market in front of Barcelona Cathedral, at the heart of the Gothic QuarterIf you are into some shopping during your visit, take advantage of el Portal de l’Angel, one of the most popular shopping spots in the city.
Looking for a nice place to stay this neighbourhood where you can relax and have a quiet workplace? Here are some of our favourite Vrbo apartments in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter:
1. Bright, elegant apartment
Since you want to stay in a gothic neighbourhood, why not stay in a gothic building too?
If you want a whole gothic experience, this choice may be the right for you. This two-bedroom apartment is in a typical historical, gothic building. The decoration is spotless, with the right amount of rustic and modern styles.
The location is right next to Barcelona’s Cathedral, in front of Plaza dels Peixos and 500 metres from Barcelona’s port. As a result, you’ll find yourself within walking distance of many of Barcelona’s most compelling attractions.
The apartment can host up to five people, and there’s a spacious living room where you can enjoy working in the mornings or having breakfast if you are on a family/friends trip.
One thing to consider is that since this is a historical building, there is no elevator, and you’ll have to go up a few stairs to get to the apartment. Nothing inconvenient for most people, but you may want to check if everyone in your group is willing to go up and down these stairs (which is worth it!) every day.
View prices and book on Vrbo2. Gotic Vibes
Gotic Vibes is a one-bedroom apartment just metres away from Las Ramblas and ten minutes from the central Plaza Catalunya. There are no bars nearby, so you’ll find this a quiet spot to spend a few days or weeks.
This apartment is perfect for both a chilling or a work trip. It includes:
- Flat-screen TV
- Desk and chair
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Dishwasher and washer/dryer
- Dining table for three guests, that could also be utilised as a work space
- Private entrance
It even allows pets if you need a place for your buddy to crash too!
View prices and book on Vrbo3. Bright, colourful apartment
This apartment is perfect for a two-families or coworkers trip. Not only does it have two very spacious bedrooms, but each has its separate bathrooms and kitchenettes to maintain privacy among families or coworkers.
If you are on a work trip, your boss will be happy to know you found a place you can share with a colleague to keep the company’s budget in check.
The vibe of the apartment is very modern, with lovely balconies in both bedrooms and a very nice view of the beautiful Gothic Quarter streets, giving a stunning natural light all day long.
The location is also a five-minute walk from Las Ramblas and ten minutes from the beach. There are also many restaurants close by in case you are in a busy moment and don’t have time to use your kitchenette.
View prices and book on Vrbo4. Apartment Colom 2
Apartment Colom 2 is located on a quaint street in the Gothic Quarter: Carrer Colom. This is just a 30-metre-long street that connects Las Ramblas with the gorgeous Plaça Reial. Also, you’ll be just a few metres away from iconic Güell Palace, Boquería Market and the Liceu Opera.
This apartment has everything you need for a two-people leisure trip, but you’ll find a small desk you can use to work in case that’s the main reason for your visit to Barcelona. It also has a washing machine, which is crucial if you plan to stay more than a few days in Barcelona (or if you are travelling in the summer when it can get very hot in the city).
View prices and book on Vrbo5. Reformed apartment near Las Ramblas
Lastly in the Gothic Quarter, we have this one-bedroom apartment also located in the centre of the neighbourhood, close to most of its attractions. It’s very close to all public transport stations, so whenever you decide to explore further afield in Barcelona, you’ll be just a few metres away from the metro and buses.
What we like most about this place is that you’ll find a dining table and a separate work desk, so you can keep your professional duties away from your meals and downtime. The apartment is very modern, featuring a balcony, which gives lots of natural light and a view from a typical Catalonian plaza you’ll enjoy every day.
There’s also a laundry facility in the common area of the building, perfect for mid-to-long stays.
View prices and book on VrboVrbo apartments in Barcelona: El Born
El Born was the economic epicentre of Barcelona between the 18th and 20th centuries. This is reflected in its lavish historical buildings, such as the Calle Montcada palaces and the Santa Maria del Mar church. One of the highlights of this neighbourhood and one of the monuments you can’t miss in Barcelona is the Arc of Triumph.
The neighbourhood is also known for its lively nightlife as well as its bustling restaurant scene. We love hitting up its cocktail bars and international eateries, but there are also quiet corners where you can escape the noise. So, it’s a great area to stay if you like to be close to the action.
El Born has the perfect combination of city and green spaces. The Ciutadella Park is one of the most prominent green spots of the city, and exploring it is one of the best free things to do in Barcelona. It hosts Catalunya’s Parliament, zoo and library, among many other historic points.
Next, we’ll go over our favourites Vrbo apartments in Barcelona, right here in El Born:
6. Studio with terrace in El Born (our favourite!)
This apartment may be just for you if you enjoy a nice breakfast, lunch or drinks outside with a terrace view. The one-bedroom apartment hosts up to two people and has one of the loveliest terraces we’ve seen in Barcelona.
Right in the centre of El Born, you’ll be located among many coffee shops and bars; it will feel like you have your private café for a few days!
This is a traditional apartment with narrow and spiral stairs (think about it twice if you have mobility issues), but completely modern on the inside—the perfect touch of vintage and fancy. There’s a dinner table, queen size bed and everything you need to enjoy a break in the city.
The table doubles up well as a working space, so it ticks the box for a workation apartment as well.
View prices and book on Vrbo7. Quiet renovated El Born apartment
Fully refurbished in a historic building, this apartment has a unique modern touch on the inside that is perfect for extended visits. It has a fully equipped kitchen and an excellent wifi connection if you need to work remotely during your trip. There’s also a communal terrace and office on the ground floor if you wish to separate your work from other activities.
One important thing to consider is that, despite being part of a historical construction, this building has an elevator, which can be pretty hard to find in these properties.
View prices and book on Vrbo8. Minimalist neoclassical suite-studio apartment
This minimalist apartment is part of a hotel, recently restored by architects with a neoclassical style. You’ll find yourself just on the border of the Gothic and El Born neighbourhoods, with the best of both quarters within walking distance.
This modern flat has a dinner table which you can use either for your meals or work duties if you are on a working trip. The decoration is just on the spot, with the right amount of colour combined with 17th-century stone walls. Just beautiful.
Essential information for extended stays: the entire apartment is only available for short stays; for long stays, only the suite studio is available (without the living room, which becomes a common area).
View prices and book on Vrbo9. Picasso Apartment
Just in the historic centre of Barcelona, close to both El Born and Gothic neighbourhoods, this apartment is located in a historical building. It preserves some vintage details though it’s been renovated. For example, the wood ceiling has been restored while keeping the original stone walls.
This apartment hosts up to four people; it has one bedroom and a big living room where, according to the host, two more people can sleep. But it may be best suited for a couple’s trip.
Our favourite things about this apartment are the two balconies with a front street view and the vast living room you can use to relax or work during your visit to Barcelona.
View prices and book on VrboVrbo apartments in Barcelona: El Poblenou
Located right in front of the unique Barcelona beach, El Poblenou has been ranked as one of the 50 best neighbourhoods to live in by Time Out magazine.
El Poblenou was the centre of the industrial revolution in Barcelona. Still, most of what initially were textile and transport companies have become digital marketing agencies, cafés and art galleries. So, today, it has transformed into a hub for entrepreneurship and creativity.
Here you’ll find a town-style life within the city, full of local gastronomy and magnificent architecture. It’s a brilliant neighbourhood to stay on a workation, thanks to the vibrant coworking spaces and proximity to the beach.
Here are some of the Vrbo apartments in El Poblenou, Barcelona, for you to stay during your visit:
10. Stylish studio and terrace in Poblenou
The apartment provides a bright and airy space as well as a private terrace. With a modern-living apartment feel, it is a clean and light space where you are sure to find creativity in Barcelona’s digital district.
You may notice that the price is below average compared to other places in the area; this is because it is only available for stays longer than 32 days. If you’re looking for a mid or long-term stay, this pad is a top option.
View prices and book on Vrbo11. Century-old apartment
Are you travelling with a larger group of friends or coworkers? This two-bedroom apartment can host up to six people for your trip in one of the most creative locations of Barcelona: El Poblenou.
With 19th-century buildings mixed with contemporary art, the area around this apartment is full of passages, bars and restaurants, making it the perfect location for a break near the Barcelona beach.
If you like views of water, you may be interested in this apartment’s front terrace, from where you’ll be able to look out onto the sea. It has a fully separate equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and a big dining table for the whole group to enjoy some meals in the apartment if you are too tired from your beach day to go out.
View prices and book on Vrbo12. Poblenou charming flat by the beach
Are you a water-sports traveller? Or want to spend a few days learning to surf or windsurf on beautiful Barcelona beaches? Then you are this apartment owner’s perfect guest.
This place is close to sailing and windsurfing points, and has a terrace and even a fitness centre. There’s a lovely private deck terrace in the apartment where you can relax and enjoy the view of the streets of El Poblenou. It is equipped with a washer and dryer, so you can travel lighter and wash your sports outfit whenever you feel like it.
It has a very modern layout, excellent location and is decorated beautifully.
View prices and book on Vrbo13. Natural light apartment near beach
This modern beach apartment is perfect for a family vacation or a working trip near the beach, where you can relax after a full work day. If you like spending time inside, you’ll be delighted by the natural light of this 960 sq ft, three-bedroom apartment.
One of the highlights is its big closets, perfect for long trips, and the refined decoration of the place. You’ll be only 200 metres from the beach, metro, and local grocers stocking typical products of this townesque neighbourhood.
There’s a terrace where you can sit and have dinner or chill with a few drinks after you get home from a busy day out.
View prices and book on Vrbo14. Cosy apartment near the beach
Located only 200 metres from the beach, this is a cosy apartment with an unbeatable location right at the heart of El Poblenou. There are many restaurants, cafés and bars within walking distance, and if you want to visit other neighbourhoods, there are direct metro and bus connections nearby.
This apartment has two bedrooms and one bathroom, making it perfect for families or work colleagues travelling together. You’ll be charmed by the host, Joseph, who is helpful and communicative about every detail you need for your stay to be 100% perfect.
View prices and book on VrboVrbo apartments in Barcelona: Sant Antoni and Raval
You’ll find Sant Antoni and Raval neighbourhoods just a few metro stations from the fanciest areas of Barcelona. This area is known for a much higher level of simplicity, lower prices and numerous night activities.
This is the favourite place for students and long-term travellers on a budget looking to stay in a place with more of a local rather than a touristic vibe. It’s also a great spot for remote working, as a hub for many of the most popular coworking spaces in Barcelona.
Coco Coffice is one of the creative coworking spaces dotted around the Sant Antoni district of BarcelonaOne of the highlights you can’t miss in this place is the Sant Antoni market, where you’ll find an extensive collection of groceries, meals and clothes, everything for travellers looking to shop on a budget. Also, on Sundays, there’s a book fair where people go either to buy or trade old books with other readers. It’s a great place to get to know people with similar interests!
Here is our selected list of the best Vrbo apartments in Barcelona across Sant Antoni and Raval:
15. Bright designer apartment
You’ll find this designer-decorated apartment within a five-minute walk from Sant Antoni Market. If you wish to spend your days in a place with a unique and different style, then you should check this out.
This one-bedroom apartment is perfect for both long and short visits; it has a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and a beautiful integrated kitchen with a lovely breakfast area for you to prepare your meals.
View prices and book on Vrbo16. Cosy Sant Antoni studio
This one-bedroom, nicely refurbished apartment is perfect for single travellers looking for a cosy place to sleep in the centre of Sant Antoni. You’ll be one block away from the local market, where you can get all kinds of delicatessen treats, and why not stop for a glass of Spanish wine?
Get the most of the pros of not being away from the tourist areas: low prices, chill, local atmosphere and great local food on every corner.
The apartment’s table also doubles up perfectly as a desk, so you can treat it as your office-away-from-home.
View prices and book on Vrbo17. The Wood House
If you want the best views in Sant Antoni, this vintage and cosy two-bedroom apartment might be right for you.
With a green view from its front balcony and excellent natural light, you’ll even be able to see the famous Sant Antoni Market from the comfort of your apartment. Moreover, its strategic location leaves you within walking distance of many city attractions.
This is an apartment that brings a quirky character, with its name reflective of its many wooden features. It has a rustic, natural feel, and oozes charm. There’s a cute wooden work desk, contrasted with a big red American-style fridge. One of its two bedrooms is in a cosy mezzanine space accessed by a wooden ladder.
While the ambiance here is vintage, the kitchen facilities are top-notch. It’s a lovely option for a short break in this relaxed neighbourhood.
View prices and book on Vrbo18. Bright and quiet flat
This 100 m2 flat suits both work and vacation travellers. It can host up to six people and has a beautiful dining area for all of your group to enjoy meals together in a cosy apartment setting.
A highlight of this place is that it includes two private parking spaces only 50 metres from the building. This is a very difficult amenity to find in this area, and pretty much anywhere in Barcelona. Also, if you need a babysitter or housekeeper, you can contact Eloy (the owner), who will manage these services.
The elevator is also a notable feature and gives easy access to the apartment. If any of your group has mobility issues, or you just like convenience, this is a definite positive.
View prices and book on Vrbo19. Penthouse with terrace
This Sant Antoni penthouse is something special. With three bedrooms, it can host up to five people, and it has a private terrace where all the family can enjoy the view of one of the most iconic areas of Barcelona.
The perfect plan: grab some local groceries, bakery goods and coffee from the markets close by and enjoy the amazing view from the gorgeous terrace.
View prices and book on Vrbo20. Studio apartment in El Raval
This open-studio apartment in El Raval comes with sustainable benefits: according to the owners, 100% of its energy comes from renewable sources. It’s great to know if you want to make a positive impact on your trip.
Everything you need is included in this green apartment: wifi, a Nespresso coffee maker, juicer, air conditioner, and heater. And everything is fuelled with green energy. The natural light of this place that comes from its three balconies is also a highlight.
It’s bright, spacious, and provides a comfortable environment for exploring the city or working from the apartment.
View prices and book on VrboVrbo apartments in Barcelona: Gracia
Home to the unique Park Güell, the fantastic park designed by Spanish modernist Antoni Gaudí, Gracia is the final neighbourhood we cover in our Barcelona apartment selection. Filled with art-nouveau architecture, this is a very different place from the other areas we have covered.
With its international restaurants and café terraces, this is a spot many choose to spend their afternoons. Despite its modern architecture, Gracia is a traditional and auto-sufficient neighbourhood that remained independent until the 19th century. This gives it an enjoyable cultural mixture to experience during your visit to Barcelona.
Now, let’s move on to our picks for the best Vrbo apartments in Barcelona, in Gracia:
21. Cosy Gaudí Apartment in Gracia
In this cosy apartment in Gracia, you’ll be only a 15-minute walk from beautiful Park Güell and a metro connection from all other Barcelona attractions, including the beach.
Surrounded by bohemian-vibe restaurants and narrow streets, this apartment hosted by Dani is an excellent choice if you wish to visit this unique part of the city during your trip.
The apartment has two bedrooms, one bathroom and even a private terrace for you to enjoy many sunny outdoor breakfasts during your stay.
View prices and book on Vrbo22. Nice and cosy apartment in Gracia
This modern apartment is perfect for workers coming to Barcelona looking to stay in a cosy place rather than in a tourist neighbourhood. It has one big bedroom and boasts a lovely dining table, perfect for working during the day. A washing machine is included, too, and hosts offer parking upon request.
The location is only five minutes away from Park Güell, close to Barcelona’s legendary Sagrada Familia and six metro stations from the beach.
View prices and book on Vrbo23. Modern and cosy apartment in Gracia
Perfect for short stays, this recently renovated apartment offers everything you may need for a work or leisure trip. You’ll find yourself in an uncrowded area, surrounded by terraces, perfect to see the sunset in the charming Gracia.
The two-bedroom apartment is located on the first floor, and its hosts offer parking and bike tours upon request. Up to five people can stay in this fully equipped, modern apartment.
View prices and book on Vrbo24. Rustic apartment in Gracia
This holiday apartment has the perfect mix of modern, design and rustic. Its brick walls and colours give the place a bright and fun personality. You’ll also find a private front terrace, perfect for enjoying a few drinks and sunbathing on a sunny day.
The kitchen is very modern; there’s one bedroom and one sofa-couch in the living room, so up to four people can be accommodated here. A washing machine and dryer are also included. It’s very close to metro stations and, of course, Park Güell.
View prices and book on Vrbo25. Spacious loft in Gracia
This Gracia quiet duplex penthouse is hosted by Christoph and has a fantastic energy. With three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a private terrace, this place has all the amenities you could ask for.
The decoration and warmth of the apartment make you feel at home, and since each bedroom has its own bathroom, each guest gets a lot of privacy (something that can be pretty hard to find in Barcelona apartments).
Its location is surrounded by typical Gracia bars, where you can get tapas or drinks at local (not tourist) prices. What’s not to love?
View prices and book on VrboConsidering hotels in Barcelona too? Read our review of Sonder Casa Luz.
Have you rented a Barcelona Vrbo apartment? Let us know about your experience in the comments below.
See our guide to getting around Barcelona to navigate your way between the neighbourhoods.
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