Expat guide to Barcelona: Everything you need to know about housing, work and culture to make this city your new home
Get ready to fall in love with life in one of the world's most iconic cities, and find out how to make Barcelona your new home.
1. Finding your new home in Barcelona
Barcelona is a city where each neighborhood has its own style and personality. Housing in the city can range from elegant apartments in Eixample to more bohemian places in Gràcia. Here are some basic tips to make your housing search easier.
Popular neighborhoods: If you prefer a cosmopolitan and modern atmosphere, Eixample is ideal, with its wide avenues, modernist architecture and proximity to many services. For those looking for a neighborhood experience, Gràcia is an excellent choice with its bohemian atmosphere, narrow streets and lively squares. Poblenou offers a coastal lifestyle and creative community, while Sants and Poble-sec are quieter residential neighborhoods connected to the center.
Mid-term rentals: Many expats find mid-term rentals (between 1 and 11 months) the ideal solution while exploring the city or settling in for good. At atemporal Monthly Rentals Barcelona, we specialize in mid-term rentals so you can find the perfect place with total flexibility and no long-term commitments.
Documentation and deposits: Passport, proof of income or work contract, and a deposit (two months' rent) are usually required. Make sure you have these documents ready to expedite the process.
2. Tips for finding a job and understanding the job market
The job market in Barcelona is diverse, with opportunities in technology, tourism, education, and especially in the growing startup and technology sector. Here are some key points:
Visas and work permits: If you come from an EU country, you can work without a visa. However, for those coming from outside, you need to have a work permit, usually managed by your employer. There is also the digital nomad visa, ideal for those who work remotely.
Networking and job portals: Networking is essential in Spain. Platforms such as LinkedIn, InfoJobs, and Indeed are popular, but it is also key to attend local networking events , such as those of Barcelona Activa or those organized in coworking spaces such as Aticco or WeWork.
Work environment: Work in Spain tends to be a bit more informal than in other countries, but they also value respect and organization. Be prepared for the famous “cafecito” with your colleagues and you will learn that break time is fundamental in the Spanish work culture.
Related articule: We explain the step-by-step process for registering in a CAP in Barcelona
3. Understanding Spanish (and Catalan) culture and customs
Adapting to the local culture is an essential step. Barcelona has a fascinating cultural mix, combining Catalan traditions with Spanish culture.
Language: Although Spanish (Castilian) is widely spoken, Catalan is the official language in Catalonia. Knowing a few words in Catalan, such as “Bon dia” (good morning) or “Gràcies” (thank you), will make you feel more a part of the community. Don't worry if you are not fluent; most locals speak both languages.
Social customs: In Spain, people tend to eat late (lunch between 2 and 3 p.m. and dinner between 9 and 10 p.m.), so be prepared to adjust your schedule. Catalans value time with family and friends, and the concept of “sobremesa” (chatting after a meal) is sacred. It is common to spend hours enjoying a conversation after a meal, especially if it is on a terrace in the sun.
Festivities and events: In Barcelona there is always something to celebrate. From the Diada de Catalunya in September to the vibrant Sant Jordi in April, where the city is filled with books and roses, and of course, the iconic festes de Gràcia in August. Don't miss the Castanyada ( an autumn festival where chestnuts are eaten) and the night of San Juan in June, celebrated on the beach with fireworks.
4. Exploring the gastronomy: from tapas to vermouths
Food in Barcelona is an experience you won't want to miss. From fresh seafood to classic pinchos and tapas, and of course the delicious bread with tomato (pa amb tomàquet), there is something for everyone.
Tapas and vermouth: Sundays are for vermouth, so find a bar in El Born or Poble-sec and enjoy this tradition with friends. Places like Quimet & Quimet and El Xampanyet offer an excellent selection of tapas.
Local markets: Exploring markets like La Boqueria or Sant Antoni Market will allow you to discover fresh ingredients and taste authentic local flavors. And don't forget the calçots (a kind of spring onion) if you visit in winter, which are usually eaten in a “calçotada” with romesco sauce.
5. Mobility and transportation in the city
Barcelona has an efficient and accessible transportation system. The metro, bus and streetcar cover almost the entire city, and you can get a T-usual Card that allows you to move without limits for a month.
Transportation options: In addition to the metro, Barcelona is a perfect city for getting around by bicycle, with safe lanes throughout the city. You can also use bike and bike-sharing services such as Cooltra and Bicing.
Airport and international connections: Barcelona-El Prat Airport is only 20 minutes from the city center and is well connected to Europe and the rest of the world. From Sants train station you can also take the AVE (high speed train) to other cities in Spain, such as Madrid, Valencia or Seville.
6. Making friends and building a social network
Making friends in a new city can be challenging, but Barcelona has a large international community and many expats willing to socialize.
Events and groups: From Meetup groups to language exchange events like Tandem or Language Exchange Barcelona, there are multiple options for meeting new people. Coworking spaces and sports centers are also great for networking.
Getaways and activities: Barcelona's surroundings are perfect for weekend getaways. From the magical Montserrat to the beaches of Costa Brava and the wine routes in the Penedés, there is always an activity to disconnect and enjoy nature.
7. Conclusion: Welcome to your new life in Barcelona.
Living in Barcelona as an expatriate is an enriching and unique experience. With its mix of cultures, excellent quality of life, and endless activities and places to discover, this city has a lot to offer to those who call it home, whether for a few months or years.
The Catalan capital is welcoming, inspiring and always has something new to offer. At atemporal Monthly Rentals Barcelona, we want to make this city your home and help you make this experience unforgettable. Welcome to Barcelona, your new adventure is about to begin!