Safe and well-connected neighborhoods for international students in Barcelona
- Easy Move Solutions
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 21
Discover the best areas of Barcelona for students: safe, well-connected, and with a youthful atmosphere. Ideal if you are about to move.
Moving to Barcelona to study is an exciting experience, but choosing where to live can be challenging. If you are an international student looking for a safe, well-connected area with a good student atmosphere, this guide is for you.
At EMS, we have prepared this resource to help you make more informed decisions, avoid impractical areas, and find the perfect balance between comfort, access to transportation, and university life.
What makes a good neighborhood for international students?
When looking for accommodation in Barcelona as a student, it's not all about price. There are three key factors that should guide your decision:
Safety
Barcelona is, in general, a safe city. However, as in any large European city, there are areas with a higher incidence of theft or poor nighttime lighting. According to data from the Barcelona City Council (2024), districts such as Grà cia, Les Corts, and Eixample have lower rates of petty crime, especially on streets near educational centers and residential areas.
Connectivity
Getting around quickly and cheaply is key to your daily life. A good neighborhood for students should be well connected to subway lines (ideally L1, L3, or L5), bus stops, and have easy access to universities such as the UB, UAB, UPF, Blanquerna, or ESADE. The less you have to rely on transfers, the better.
Young atmosphere and services
University life is not just about going to class. It's also about cafés to study in, nearby supermarkets, parks to unwind in, and bars where you can meet people. The best neighborhoods for students offer just that: a young, dynamic, and balanced environment.
The 5 most recommended areas to live as a student
Barcelona has many attractive neighborhoods, but these five stand out for their combination of safety, connectivity, and student life:
1. Eixample
One of the most central and organized areas of the city. Its wide streets, good lighting, police presence, and proximity to universities such as the UB make it a favorite. It has multiple metro stations (L1, L2, L3, L5) and many student residences.
Ideal if you want to live close to the center, with everything at your fingertips.
2. Grà cia
A charming neighborhood with an artistic vibe and lively squares. Although it is not the cheapest, it is very popular among international students for its safety and local atmosphere. Connected by L3 and buses.
Perfect if you value authenticity and a more bohemian environment
3. Les Corts
A quiet, residential area with a good mix of students, families, and professionals. Home to the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), it has excellent connections to the L3 and direct buses to the city center.
Recommended if you are looking for peace and quiet, safety, and proximity to campus.
4. Poblenou
Located near the sea, this neighborhood is undergoing a technological and urban transformation. It has a good selection of shared apartments, green spaces, and access to the L4. It is an attractive option for creative students or those studying tech-related degrees.
Ideal if you like living near the beach and in an innovative environment.
5. Sant Gervasi
One of the safest areas in Barcelona, with residential streets and good connections to the L6/L7 (railways). It is not the cheapest, but it is an excellent option for those who prioritize tranquility and accessibility.
A top choice if you are looking for a more residential and exclusive experience.
How to find safe accommodation in Barcelona?
Looking for an apartment or room from abroad can be stressful. Here are some key tips:
Use reliable websites: Idealista, Badi, Spotahome, Uniplaces.
Be wary of prices that are too low or landlords who avoid video calls.
Never send money in advance without a contract.
Don't want to deal with it alone? At Easy Moves Solutions, we help international students find verified accommodation, avoiding scams and facilitating the entire process from your home country.
Which area suits you best?
Final recommendations and how Easy Move can help you
Choosing where to live can make a big difference to your student experience. Remember to prioritize safe, well-connected neighborhoods that allow you to easily integrate with other young people.
At Easy Move Solutions, we not only help you find accommodation, but we also accompany you in the first steps to make your move to Barcelona easier and safer. Write to us if you need personalized help.
Sources & References:
Barcelona City Council. https://ajuntament.barcelona.cat
Barcelona.cat: Public safety. https://barcelona.ca