Barcelona has become a favorite destination for digital nomads in 2025, offering an attractive blend of balmy weather, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and excellent infrastructure for remote work. Excellent public transport, world-class food, and a lively social scene also add to the allure of the Catalan capital. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the city as a digital nomad:
Visa and Legal Requirements
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is now well-established, allowing non-EU nationals to live and work in the country for up to five years. To apply, you’ll need:
- A valid passport.
- NIE (Foreigner Identification Number).
- Proof of income (200% of Spain’s minimum wage, which is €1,134 per month in 2025).
- Health insurance valid in Spain.
- Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts with international clients.
Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
Rambla del Poblenou
While Barcelona offers great spots throughout the city, several central areas stand out for digital nomads:
El Poblenou This vibrant Barcelona neighborhood transformed from an industrial district into a trendy, innovative area featuring tech startups, design schools, modernist architecture, proximity to beaches, and a thriving creative scene.
Eixample Characterized by its innovative grid layout and stunning Modernist treasures, this central area blends historical architecture with modern amenities.
Gràcia A vibrant, bohemian neighborhood with a distinctive small-town charm, rich cultural heritage, characterized by its narrow streets, and numerous public plazas. Gràcia retains its traditional Catalan roots while attracting artists, young professionals, and creative residents.
Coworking Spaces
OneCoWork Catedral
Barcelona boasts a wide variety of coworking spaces catering to different needs and preferences:
Aticco Workspaces: At Aticco you can seamlessly blend productivity with personal well-being, circumvent burnout, and cultivate a vibrant network.
MOB Traces its roots to 2011 when an old textile factory on carrer Bailén was converted into a coworking space with over 100 desks, meeting rooms, an event venue, an exhibition gallery, a maker space and a café.
betaHaus A social space, both physical and virtual, designed for the development of independent creative professionals and entrepreneurs with an open mind.
Check out our complete guide to Barcelona coworking spaces.
Accommodation Options
Aticco Living
Several platforms cater to digital nomads seeking short to mid-term accommodation:
Palma Coliving A 3200m2 villa near Park Guell, offering a unique living experience with shared workspaces and regular community activities.
Flatio Offers furnished rooms and apartments for short to mid-term stays.
Aticco Provides co-living spaces and private apartments.
Outsite A leading coliving space coming soon to Barcelona.
Check out our guides to short-term apartment rentals and coliving spaces.
Networking and Community
To connect with fellow digital nomads and locals:
Join Facebook groups like Barcelona Digital Nomads and Entrepreneurs and Digital Nomads in Barcelona.
Attend events organized by the Barcelona Digital Nomads Meetup group.
Cost of Living
Compared to major European cities, like London or Paris, Barcelona still offers a relatively moderate cost of living. Based on my experience, digital nomads should budget between €1,500 to €3,000 per month. This typically covers rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a central area (€1,000-€2,500), groceries (€400), utilities (€150-€200), public transport (€60), and coworking space fees (€100-€350 per month).
Essential Apps
Cabify and Uber make it easy to get around town, when you are not using public transport. Glovo and Deliveroo apps lead the way for food delivery.
Check out our complete guide to the best Barcelona apps.
Final Thoughts
With a population of 1.6 million within city limits, Barcelona blends big-city convenience with a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Unlike larger metropolises, Barcelona is compact and walkable, cutting commute times and making it easy to explore different neighborhoods. The abundance of social events make it easy for digital nomads to connect with locals and fellow remote workers. With its mix of modern infrastructure, cultural charm, and proximity to nature, Barcelona provides an ideal setting for a productive yet enjoyable work-life balance.