The Best in Bars in Barcelona

Are you studying abroad in Spain? More specifically, Barcelona? Grab a notebook, pen or pencil, anything! I will share my perfect going-out bar formula in Barcelona from an American perspective and my own.

I have picked 5 out of my favorite bucket-list bars as a Barcelona native and domesticated college party animal.

Spanish nightlife is like no other, so you’ll find a fun crowd to dance and drink with wherever you go.

Barcelona is known for its vibrant nightlife and its unique culture. There are many stereotypes associated with Barcelona’s nightlife that can be both fun and insightful. For example, a widespread belief is that Barcelona never sleeps, and the city is full of bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night. Another stereotype is that Barcelona is full of passionate and stylish people who love to dance and have a good time. A third stereotype is that Barcelona’s nightlife is expensive and luxurious, with exclusive clubs and high-end restaurants. Finally, it is believed that Barcelona has a great selection of craft beers and wines, as well as some of the best tapas in Europe. All of these things make Barcelona an excellent destination for nightlife fun.

So, step off the plane, strut to pick up your luggage, and head to one of these locations; you won’t regret it:

George Payne Pub

You just got to Barcelona. And to be frank, your Spanish skills could be more fluent. Maybe you are looking for other Americans to feel less left out of the Española bubble. Grab a Nit Bus or ride the subway to Plaça Urquinaona. Here you will encounter an Irish Pub (oh, you expected a Line Dance club? There’s one as well) called George Payne with good beer and beautiful décor. You might have to return if you get homesick at any of your stays, as it is Barcelona’s #1 BeerPong venue. You’ll learn to find out Barcelonians’ love for the United States. I dare you to count all the American flags you find along your visit. You landed in Spain’s second most cosmopolitan city, next to Madrid, but that’ll be determined on the next Clássico.

George Payne, Pl. d’Urquinaona, 5, 08010 Barcelona, Spain

Àntic Teatre

Let’s say you are well situated now and dying to feel embraced in local culture; take your friends to Àntic Teatre (preferably at night). The bar will captivate you with its outdoor scenery. Even though it’s an open space, you’ll hear everyone speaking in the background, and even some music. So if you enjoy chaos, are a social butterfly, or are even a smoker, this place is for you. Many locals come here after (or in between) classes to have a beer (or two); maybe that is where you will meet your new Spanish friends if you have classes nearby. For that perfect match, you would have to end up at Plaça Universitat or surroundings, which is only a 17-minute walk from Ántic Teatre ( get used to walking ). We can’t wait to see your Instagram pics there: #SOCIETY19SPOT.

Àntic Teatre, C. de Verdaguer i Callís, 12, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Orient Express

Suppose you are a creative person hungry for a mystery seeking some theme. Head to Orient Express, a bar that will deliver drinks in a replica of the famous train inspired by Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. If cocktails are your thing, this is the right place for you.

Welcome aboard to the Barcelona Cocktail Experience! Where you’ll savor delicious cocktails and you’ll satiate your thirst for mystery.

Though, if you are someone like my dad and wanted to be a conductor when you were little, you’ll be able to fulfill that fantasy. You’ll finally have your little passport where you can create your own mixes by stamping your ingredients of choice.

Orient, Express Bar, Carrer del Comte d’Urgell, 134

Espit Chupitos

Esprit Chupitos has always been a classic, whether that be because of their affordable, if not cheap, prices and their unlimited selection of shots. As you enter, you might see what seems to be a never-ending assortment of names such as Ibiza, Mint, Barcelona, “Buenas Noches,” and the list goes on. If you have a hard time making a choice, no worries, I have the perfect recommendation for you that will light up your night (literally). The Harry Potter shot is unique, though I don’t remember the alcohol base #crazynight; I can assure you its zesty taste will pair up perfectly with the flames for presentation. YES! They’ll flame it up for your perfect Instagram story! #19SOCIETYSPOT

Espit Chupitos, Carrer d’Aribau, 77, 08032 Barcelona, Spain (various locations)

Dow Jones Bar

Are you a stock, bro? Dow Jones Bar is the place for you. You may aspire to be a Broker because you’ve watched the Wolf of Wall Street way too many times. You will now be able to take your hobby to Spanish nightlife experience. The menu items are listed as shares that go up or down depending on the demand for the drink. So, at a certain point of the night, the “Market” crashes, and all the drinks drop their price significantly. Would you try that? This bar is also the perfect hangout spot for all the sport-lovers to get together for a Clásico, Fútbol Club Barcelona V. Real Madrid.

Dow Jones Bar, Carrer del Bruc, 97, 08009 Barcelona, Spain

Wherever you go, wherever you drink, remember to say “Gracias” whenever you need to thank a bartender for a refreshing Barcelona-style drink. Say “”Buenas Noches,”” when you feel like your eyes are closing and your feet can’t dance no more. And finally, when you need to leave, turn to your new friends and say: “”Adiós, hasta mañana,”” and repeat the party until all you can say is “”Viva Barcelona.”” This city is full of possibilities but doesn’t take your chances with your belongings! Barcelona is full of pick-pocketers, so watch out!

Now it seems like you are ready to explore Barcelona’s nightlife fully! This Mediterranean city will surprise you, unleash your party animal, and ground you. There are many more corners waiting for you to explore; find someone to do it with you, and it’ll be more fun.