Lately, I’ve seen many friends on the forums discussing where to live in Barcelona, and it seems most conversations focus on city districts like Eixample or Gràcia. Today, I’d like to offer a different perspective and talk about something I personally love: villa life in the Barcelona suburbs. This is for those who are looking for more space and a quieter environment.
I’ve been living in Barcelona for several years now. I started in an apartment in the city center and have since moved to the suburbs, and I feel my quality of life has improved significantly. Waking up to the sound of birds instead of the garbage truck downstairs, and being able to have a barbecue or sunbathe in my own yard on weekends—it’s an amazing feeling. Of course, choosing a suburb also means carefully weighing transportation, amenities, and budget, so it’s not a simple decision.
Personal Take on a Few Popular Suburbs
I’ve spent a lot of time researching and visiting these places, so here are my personal thoughts on a few popular areas. I hope this helps!
Castelldefels & Gavà Mar
The biggest advantage of this area for anyone renting a suburban home in Spain is its proximity to the beach and the airport. If you’re a beach lover or a frequent traveler, it’s paradise. The area is also rich in international schools, making it a popular choice for many families. On the downside, it can get crowded with tourists in the summer, and both property prices and rent are relatively high. Plus, to be honest, some of the houses feel a bit dated.
Sant Cugat del Vallès
Often called an ‘affluent area,’ the environment here is truly top-notch, with excellent green spaces and a modern, clean layout. This area, known for its beautiful suburban villas in Spain, boasts a great community feel and top-tier private schools. Getting into Barcelona city center is also convenient via the FGC train. The downside? Well… it’s expensive! Both property prices and daily living costs are a notch above other suburbs. Additionally, the climate feels a bit more extreme than in coastal areas—hotter in the summer and colder in the winter.
Alella & El Masnou
These are two of my personal favorites on the Maresme coast. They’ve retained their traditional town charm and have a slow pace of life. Alella is famous for its wine, with many beautiful villas on the hillsides offering fantastic views. El Masnou is closer to the sea and has its own port. The community here feels more local, less international than the previous two areas. Commuting is mainly by the Rodalies train or car, and the C-32 highway can get a bit congested during peak hours.
I’ve put together a simple table for a more direct comparison. This is just my personal opinion, so feel free to discuss and add your own insights! After all, buying or renting a home is a big decision, and it’s always wise to hear different perspectives.
| Area | Key Advantages | Key Disadvantages | Best For |
|---|
| Castelldefels | Close to the beach, airport, international schools | Crowded with tourists in summer, some older properties | International families, beach lovers, frequent flyers |
| Sant Cugat | Beautiful environment, safe community, great educational resources | Expensive, slightly more extreme climate | High-income families, those seeking a high quality of life |
| Alella / El Masnou | Small-town charm, good value for money, scenic views | Less international, commute relies on train/highway | People who love peace and quiet and want a local living experience |
