Poble Sec in Sants-Montjuïc, Barcelona

Poble Sec in Sants-Montjuïc

Poble Sec is a region of nearly 70 hectares; the long strip of land stretching between the Mountains of Montjuïc and an area spreading out from the middle of Paral·lel. In Catalan, Poble Sec means “Dry Village”, a name that comes from the shortage of running water in the early days of this neighborhood. Nowadays, Poble Sec is now a neighborhood known for its proximity to the majestic Montjuïc Mountains and its incredible views of green landscape, studded with museums, parks, entertainment venues, and sports facilities.

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This area is very safe and primarily residential, although there is room for plenty of entertainment. During your stay in Poble Sec you can keep yourself occupied by indulging in popular forms of amusement, including parties, events, theatrical productions, popular bars and even nightclubs. This area is pretty quiet during the day for those who come prefer a bit of rest and relaxation during the day before coming alive at night.

However, as the area is quite residential, you will find yourself surrounded by a wide range of amenities, such as supermarkets, pharmacies, grocery stores, markets, bakeries and shopping centers. It´s also just a great place to wander around and rest your mind.

Nightlife in Poble Sec

As Poble Sec is located near the neighborhood of El Raval, it brings together a set of characteristics features of that neighborhood, such as bars for port workers, theaters, cafes, concerts halls and cabarets. Along the avenue El Parallel, electric light was installed in the late 19th century. By that time, Poble Sec was a centre of nightlife, until Franco’s dictatorship in 1939.  Nowadays,  there do remain some iconic symbols of sexual freedom and Poble Sec’s past as a party neighborhood. These include theaters such as El MolinoTeatre ApoloTeatre VictoriaTeatre Condal, BARTS and many others. In these theaters, you can always find some authentic cabarets,  classic plays and good concerts.

There are still many famous and popular nightclubs in Poble Sec. With fewer tourists and more subculture, the Sala Apolo is a great choice for clubbing. This is a large, two-level concert hall; which features 2 bars, weekly DJ parties, musical performances and events.

Address: Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 113, 08004 Barcelona
Opening hours: The concerts end approximately between 23:00 and 23:30 on the same day; and the club sessions between 05:00 and 06:00 the next day.

Where to eat

There are several great cafes and restaurants lining either side of Parallel. Here we bring you some of the best places to stop by and grab a bite in the area:

# 1 Bar Seco

Bar Seco is an establishment that provides fresh, eco-friendly meals. From breakfasts to tapas and organic burgers, and vermouth in a cozy cafe with vegetarian dishes and a terrace. If you are in the mood for healthy organic food, this place won’t disappoint you.

Source: www.tripadvisor.es

Address: Passeig de Montjuïc, 74, 08004 Barcelona
Opening hours: Every day from 13:00 to 17:00 and 19:00 to 23:00

# 2 Xemei

Ever wonder about the difference between Venetian and Italian cuisine? Come to Xemei and find the answer. A lively restaurant, offering a varied cuisine from the Veneto region, including pasta and seafood dishes.

Address: Passeig de l’Exposició, 85, 08004 Barcelona
Opening hours: Every day from 13:30 to 16:00 and 20:30 to 23:00

# 3 Restaurant Elche

Restaurant Elche opened its doors in 1959. At this historical family restaurant you will enjoy authentic Spanish food; their paella is highly recommended.

Address: Carrer de Vila i Vilà, 71, 08004 Barcelona
Opening hours: Every day from 13:00 to 24:00

What to see in Poble Sec

If you are staying in Poble Sec, you can easily walk to one of the many museums in the area. Spend a few hours discovering the works of legendary artists and learning about the lives and wisdom of the nation’s ancestors. Such as these you will find the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya or the Fundació Joan Miró, further check out our blogs about them to learn the best ways to enjoy them!

In the same vein you must visit the Museo Arqueológico Nacional, is a place where you can find the preserves and exhibits of the most important archaeological collection in Catalonia. Moreover, the museum is an essential museum and heritage destination to learn about the archeology, history and ancient art of the current Catalan territory.


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Address: Passeig de Santa Madrona, 39, 08038 Barcelona
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 09:30 to 19:00 & Sunday from 10:00 to 14:30

In Poble Sec there are so many cool place to check out as well. The Mercat de les Flors is a municipal theater that has hosted many different kinds of plays and performances since 1983. It once housed the central flower market; which has since moved to Mercabarna, this is where its name came from.


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Address: Carrer de Lleida, 59, 08004 Barcelona
Opening hours: Every day 24-hours

The other theater center is Teatre Lliure. It located in the old Palace of Agriculture, which was built for the International Exhibition of 1929 on the mountain of Montjuïc. The building features several halls equipped with the latest technology. Teatre Lliure is not only a space for performances, but also a cooperative community that produces its own works. The academic school Institut del Teatre is also based in this neighborhood. Many cultural events are scheduled here.

Where to stay in Poble Sec

The Poble Sec neighborhood has always been a popular place; moreover one that has easily absorbed the waves of immigrants that have come and gone from around the world. The area is also home to many wonderful building facades, making it a popular and comforting place for visitors to explore. For those seeking the perfect apartment in Barcelona; one a bit further removed from the busy tourist trail, we recommend Poble Sec as your home away from home.

How to get there

While the area is primarily residential, it is also just a 10-20 min walk to La Rambla; which represents the heart of the city and is one of the main tourist attractions of Barcelona. Subsequently there are two metro stops in this region; Paral.lel and Poble Sec, both belonging to the same (L3 – green) line. They are just a stop or two away from La Rambla and the port.



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xavi: Hello there! I love to travel, and Barcelona is a great city to live, thats why I decided to write about it and share my experiences!