A nightlife guide for barcelona

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

Spanish people are known throughout Europe for their nightlife, which doesn't seem to start until well past midnight, but keeps on going until dawn. Barcelona is one of the centers of this enthusiastic party lifestyle, and visitors can expect an unforgettable night of dancing and enjoyment until the sun rises over the city once again. This guide gives you all you need to enjoy the major hotspots of the city as well as the hidden bars and clubs that can't be beat.

Razzmatazz: The largest and possibly most popular club in the city, Razzmatazz is actually a collection of five clubs, each with distinct music styles and clientele, from rock and roll to pop music to house beats. With a world-wide reputation and a beautiful location, the club attracts partygoers from all over the world with its bright lights and loud music. (C/Almogavares 122)

La Paloma: Located in the middle of La Raval, the lively center of the city, La Paloma is a converted dance hall, over 100 years old, that now features a live orchestra as well as club nights and latin fusion music. Don't show up early though, the club doesn't even open it's doors until 2:30am! (C/Tigre 27)

Salsitas: Serving an earlier crowd, as both a dance club and Mexican fusion restaurant, Salsitas is a great place to start the night. With a range of visiting DJs and musicians, this location has already become popular in its short three year history. Doors open at 4pm, and the club is open until 2:30am. (C/Nou de la Rambla 22)

Pirates of the Caribbean: This original bar has a pirate theme, complete with authentic pirate ship and waitstaff in full 18th-Century costumes. With a focus on tropical drinks and a large collection of cocktails and shots, this is a great bar for those feeling adventurous. The bar is open until 3am on Friday and Saturday nights. (C/Ample, 30-32)

Macarena Club: With almost 100 years of history, this club was originally founded as a flamenco bar, but has become one of the city's best venues for live music. Remodeled with post-modernist architecture and some of the best acoustics around, this club in the heart of the city is a great place to hear a wide variety of music. The club is open from 11pm to 5am daily. (C/Nou de Sant Francesc 5)

London Bar: Not your traditional English pub, this bar was opened in 1910 and has served such people as Dali, Picasso, and Hemingway. Kept much the same as before, the bar maintains an artsy, intellectual vibe, even when packed full of people. Lively music and vibrant atmosphere make this a great place to feel at home and to be part of the excitement of the city. (C/Nou de la Rambla 34)

Plastic Club: One of the most chic and trendy clubs in the city, Plastic Club has a blend of fashion, art, and design that shows through its environment, music, and people. From house to chillout, with several dance floors and a non-stop bar, the club is a great place for people looking for an upscale night out. Open from 9pm to 3am. (C/Passeig del Born 19)

La Fira: Barcelona's only Amusement Park themed bar, La Fira is unique in the city. With distorting mirrors in the entrance, converted merry-go-round bars and swing chairs to sip drinks in, this place will leave you feeling like a kid again. The back is full of old games and contests, and the club has lively music and friendly staff to match. This is definitely worth a look. (C/Provenca 171)

Arena: With five locations throughout the city, the Arena complex serves the gay clientele of Barcelona and welcomes open-minded members of the straight community. Each location has a different feel, but all share a friendly vibe, slightly cheesy music, and good atmosphere.