Sant Martí Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sant Martí with our comprehensive guide, learn about the best things to do, places to visit, where to eat and stay, and more.


Introduction to Sant Martí

Located in the eastern part of Barcelona, Sant Martí is a district that’s home to over 235,000 inhabitants. The district has a rich history, having been one of the first areas to industrialize in the city. It’s also home to some of the most significant modern architecture in Europe, including the Torre Agbar and the Barcelona Auditorium. Sant Martí offers visitors a mix of traditional Spanish culture with modern amenities, making it an ideal travel destination for anyone looking for a unique experience.

List of Places to Visit in Sant Martí

Visiting Sant Martí will leave you with plenty of things to do and places to see. Here’s a list of the must-visit locations in the district.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museu del Disseny de Barcelona
  • Museu de la Musica
  • Museu Blau
  • Museu de les Arts Decoratives

Natural Attractions of Sant Martí: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc del Centre del Poblenou
  • Parc de Diagonal Mar
  • Parc del Guinardó
  • Parc de la Ciutadella

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sant Martí

Sant Martí has a variety of hiking and biking routes perfect for anyone who loves outdoor adventures. Some popular routes include:

  • Greenway of Sant Adrià
  • Besòs river park
  • Parc de Collserola
  • Carretera de les Aigües

Best Things to Do in Sant Martí: Activities and Tours

Aside from visiting historical and outdoor attractions, Sant Martí also offers various activities and tours:

  • Visit the Casa Batlló, a World Heritage site located in Gaudí’s Eixample district.
  • Explore the Gothic Quarter, one of Barcelona’s most historical neighborhoods.
  • Go on a tapas tour and learn about traditional food and drink in Spain.
  • Take a leisurely bike tour of the city and explore Barcelona’s hidden gems.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sant Martí

If you’re looking to make the most out of your trip to Sant Martí, we’ve got a week-long itinerary that highlights the best spots in the district:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Museu del Disseny de Barcelona and relax at Parc del Centre del Poblenou
Day 2 Explore the Gothic Quarter and have some tapas at a local restaurant
Day 3 Take a leisurely bike tour of the city and stop by picturesque spots along the way
Day 4 Visit the Casa Batlló and go on a scenic hiking trail in Parc de Collserola
Day 5 Relax at Parc de Diagonal Mar and try some local seafood dishes
Day 6 Go on a walking tour of Park Güell and visit the iconic Sagrada Familia
Day 7 Visit the Museu de la Música and see a live performance at the Barcelona Auditorium

Food and Drink Scene of Sant Martí

Spanish cuisine is a favorite among travelers and locals alike. Sant Martí offers a wide selection of traditional dishes and local beverages that you should try during your trip.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Paella, a rice dish mixed with seafood, meat, or vegetables
  • Patatas bravas, fried potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce
  • Escalivada, roasted vegetables with a drizzle of olive oil
  • Crema catalana, a dessert similar to crème brûlée

Local Beverages

  • Sangria, a refreshing drink made with red wine, fruit, and brandy
  • Cava, a sparkling wine that’s similar to champagne
  • Vermouth, a fortified wine served with a slice of orange or lemon
  • Horchata, a sweet drink made from tiger nuts and water

Where to Stay in Sant Martí: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sant Martí has a range of accommodation options available for visitors, including:

  • Hotel SB Diagonal Zero Barcelona: A luxury hotel with sea and city views.
  • Generator Hostel Barcelona: A stylish hostel with both private and shared rooms.
  • Hotel Novotel Barcelona City: A modern hotel with panoramic city views and a pool.
  • Ibis Styles Barcelona City Bogatell: A budget-friendly hotel with a central location.

What to Buy in Sant Martí: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of Sant Martí with you and visit the local markets and stores for souvenirs. Some popular items include:

  • Ceramics and pottery
  • Barcelona Fútbol Club merchandise
  • Handmade leather goods
  • Local olive oil and wine

Local Culture and Customs of Sant Martí

Sant Martí is known for its traditional festivals, including Sant Joan and La Mercè. Additionally, Spanish culture values family, food, and good company, and these values can be seen in every corner of the district. Respect for elders and people in positions of authority is also an essential aspect of Spanish culture and should always be observed.

Best Time to Visit Sant Martí

The peak tourist season in Sant Martí is May to August, with the busiest time being July and August. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, consider visiting in September or October when the weather is still warm, and the streets are less crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sant Martí

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take your time to enjoy the city and relax.

Don’t:

  • Leave your belongings unattended in crowded areas.
  • Disrespect religious customs and traditions.
  • Be noisy or disruptive during late hours.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sant Martí

Sant Martí is generally safe, but like any city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close. Avoid showing off expensive items and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Sant Martí

Spain has a first-rate public healthcare system that is accessible to tourists with state medical insurance. Private healthcare is also available for those without insurance, but it can be expensive.

Getting to Sant Martí: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sant Martí

The nearest airport to Sant Martí is the Barcelona-El Prat Airport, located just a 30-minute drive away. Other major airports in the area include the Girona-Costa Brava Airport and the Reus Airport, both of which are about an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Sant Martí

Estacio del Nord, the central bus station in Barcelona, is located just a 15-minute drive from Sant Martí.

Other Options

Sant Martí is also accessible by train, with several stations located throughout the district. The Renfe Barcelona mainline station and the Sant Martí de Provençals metro station provide easy access to the city center.

How to Get Around in Sant Martí

Sant Martí is easily accessible on foot, but if you prefer, you can also use the public transportation system, including buses and metro lines. It’s also possible to rent a bike or scooter to explore the district at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Sant Martí: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sant Martí is located in an ideal location, with easy access to some of the best destinations in the region. Here are some nearby places to visit:

  • Gothic Quarter in Barcelona
  • Montserrat Monastery
  • Costa Brava
  • Sitges

Conclusion

Sant Martí is a must-visit district in Barcelona, offering visitors a blend of traditional Spanish culture and modern amenities. From historical and outdoor attractions to local cuisine and accommodations, there’s something for everyone in Sant Martí. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a group, or with your family, Sant Martí is sure to leave a lasting impression.