Port Olímpic

The Basics

Port Olímpic is a hub of activity on the Barcelona waterfront, particularly during the busy summer months. It’s the jumping-off point for sailing trips on the Mediterranean Sea, as well as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing lessons. The beachfront is home to numerous dining and shopping options, and once the sun goes down, some of Barcelona’s best nightclubs crank up the music for the late-night party crowd. Sun seekers and those looking to cool off on a hot summer afternoon can get their fix of sun, sand, and sea at the beaches on either side of the marina, Barceloneta and Nova Icària.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Port Olímpic is a must for water sports enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic sail.

• Don’t forget to bring sun protection and beach gear, especially if you’re visiting in summer.

• Public restrooms, showers, and changing areas are available just in front of the beach.

How to Get There

To get to Port Olímpic, take the Barcelona Metro to Ciutadella–Vila Olímpica stop (line 4). Several public buses also stop nearby, as does the double-decker hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.

When to Get There

The best time to visit this seaside neighborhood depends on the season and activity. In the summer months, it’s a popular place for sunbathing on the beach or sipping a cocktail in one of the many garden bars. Sunset sets the scene for romantic evening cruises, while the nightlife here is hard to rival.

Frank Gehry’s Golden Fish

Don’t leave Barcelona without a quick trip to Port Olímpic, if only to see the giant goldfish sculpture designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. The piece of art, calledPiex (Fish), measures 184 feet (56 meters) long and 115 feet (35 meters) tall and was made from gilded stainless steel that glistens in the sun.

Ways to explore

Port Olímpic is the jumping-off point for many sailing trips on the Mediterranean Sea, as well as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing lessons. The beachfront is home to a number of dining and shopping options, and once the sun goes down, some of Barcelona’s best nightclubs attract the late-night party crowd. Meanwhile, travelers looking to cool off on a hot summer afternoon can relax on the beaches on either side of the marina, Barceloneta and Nova Icària.

Accessibility

The wide, flat promenade flanking Port Olímpic makes it easy to visit with wheelchairs and strollers.

Age limits

The drinking age in Spain is 18, so some nightlife venues might ask for ID if you’re lucky enough to look younger.

What to pack

Port Olímpic’s beaches are the ideal place for swimming and sunbathing, so bring a towel and sun protection.

What to wear

Some of the swanky bars surrounding the marina recommend smart attire in the evening.

Not allowed

Fishing in the enclosed section of the marina

Amenities

Restrooms, changing rooms, showers, Wi-Fi, restaurants, parking

Address

Port Olímpic is sandwiched between the beaches of Somorrostro, Barceloneta, and Nova Icària, so many travelers stop there during a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour for a break on the beaches.

Driving

From Plaça de Catalunya, head down Via Laietana until you reach Passeig de Colom. Turn left and follow signs for Port Olímpic/Vila Olímpica. Drive along the Ronda Litoral (B-10) coastal road toward Besòs. Take Exit 22, which is the slip road toward Port Olímpic.

Public transportation

Take the metro to the Ciutadella–Vila Olímpica stop (line 4) or tram number 4 to the same stop. If you’re going by bus, take number 47, 59, 136, H16, V21, V23, or V27.

Best times to visit

If you want to sample the city’s nightlife, visit Port Olimpic from midnight until the wee hours to see superclubs such as Pacha and Opium in full swing.

Best days to visit

The beaches at Port Olimpic are crowded on the weekends, so visit during the week to spread out on the sand with ease.

Best months to visit

Port Olímpic is at its most buzzing in the summer months, when warm weather is ideal for its outdoor perch.

Special events

Port Olimpic often hosts boat shows and regattas, particularly in October, so check the website for upcoming events.