Barcelona nightlife is known for being vibrant, colorful, and trendy. It’s at its best on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, when the nightclubs in the area attract locals and travelers of all sorts, particularly young backpackers. When the sun sets, you will find all forms of entertainment at the various night spots and clubs, from classic opera and traditional fiestas to drag shows. Tourists may be put off by the high cover charge at many of the clubs, but there are several good Barcelona nightclubs that sometimes offer discounts on special nights and on weekends.

Many clubs in Barcelona have a strong house DJ and electronica scene. A number of clubs keep the electro vibe all week, and the creative buzz offered by the clubs makes a night out in Barcelona unique. A good variety of experimental music is on offer here, though electronic music usually takes the center stage. Hard rock and heavy metal, as well as indie rock, are also offered at major Barcelona clubs, and what’s more, salsa aficionados will find the best Latin clubs with their exquisite meringue, samba, and salsa beats. With such a lively night scene, expect some of the best live performers and world-class DJs to be on hand at the Barcelona nightclubs.

There are several areas where you can go to clubs in Barcelona. Most travelers find Barri Gotic and La Rambla the liveliest of them all after sunset. With its maze-like narrow streets, Barri Gotic is a lovely historic district in Barcelona, but there are also numerous bars and clubs located in this area, including the popular Rita Blue Club. The club has a serene bar upstairs offering the best in traditional Mexican and Mediterranean food. Rita Blue's club area is quite attractive and is hopping until 3 am. La Rambla also has a popular pub and café called Bosque de los Fades (Forest of the Fairies) located close to the wax museum at the end of the streets. It offers some of the trendiest Barcelona nightlife, including the latest DJ mixes and electronica.

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Down the harbor area is the Maremagnum, a bustling shopping mall with an exciting nightlife scene that includes pubs, clubs, and bars during nighttime. From techno to house and electronica to salsa, tourists will find everything here. When compared to the nightclubs of Barri Gotic and La Rambla, the clubs here are more expensive, though some have no cover charge for tourists. El Born and La Ribera areas are also among the best areas for clubs in Barcelona, and this area also has plenty of bars and restaurants to visit if you arrive earlier in the evening.

The Barcelona nightlife scenario is at its liveliest best during the summer season. The summer clubs offer the best nightlife in Barcelona. They offer the most exciting beachfront and sea views, and they also provide outdoor terraces for the partying crowd. These clubs and discotheques are usually open between 11 pm and 1 am, though some stay open even later. Travelers should look for free entry passes to the clubs in the La Rambla area, as PR reps often hand out free entry or discounted passes to some of the most famous Barcelona nightclubs and bars around city center.