Welcome to our latest travel diary entry where we, two globe-trotting novices, share our delightful three-night, two-day journey in the less-trodden paths of Badalona, Spain. Unlike the bustling streets of its famous neighbor, Barcelona, Badalona offers a serene escape into an authentic Catalonian experience. From our cozy Airbnb near the marina to the quaint streets lined with local delights, join us as we unravel the charm of this beautiful coastal town.
Unveiling Badalona: A Serene Coastal Town
Nestled just northeast of Barcelona, Badalona serves as a tranquil haven away from the urban rush. This picturesque town, boasting a rich history dating back to Roman times, is a perfect blend of scenic beaches, historical architecture, and a vibrant local culture. A notable feature of Badalona is its relative quietness, offering a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the tourist-heavy areas of Barcelona.
Proximity to Barcelona: A Stone’s Throw Away
Badalona’s proximity to Barcelona is one of its biggest draws. Located just about 10 kilometers from Barcelona’s city center, it is easily accessible by various means of transport. This close distance makes it an ideal spot for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat while still being within arm’s reach of the bustling city life.
Journeying from Badalona to Barcelona: Modes and Costs
By Train
The most convenient and cost-effective way to travel to Barcelona from Badalona is by train. The Badalona train station, roughly a 10-15 minute walk from the Badalona beach, offers frequent services to Barcelona’s city center. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes and costs around €2.40 one way.
By Taxi and Uber
Taxis and Ubers, although less frequent, provide a more private commuting option. A taxi or Uber ride to Barcelona’s major attractions can cost around €15 to €25, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. However, note that the wait times for these services can be around 10-15 minutes. You are best to cross the train tracks at the Passarel·la sobre les vies bridge and get one on the other side.
Exploring the Vicinity: Local Markets and Tranquil Streets
A short walk from our Airbnb led us to a local grocery store and small markets, ideal for late-night beer runs. The boardwalk is filled with places to eat and drink with seaside views. The area across the train tracks was predominantly industrial, requiring a brief stroll to access the town’s core, bustling with more great shops and eateries.
Culinary Delights by the Beach
Badalona’s beach area was a treasure trove of gastronomic pleasures, eliminating any need to venture far for quality dining.
Ibèric Fusión
A seaside gem, Ibèric Fusión wowed us with its patio ambiance and exquisite dishes. The standout was the turbot, served whole and carved tableside for €32, best enjoyed shared as it is too big for one person. The burrata salad, another delight, was priced at €14. Service was a bit slow and not much English spoken but we managed to get by with ease!
Tast de Costa Bdn
Another spot on the boardwalk with a seaside view and patio. Here, we had paella for the first time and thoroughly enjoyed it. Often required to be shared, this portion could be consumed by one person if you skipped the appetizers. Although we have to recommend getting the patatas bravas!
The best part was they were brought complimentary croquettes as soon as we sat down. They were the best we had all trip! They didn’t speak any English but the service was fast and friendly. This small yet vibrant place on Badalona beach is a must-visit for authentic local flavors.
Can Pizza Badalona
This unassuming pizzeria surprised us with its delectable cotto funghi pizza, a steal for €14. The option to dine in, take away, or enjoy on the patio added to its charm.
Granier
A cozy cafe and bakery, Granier was perfect for morning espresso or a refreshing coffee shake mocha. Their freshly baked croissants and fartons were irresistible.
Chiringuito Inti
Situated right on the sandy beach, this open-air bar was ideal for a cocktail or a late-night beer. While the food was below average, the drinks and sea views were unparalleled.
The Quiet Charm of Platja de Badalona
The beach itself, divided into Platja del Coco and the Playa nudista (nudist section), was pleasantly uncrowded. The beach itself was much cleaner than the main Barcelona beaches but the shore itself and water were unfortunately the same. Lots of garbage and debris were washed up or floating in the water making for an unpleasant swim.
Our Airbnb Experience: A Beachside Haven
Our stay was at an Airbnb just north of Marina de Badalona, situated right on the boardwalk by Platja de Badalona. This location offered a peaceful escape, with fewer tourists and a more authentic local experience. One distinctive aspect was the limited English spoken in shops and restaurants, a stark contrast to the multilingual environment of Barcelona. However, we found navigating with basic Spanish or Catalan to be part of the charm.
The Unfortunate Closure of Pont del Petroli
We were eager to visit Pont del Petroli, a renowned pier extending into the sea, offering stunning views and a perfect spot for leisurely strolls. Unfortunately, during our visit. Not really sure why, but it was a disappointment for sure.
Conclusion
Our short but sweet stay in Badalona was a revelation. This understated town, with its less crowded beaches, delightful culinary experiences, and proximity to Barcelona, proved to be an ideal destination for travelers seeking a blend of tranquility and urban accessibility. As we continue our journey, Badalona remains a cherished memory, a hidden gem just waiting to be rediscovered by avid travelers like us.