Exploring the Sant Marti District: Beach Days, Big Ideas, and Better Prices
Welcome to Barcelona’s most underrated sweet spot—the Sant Martí district. Once a former industrial area, this neighborhood has had a serious glow-up. Think breezy beach walks in the morning, coworking in converted factories by noon, and local vermouth by sunset.
If you’re a digital nomad, long-stay traveler, or remote worker who wants more space for less, Sant Marti is the place. It’s less touristy than the Gothic Quarter and more laid-back than Eixample—plus, it’s home to some of the city’s boldest architecture (look up Jean Nouvel’s Torre Glòries for a taste of what we mean).
In this guide, we’ll cover:
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Where the Sant Martí district is and how to get around
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What to do (spoiler: there’s more than just the beach)
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Cost of living tips for budget-conscious nomads
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Top spots to live, work, and stay productive
Ready to see a different side of the city? Let’s dive in.
Diagonal Mar and Beyond: Where Is Sant Martí and What’s It Known For?
Tucked in the northeast corner of Barcelona, the Sant Martí district is where the city starts to breathe a little easier. It's located just far enough from the old town to avoid tourist swarms, yet close enough to bike to Plaça Catalunya if you’re feeling ambitious. This is where the town traded its factories for fiber optics—and the result is a mix of modern architecture, beach access, and some of the city’s best kept secrets.
From Industrial Roots to Innovation Hub
Once a gritty, former industrial area, Sant Martí is now the face of the 22@ tech district—a hotspot for startups, design labs, and co-living spaces. It’s what happens when you give old warehouses a second life and fill them with creatives, coders, and cold brew.
Today, it houses Jean Nouvel’s futuristic Torre Glòries, plus dozens of coworking spaces, international schools, and revamped lofts. It’s not flashy—but it’s definitely functional.
Beach Days and Green Areas
This district delivers when it comes to outdoor perks. Want the seaside? Mar Bella and Bogatell beaches are local favorites—less crowded than Barceloneta and great for jogging, volleyball, or just working from a café with a sea view. Prefer shade? Diagonal Mar Park offers fountains, sculptures, and enough benches to call your client in peace.
According to the City Council stats, Sant Marti has more than 2.6 million square meters of green areas, making it one of the most open-air-friendly zones in the city.
Local Favorites Worth Checking Out
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Rambla del Poblenou – A laid-back alternative to La Rambla, with family-run bakeries, tapas spots, and tree-lined promenades
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Diagonal Mar Park – A quiet, sculpture-filled escape just minutes from the beach
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Olympic Village – Built for the '92 Games, now a sleek residential zone with sea views and chill vibes
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Poblenou Market – Great for fresh produce, local gossip, and cheap vermouth on Fridays
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Encants Vells – One of Europe’s oldest flea markets, still going strong under a mirrored canopy
If you're looking for a place where the seaside, green areas, and modern life all meet—this is it. Sant Martí might not scream Barcelona at first glance, but give it a day, and you'll see why locals love it.
Barcelona Sant Marti Vibes: What to Expect and What Not to Miss
If you’re enjoying the idea of Barcelona but want a little more space and a little less tourist chaos, the Sant Martí district might just be your next favorite base. This neighbourhood has a relaxed, suburban feel—with beaches, wide sidewalks, and enough coffee spots to keep your workflow buzzing.
Once a hub of industry, it’s now a blend of creative lofts, sleek apartments, and start-up offices. There’s lots of green space, plenty of local hangouts, and a growing number of remote workers making this their new normal.
According to Idealista, interest in Sant Marti rentals jumped over 18% in the last year—a clear sign this area has a future that’s catching more eyes.
What Not to Miss if You Visit:
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A sunset bar session along Mar Bella
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Sunday strolls down Rambla del Poblenou
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Local vermouth at Els Tres Porquets (worth every euro)
Laid-back, livable, and just far enough from the noise—this is Barcelona without the burnout.
Why Sant Marti Is a Smart Stay for Digital Nomads
If the Gothic Quarter feels too hectic and Eixample a bit too polished, the Sant Marti district might be the neighbourhood that hits your sweet spot. It's located just outside the city's main tourist drag, which means more peace, lower rent, and beach access—all without sacrificing good WiFi or good coffee.
Over the last few years, the area has seen a sharp rise in interest from digital nomads and long-stay travelers, especially those looking for a home base that doesn’t involve bumping shoulders with cruise ship crowds. Think coworking near the sea, quick access to public transport, and brunch spots that aren't overrun by food bloggers.
What Makes Sant Marti a Great Place to Stay
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Less crowded than more popular neighborhoods like El Born or Gràcia
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More affordable rent near the beach (1-bed flats from €950/month)
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Dozens of remote-friendly restaurants and chill cafés
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Weekly food markets and artisan pop-ups
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No need for a car—metro, bus, and bike paths keep it moving
You’ll also find you’re enjoying your time more: a morning croissant at Escribà, a quiet mid-day grind at Betahaus, and an evening visit to Mar Bella’s beach bars.
For remote workers, this neighbourhood feels like the future—livable, flexible, and wired for productivity. And if you book with RentRemote, your apartment comes with a dedicated workstation, ergonomic chair, and widescreen monitor. No balancing your laptop on a windowsill—just real work, real comfort, and real sea breeze.
What’s There to Do in Sant Marti?
For a neighborhood that doesn’t try too hard to impress, Sant Marti has a surprising number of points of note worth bookmarking. This is where beach life, local life, and tech culture intersect—and the result is a mix of slow mornings, bikeable afternoons, and food that keeps you out of the tourist zones. Whether you’re into flea markets or flat whites, here’s what not to skip.
Best Things to Do Around the Neighborhood
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Catch some sun (or a sunrise jog) at Mar Bella Beach
Wide sands, volleyball courts, and a chill, LGBTQ+ friendly vibe. Less crowded than Barceloneta, and way more local.
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Hit Palo Alto Market
On select weekends, this creative hub in a converted factory turns into a pop-up paradise: food trucks, vinyl, local art, and vintage. Entry: €5 -
Bike to Barceloneta
Start in Sant Martí and follow the coastal bike lane south—flat, scenic, and no car required. -
Picnic at Parc del Centre del Poblenou
It’s quiet, clean, and ideal for lunch between calls. Bonus: benches with shade and great people-watching. -
Get your caffeine fix at Little Fern or Nomad Coffee
Little Fern = New Zealand brunch with smashed avo (€11). Nomad = no-frills espresso for coffee snobs.
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Swim laps at Centre Esportiu Municipal Bac de Roda
Public pool with flexible passes and surprisingly modern locker rooms. Entry: €6 -
Wander Parc del Clot
A local favorite—developed around the ruins of an old industrial site. Think arched aqueducts, community gardens, and shady nooks. You’ll find locals reading, kids playing, and sometimes live music on summer evenings.
Whether you’ve got an afternoon off or need a reset between meetings, Sant Martí makes it easy to explore without straying too far. Most spots are just a short walk or bike ride away—and many, like Parc del Clot, are perfect for slowing down and taking it all in. Nothing flashy. Just real life, well designed.
How Safe, Connected, and Convenient Is the Sant Martí District?
If you're the kind of remote worker who values peace of mind, fast transport, and not wasting time navigating chaos, the Sant Martí district delivers. It’s one of those rare neighborhoods in Barcelona where you can enjoy urban life without the constant buzz of the town center. You’re still close to the action—just not drowning in it.
Getting Around Without the Stress
Sant Martí is extremely walkable, with wide sidewalks and plenty of bike lanes. Two major metro lines—L1 (red) and L4 (yellow)—run through the district, connecting you directly to Plaça Catalunya, El Born, and even the beach boardwalk. Most commutes are under 20 minutes, and with a T-usual card (€20/month for 8 zones), it’s also budget-friendly.
Safety First (and Second)
Feeling safe here isn’t wishful thinking—it’s a lived reality. The district has low petty crime rates, especially in zones like Poblenou, and is known for being clean, calm, and full of strollers and seniors in the afternoons. Even at night, the vibe is more “evening stroll” than “watch-your-wallet.”
Daily Convenience: Groceries, Gyms, and Glòries
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Glòries Mall – Big brands, fast food, and a Carrefour for your grocery runs
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Supermercados Dia – Budget-friendly and never too crowded
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365 Cafè – Free WiFi, good coffee, and power outlets for a quick cowork sprint
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DIR Maragall Gym – Month-to-month memberships from €40, with pool access
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24-hour ATMs – For when you’ve left everything to the last minute
With everything from coworking cafés to public transport covered, Sant Martí is ideal for anyone who wants the comforts of city life—without the noise of the old town. It’s the kind of place that just works—so you can, too.
What’s the Cost of Living in Sant Martí for Digital Nomads?
If you’re trying to stretch your euros without giving up your ergonomic chair or morning cortado, the Sant Martí district offers a sweet spot. It’s more affordable than central neighbourhoods like Eixample or Gràcia, but with a lifestyle that doesn’t feel like a compromise. You’re paying for quiet, quality, and quick access to the things that actually matter—like fiber-optic WiFi and a decent bakery on every corner.
Rent That Doesn’t Break the Budget
Expect to pay around €950–€1,300/month for a 1-bedroom flat. That’s cheaper than most units in trendier neighbourhoods, and still puts you within walking distance of coworking hubs and local cafes. Renovated lofts near Poblenou cost a bit more, but older flats (especially near El Clot) offer great value for long-stay nomads.
Tip: RentRemote apartments in Sant Martí come fully furnished with workspace-ready setups—think standing desks, widescreens, and comfy chairs. Prices are transparent and often include WiFi, utilities, and flexible terms.
Grocery Runs and Dining Out
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Weekly shop at Mercadona or Bonpreu: €35–€50
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Mid-range meal at a sit-down restaurant: €15–€20
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Specialty coffee at Little Fern: €2.80 for a flat white
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Craft beer at Garage Beer Co Poblenou: €4–€6 per pint
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Vegan tapas at Blu Bar, #2 best vegan restaurant in the world, delicious pizzas for €15
Around Rambla del Poblenou, you’ll find a mix of casual eateries and brunch spots that don’t overcharge just because you speak English. Plenty of locals = prices stay in check.
Coworking Costs and Nomad Perks
If you’re not working from your RentRemote flat (which, to be fair, already includes your workstation), you’ve got options:
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Aticco Bogatell – Daily pass: €20, includes coffee and a rooftop view
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The Social Hub Coworking – A coliving and coworking space where plans start at €112/month
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Rapid Studio – Slightly higher-end at €207/month - weekly, biweekly, and daily plans available. }
Sant Martí may not be the cheapest locality in the city—but it’s one of the most balanced. You’re not paying for hype, you’re paying for peace, productivity, and the kind of daily rhythm that actually works for working people.
Digital Nomad Essentials in Sant Martí: WiFi, Coworking, and Community
When it comes to staying productive in Barcelona, Sant Martí gets the job done—quietly, efficiently, and with a lot less drama than some of the city’s louder neighborhoods. The WiFi? Fast. The workspaces? Flexible. The vibe? Focused, with just enough community to keep things interesting. This part of town doesn’t scream “digital nomad,” but that’s exactly why it works.
Reliable WiFi, Everywhere
Fiber-optic internet is the standard here. Whether you’re working from a café, coworking space, or your RentRemote apartment, you’ll rarely be stuck refreshing that Google Doc. RentRemote setups are plug-and-play: wide monitors, comfy chairs, solid upload speeds, and real desks (no kitchen table nonsense).
Top Coworking Spaces in Sant Martí
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Aticco Bogatell – Bright space, strong community, and a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for post-lunch resets. Day pass: €20
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Coworking Poblenou – Relaxed energy, regular networking events, and solid coffee. Day pass: €18
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Betahaus Barcelona – Technically just on the edge of Sant Martí, but well worth the short bike ride. A favorite for creatives and founders
Best Cafés to Work From (With Plugs and Personality)
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Ombú Cafè – A quiet coffee shop with excellent croissants and speciality coffee. Cozy living room vibes + great atmosphere.
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La Xula Taperia – Quieter in the mornings, and doubles as your go-to lunch spot once the laptop closes. Tapas + WiFi = productivity
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Three Marks Coffee – Sleek design, strong espresso, and tables with power outlets. Great for early risers
A Quietly Active Nomad Community
Sant Martí’s digital nomad crowd leans more “indie freelancer” than “influencer.” You’ll find Slack channels instead of loud meetups, and coworking hangouts instead of co-living events. It’s a smaller, more self-sufficient crew—but they’re here, and they’re easy to find once you settle in.
For those who like their workdays smooth and their community opt-in, Sant Martí delivers just the right amount of everything—without getting in your way.
Who Is Sant Marti Perfect For? Find Your Vibe in This Underrated District
Not every neighborhood fits every remote worker. But Sant Marti? It knows how to multitask. Whether you're building your startup, raising a family, or just trying to find a café where nobody’s on a guided tour, there’s a place here for you. Below are a few locals-by-choice who feel right at home in this part of town.
The Startup Nomad
You’re hopping between Zoom calls, launching products, and sneaking out for espresso when your Figma crashes. You need fast WiFi, quiet spaces, and cafés that don’t flinch when you ask for Oatly.
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Favorite coworking: Aticco Bogatell (day pass €20, startup buzz included)
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Weekend scene: Palo Alto Market for design inspo and craft cocktails
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Preferred fuel: Three Marks Coffee—modern, minimalist, and no nonsense
The Chill Explorer
You’re not trying to do it all, you just want your mornings slow, your walks long, and your to-do list short. Sant Martí gives you room to breathe without being boring.
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Best walking route: Rambla del Poblenou from breakfast to dinner
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Weekly habit: flea finds at Encants Vells
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Brunch of choice: Little Fern—avo toast and good people-watching for under €13
The Remote-Working Family
You’ve got small humans, big routines, and zero interest in nightlife. What you care about is safety, space, and being within walking distance of good schools and quiet corners.
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Morning ritual: pastries from Baluard Bakery on your school run
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Convenience stop: Glòries Mall—groceries, pharmacy, errands in one shot
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Favorite downtime spot: Parc del Clot (bonus: no entry fee, and plenty of benches)
If you're looking for a district that gets the balance right—between work and downtime, privacy and connection, productivity and sanity—Sant Marti quietly nails it.
FAQs About Sant Marti, Barcelona
Where is Sant Marti in Barcelona?
Sant Marti sits in the northeast of the city, just inland from the coastline and nudging up against Poblenou, Glòries, and Diagonal Mar. It's about 20–25 minutes by metro or bike from the Gothic Quarter, making it close enough to stay connected—but far enough to feel calm.
Is Sant Marti a good neighborhood to stay in?
If you’re into quiet streets, coworking spots, and beach access without the tourist markup, Sant Marti’s a strong pick. It’s especially good for long stays, thanks to its balance of affordability, comfort, and local life. Think: tech district energy with room to breathe.
What metro lines serve Sant Marti?
You’ve got options:
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L1 (Red Line) connects you to the city center and Plaça Catalunya
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L4 (Yellow Line) runs parallel to the coast and links with Barceloneta
Most stations are walkable, and the T-usual card covers unlimited trips for under €21/month.
Is it expensive to stay in Sant Marti?
It’s mid-range by Barcelona standards. A 1-bedroom flat typically costs €950–€1,300/month, depending on proximity to Rambla del Poblenou or Glòries. Groceries are reasonably priced (especially at Bonpreu), and a menú del día around here still goes for €12–€14.
Can I find coworking or furnished apartments in Sant Marti?
Definitely. Coworking spaces like Aticco Bogatell, CREC Poblenou, and Betahaus offer daily passes from €18. And with RentRemote, you can book fully furnished flats in Barcelona with ultra-wide monitors, ergonomic chairs, and high-speed WiFi—all ready for you.
Is it safe, especially at night?
Yes—especially in areas like Poblenou and around Rambla del Poblenou. Petty theft is low, streets are well-lit, and the vibe stays relaxed well into the evening. Like anywhere, just stay alert in quieter alleys and near metro exits late at night.
Still deciding if it’s your kind of place? Just spend an afternoon wandering down to Palo Alto Market or sipping espresso at Espai Joliu. Sant Martí doesn’t beg for your attention—but it earns it.
Why Sant Marti Deserves a Spot on Your Barcelona Itinerary
Sant Marti isn’t flashy—and that’s exactly the point. It’s where comfort meets calm, where beach mornings blend into business afternoons, and where digital nomads can actually settle into a rhythm.
You get the best of Barcelona without the burnout: walkable streets, solid WiFi, coworking spaces that don’t feel like airports, and a daily pace that respects both your productivity and your downtime. The balance of local life, work-ready infrastructure, and affordability makes this district more than a hidden gem—it’s a smart move.
So don’t just pass through. Whether you're here for a few weeks or a few months, Sant Marti isn’t a pitstop—it’s a proper base.
Ready to make it your spot?
→ Explore RentRemote’s furnished, productivity-ready monthly apartments in Barcelona today.
→ Explore our other Travel Guides - here's a peek into the Sant Pere neighborhood.
