Discover Diagonal Mar | The Best Things to See, Eat and Do
Diagonal Mar is a beachfront neighbourhood that combines a modern city style with a relaxing seaside atmosphere. It is known as one of Barcelona’s most international neighbourhoods with a mix of business centres, modern residential developments and high-end housing.
Where is it?
Diagonal Mar is located in the district of Sant Martí in northeastern Barcelona, on the Mediterranean coast. The area sits where Avinguda Diagonal meets the sea, next to the popular neighbourhood of Poblenou and close to Badalona. The area has a strong industrial heritage, which can still be seen alongside its modern development. Today, it is characterised by a mix of old and new, with historic industrial buildings contrasting with contemporary architecture and modern skyscrapers.
What to see and do
1. Parc de Diagonal Mar
Parc de Diagonal Mar offers a mix of urban space and innovative design. Its distinctive metal structures, mosaic details and open green areas make it a great place to relax, walk or enjoy a quieter side of Barcelona.
2. Nova Mar Bella/Llevant beaches
Nova Mar Bella and Llevant beaches offer a relaxing escape from Barcelona’s city centre. With chiringuitos lining the beaches, visitors can enjoy a drink or a meal with family, friends or colleagues alike. Both beaches were created as part of the1992 Olympic Game renovations and are usually much less busy than Barceloneta and Sant Sebastià beaches.
3. Museu de les Ciènces Naturals: Museu Blau
Located in the striking blue building known as Museu Blau, Barcelona’s Natural Science Museum explores the natural world through interactive exhibitions and collections covering biodiversity, evolution and the history of our planet. It is a must-visit if you are interested in nature and science. With four different locations across Barcelona, it has something for everyone. The museum also hosts an interactive permanent exhibition ‘Planeta Vida’ on the earth’s evolution up until now.
4. Zona de Banys Fòrum
The Zona de Banys Fòrum is a natural sea water pool located next to Park del Fòrum. It offers a sand free bathing area ideal for a relaxing swim.
5. Port Fòrum
For sailing enthusiasts, Port Fòrum is a must-visit. This marina offers a perfect combination of nautical, gastronomic, and leisure experiences connected to Barcelona. Its location creates a unique setting where the sea meets the city, blending a vibrant nautical atmosphere with the modern urban environment of Barcelona.
Where to eat and drink
- The Rosalia Barcelona: Creative brunch and dinner dishes, elegant interiors filled with flowers and warm textures, handcrafted drinks and live music that blend for an unforgettable experience.
Address: The Rosalia Bcn, Port forum, Moll del Parc de la Pau P14, 08930 Sant Adrià de Besòs, Barcelona
- L’Adresse: A diverse culinary experience combining creative brunch, international flavours, and Japanese inspired cuisine. From colourful bowls and signature pancakes to sushi, burgers, and gourmet dishes, every plate is crafted with fresh ingredients and a modern twist.
Address: Carrer de Josep Pla, 25, Sant Martí, 08019 Barcelona
- La Terrassa del Mar: Mediterranean cuisine, international flavours, traditional tapas, and fresh healthy dishes on a vibrant outdoor terrace in Diagonal Mar, where gastronomy and Mediterranean leisure come together.
Address: Carrer de Josep Pla, 2-22, Sant Martí, 08019 Barcelona
- Purobeach Barcelona: Mediterranean fusion cuisine in an urban oasis overlooking Barcelona, where innovative dishes, elegant surroundings, and unforgettable views come together.
Address: Purobeach Barcelona, Pg. del Taulat, 262, 264, Sant Martí, 08019 Barcelona
- Trikini: A vibrant beach-inspired experience in Barcelona, featuring signature martinis, triple bikini sandwiches and creative cocktails.
Address: Carrer de Pujades, 226, Sant Martí, 08005 Barcelona
- Kibo Brunch : A relaxed all-day brunch experience with specialty coffee, colourful dishes, fresh ingredients and a warm atmosphere, perfect for any time of day.
Address: Pg. del Taulat, 279C, Sant Martí, 08019 Barcelona
Shopping, markets and local experiences
The Diagonal Mar Shopping Centre is the main shopping experience in the area. From clothing and beauty to food and fitness, there is a wide range of shopping options to suit every taste. As well as shops, the centre offers year-round activities for kids and families.
A more local shopping experience is the Palo Market Fest. Inspired by European markets, this artisan market takes place one weekend a month in Palo Alto. There are also food and drink stalls, DJ sessions, and creative workshops.
While Diagonal Mar is known for its modern shopping centre, between Diagonal Mar and Poblenou there are more independent shops such as the concept store UNUSUAL* and Bagoa fashion clothing store.
Where to stay
Whether you are staying in Barcelona for a festival taking place at Parc del Forum, want to be close to Barcelona’s best beaches or prefer a less busy area of the city, Diagonal Mar is a great place to stay.
At AB Apartment Barcelona, you can find a selection of apartments in and around Diagonal Mar, ideal for travellers looking to stay close to the beach while enjoying excellent connections with the rest of the city.
Trams run along Avinguda Diagonal and there are multiple L4 metro stations in the area. You can also choose to stay in one of our city centre apartments and easily reach Diagonal Mar by public transport.
For Instagram lovers: Must-visit spots
- Viewpoint: Torre de les Aiguës del Besòs
- Parc de Diagonal Mar mosaics and metal structure
- Street art near the parc del Fórum and around the Blau Museum
- The Rosalia brunch restaurant
Photo by therosaliabcn on Instagram
Did you know?
Diagonal Mar has undergone one of Barcelona’s most significant urban transformations. Once an industrial area filled with factories and warehouses, the coastline was gradually regenerated, reconnecting the city with the Mediterranean and creating a new district that combines residential areas, green spaces and leisure facilities.
Following the major urban changes linked to the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, the nearby Poblenou area was transformed with the creation of the Olympic Village, while Diagonal Mar continued to develop in the following years as part of Barcelona’s wider waterfront renewal. Today, the neighbourhood is known for its wide avenues, contemporary architecture, beaches and modern seaside lifestyle.
With a mix of urban energy and calm Mediterranean atmosphere, Diagonal Mar is a great choice for visitors looking to discover a more modern, local and relaxed side of Barcelona. From its beaches and green spaces to its modern architecture and lively dining scene, the neighbourhood offers experiences away from the city’s busiest areas.
Discover more neighbourhood guides on our website and find the perfect area for your next stay in Barcelona.
