Sitges is a coastal town in Catalonia, Spain, with sun-kissed beaches and a laid-back vibe that artists, tourists, and locals have loved for years. This charming town is famous for its renowned film festival, lively LGBTQ+ scene, and carnival, one of the biggest in the world. This destination’s picturesque streets, lined with boutiques and restaurants featuring everything from traditional tapas to avant-garde cuisine, are captivating. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Sitges, you came to the right place.
Accommodation Options in Sitges
Sitges is only a 34-minute train ride from Barcelona. This town’s landmarks include the Church of Sant Bartomeu & Santa Tecla and the Cau Ferrat Museum, once home to painter Santiago Rusiñol. The Palau de Maricel is also among the must-see attractions in Sitges. The city’s popular events and holidays provide the town with several accommodation options, including beachfront hotels with views and an impressive array of modern tourist apartments, some of which feature pool areas.
In the summer, Sitges is a mix of relaxation and partying. By day, you can feel the tranquility of its old fisher village times in its serene beaches and artisanal souvenir shops. However, come nightfall, Sitges transforms into a buzzing hive of nocturnal activity, with LGBT and gay-friendly bars and clubs to dance until dawn. Likewise, the architecture in Sitges also stands out for its eclectic combination of modernist and Gothic buildings with more modern apartment complexes.
But where should you book accommodation in this coastal utopia? We’re about to dive into the best areas to stay in Sitges. Whether you’re yearning for luxury by the sea or looking to get to know a more authentic side of the city, this guide will have your back.
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Sitges, Spain?
The best area to stay in Sitges is the Town Center because it is home to its main attractions. The Church of Sant Bartomeu & Santa Tecla, the Cau Ferrat Museum, and the Palau de Maricel are within walking distance. This area also houses boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants, and bars, including LGBTQ+ venues. Moreover, staying in this part of Sitges, you’ll be close to the train station, which is perfect for an impromptu trip to Barcelona, and only a 10-minute walk from the beach.
Find available accommodation in Sitges Town Center.
Best Hotels in Sitges Town Center
- Best 4-star hotel: Calipolis
- Best 3-star hotel: Galeón
- Best 2-star hotel: Hotel Noucentista
- Best budget hotel: El Cid
- Best serviced apartments: Sweet Inas
- Best villa: Sitges Spaces Beach House
Where to Stay in Sitges: District by District
1. Sitges Town Center
The Best area for Sightseeing
The Town Center houses most of Sitges’ must-see attractions, cultural sites, and most of its bars, restaurants, and hotels. Furthermore, the town’s train station is also in this area.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Sitges:
- Church of Sant Bartomeu & Santa Tecla
- Sitges train station
- Palau de Maricel
- Cau Ferrat Museum
- Best area for nightlife
- Beach within walking distance
- LGBT bars and clubs
- Excellent restaurants
- Good area for shopping
Sitges Town Center is, as its name suggests, right in the middle of Sitges. It is just a few minutes’ walk northeast of the main beaches. Yet, this area is well-known not only for its beautiful beaches but also for its cultural sites.
The town center has a noteworthy past since it began as a small fishing village. However, during the 19th and 20th centuries, it grew into a popular place for artists and writers. Nowadays, the area retains some of its artistic charm by hosting most of the Sitges Film Festival‘s activities.
The central part of Sitges has many places people should see. One is the Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla. It sits on a hill with views of the sea. Likewise, another must-see attraction in the area is the Museu de Maricel, which features art from different periods. Lastly, the Museu Cau Ferrat, which has art and old iron exhibitions and was the home of painter Santiago Rusiñol, completes the cultural scene in the center of Sitges.
The atmosphere in this area changes from day to night. During daylight hours, it is peaceful, with people walking around, shopping, or visiting sites. But the streets come alive at night, with bars and clubs open until late. These bars and clubs include several LGBT and gay-friendly venues that are especially busy in the summer and during Pride month.
You can move through Sitges using buses and taxis. However, staying in the town center, you will remain within walking distance from most sites in this very pedestrian-friendly place. The train station, which connects to Barcelona and other places in Catalonia, is also in this part of Sitges.
Sitges Town Center accommodations include excellent hotels with pools, modern serviced tourist apartments, and some B&Bs.
Best Hotels in Sitges Town Center
Calipolis
Calipolis is located in central Sitges, just 164 feet from the beach. It offers a 24-hour reception, an outdoor pool, a gym, and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Galeón
Hotel Galeón in Sitges features an outdoor pool and garden area, free Wi-Fi, and a free tea/coffee service on the ground floor. The extensive buffet breakfast includes cava.
El Cid
El Cid is a one-star establishment in the center of Sitges, just 820 feet from the beach. It offers en suite accommodations, abreakfast buffet included, and a swimming pool with a sun terrace.
Sweet Inas
Located 5 minutes walk from Sitges Beach, Sweet Inas offers furnished apartments with air conditioning and balconies. Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas.
Sitges Spaces Beach House
A 7-minute walk from Ribera Beach in Sitges, Sitges Spaces Beach House offers accommodations with access to a solarium.
2. Sitges Beachfront
best area to stay during the summer
Staying in the Sitges Beachfront area will give you quick access to the beach and excellent seafood restaurants and bars.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Sitges:
- Beach area
- Passeig Marítim
- Best area for water sports
- Hotels with sea views
- Close to the town center
- Beach wear boutiques
The Sitges Beachfront stretches along the Mediterranean Sea and is easy to find in the eastern part of the town center.
This stretch of coastline stands out for its sandy shores with clear blue waters. One section of the beach is mainly known for being family-friendly, with shallow waters that are safe for children. Another part attracts sports lovers due to beach volleyball and water sports facilities.
The history of Sitges is visible along the beachfront. Parts of the town center, with buildings dating back to the early 20th century, provide a picturesque backdrop to some beaches. The iconic Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks, stands close to the shore.
And, although there are few attractions per se in the Sitges Beachfront, there are still many things to do in the area. Firstly, there are the beaches, each with its character; some are busier, while others are more peaceful retreats. Balmins Beach, for example, is partly a nudist beach and is less crowded, providing a quiet atmosphere. Meanwhile, Sant Sebastià Beach is family-friendly, with calm waters. On the other hand, Ribera Beach has more activities and is excellent for people looking to enjoy water sports.
The Passeig Marítim, a long promenade alongside the beach with sculptures, is perfect for walking and cycling. Passeig Marítim also houses resort-wear boutiques, beach bars, and delicious seafood restaurants.
Sitges Beachfront accommodation includes luxury hotels and apartments with beautiful sea views. You can use buses and taxis to move from this area to other parts of Sitges. However, you will remain within walking distance of the town center.
Best Hotels in Sitges Beachfront
Sercotel Kalma Sitges
This modern boutique hotel is located on the Paseo de la Ribera seafront promenade in Sitges, yards from Sitges Beach. It features a rooftop terrace, a swimming pool, massage jets, and fantastic sea views.
Hotel Subur
Subur is on the seafront promenade of Sitges, feet from the beach and the historic quarter. It has free Wi-Fi, a sports bar, and air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV.
InSitges Ribera’s Beach
Offering a balcony and sea views, InSitges Ribera’s Beach is located on the beachfront of Sitges Beach. Free WiFi is available in all areas.
Where to Stay in Sitges: A Personal Take
Having lived in Barcelona years ago, I often found myself escaping to the nearby coastal town of Sitges for a refreshing change of pace. On my last trip there, I stayed at the Sercotel Kalma Sitges Hotel, a comfortable and convenient 4-star choice. The hotel staff was friendly and helpful, and the rooms were well-maintained and reasonably priced. As someone who loves exploring new places, I would advise choosing a hotel like this one – close to the city center and the train station.
During my visit, I discovered that staying near Sitges’ bustling city center allowed me to fully enjoy the town’s charm and attractions at my leisure. Additionally, being close to the train station provided easy access to Barcelona for day trips and other excursions.
Personal tip: If you plan to visit Sitges, take advantage of its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage by picking a centrally located accommodation option. This way, you’ll be better equipped to maximize your stay in this picturesque Catalan town.
