A Guide to Sants, Les Corts & Pedralbes Areas in Barcelona

Description of Sants, Les Corts & Pedralbes

I have amalgamated the adjacent Sants, Les Corts and Pedralbes neighbourhoods to make this list of things to do and see in the area. These villages were once isolated to the south of Barcelona until the rapid expansion of the city from L'Eixample neighbourhood absorbed them into the Barcelona Metropolitan area. Today they are mostly residential and non-touristy, but each has attractions worth exploring.

Sants Neighbourhood is best known for the Barcelona-Sants railway station, the main Renfe hub of the city. Beyond transport, Sants is a lively residential area with affordable hostels and a strong local identity. Each summer, the neighbourhood hosts a Fiesta Mayor similar to Gràcia, with decorated streets and community celebrations. The Sants Food Market is a highlight, combining modernist architecture with fresh produce and traditional Catalan dishes.

Les Corts Neighbourhood is Barcelona’s financial and business district, centred on Avenida Diagonal. It offers excellent hotels and restaurants, and is home to the Camp Nou stadium, headquarters of FC Barcelona. Nearby, the Maternidad Gardens provide a peaceful green space next to the stadium. Avenida Diagonal also features the large L’Illa shopping complex, making Les Corts a mix of business, sport, and leisure.

Pedralbes Neighbourhood rises above Avenida Diagonal towards the foothills of Collserola. Known as one of Barcelona’s most exclusive areas, it is dotted with luxury villas and swimming pools. Pedralbes is also home to one of Catalonia’s best-preserved monastery museums, the Monastery of Pedralbes, and the elegant Pedralbes Palace Gardens, both offering cultural and historical depth.

At the western end of Avenida Diagonal lies the University Zone, where the avenue transitions into a motorway. This district is surrounded by public parks and gardens, including the Parc de Cervantes Rose Garden with over 10,000 rose bushes, and the landscaped Pedralbes Gardens. Together, these spaces make the area surprisingly green and inviting for visitors.

For detailed information of each attraction such as maps, photo galleries, getting to guides, tips and tickets, click on one of the photos below.

Happy Exploring!

Map of Attractions in Sants, Les Corts & Pedralbes