Buying a second home in Barcelona, Spain
The number of ultra-wealthy individuals is growing rapidly (seven times faster than the global adult population over the past two decades, according to the Altrata World Ultra Wealth Report 2025) with reports indicating that Barcelona is becoming an increasingly attractive magnet for the world’s wealthiest individuals.
This is fuelling demand for luxury real estate in the Catalan city, with prime residential developments like Antares Barcelona offering ultra-luxury apartments and penthouses designed to appeal to global investors, those seeking a luxury destination to retire in the sun, or a property to support studies in the city.
And, it’s easy to see why the world’s wealthy are attracted to Barcelona, with its tree-lined boulevards filled with designer boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class service providers, and its state-of-the-art Marina Port Vell, a premier superyacht marina in Spain. Indeed, Barcelona scored highly in Knight Frank’s European Lifestyle Montor for quality of life.
Barcelona’s careful urban planning is also playing a role, with an increase in green spaces, pedestrianised areas, and the revitalisation of its once-industrial coastline, transforming the city into a luxury haven. Additionally, Barcelona has evolved into one of Europe’s most dynamic tech ecosystems, attracting global multinationals and startups alike to its talent-rich, innovation-driven environment, supported by world-class events like MWC Barcelona.
Spain has long been considered one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for property investors, whether as a long-term legacy investment, primary residence, a holiday property, or as a place to retire. A recent report noted that Spain’s luxury housing market has increased by 150% in the last five years, with Barcelona now one of the country’s rising stars for luxury real estate investment.
If you’re seeking your next real estate investment, read on. Here we share why Barcelona is the ultimate destination.
Why buy a second home in Barcelona, Spain?
Incredible architecture, food, and a sun-soaked climate
Barcelona offers a level of everyday luxury that feels effortlessly elevated. Its architectural landscape, from Gaudí’s sculptural masterpieces to sleek contemporary residences like Antares Barcelona, makes simply walking the city an incredible experience. Add an outstanding culinary scene, designer boutiques, and easy access to white sandy beaches lapped by the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s easy to see why Barcelona is now considered one of Spain’s most exclusive cities.
Barcelona’s enviable Mediterranean climate boasts long summers, mild winters, and open-air living, enabling property owners in the city to fully embrace the Mediterranean’s renowned alfresco lifestyle.
For affluent buyers, this fusion of culture, cuisine, and climate enhances the desirability and long-term value of owning property in Barcelona.
A strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean
Barcelona’s strategic location further elevates its appeal. Positioned on the Mediterranean coast with fast and direct connections to major European capitals, such as London, Paris, Rome, and Zurich, the city enables global citizens to move seamlessly between business and leisure.
The city’s international airport offers extensive long-haul routes, making weekend trips to the Middle East or the Americas effortless, as well as dedicated private jet facilities for those who wish to travel with the utmost discretion.
For yachting enthusiasts, Barcelona’s Marina Port Vell offers state-of-the-art yachting facilities, opening up ease of access to some of the Mediterranean’s most incredible coastlines.
For second-home owners, this accessibility means Barcelona offers a practical, internationally connected base of the utmost convenience.
A stable real estate market with strong rental potential
Barcelona’s prime real estate market is resilient and growing, fuelled by international demand and limited opportunities to buy in the most coveted neighbourhoods.
Superb architectural quality, resort-style residences, and the city’s luxury lifestyle appeal now drive substantial long-term value. Developers are responding with an incredible range of ultra-luxury properties.
Not only does investing in Barcelona offer a sound investment, but it can also provide steady passive income, driven by high rental demand from international business travellers, long-stay professionals, and those seeking a premium Mediterranean lifestyle. Reports by Knight Frank state that Barcelona rental yields are amongst the highest in Spain and that sales to non-Spanish buyers rose by 17.5% in the first quarter of 2024.
Whether held as a personal retreat or as part of a diversified asset portfolio, a Barcelona property offers a tangible asset in a stable, globally recognised city in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Diagonal Mar: Barcelona’s most dynamic address
Nestled where Barcelona’s grand Avinguda Diagonal meets the Mediterranean Sea, Diagonal Mar real estate has emerged as some of the most exclusive in the city. With its modern high-rise towers, resort-style complexes, and waterfront parks, this district offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and seaside tranquility. Luxury homes in this area regularly feature expansive terraces, panoramic sea views, and full-service amenities, attracting the world’s wealthiest individuals.
Antares Barcelona
One such luxury residence in Diagonal Mar is Antarres Barcelona, a one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece. This ultra-luxury residence offers an exceptional selection of properties, including luxury apartments for sale, luxury sky villas for sale, and penthouses for sale in Barcelona, setting a new standard for luxury living. Residents here can enjoy a host of refined amenities, including a spa and wellness centre, a sky terrace with a saltwater infinity pool, a padel court, a restaurant led by a Michelin-starred chef, and dedicated parking facilities.
For an investor or second-home buyer, residences like Antarres Barcelona in Diagonal Mar present not just a home but a lifestyle: a peaceful yet vibrant enclave with immediate beach access, metro and tram links to the city centre, and a future-facing address just moments from Tech Barcelona, a world-class hub for global technology.
A guide to buying property in Barcelona as a foreigner
Buying property in Barcelona as a foreigner is relatively straightforward. There are no major restrictions on foreign ownership, and the process is well-supported by experienced legal and real estate professionals. Buyers simply need to secure a Spanish tax identification number and work with a trusted advisor to manage the purchase process, contracts, and completion.
Here are the key steps to buying property in Barcelona as a non-citizen:
-
Non-residents must first obtain a NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero). This is a unique tax and identification number for non-Spanish nationals in Spain. You can apply for an NIE at a police station in Spain, or at the Spanish consulate in your home country.
-
Once you have obtained your NIE, the next step is to open a Spanish bank account. While this is not a legal requirement to buy property in Spain, it is strongly recommended and offers an enhanced level of practicality during and after the property acquisition. You will need to provide several documents, which typically include a valid passport or EU ID card, proof of address in your home country, and proof of income or employment. You will also need to provide proof of funds as Spanish banks follow strict anti-money laundering laws.
- The next step is to find your ideal property in Spain. At this stage, it is also advisable to engage the services of an independent lawyer who will support you with carrying out the necessary due diligence and managing the acquisition process.
Ready to start your property journey by buying a second home in Barcelona, Spain? Contact the team at Antares Barcelona to discover more about the opportunities this luxury residence offers for foreign investors seeking to purchase property in Barcelona.