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Bar Marsella - Complete Review

4.4

If you're visiting Barcelona and want to experience something truly different, Bar Marsella is a spot worth checking out. It's one of those places where history and atmosphere combine in a way that feels authentic and unique. Located in the El Raval neighborhood, this bar has been around since the 1820s and still retains its vintage charm. The highlight here is definitely the absinthe, served in a traditional style that's rare to find these days. While the bar can get pretty packed on weekends, it's all part of the lively experience. The friendly bartenders and the chance to chat with locals make it even more enjoyable.

Bar Marsella is a great spot for both history lovers and anyone wanting a memorable night out, offering a truly unique experience.

Location

Carrer de Sant Pau, 65, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona, Spain

Contact

Opening Hours

Monday: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Tuesday: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Thursday: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Friday: 5:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Saturday: 5:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Sunday: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Price Range

$$$$

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible

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Why We Recommend It

  • Bar Marsella has a welcoming and friendly bartender, which makes the experience more enjoyable and personal.
  • The clientele is cool and sociable, offering a chance to meet interesting people during your visit.
  • The bar's historical charm and unique atmosphere make it feel like stepping back in time, offering a memorable experience.
  • It's a great spot to try authentic absinthe, which is served in a traditional way that adds to the overall experience.

Downsides

  • The bar can get quite busy on weekends, which might make it difficult to find a seat if you arrive late.

Bar Marsella Rating Breakdown

Bar Marsella has a 4.4-star rating because it offers a unique and nostalgic experience with its historic setting and traditional absinthe ritual. The bar's charm lies in its vintage decor and the stories of famous visitors like Dali and Hemingway. While some might find it too busy on weekends, the friendly atmosphere and the chance to enjoy a unique drink make it worth a visit. It's a place where you can relax and chat with locals, adding to the overall positive experience.

Our Review of Bar Marsella

Bar Marsella in Barcelona is a fascinating spot with a long history. It's located in the El Raval neighborhood, which adds to its unique vibe. The bar offers a traditional absinthe experience that you won't find in many places, making it quite a special visit. The interior of Bar Marsella is something else.

With its old bottles and vintage decor, it feels like stepping back in time. You can almost see Dali and Hemingway hanging out here. The place is all about atmosphere and conversation, as there's no music playing. While Bar Marsella is a great spot to enjoy a drink, it's not the best for a long night out or a romantic date.

The bar's charm lies in its simplicity and historical feel rather than modern amenities. It can get pretty busy on weekends, so finding a seat might be tricky if you arrive late. Overall, this Bar Marsella review would be incomplete without mentioning the friendly bartenders who make the experience even better. The clientele is sociable, and you're likely to meet interesting people during your visit.

It's a memorable place to enjoy an authentic drink in a setting that takes you back in time.

Services Offered by Bar Marsella

  • Traditional absinthe experience with sugar cube ritual
  • Historic bar with vintage, shabby interior
  • Located in the multiethnic El Raval area
  • Lively atmosphere with no music, just conversation
  • Drinks priced between $7 to $15

Experiences to check out in Barcelona

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When to Visit

Bar Marsella is a nice place to go during the week if you want a more laid-back vibe. It's open from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM on weekdays, so stopping by after dinner is perfect. If you prefer a livelier atmosphere, Friday and Saturday nights are the best, as the bar stays open until 1:30 AM.

Who It's Best For

Bar Marsella is great for those who appreciate a bar with history and character. If you're into places with a unique, old-timey vibe and enjoy sipping on authentic absinthe, you'll feel right at home here. It's perfect for people who like to chat with friendly bartenders and locals, and who enjoy a good drink in a setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Bar Marsella Review Wrap Up

Finally, Bar Marsella in Barcelona offers a unique experience that stands out for its charm and traditional absinthe service. With its vintage atmosphere and friendly staff, it's a place where you can enjoy a memorable drink and meet interesting people.

The bar's setting in El Raval adds to its appeal, though it can get busy on weekends. If you visit during the week, you can expect a more relaxed vibe and while the seating isn't the most comfortable for long stays, it's a minor trade-off for the chance to step back in time. For the most part, this Bar Marsella review highlights that is a great spot for those who appreciate history and a good conversation over a drink. It's definitely worth a visit for anyone looking to add a special touch to their Barcelona experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bar Marsella doesn't have any special happy hour deals or discounts. Drinks are reasonably priced, though, ranging from $7 to $15, which is pretty good considering the unique experience you get. It's a cool place to enjoy a drink without breaking the bank.

The seating at Bar Marsella is pretty basic, with old wooden chairs and tables that match the vintage vibe. It's not the most comfortable for long stays, but it fits the historic charm of the place. Think of it as a spot to enjoy a drink and chat rather than settle in for a long night.

Bar Marsella doesn't usually get busy right when it opens at 5:00 PM. If you prefer a quieter time, visiting early in the evening is a good idea. It tends to be more laid-back then, giving you a chance to enjoy the unique atmosphere and the absinthe experience without the weekend crowds.

People who love a good story and enjoy a bit of nostalgia would really appreciate Bar Marsella. It's the kind of place where history buffs and fans of famous artists like Dali and Hemingway can feel a connection to the past. If you enjoy sipping on a drink while imagining the stories these walls could tell, this bar is definitely for you.

Parking near Bar Marsella can be a bit tricky since it's located in the busy El Raval area. There aren't any dedicated parking spots for the bar, so you might have to rely on street parking, which can be hard to find. Public transport or a taxi might be a better option if you're planning to visit.

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