Guide to Barcelona Banks: Top 12 Traditional & Digital Options
Barcelona is a major financial hub in Spain, offering a wide range of banking options for residents, expats, and visitors. From historic institutions to innovative digital banks, the city’s banking landscape is diverse and competitive. Below, you’ll find an overview of the 12 most relevant banks in Barcelona, including both traditional and online options, each linked for more details.
Major Traditional Banks in Barcelona
Banco Sabadell
One of Spain’s largest banks, headquartered in Sabadell (Barcelona). It offers a full range of personal, business, and international banking services, with a strong presence in both physical branches and digital platforms.
Bankia
Previously a major Spanish bank, Bankia merged with CaixaBank in 2021 but remains a well-known brand for legacy customers and products.
Bankinter
A leading Spanish bank known for its innovative products and strong customer service, particularly in mortgages and investment services.
BBVA
One of the “big four” Spanish banks, BBVA offers extensive branch coverage and advanced digital banking tools, serving individuals and businesses alike.
CaixaBank
Based in Barcelona, CaixaBank is a leader in retail banking and digital innovation, with a vast network of ATMs and branches.
Caixa d’Enginyers
A cooperative bank focused on professionals, especially in engineering and technical fields, offering personalized financial solutions.
Digital & International Banks
ING
A global bank with a strong online presence in Spain, ING is popular for its no-fee accounts, easy-to-use app, and transparent services.
N26
A fully digital bank based in Germany, N26 provides a mobile-first experience with free accounts, international transfers, and budgeting tools.
Openbank
The digital arm of Banco Santander, Openbank offers flexible, low-fee online banking with full integration into the Santander group.
Revolut
A UK-based fintech, Revolut is favored by expats and travelers for its multi-currency accounts, international transfers, and app-based management.
Santander
Spain’s largest bank and a global financial leader, Santander provides comprehensive services for individuals, businesses, and international clients.
Wise
Formerly TransferWise, Wise specializes in low-cost international money transfers and multi-currency accounts, ideal for those with global financial needs.
Comparison Table
| Bank | Type | Key Features | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banco Sabadell | Traditional | Full-service, local expertise | /banco-sabadell |
| Bankia | Traditional | Legacy brand, now part of CaixaBank | /bankia |
| Bankinter | Traditional | Innovation, investments | /bankinter |
| BBVA | Traditional | Digital tools, large network | /bbva |
| CaixaBank | Traditional | Retail focus, digital innovation | /caixabank |
| Caixa d’Enginyers | Cooperative | Professional focus, personalized | /caixa-d-enginyers |
| ING | Digital/Hybrid | No-fee, user-friendly | /ing |
| N26 | Digital | Mobile-first, international | /n26 |
| Openbank | Digital | Flexible, Santander-backed | /openbank |
| Revolut | Digital | Multi-currency, app-based | /revolut |
| Santander | Traditional | Global reach, full-service | /santander |
| Wise | Digital | Low-cost transfers, multi-currency | /wise |
Choosing a Bank in Barcelona
- Traditional banks (like Banco Sabadell, BBVA, CaixaBank, Santander) are ideal if you prefer in-person service, need a wide branch/ATM network, or require complex financial products.
- Digital banks (N26, Revolut, Wise, Openbank, ING) are best for tech-savvy users, expats, and those seeking low fees, fast onboarding, and international features.
- Cooperative banks (Caixa d’Enginyers) offer a more personalized approach, often with a focus on specific professional groups.
Tip: Most banks in Barcelona offer English-speaking services, especially in branches located in expat-popular areas. Opening an account typically requires ID, proof of address, and sometimes proof of income.
This guide provides a starting point for comparing the top banking options in Barcelona, whether you’re a resident, expat, or frequent visitor.