The neighborhood
Until the late 19th century, the neighbourhood of Gracia was actually a separate town, outside Barcelona’s boundaries and that sense of independence prevails. Much of the area is semi pedestrianised with narrow streets and it is a favourite hangout of the city’s bohemians.
The lifestyle
Gracia is famous for it’s many “plazas” packed with with bars and restaurants where you can sit outside and enjoy the Spanish weather. There are many workshops and studios here, and the many small, unpretentious bars are frequented by artists, designers and students. If you enjoy eating out, you will be happy to know there are more foreign restaurants in Gracia than in any of the other Barcelona barrios. The highlight of the Gracia social calendar is the great festival of the neighbourhood in August, during which period the streets truly come alive, with shows and live music in every corner. When compared to the other bohemian neighbourhood of El Born, in the downtown area of Barcelona, the main difference is that Gracia is more of a hotbed of Catalanism.
The verdict
Home to locals, expats, artists, musicians, designers and students. If you want to live uptown and don´t mind being a little further away from the beach, its a great choice.
