Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Neighbourhood Top Five
Getting lost along the winding paths of
Park Güell
and exploring its more-natural-than-
nature sculptures, mosaics and columns, then resurfacing on one of the park's sunny plazas.
Checking out the swirling patterns of the facade of
Casa Vicens
,
Gaudí's first commis-
sion.
Wandering around and taking in the sun on one of
Gràcia's many squares
.
Taking in a local band or even some live poetry at
Heliogàbal.
Explore: Gràcia & Park Güell
Once a separate village north of L'Eixample, and an industrial district famous for its repub-
lican and liberal ideas, Gràcia was incorporated into the city of Barcelona in 1897, much to
the disgust of the locals. The neighbourhood retains its distinct character today, with a boho
feel that varies between chic and downtrodden - it's home to artists, hip local luminaries,
young families and a fair number of tramps.
You know you are in Gràcia when you hit the maze of crowded narrow streets and lanes
that characterise it. The heart of the neighbourhood is bounded by Carrer de Còrsega and
Avinguda Diagonal in the south, Via Augusta and Avinguda del Príncep d'Astúries to the
west, Carrer de Sardenya to the east and Travessera de Dalt to the north. The official district
of Gràcia extends beyond, taking in the residential valley of Vallcarca, which nuzzles up
alongside Park Güell.
Start the day in Gràcia by exploring Park Güell and move down to the centre of the neigh-
bourhood. If you walk from the park, cut across the traffic-choked Travessera de Dalt and
go down Carrer de Verdi, into the heart of Gràcia - it's around 1km. Otherwise, Metro Línia
3 (Fontana stop) leaves you halfway up Carrer Gran de Gràcia and close to a network of
busy squares.
Plunge into the atmosphere of its narrow streets and small plazas, and the bars and res-
taurants on and around them. The liveliest are Carrer de Verdi, where you will find wonder-
ful cafes, bars and shops; Plaça del Sol, a raucous square populated by cool bars and (often
loud) drunks; Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia (formerly de Rius i Taulet), dotted with cafes and
restaurants; Plaça de la Revolució de Setembre de 1868, a family-friendly square with a
