Top 5 Things to do in Gràcia

Gràcia is a very special part of Barcelona. Indeed, it has its own touch and own personality and the atmosphere is completely different in comparison with the other neighbourhoods in Barcelona.

Let’s talk a bit about history first. Back in the 17^th century, Gràcia was not even a part of Barcelona. It was its own town and was completely independent. You could access the town of Gràcia from Barcelona by what is known nowadays as the famous “Passeig de Gràcia”. But, when Barcelona started to grow, there was eventually no boarder between the two cities. Therefore, Gràcia and Barcelona became one whole city during the 19^th century.

Nowadays, Gràcia still feels like a neighbourhood with its own independent spirit. You can tell it has something special. With this special atmosphere, you can assume that there are a lot of things to see. But, if you were to do only 5 things in this amazing neighbourhood, here is a list of things that we at Casamona recommend you don’t miss when you visit Gràcia.

1. Park Guëll

It is hands down the no.1 place you need to go to in Gràcia.  It is one of the main works of the famous Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudi. This place is part of the cultural heritage of the UNESCO for the fact that it contributed to the architecture development in the 19^th and 20^th century.

If you are willing to have a free visit to the park, you can enjoy the panoramic views as well as the Bird nests made by Gaudi that can be seen in different parts of the park. 95% percent of the park is for free, only the Monumental Zone is not. Indeed, to see the emblematic multi-coloured mosaic salamander or Gaudi’s mosaic work, you will have to pay  10 euros. If you want to go to the Gaudi House Museum, you will also have to pay. However, it is a different entry that does not include access to the rest of the Monumental Zone. Note that the entry for this famous museum is 5,50 euros and 4,50 for students.

2. Carrer Verdi

This street in Gràcia is famous for its independent food, fashion and art. In this street you will also find one of the most popular cinemas of Barcelona, the Cinema Verdi. In this cinema you can watch movies in their original languages, which is rare in Barcelona. As a foreign person, it is always good to know that you can watch a movie in the theatre in your mother tongue. The prices are between 6 and 9 euros.

3. Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia

This is one of the most emblematic squares in Gràcia. Indeed, it used to be the ancient’s town main square. It is very attractive, and filled with children, tourists and terraces all around. This popular place is being watched over by Gràcia’s most emblematic symbol: the clock tower. It happens to be right in the middle of the square, which is what makes it very special for the tourists and locals.

4. Teatre Lliure

Situated in the Carrer de Montseny, this theater is an important and well-known element in the Gràcia neighbourhood. The locals enjoy this theater because it is independent and revisits the classics in Catalan. However, you can also enjoy a play in English.

5. Plaça del Sol

Plaça del Sol is one of the best places to go to eat or drink in Gràcia. Indeed, if you wish to go to a bar or to get some tapas this is the right place to be. When the night comes, it is full of locals, and groups of young people chatting and playing guitar. This environment perfectly represents the bohemian and free atmosphere of Gràcia.

Bonus: The Gràcia Festival in August (Festa major)

If you happen to be in Gràcia during August, you will probably come across The Gràcia Celebrations. This is a street festival in which all streets are in competition against one another to win the prize of the best-decorated street. The decorations are very colourful and creative, which makes this festival so unique in Barcelona. In addition, you will also find concerts and shows during this amazing event. The best part of it is that everything is free!

To find out more information about this neighbourhood, you can check out our area page dedicated to Gràcia here.

If you wish to discover another well-known neighbourhood in Barcelona, check out our blog about Gracia