Why Gràcia Is the Best Neighborhood in Barcelona

Sponsored by BCN Life.

Why Is Gràcia the Best Neighborhood? 

In Barcelona, Gràcia is ranked as the best neighborhood to live in. One of the main reasons is its Bohemian, independent spirit, which is reflected in its many small, locally-owned shops and businesses, colorful architecture and charming, narrow streets, setting it apart from other neighborhoods in the city. Additionally, it is a relatively safe and walkable area, which makes it a great place to explore on foot.

Its strong sense of community and cultural traditions are represented by the annual Festa Major de Gràcia. It’s a major highlight in the city’s summer calendar and is considered a must-see event for tourists visiting Barcelona. It features elaborate street decorations, music and traditional activities that showcase the neighborhood's rich cultural heritage.

The array of educational options, including schools, language schools and universities make it an excellent choice for families. The best international school in Barcelona is located in Gràcia, Barcelona High School aka BHS. The area also has several parks and green spaces like Parc Güell, that offer ample space for children to play and spend time outdoors. It also has a wide selection of supermarkets, health centers and other shops that cater to a family's needs. It is well connected in the public transportation network, which makes it easy for families to get around the city.

What Is the History of Barcelona’s Gràcia Neighborhood?

Gràcia has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was originally a small village located outside of the city walls of Barcelona. The village was known for its independent spirit, and had its own town hall, church and market. During the 19th century, the city of Barcelona began to expand, and in 1897, the village was annexed by the city. This marked the beginning of a new era for Gràcia, as it began to transform into a more urban area. As the population grew, new buildings and infrastructure were constructed, and it began to take on a more modern appearance.

Despite this modernization, Gràcia managed to maintain its independent spirit and unique character. The area became known for its Bohemian atmosphere, with many artists and intellectuals making it their home. This attracted a large number of students and young people, which helped to create a vibrant, dynamic community. In the 20th century, Gràcia continued to evolve and grow, becoming a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The neighborhood is now known for its tiny, winding streets, independent shops and vibrant nightlife. The annual Festa Major de Gràcia street festival, which takes place in August, is a major highlight and is considered a must-see event for visitors to Barcelona.

Why Is Gràcia Barcelona Considered a Village? 

Gràcia is referred to as a village because it was originally an independent village located outside of Barcelona’s city walls. Even though Gràcia it was annexed by the city in the 19th century, it still maintains many of its original characteristics and traditions that set it apart from the rest of the city. The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, and residents often refer to it as a "village within a city.”

One of the factors that contributes to this feeling of a village is the architecture. Gràcia’s charming architecture, narrow streets and small squares resemble those of a traditional village. Another factor is the cultural traditions, like the annual Festa Major summer street festival which features wildly elaborate street decorations and a lively atmosphere, similar to many village festivals.

Additionally, Gràcia offers a more authentic and less touristic experience compared to other parts of the city. It is considered a great place to get a feel for the true local culture and way of life of Barcelona.

La Vila de Gràcia

La Vila de Gràcia is a specific area within Gràcia and is known for its Bohemian atmosphere and lively nightlife, mixed with a family-friendly atmosphere. La Vila de Gràcia is a mixture of everyone, so it is popular with locals, students and expat families. Known for its independent spirit and a variety of small, locally owned shops, bars and restaurants, the streets of La Vila de Gràcia are lined with small boutiques, vintage shops and art galleries. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs that stay open late.

This area is also home to several important cultural venues, such as the Teatre Principal de Gràcia, which hosts performances throughout the year. There are also several parks and green spaces nearby, such as Parc de la Creueta del Coll above Park Güell, which offers spectacular views over the city. The neighborhood's annual Festa Major de Gràcia street festival is also held in this area. It's a major highlight, known for its elaborate decorations and lively atmosphere. During the festival, the streets are decorated with intricate, colorful designs, and the neighborhood comes alive with music, dance and traditional activities.

La Vila de Gràcia is considered a great place to get a feel for the true local culture and way of life of Barcelona. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals and offers a unique and charming atmosphere away from the tourist crowds.

What Is Gràcia Barcelona Known For?

Gràcia is known for its charming, picturesque streets, each with its own character and charm. Known for its Bohemian, laid-back atmosphere, it is often referred to as a village within the city. Some of the things that it is known for include:

• Vibrant atmosphere: Gràcia is known for its lively atmosphere and its wide range of shops, restaurants and cafes. It's a great place to experience the local culture and customs, and to find a wide range of cuisines.
• Independent businesses: Gràcia is home to many independent, local businesses where you can find one of-a-kind items and support small, local businesses.
• Street performers: Gràcia is known for its many street performers and musicians, which add to its lively atmosphere.
• Festivals and events: Gràcia is home to the annual Festa Major de Gràcia street festival, which is one of the most popular events in the city. The festival features colorful decorations, parades and traditional music and dance performances.
• Architecture: Gràcia is known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, many of which have been converted into trendy shops, cafes and restaurants. It's a beautiful place to take a stroll and admire the architecture.
• Family-friendly: Gràcia is an excellent choice for families with children, with a variety of family-friendly amenities and activities, such as parks, playgrounds and children's events.
• Great restaurants and bars: Some of the most popular and well-reviewed restaurants and bars in Barcelona, such a Kitro Restobar, are located here.
• Safe neighborhood: Gràcia is considered a safe neighborhood, with low crime rates and a high standard of living.
• Prime location: Gràcia is located near the city center, and it is well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation.
• Plazas: Gràcia is also known for its charming plazas, each with its own character and charm, like Plaça del Sol, Plaça del Raspall, Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia and Plaça de la Virreina.
• Art and culture: Gràcia is known for its rich art and culture scene, with a variety of galleries, museums and cultural centers.
• Nightlife: Gràcia is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a number of bars and clubs that cater to different tastes, such as live music venues, cocktail bars and more.
• Accessibility: Gràcia is well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation, including metro and bus lines, making it easy for visitors to explore other parts of the city.
• Multicultural: Gràcia is a multicultural neighborhood, with a diverse population and a variety of cultural influences, which adds to its unique character.
• Street art: Gràcia is also known for its street art, with many of its buildings and streets adorned with vibrant and colorful murals and graffiti.

Why Is Gràcia a Great Place to Live for Families?

Gràcia is a great place to live for families with children for several reasons. One of the main reasons is its atmosphere and community. Gràcia has a family-friendly and safe atmosphere, with many parks and green spaces, like Parc Güell, that provide space for children to play and spend time outdoors. It also also has a strong sense of community and cultural traditions, which are represented by its annual La Festa Major de Gràcia street festival, which is a family-friendly event. 

Another reason is the many educational options available. Gràcia has several schools, both public and private, that cater to children of all ages. Additionally, there are several language schools and universities in the area, which makes it ideal for families with children who are studying or looking to learn a new language. 

Additionally, Gràcia offers a more authentic and less touristic experience compared to other parts of the city. It is considered a great place to get a feel for the true local culture and way of life of Barcelona. 

Another important aspect is the services and amenities, there are numerous supermarkets, health centers and other shops that cater to a family's needs. It also has a good public transportation network, which makes it easy for families to get around the city.

Overall, Gràcia is a great place for families with children due to its safe, family-friendly atmosphere, variety of educational options and easy access to amenities and services. The area's cultural richness, sense of community and the authentic local lifestyle, all make it a desirable location for families with children.

Is Gràcia a Safe Neighborhood?

Yes, Gràcia is considered a safe neighborhood, with a relatively low crime rate compared to other areas of the city. One of the reasons for its safety is the strong sense of community. The neighborhood is known for its friendly, tight-knit community, which helps deter crime. Additionally, many of its streets are pedestrianized, making them safer for people to walk around and reducing the risk of traffic-related accidents.

Gràcia’s well-maintained, well-lit streets deter crime, making the streets safer for people to walk around at night. Additionally, there is a good police presence, with several police stations located throughout the neighborhood.

Since Gràcia is a popular tourist destination, the local government is focused on maintaining the safety and security of the area, this includes CCTV cameras that have been installed in the busy areas of the neighborhood to monitor the area and ensure the security of the tourists and locals.

Overall, Gràcia is considered a safe neighborhood, with a relatively low crime rate, well-lit streets, a strong sense of community and a notable police presence. It offers a safe and comfortable environment for people to live and visit.

How Do I Find an Apartment in Gràcia Barcelona Long-Term?

BCN Life is a relocation agency that specializes in helping expats move to Barcelona stress-free and find long-term rental housing in various neighborhoods, including Gràcia, and buying an apartment in Barcelona. There are several reasons why BCN Life is considered a great agency for helping expats find an apartment in Gràcia long-term:

• Local expertise: BCN Life has a team of local experts who have in-depth knowledge of the real estate market in Barcelona and Gràcia specifically. They have a deep understanding of the different neighborhoods and can provide valuable advice on which areas are best suited to different lifestyles, budgets and preferences.
• Customized search: BCN Life understands that every expat's needs are different, so they offer a customized search service. This means that they work closely with their clients to understand their specific requirements and preferences, and then use this information to narrow down the search and present the most suitable options.
• Wide range of properties: BCN Life has a wide range of properties available in Gràcia, from budget-friendly studios to luxury housing. They also offer a variety of property types, including apartments, homes and vacation villas.
• Comprehensive service: BCN Life offers a comprehensive service that goes beyond just finding a property. They assist clients with all aspects of the moving process, including the rental contract, setting up utilities and registering with the local authorities. They also offer a variety of additional services such as home insurance and home maintenance.
• Good reputation: BCN Life has a good reputation in the industry, and they have received positive feedback from many satisfied clients. They are known for their professional, efficient service, and for their ability to find the perfect property for their clients.
• Proficient in different languages: BCN Life has a team of professionals who are proficient in different languages, which makes the process of relocating to Barcelona and finding an apartment much easier for expats.

Overall, BCN Life is a great agency for helping expats find an apartment in Gràcia long-term.

Where Is the Gràcia Neighborhood in Barcelona? 

Gràcia is a neighborhood situated north-west of the city center, bordered by the neighborhoods of l’Eixample to the south, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi to the west, and Horta-Guinardó to the north.

It’s a relatively large neighborhood, extending from Avinguda Diagonal, one of the main boulevards of the city, to the Collserola mountain range, which marks the city's north-western boundary. Gràcia is also quite hilly, which gives it some spectacular views over the city.

It is divided into several distinct areas, including the historic center, which is home to many charming streets and historic buildings. This area is considered the most picturesque and charming part of Gràcia. The main area is called La Vila de Gràcia, which is known for its Bohemian atmosphere and lively nightlife. There are also several parks in Gràcia, including Parc Güell and Parc de la Creueta del Coll, which provide a calm and quiet respite from the bustle of the city.

How Do I Get To Gràcia from the City Center?

There are several ways to get to Gràcia from the center of Barcelona. The most convenient and quickest option is to use the metro system. The neighborhood is served by several metro stations, such as Fontana, Lesseps, Vallcarca, Penitents and Joanic.

The most central option is to take the L3 (green line) metro to Fontana station and then change to the L4 (yellow line) metro to Lesseps station which is in the heart of Gràcia.

Another option is to take the L5 (blue line) metro to Diagonal station and then change to the L3 (green line) metro to Lesseps station.

If you are closer to the city center, you can take the L4 (Yellow Line) metro to Joanic station.

You can also take a bus to get to Gràcia from the city center, although it may take longer. Bus routes H6, V17 and V15 all go to Gràcia.

Additionally, you can also take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service such as Uber, the journey should take around 10-15 minutes.

If you prefer to walk, you can walk up to Passeig de Gràcia, a main avenue in Barcelona, and then take one of the streets that goes up to Gràcia such as Travessera de Gràcia. This walk will take you around 30-40 minutes.

Overall, there are several options to get to Gràcia from the center of Barcelona, including metro, bus, taxi and walking. Each option has its own advantages, the metro is the most convenient and quickest option, while walking is the best option if you prefer a leisurely stroll and to see some of the city along the way.

5 Most Popular Plazas in Gràcia

La Vila de Gràcia is a neighborhood within the Gràcia district of Barcelona, and it is known for its charming squares—called plazas in Spanish and places in Catalan. Each plaza has its own character and charm. Five of the most notable plazas in La Vila de Gràcia are: 

1. Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia: This is one of the oldest squares in La Vila de Gràcia and it is home to the district’s town hall. The square features a statue of the famous Catalan painter Ramon Casas, it's a great place to take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Plaça del Sol: This is one of the most popular plazas in La Vila de Gràcia and it is known for its lively atmosphere and wide range of restaurants, cafes and bars. The square is also home to a statue of the famous Catalan composer Frederic Mompou, and it's a great place to enjoy a drink or a meal while watching the world go by.
3. Plaça de la Virreina: This is a small square that is known for its lively atmosphere and its many street performers and musicians. The square is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, and it's a great place to take a stroll and explore the neighborhood.
4. Plaça del Diamant: This is a small square that is known for its picturesque setting and beautiful fountains. The square is surrounded by a variety of shops and restaurants, and it's a great place to take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
5. Plaça del Raspall: This is a charming, picturesque square known for its beautiful fountains and well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The square is surrounded by a variety of shops and restaurants, and it's a great place to take a stroll and admire the architecture.

5 Best Streets to Explore in Gràcia

Gràcia is known for its charming, picturesque streets, each with its own character and charm. Five of the best streets to explore in Gràcia are:

1. Carrer de Verdi is known for its vibrant atmosphere and lively restaurants, cafes and bars. It is home to many independent, local businesses where you can experience the local culture and customs.
2. Carrer de Torrijos is known for its beautiful, well-preserved 19th century buildings, many of which have been converted into trendy shops, cafes and restaurants. It's a great place to take a stroll and admire the architecture.
3. Gran de Gràcia is one of the main thoroughfares in the neighborhood where you’ll find a wide range of shops and restaurants, as well as a variety of street performers and musicians.
4. Carrer d’Astúries is known for its trendy bars and pubs, which are popular among locals and visitors alike. This vibrant, busy street is a great place to explore by day or by night, and it's also a great place to find a variety of street performers and musicians.
5. Carrer de la Perla is known for its art galleries, antique shops and artisanal shops selling traditional Catalan products.

What Is the Annual Festa Major de Gràcia?

La Festa Major de Gràcia is an annual street festival that takes place throughout the district. Known for its colorful and creative decorations, lively parades and street parties, it typically occurs in mid-August and lasts for a week.

During the festival, the streets are decorated by residents and neighborhood groups, each street trying to outdo the others in terms of creativity and originality. The decorations are usually based on a different theme each year and can include everything from giant sculptures and lanterns to mosaics and murals.

There are also many street parties and events that take place during the festival, including live music and dancing, food and drink vendors and activities for children. The festival also features a traditional human tower competition, where teams of locals build human towers, called castells, which are a traditional Catalan spectacle.

La Festa Major de Gràcia is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and community spirit of Gràcia. The festival features traditional activities, such as correfocs, where people dressed up as demons run through the streets with fireworks, and the sardana, a traditional Catalan folk dance. You’ll also discover a variety of cultural and artistic events such as concerts, theater performances and exhibitions and plenty of local food and drink on offer.

The festival attracts visitors from all over the world, it’s worth noting that it can get very crowded so be prepared for the crowds. It's also important to follow any COVID-19 guidelines that may be in place at the time.

What Are Festivals or Events in Gràcia Other than la Festa Major de Gràcia?

There are several other festivals and events that take place in Gràcia throughout the year including:

• La Festa de Sant Medir takes place in March and has been celebrated for over 200 years. It is a lively festival that includes parades, music and food and drink vendors.
• The Gràcia Beer Festival takes place in April and is a celebration of craft beer. The festival features a wide selection of local and international beers, along with live music and food trucks.
• The Gràcia Jazz Festival takes place in June and is a celebration of jazz music  featuring a wide range of jazz acts, from local to international performers in venues throughout the neighborhood.
• Gràcia Fest takes place in September and is a celebration of the neighborhood's independent spirit; it features a wide range of cultural and artistic events, such as concerts, theater performances and exhibitions.
• Els Enfarinats takes place on December 28th, it is a traditional festival that has its roots in the 19th century. It is a mock battle between the enfarinats and the local authorities, involving flour and eggs.

• La Mercè is Barcelona’s main festival. It takes place in September and is one of the most important festivals in Catalunya. It features a wide variety of cultural and artistic events, such as concerts, theater performances and exhibitions.

How Does Gràcia Compare to Other Neighborhoods in Barcelona?

Gràcia is considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Barcelona, and it has many features that make it stand out favorably compared to other neighborhoods in the city.

First, Gràcia is known for its vibrant atmosphere and community spirit. It’s home to many independent shops, cafes and restaurants, giving it a unique, lively character. The annual Festa Major de Gràcia is one of the most popular and well-known events in the city and it showcases the strong community spirit and participation of the locals.

Second, Gràcia is known for its charming, picturesque streets, with many beautiful and well-preserved buildings from the 19th century.  It is also home to many modernist buildings, including works by famous architects such as Antoni Gaudí.

Third, Gràcia is a safe neighborhood with a low crime rate, and it is well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation. This makes it a great option for families with children, as well as for those who want to be close to the city center but prefer a quieter, more residential area.

Fourth, Gràcia is a very walkable neighborhood, with many parks, squares and gardens that offer a green space to relax and enjoy the city. Additionally, Parc del Turó del Putxet and Parc del Carmel are nearby where you can enjoy nature and the panoramic views of the city.

Lastly, Gràcia is a neighborhood that offers a balance of quiet residential streets and lively areas, making it a great place to live for people of all ages. It's a neighborhood that has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a lively nightlife, a wide selection of restaurants or peaceful parks.

Overall, Gràcia is a great option for those looking for a vibrant and charming neighborhood with a strong sense of community, a balance of residential streets and lively areas, and it's well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation.

12 Things to See and Do in Gràcia Barcelona 

In sum, Gràcia is a neighborhood in Barcelona that offers a wide range of things to see and do. 12 of the best things to do in Gràcia include:

1. Explore Gràcia's historic center. Home to many charming streets and historic buildings, take a stroll and discover the neighborhood's rich history and culture, the narrow cobblestone streets, colorful facades and plazas and local street art.
2. Visit Parc Güell, a famous park designed by the architect Antoni Gaudí, which offers spectacular views over the city and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The park features mosaics, sculptures and a playground for children.
3. Attend the Festa Major de Gràcia street festival. This annual festival takes place in August and is a major highlight of the neighborhood. It features elaborate decorations, music and traditional activities that showcase the neighborhood's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, the local food and drink and live performances.
4. Visit the Teatre Principal de Gràcia. This theater hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, concerts and dance performances.
5. Explore Vila de Gràcia. Known for its Bohemian atmosphere and lively nightlife, it's a great place to find unique shops, bars and restaurants, independent boutiques, vintage shops and art galleries.
6. Visit Parc del Laberint d'Horta. This beautiful park near Gràcia is known for its labyrinth and is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy nature. The park also has a palace and a lake, making it an ideal spot for a picnic.
7. Visit Casa Vicens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was one of the first buildings designed by Antoni Gaudí. It's a great opportunity to admire the work of the famous architect and to learn about the history of the house and the area.
8. Visit the Gràcia Cemetery. This cemetery is a hidden gem; it's a peaceful place to explore and admire the sculptures and the tombs of famous figures of the city.
9. Join a food tour. Gràcia offers a great variety of local food and drink, visitors can join a food tour to discover the traditional and contemporary Catalan cuisine.
10. Visit the Casa Elizalde. This modernist building is a museum and cultural center that hosts exhibitions, concerts and other events.
11. Visit the Gràcia Market. This market is one of the oldest in the city and offers a variety of fresh products, visitors can try the local food and buy souvenirs.
12. Visit the Passeig de Gràcia. This famous street is known for its luxury shops and historical architecture. Visitors can admire the famous buildings such as the Casa Batlló and La Pedrera and it is recommended to visit these two famous Gaudí buildings.

You can learn more about BCN Life Relocation Experts at bcn-life.com.

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Akida Mashaka is co-founder and managing director of BCN Life, the leading Barcelona relocation agency for English-speaking expats. Akida is an American Harvard Law trained attorney from Los Angeles, California. He lives in Barcelona with his wife, Lia who is also his business partner, and his two children. 

Sponsored by BCN Life.

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