In a popular city like Barcelona, it can be easy to get swept up in the fray of the “Old City” (Ciutat Vella), where most tourists concentrate their time. But about a mile northwest of the center is a neighborhood called Vila de Gràcia, where residents are able to find a bit of tranquility away from the crowds, and therefore experience a more authentic environment for visitors.
Step out a bit early for a peaceful café con leche in one of Gràcia’s picturesque squares, like Plaça del Sol or Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia. Properly caffeinated, spend the morning wandering the small streets and alleys of Gràcia, where vehicles are scarce but local life is abuzz on any given weekday morning. Pop into the Mercat de la Llibertat, a standard indoor food market established in the late 19th century.
Continue your people-watching activities by posting up at one of Gracia’s numerous terrace restaurants, or grab some food at the aforementioned market and take your goodies to your next destination, Parc Güell.
At Parc Güell, entry to the general park area is free, but those who want to explore a section dedicated to and designed by famed artist Antoni Gaudi will need to pay an extra fee. Even without the fee, the park’s winding paths and stunning views of the city all the way to the sea are enough to satisfy your craving for nature.
End the night at tapas restaurant La Pepita, where you’ll most likely face a wait so try to go early. This isn’t difficult to achieve in Spain as dinnertime for locals hovers around 10 p.m.
Read This Next
Under $100: Burlington, Vermont
Under $100 / North America
Jun 14, 2022#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDining/Entertainment
Feb 17, 2025COMO Shambhala Debuts Two Cleanse Menus
Two new four-day, three-night cleanse menus recently debuted at COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali. The offering, crafted by the COMO Shambhala Kitchen, are also on offer at COMO Shambhala Metropolitan Singapore.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Trends / Health & Wellness
Feb 17, 2025Vakkaru Maldives Takes A Holistic Approach to Modern Wellbeing with 3 Experiences
Vakkaru Maldives strives to redefine luxury wellness by offering guests a relaxing retreat where up-to-date trends in holistic health are curated into one-of-a-kind experiences. The resort added several key wellness themes to its offerings to help meet the needs of modern visitors.
Uncategorized
Feb 14, 2025Stay at These Brand-New Oberoi Properties
Be the first of your traveling friends to visit these brand-new Oberoi Hotels & Resorts properties. The luxury brand opens three resorts this year, starting with The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort this month.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Destinations
Feb 14, 2025Top Cities for Digital Nomads in 2025
With remote work becoming more popular, the digital nomad lifestyle is more attainable and attractive to millennials and gen-Zers alike. This cultural movement blends career ambitions with a passion for exploration and travel. Toward the end of 2024, Google searches for “digital nomad” increased by 53 percent. From café hopping in Prague to work spaces in Chiang Mai, this lifestyle offers travel enthusiasts an opportunity to combine professional growth with memorable experiences.
ShareThis