How lucky are we in beautiful Britain to have Barcelona only a few hours flight away?
A city with all the ingredients for a perfect break. Quaint historic streets, incredible food, a miscellany of shops, topped with a beach.
I never get bored of Barcelona. How could I ever tire of long weekends spent washing down grilled prawns with Spanish wine. I visit most years, staying in either boutique hotels or self-contained apartments.
My favourite part of the city is the old town. Where the cobbles replace paving stones, the tall buildings huddle close, and streets, not much wider than my arm span, offer shelter from the hot sun. Tiny tapas bars promise fried anchovies and chilled wine.
But this year, I find a contender - we stay in Gràcia, a low-key district that I soon learn, has all the charm of Barcelona without the crowds. And I also soon learn that Gràcia, rather than being full of attractions, is an attraction in itself.
History
Gràcia which spreads across the foothills of the Collserola mountain range was, until 1897, separate to Barcelona. But as the Barcelona city expanded it crept upon this independent town until eventually Gràcia was incorporated as a neighbourhood of Barcelona.
Gràcia remains proud of her roots and maintains an individual feel. Pro-Catalan-independence graffiti art decorates the streets and the Catalan flag flies over windows and terraces with dignity.
Eat
When it comes to food, Gràcia is the foodie's perfect place to have an authentic Catalan cuisine experience. Menus are reasonably priced and consist of a wide variety of tasty tapas, and fresh salads - but as the ample restaurants (mostly independent) cater to the local markets, most menus are in Catalan. If you're unsure where to start, try the lunchtime menu del dia (menu of the day) or if you haven't got food allergies, and like most things - why not just order and see what you get. I doubt you'll be disappointed.
Shop
If you're looking to awaken your senses, Abaceria Central Market's stall-holders will shower you with products. The iron and brick structure examples the most remarkable oval roof, under which you can shop for any kind of fresh vegetable or fruit, fresh meat, fish, cheese, and spices. Don't be put off from going if you have no reason to buy - skip breakfast and go and experience a snack or some tapas at the bar.
At the heart of Gràcia's shopping is an independent feel. The streets and squares are punctuated with multiple small shops selling the wares of talented artisans and artists. You’ll find craft and accessory stores, furniture workshops, and a wide range of clothing. Gràcia is the best for shopping for something a bit different, and a definite must go place if you love a spot of vintage.
Getting Out and About
Gràcia is perfect for people like me who have been to Barcelona before but want to return for a different experience. It is famous for some of the most picturesque squares in the city, all bustling with life. Throughout the day, the laid back locals go to sit, enjoy food, and spend time with their families and friends. The kids skateboard, the adults socialise.
Lined with bars and restaurants, Placa del Sol is the most popular square. Whether you seat yourself in the outdoor seating of one of the perimeter bars, or find yourself a spot sitting in its core, it is a great place to people watch.
But, if you decide you want to explore beyond the leafy squares and hipster shops, Gràcia is only one stop up from the top of Passeig de Gràcia, meaning central Barcelona is still very easily accessible.
Staying in Gràcia doesn't mean sacrificing your visits to other parts of the city, but it does guarantee a new Barcelona experience.
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