‘The village of Barcelona’ is the nickname of the neighbourhood called Gracia. It is a neighbourhood with the highest concentration of foreign restaurants and offers the perfect way to experience Barcelona, but not the tourist way. It is a neighbourhood that is filled with people from different age groups, countries and cultures. But they have one thing in common: the love enjoying life and being outside with their friends and loved ones. Placa Sol is arguably the heart of Gracia and a place where families, young people, couples and elderly people enjoy the time outside until the late hours. If you are looking to visit Barcelona but don’t want to be the stereotype tourist, this is the neighbourhood to go to! Find out below what places you should visit. Hotel Grums is a great solution if you are looking for family hotels in Barcelona.


Gràcia was an independent town until the late 19th century. Nowadays the community stays small and tight. The people from Gràcia carry their proud for the neighbourhood; they don’t consider themselves living in Barcelona, but in Gràcia. The area is most famous for its creativity, artists, mix of age groups, plazas, restaurants and bars. It is the place to be in Barcelona where you have it all. Experience Barcelona the local but unique way.

Carrer de Verdi

This is arguably the best street to go to in Gràcia. A street that will never be boring, since it is filled with diverse shops, restaurants and bars. It offers something for everyone and is even voted as one of the best streets in Barcelona. Walking on Carrer de Verdi will give you the feeling that you ended up in a small, cozy, lively, creative village. You will feel like a local and experience Barcelona a whole different way. At nighttime this street lights up because of all its restaurants and bars. Especially in the weekends lots of people will be on the street, celebrating their weekend by spending time with friends. Expect to find things you would never expect to find in Barcelona.

Placa del Sol

The heart of Gràcia is located on Placa del Sol, a square that is overloaded with sun during the day. The place has several terraces where people enjoy delicious tapas, beers and other drinks. However, most people are just sitting on the square, bringing their own food and drinks, enjoying time with their friends. The chances are high that some street artists will provide some music to top off the incredible atmosphere. If you want to feel like a true local, go to this square during the day or when the sun sets and experience the amazing, cosy atmosphere.

These two highlights of this incredible neighbourhood are must visits. However, the best recommendation I can give you is to get lost in Gracia. Take the metro to Fontana, the metro stop of Gràcia, get out and just follow your senses. Walk into every street and be surprised by the atmosphere in Gràcia. A little spoiler, it will be like nothing you have experienced in Barcelona, especially if you stay in our boutique hotel!