
Visiting Barcelona for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Take the bother out of a trip to Barcelona with our first time–friendly recommendations.
Gràcia is one of the city’s most atmospheric and decidedly Catalonian neighborhoods. Tour the area on an e-bicycle tour of Barcelona to cover more ground; these tours typically visit other neighborhoods such as Raval, Eixample, the Gothic quarter, and Barceloneta as well. Foodies interested in Catalonian gastronomy can explore the local culinary scene on a guided food and wine tour.
Gràcia is a must-visit for artistic travelers, foodies, and those who want to see a different side of Barcelona.
Wear comfortable shoes; Gràcia is a big neighborhood and you’ll do a lot of walking.
If you’re visiting Park Güell, book your tickets ahead of time; they often sell out, especially during the summer.
Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and a hat; some areas of Gràcia lack shade.
Gràcia is connected to the rest of the city via the wide and posh Passeig de Gràcia. You can get there on foot from the old town, or ride the Barcelona metro to Fontana Station (Line 3).
Head to Gràcia during the day to have lunch at one of the trendy local cafés or shop the neighborhood boutiques. Come at night to enjoy the cocktail bars and tapas restaurants; this area is popular for a late-night dinner. Expect many local shops and restaurants to be closed during the month of August.
You haven’t experienced Gràcia until you’ve seen it during its annual neighborhood festival, the Festa Major, each August. During this popular summer event, each street in Gràcia seeks to outdo the next with over-the-top decorations, and at night the entire neighborhood turns into one giant block party.