The beautiful neighborhood of Gracia is one of Barcelona’s liveliest districts, despite its small-village feel. There are so many wonderful things to do in Gracia—you’ll be spoiled for choice. From the rich history to the contemporary art scene, this is a neighborhood where old traditions and cultural diversity flourishes. Check out our top picks for things to do in Gracia.

Have a drink in Plaça de la Virreina

This beautiful spot is known as one of the most picturesque squares in Gracia. Stopping to have a coffee or a bite in La Plaça de la Virreina is a must while visiting the neighborhood. Simply sitting on the steps of the beautiful Sant Joan church is enough to truly soak up the most pleasant of Gracia vibes.

The original town square back when Gracia was just a village was the Plaça de la Vila de Gracia. Home to the infamous clock tower, a sight of bombings and rebellions, as well as the baby-blue town hall, this history-filled square is definitely worth visiting.

Visit Park Güell

Whether or not you’re a fan of architecture, the psychedelic Park Güell is most definitely worth visiting. Designed by the one and only Antoni Gaudí, this beautiful area is a must-see in Barcelona. The original idea of Park Güell as an idyllic, self-serving community right outside the city was commercially unsuccessful and has since been converted into municipal gardens. Its bizarre nature and hallucinatory effects are well-worth the hike up. For families traveling with children, pack a picnic and spend the day exploring its hidden charms.

Experience the Festa Major de Gracia

Each neighborhood in Barcelona celebrates its own festival during one week of the year, but none can compare to the famous Festa Major de Gracia. Held each August, the festival is a huge street party of concerts, street-stalls and a general eat, drink and be merry atmosphere. Weeks beforehand, the neighbors get together to convert the streets into a spectacular wonder of themed decorations. This is a must-see event that makes the whole neighborhood seem like a dreamy escape from the city.

See a movie at Cine Verdi

There is a lot to love about Gracia’s movie theater, Cine Verdi—independent, original version, art-house movies with cheap popcorn and Wednesday night specials! The best part about seeing a movie here are the discussions you will have afterwards over a glass of wine in one of the many surrounding bars.

Walk Carrer Verdi

If you’re in the mood for a little more action, head to the tree-lined Verdi street for some great ethnic food, independent-designer fashion and quirky shops of all kinds. Tons of pedestrian traffic on this emblematic street make for a lovely afternoon stroll. Another great street for this type of shopping in Gracia is Carrer Torrijos.

Check Out the Many Art Galleries

For many, what’s most lovable about Gracia is the artistic side. The neighborhood is sprinkled with colorful street art almost anywhere you look. It also serves as a haven for contemporary artists, as well as a handful of unique art galleries and residences. Why not stop by the Galeria Miquel Alzueta (Carrer Seneca, 9-11) or Galeria Paspartu (Carrer Verdi, 25) while visiting? It’s definitely one of our favorite things to do in Gracia!

Enjoy the nightlife in Plaça del Sol

One of the best places to soak up the vibrant nightlife in Gracia, is definitely at Plaça del Sol. This is a meeting point for young people and an important site for botellón, which means to drink in the street. Of course, this is probably why it has now become one of the most hopping evening squares in all of Barcelona any given night of the week. Have a beer on one of the many cafe terraces or dinner at a great tapas bar like Sol Soler.

If you’re up for it, you can check out the bar scene afterwards. A great place to get your groove on is Gracia Latina, where you can take salsa and bachata lessons. Another good option is Bar Raïm (Carrer de Siracusa, 4), a bar that plays Cuban music and specializes in mojitos. Many bars, such as Heliogàbal and Soda Acustic offer live music in a laid-back setting.

See a play at Teatre Lliure

Gracia is home to many of Catalonia’s and Spain’s famed thespians. The theater scene is an important part of the neighborhood’s culture. A small, alternative theater on Carrer de Montseny puts on high-quality plays, some of which are in English. They also have a full program dedicated solely to children!

Eat and drink

A fun and delicious way to get to know the ins and outs of Barcelona and Gracia is to eat your way around the neighborhood. Pop into any of the countless family-run establishments and taste all different types of authentic Catalan cuisine.