Experience the Best of Barcelona: 10 Things To Do in Gràcia

Last Updated on January 10, 2026 by Emma Fajcz | Published: August 17, 2017

The beautiful neighborhood of Gràcia is one of Barcelona’s liveliest districts, despite its small-village feel. There are so many wonderful things to do in Gràcia—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. Experience the best of Barcelona with our top 10 things to do in Gràcia.

Planning your first trip to Barcelona? Get our ultimate first-timer’s guide to Barcelona and 10 things to know before you go to Barcelona.

Have a Drink in Plaça de la Virreina

This beautiful spot is known as one of the most picturesque squares in Gràcia. Stopping to have a coffee or a bite in the La Plaça de la Virreina square 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 Gràcia vibes.

Soak up the History of Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia

The original town square back when Gràcia was just a village was the Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia. 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 in Barcelona with children, pack a picnic and spend the day exploring its hidden charms.

Experience the Festa Major de Gràcia

Each neighborhood in Barcelona celebrates its own festival during one week of the year, but none can compare to the famous Festa Major de Gràcia. 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 Gràcia’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.

Address: Carrer de Verdi, 32, Gràcia, 08012 Barcelona, Spain

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 Gràcia is Carrer Torrijos.

Check Out the Many Art Galleries

For many, what’s most lovable about Gràcia 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) while visiting? It’s definitely one of our favorite things to do in Gràcia!

Enjoy the Nightlife in Plaça del Sol

One of the best places to soak up the vibrant nightlife in Gràcia is 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 Gràcia 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

Gràcia is home to many of Catalonia’s and Spain’s famed thespians. The theater scene is an important part of the neighborhood’s culture. Teatre Lliure is a small, alternative theater on Carrer de Montseny that 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 Gràcia 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. Check out our Gràcia restaurant guide for recommendations on where to go!

Explore Park Güell & See Gaudí’s Masterpieces

Explore one of Barcelona’s most iconic neighborhoods and architectural legends on our Complete Gaudí Tour with Sagrada Familia, House Visit, and Park Güell. Wander through the leafy streets that inspired Antoni Gaudí, learn the stories behind his masterpieces, and see how this visionary artist shaped the city’s character. Our expert local guide will help you see the best of Gaudí, including the legendary Park Güell in Gràcia, on this educational and relaxing tour.

Featured Review: Complete Barcelona Gaudí Tour

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This is a tour that you don’t want to miss especially on a sunny day. The tour guide was super knowledgeable and because of the smaller crowds she was even willing to take photos of everyone. We walked and there was a couple van rides. Do it if you haven’t yet.”
– Andrew on Viator

Things to Do in Gràcia FAQs

What makes Gràcia different from other Barcelona neighborhoods?
Gràcia feels more like a small, walkable village than a bustling city district. It’s known for its local plazas, independent boutiques, lively squares, and neighborhood culture, giving visitors a more authentic slice of everyday Barcelona life compared with tourist-heavy areas like the Gothic Quarter.

Is Gràcia easy to explore on foot?
Yes, Gràcia is highly walkable and is best enjoyed without a car. Its narrow streets, hidden plazas, and pedestrian-friendly layout make walking the ideal way to discover its charming corners, cafés, and local highlights at your own pace.

Are there good places to eat and drink in Gràcia?
Absolutely! Gràcia offers a vibrant food and drink scene, ranging from traditional tapas bars and local bodegas to creative restaurants, cozy cafés, and trendy wine bars. Many of these spots are loved by locals and provide great places to relax after sightseeing.

Can I visit Gràcia in a few hours, or should I plan a full day?
You can enjoy highlights of Gràcia in a few hours, especially if you focus on a couple of key plazas and one or two food stops. However, planning a half-day to full-day visit allows you to explore the city at a more leisurely pace.

Is Gràcia family-friendly?
Yes, Gràcia is very family-friendly, with plenty of open plazas and parks where kids can play, casual eateries that welcome children, and walking routes that aren’t crowded. Its laid-back vibe, street art, and frequent neighborhood events also make it enjoyable for travelers of all ages.