Barcelona is one of those cities that uncovers something new every-time you visit, from the bustling beach vibes of Barceloneta to the impressive architecture of El Born to the local streets of Gracia- a hop, skip down the road from the iconic Sagrada Familia.
Here’s a ist of Barcelonas Best-just off the beaten tourist track.
GRACIA
EAT
ANCESTRAL BAR-de l’Eixample
This bustling neighbourhood bar specilises in natural wines and local produce, offering an array of tasty tapas well into the night.
Look out for the specials board that showcases wines from the surrounding region, notably their Orange wine selection that changes with the seasons. The inside bar is traditonal Spanish style with a contemporary edge, mezzanine level and plenty of outdoor seating for the hoards of punters that flock here day and night.
https://www.instagram.com/ancestralbarbcn/?hl=en
BODEGA BONAVISTA
A neighbourhood wine merchant sets the scene of the local streets of Gracia, the warm and welcoming Bodega Bonavista wine shop and bar oozes history, with a large selection of Spanish wines, local cheeses, cured meats and tinned seafood.
https://www.instagram.com/bodegabonavistabcn/
ENTREPANES DIAZ
The local foodies sent us to this classic restuarant, housed in a Gaudi style building, with a retro fitout, tradtinal tapas and a cocktail bar next door, it’s like stepping back in a 50’s swing time.
Try the garlic prawns, freshly made croquettas and spicy patas brava.
Elegant Gràcia is known for its 19th-century boulevards and pedestrian lanes lined with indie boutiques, galleries, and arthouse cinemas. Cool Catalan bistros and wine bars surround the landmark clock tower at Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia. Antoni Gaudí’s art nouveau architecture marks the area, from neo-Moorish mansion Casa Vicens to the fantastical, mosaic-covered estate at Parc Güell, on a hillside above the city
https://www.bcnrestaurantes.com/barcelona.asp?restaurante=entrepanes-diaz
PLAY
SAGRADA FAMILIA
Designed by one of the worlds most prolific Catalan archtiects Antoni Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia is the largest unfinished catholic churches in the world. A UNESCO world heritage site, the church is a popular centrepiece for the city and complements the numerous other Gaudi buildings, dotted around the place.
Gaudi decvoted his life to Sagrada Familia and at the time of is death in 1926, the church was only 1/4 of the way complete- he is buried in the church’s crypt and you can certainly feel his presence throught the building.
A short walk from the Gracia precinct, Sagrada Familia is a must do in Barcleona, hot tip pay a little more online to jump the queue.
PARK GUELL
Day trip to Park Guell one of the cities most walked about parks, threaded with Gaudi architectual lines and manicured gardens, the park is located on Carmel Hill.
Walk the character filled streets of Gracia that lead the way to the expansive park, the ideal place to rest awhile, before a late night out in the bustling precinct.
STAY
IBIS BARCELONA CENTRO
Located next to the Gracia area, the IBIS hotel is central to all the action but far enough away to be in the quieter part of town. Next door to a couple of the cities finest tapas bars, the hotel has something for everyone.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, with views across to Gracia, and windows that open up to capture the fresh air. Breakfast is served daily on the ground floor, adjacent to the reception area and offers a generous buffet of traditional Catalan dishes and regular favourites.
Book IBIS Barcelona Centro for an affordable and convenient hotel, and explore the colourful streets of Gracia, just like the locals do.
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