Visitors should always know where they should avoid going for a stroll for half an hour in search of a supermarket, which places lie far from the touristic noise and clamor, and the proximity of various districts to the city center. In other words, it is useful to know about the locations you can visit to be free from crowds of people and enjoy the presence of green parks.
Gracia
Gràcia, one of the best districts of Barcelona, is located in the upper part of the city, at the very end of the famous Passeig de Gràcia. In this area, it is completely acceptable for kids to walk alone. Numerous restaurants can be found on the small and cozy squares of this district. There are many cafeterias, bakeries, grocery shops, and several big supermarkets, where all of the necessities can be found.
Overall, Gràcia offers everything you might need for daily life and entertainment. Small bodegas with local wine, restaurants with Asian, European, and even South-African cuisine, and atmospheric night clubs all can be found inside this cozy, old district that boasts medieval lanes and unique architecture. Due to the fact that residents hardly hear the noise of the city in this part of the megapolis, the rent is rather high here. Moreover, other advantages of Gràcia include extreme vicinity to the city center. It is easy to reach any landmark by foot, whether it is Park Güell or Casa Milá.
L’Eixample
This is one of the most popular districts of Barcelona among the European tourists who pay short-term visits to this magical city. And it is true that L’Eixample really is one of the most convenient Barcelona districts in which to stay. It is divided into two parts, the “right” and “left” districts. The left side is located in close proximity to the heart of the city. Hence, regardless of the site of your stay here, you will not need to use public transportation. You can reach every key attraction by foot, with no need to take a taxi. In this area, there are plenty of restaurants and cafeterias. Plus, L’Eixample is famous for having the most spacious apartments in the whole city.
The right side of the district lies next to Sagrada Familia, with the upper part adjacent to Gràcia and the lower part bordering El Born. Here, you will see lots of cafes and restaurants, historical buildings, cathedrals, and incredibly beautiful parks. This district is the most exquisite and most modern among all the districts of the city. Large parks are not typical here. It is very expensive to rent an apartment here, although the spacious terraces and high ceilings are really worth the extra money.
Sarria
Should you decide to settle in Barcelona for an indefinite period of time, it could be best to move away from the noisy city center. Sarria Sant-Gervasi is one of the best districts in which to live in Barcelona. Here, you will find everything you need to feel comfortable, including the best hospitals, kindergartens, schools, and language centers. Not far from this area, you will encounter Tibidabo with its famous amusement park and iconic sights. This district is home to star stylists, sports stars, actors, and singers. The restaurants and bars in Sarria are as exquisite as Shakira’s mansion. One of the oldest cafeterias here, Tom’s, serves legendary “patatas bravas” that have been famous in the city for over 60 years.
The life flows here in Sarria without any hustle, for none of the surroundings recall the trappings of the most touristic city in Spain. You will find only tranquility, extreme comfort, and ideal style here. This is also the area where the 19th-century mansions are nestled. Although the district is situated rather far from the city center, still it takes only about 10-15 minutes to get to El Born. Sarria is an ideal place for families with kids, as there are plenty of children’s playgrounds and places where parents with children can spend time together.
Poble Sec
This is one of the most remote districts of Barcelona. Although it is considerably far from the city center, Poble Sec is only ten minutes’ walking distance from Sant Antoni and is close to Montjuïc. Poble Sec is a place for creative people. Here you will see many studios inhabited by local and visiting artists, small bars, and pinchos cafes. There are lots of shops and supermarkets as well as several metro stations. Additionally, apartment rental fees are cheaper here than in the city center.
The legendary restaurant Quimet&Quimet, located on one of the central streets, is a must-visit place for anyone coming to Barcelona. It is considered the best tapas bar by those who come here to experience the taste of authentic Catalan appetizers. Poble Sec is a great option for daily life, not only for its safety, but also because of the convenient location of the streets with bars: the bars are situated among other non-residential buildings, far from residential houses. Therefore, the joyful sounds of the night life do not bother the local residents.
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