Welcome to the Vila de Gràcia!

Gràcia used to be an independent town before becoming part of the city of Barcelona in the 19th century, thanks to the Pla Cerdà, an urbanistic plan that also annexed Sants, Sarrià or Sant Martí, with the grid-like structure that became the Eixample. That way, Barcelona ceased to be a little town surrounded by Roman walls and became the city we know today.

But what about the people who lived in Gràcia? We have no idea if they were happy to become part of Barcelona, but we do know that even today, they are proud of their little vila. For example, they still say they are from Gràcia (not Barcelona) and that they are “taking the trip down to the city” if, for whatever reason, they are obliged to leave their barrio and go downtown.

They also have their own Castellers group, a powerful sense of community, and many cultural outlets.

Every August, Gràcia turns into a fantasy land. The neighbour associations work all year long to decorate their streets for les festes, which usually begin mid-month and last for two weeks.

There are prizes for the best streets (the neighbours are free to choose their theme for the year), but the competition is steep, and pride is at stake, so there is a lot of effort in this endeavour. If you rent a long-term flat in Gràcia, you have two options: going on holiday if you hate crowds or, if you really want to experience living in Gràcia, joining the party.

There are people, drinking, concerts, eating and a lot of people at all times, but it’s worth it. And if you are on the verge of finding the perfect flat in Gràcia, consider joining a neighbour association.

There’s no better way to meet people and refresh your arts and crafts capabilities.

Gràcia is also a very cool neighbourhood where liberal professionals live, with many cultural options. The Verdi Cinemas have two different venues in the barrio, where they offer movies in the original version of the slightly more high-brow persuasion. Maybe you won’t find the latest Avengers there, but you will surely enjoy a good French comedy or a British indie film.

The Teatre Lliure, a renowned institution in Barcelona, still keeps its first building there, apart from the venue in el Mercat de les Flors. And there are plenty of festes throughout the year: Sant Medir, gegants i capgrossos, Centres Cívics, parks (the Park Güell belongs to Gràcia, did you know?) and correfocs are just a few of the many things to do and see there. There are bookstores, little designer shops, many excellent restaurants, and small bars to enjoy the barrio from morning to night. Just don’t forget: once you live there, you are theirs forever! :)

There's plenty of ex-pat housing in Gràcia for you to browse… have a look and enjoy living in one of the most charismatic barrios in the world!