Photo by Asier García via Trover.com
No matter where you go in Barcelona, architectural and artistic beauty is never far away in this vibrant city. There are a lot of famous cultural and historical sights, but Barcelona’s unknown treasures also deserve some attention.
Those who leave the city center to explore Barcelona’s lesser known sights will often end up strolling through narrow alleys, which lead them through the city like veins in a body. Eventually, they will end up at a large artery like La Rambla, which will bring them back to the buzzing, beating heart of central Barcelona. Travelers might also like this complete Barcelona travel guide.
1. Gràcia
Gràcia is relatively unknown among tourists. Those travelers who do stroll through this neighborhood’s narrow streets will be pleasantly surprised by its strong community minded identity. Gràcia is the artistic playground of musicians, bohemians, and designers. The neighborhood houses various gorgeous designer boutiques, small workshops, and exclusive galleries. A real treat for vacationers who like to travel off the beaten path.
2. Dreta de l’Eixample
Travel to Barcelona’s upmarket Dreta de l’Eixample neighborhood if you are looking for a more spacious environment, luxurious Barcelona hotels, and high-end restaurants. Although more touristic, this area also has a lot of side streets that cater mostly to the locals. Dreta de l’Eixample is also an excellent spot if you want to marvel at some of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous creations.
3. El Born and La Ribera
As with other neighborhoods in Barcelona, El Born becomes particularly interesting if you leave the main road to explore its back alleys. Once more, you will be happily surprised by the large variety of hip boutiques, galleries, and shops. Visit La Ribera to travel back in time to the medieval era. Stroll through dark, cobblestone alleys and marvel at the interesting fact that this ancient quarter secretly hides some of the city’s best galleries, boutiques, food shops and tapas restaurants.
4. El Raval
El Raval is a bit of a rough area. It does not suit every traveler’s view of an ideal sightseeing spot, and it is better to avoid this area at night. However, it definitely has its charm. Adventurous travelers will enjoy the daytime, weekend markets and the strong, alternative vibe that characterizes the interesting identity of this grungy neighborhood.
5. El Poblenou and El Poble-sec
El Poblenou is a rarely visited, middle-class neighborhood. It is a good spot to have a peak at the everyday life of the city’s locals. El Poble-sec is a neighborhood for the working class. This less traveled area is especially interesting because of its excellent tapas bars.
Explore Barcelona’s Unbeaten Paths
Barcelona is relatively small for a capital city, but it houses a lot of interesting districts. Vacationers don’t have to travel far to avoid the main tourist streams. They can hop off the main road, dive into a small alley and suddenly find themselves in a whole new world. A quiet world, full of uncommon shopping and sightseeing opportunities. Dreta de l’Eixample is a good area for travelers who are in need of some space after all the narrow alleys.