Gracia was at one time a village independent of the city of Barcelona. From it comes the name Passeig de Gracia, the road that once connected the village to the city. As Barcelona grew, Gracia was absorbed by it, eventually becoming one of city's most picturesque neighbourhoods. Its hippy and international atmosphere make it an ideal place for shopping, walking and having a drink or dinner in one of its numerous restaurants and bars.
Take the metro (L3) to the Fontana stop. Exit and walk down Gran De Gracia, the main street of the neighbourhood where many popular shops are located. A little further on (5 minutes), turn left onto Travesera de Gracia and continue until you come to Abacería Central Market. Though less frequented than Boquería Market, in a way it's more authentic since the absence of a metro stop nearby means much less tourists. It closes at 20:30, so you'll have time to take a look inside. From here, head up Carrer de la Mare de Deu del Desemparats until you reach the square called Plaça de la Revolució, where the busy and lively pedestrian street Verdi begins. At the corner of Carrer de l'Or, is Cines Verdi, known for being one of the few movie theatres in town that shows original versions of films with subtitles.
