DK Travel : Barcelona : Gràcia, Tibidabo & Zona Alta

The zona alta (Uptown) is an area covering several neighbourhoods that, as the name suggests, are in the hilly part of the city. From the moneyed streets of Pedralbes and Tibidabo to bohemian Gràcia, this entire northern area of the city offers stunning views and regal attractions. But what really sets this area apart from the rest of the city is its 15 parks; the best are Gaudí’s stunning and imaginative Parc Güell, and the colossal natural park of Collserolla, which spreads out like green baize over Tibidabo mountain. Gràcia stands out as the city’s most cosmopolitan neighbourhood. Its strong political tradition and gypsy community have long drawn artists and writers to the labyrinthine streets, and it is now home to scores of innovative boutiques, bars and squares, which teem with life most nights of the week.

The best way to visit this area is on the Bus Turístic (Tours & Trips) For more on Barcelona’s parksParks & Beaches

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A Contraluz

Uncomplicated yet innovative Mediterranean food is presented in this enchanting restaurant and its wonderful garden. The risottos are excellent, as is the hot foie gras with apple.
Aroma

It’s always a pleasure to smell the coffee being freshly ground at this cream-walled and wood-beamed café. Hundreds of coffees to choose from, with takeaway packets available.
Bar-Restaurante Can Tomàs

This tapas bar, in the Sarrià neighbourhood, is an institution. It has the well-deserved reputation of making some of the best tapas in town. Particularly recommended are the patates braves .
Bikini

Opening from midnight onwards, this huge venue has three spaces, which offer dance and Latin music and a cocktail lounge. Regular live music includes some of the best up-and-coming acts in Europe.
Blues Cafè

The walls at this dusky, atmospheric café-bar are plastered with black-and-white photos of John Lee Hooker and Leadbelly, among others. The music, electric or acoustic, is always the blues.
Botafumeiro

The fish tanks at this seafood restaurant are teeming with crabs and lobster destined for plates. Try the tender pulpo Gallego (Galician octopus). Reservations are essential.
Cafè de Gràcia

This airy and spacious café, with salmon walls and mirrors, is an ideal spot for a quick coffee away from the crowds. Service is speedy and a touch more formal than most places in Gràcia.
Cafè del Sol

This café-bar is a cut above the others in the lively, bohemian Plaça del Sol. The atmosphere buzzes, the conversation inspires and the excellent coffee keeps on coming.
Cafè del Teatre

This is an ideal place to find a young, friendly crowd and good conversation. The only connection with the theatre here seems to be the velvet curtains on the sign over the door of this scruffy, but busy, café.
Cafè Salambó

Scrumptious sandwiches and a tasty range of salads are the draw at this beautiful, wooden, trendy bar-cum-café. There are pool tables upstairs.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €10
- €10–20
- €20–30
- over €30