#5 Gràcia
If you don’t want to go far, but are getting a little tired of the city buzz, head to the Gràcia neighborhood, possibly my favorite area of Barcelona. You won’t be alone in this ‘barrio’ but you will have a lot more personal space than you would in the city center. The best part about Gràcia is that it is totally self sufficient. You can stay here all day and never be lacking anything because there are loads of restaurants, bars, boutiques with unique and handmade gifts, and lively squares all ready to be discovered.
#6 Montgat Beach
You have never seen crowds until you have gone to Barceloneta Beach in July. Personally, I found it hard to relax there with so many people on the sand. Montgat Beach is the place to go for a great day on the Mediterranean coast, and while you have to bring your own drinks and no one will offer you a massage, it is well worth it. Travel about 20 minutes from Plaça Catalunya on a Renfe train and you will be in paradise with gold sand, blue water, and miles of space to soak up the Mediterranean beauty.