Sarrià – Sant Gervasi

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is the place where wealthy Barcelona residents live. The district has the highest number of private and international schools, private universities, private sports clubs, and private health centers in all of Barcelona. Some of these enjoy great prestige and recognition. The district also boasts numerous villas and luxury apartment complexes. It’s no surprise, then, that the price per square meter here is sky-high.

Due to its location on the edge of the Collserola mountains, and the way the streets and houses are built, the residential Sarrià-Sant Gervasi exudes tranquility and class. This wasn’t always the case: before the district was established, there were three different farming villages (Sarrià, Vallvidrera-les Planes, and Sant Gervasi de Cassoles) here. The arrival of holiday homes for wealthy Barcelonans led to significant growth until they were absorbed by the city.

If you want to learn about the district and all its secrets, read on in this guide about Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, which includes lots of useful information, interesting attractions, and the best tips from locals.

Why visit Sarrià-Sant Gervasi?

Here, you can see how Barcelona’s elite live and visit very exclusive shops, bars, and restaurants. You won’t encounter many tourists. However, there are plenty of other gems to discover, from Gaudí’s Torre Bellesguard to Tibidabo’s amusement park. In Sarrià, you can find the traditional tapas bar Bar Tomás, famous for its patatas bravas – a must-visit when you’re in the area!

Where is Sarrià-Sant Gervasi located?

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi stretches from the northern part of Avinguda Diagonal to the Collserola hills, known as the uptown area of Barcelona, or ‘la zona alta’ as locals call it.

The southernmost part of the district is the most densely populated, while the northern part becomes more sparsely populated with lots of greenery and large mansions.

Major thoroughfares of the district include Passeig de la Bonanova, Ronda de General Mitre, Via Augusta, and Carrer Balmes.

To get there by public transport, you can take the bus, the metro, or the city trains. These trains are unique to this part of the city as they originate from the old Sarrià train, which ran on Spain’s very first urban railway line. The best stops to explore the neighborhood are Sarrià (L6, S1, S2, S5, S6) and Muntaner (L6, S1, S2, S5, S6).

Coming from Barcelona airport, the easiest way is to take the metro to Zona Universitària (L3 and L9 Sud) and then catch a bus or taxi to your final destination. Another option is to take the metro to Diagonal (L3 and L5), and then transfer to the FGC trains at Provença station, which will take you to Sarrià-Sant Gervasi.

Neighborhoods within Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi comprises the following neighborhoods: El Putget i Farró | Sarrià | Sant Gervasi-La Bonanova | Sant Gervasi-Galvany | Les Tres Torres | Vallvidrera, El Tibidabo i Les Planes. Here resides the upper echelon of society, evident from the upscale shopping and dining options, beautiful city parks, and modernist villas. Sarrià-Sant Gervasi offers a taste of the good life in Barcelona, reaching its pinnacle in the nearby Pedralbes.

Sarrià: Tomás’ Bravas

The origin of Sarrià dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries around the church of Sarrià. This was formerly a village primarily reliant on agriculture. With the arrival of holiday homes for the wealthy in the 16th and 17th centuries, Sarrià transformed into an urban community of artists and craftsmen, until it became one of Barcelona’s wealthiest and most densely populated areas in the early 20th century. Despite opposition from the sarrianencs, Sarrià was annexed to Barcelona in 1921, becoming the last village in the Barcelona area to join the city.

Today’s Sarrià still retains its old rural atmosphere, especially in the streets around Carrer Major de Sarrià, mixed with the luxuries of its current residents, such as delicatessen shops and upscale fashion boutiques without price tags in the windows.

At Plaça del Consell de la Vila, you’ll find the old town hall and behind it the church of Sarrià, Parròquia de Sant Vicenç de Sarrià, and the Sarrià market, Mercat de Sarrià. Other hidden gems include Portal Miralles and Casa Orlandai. City parks like Parc de l’Oreneta, Vil·la Celilia, and Vil·la Amèlia are also worth a visit. But the reason most Barcelonans (and many tourists) come here is for the famous patatas bravas at Bar Tomás, considered by many to be the best in the city.

👉 Read my review about Bar Tomás here.

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi: Elegant Residences

The residential area of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi originated from Sant Gervasi de Cassoles, a 10th-century village with scattered houses in an area dotted with streams, rivers, and hills. Initially part of Sarrià, Sant Gervasi de Cassoles became an independent village in 1714 until its annexation to Barcelona in 1897.

By the mid-19th century, the Barcelona bourgeoisie discovered Sant Gervasi, leading to the area’s first urban developments. Sant Gervasi de Cassoles rapidly transformed from a small agricultural village into a residential neighborhood with elegant residences such as mansions, villas, monasteries, and religious schools. This affluent character still largely exists in the northern part of the neighborhood, known as Bonanova, highlighted by beautiful mansions along Avinguda Tibidabo.

Prominent buildings in the area include La Rotonda, Casa Frare Blanc, and Gaudí’s Torre de Bellesguard. Other notable sites are the Sant Gervasi cemetery, Tamarita gardens, Jardins de Vil·la Florida, and the old Casacuberta factory by Josep Domènech i Estapà, now the CosmoCaixa science museum.

Sant Gervasi – Galvany: Elegant Nightlife Spot

Sant Gervasi – Galvany covers the southern part of the former village of Sant Gervasi de Cassoles, between Avinguda Diagonal and Ronda del Mig. The area was named after landowner Josep Castelló i Galvany, also the namesake of the local market, Mercat de Galvany. Traces of the old village are visible at the Escola Augusta (formerly Can Galvany). The area’s development began in 1866, near Turó Parc, where an amusement park once stood.

The central street of the district, Via Augusta, was established in 1929 after burying the dangerous and inconvenient railway line of the Sarrià train. Avinguda Diagonal and Carrer Muntaner are other significant commercial spots catering to a stylish and affluent crowd. The round square Plaça de Sant Gregori Taumaturg with its namesake round church is a surprising spot. Plaça Molina is also a popular local meeting point.

A significant portion of the neighborhood’s nightlife, including bars on Carrer Santaló and Laforja and nightclubs on Carrer Tusset and Aribau, takes place in Sant Gervasi – Galvany. This area is the go-to spot for Barcelona’s rich and famous. Other places where locals enjoy relaxing are Jardins Muñoz Ramonet, Turó Parc, Parc de Monterols, and Jardins d’Enric Sagnier.

Les Tres Torres: First Residential Area

Tres Torres, a prototype for a residential neighborhood in Barcelona, is characterized by luxury apartment complexes with large, well-maintained gardens. Located between Sant Gervasi and Sarrià, the area was developed in 1901-1903 on the initiative of the Romaní and Climent Mas brothers from Sants. They built three villas (‘torres’ in Spanish, hence the name Tres Torres) on the land acquired from Nena Cases. Over time, other villas were built, but in the latter half of the 20th century, many large apartments were constructed for the wealthy.

Remnants of old Tres Torres, such as the old Casino de Tres Torres (Carrer Rosari, 44), Can Nena Casas (Carrer de la Nena Casas, 37), and the modernist Casa Muley Afid (Passeig de la Bonanova, 55), can still be seen. Other gems include the Col.legi Teresianes, designed by Gaudí, and the Sarrià cemetery.

The former RCD Espanyol stadium, Estadi de Sarrià, once located in Tres Torres, was demolished in 1997 to make way for apartments.

El Putxet i el Farró: Hillside Area

El Putxet (or Putget) is a small hill extending between Vallcarca and Sant Gervasi. Although there are reports of a chapel here in the 17th century, the first buildings date back to 1870 when the bourgeoisie began building summer homes. Over time, and with the introduction of various transport options, it became a usual residence for many inhabitants. Some of the old villas still stand in the streets of Mulet or Puig-reig, though most were replaced by apartments in the second half of the 20th century.

The neighborhood is split by Ronda de General Mitre into two parts: the quiet, green hill of El Putxet to the north, and the busy, commercial zone of El Farró to the south. Key attractions include Casa Tosquella, Casas Ramos, Casa Padua, and the church Església dels Josepets. The hidden Passatge Sant Felip, with its beautiful old houses, takes visitors back in time.

Vallvidrera, Tibidabo, and Les Planes: Green Side of the City

Vallvidrera, Tibidabo, and Les Planes: Green Side of the City In the heart of the Collserola hills lies Vallvidrera, Tibidabo, and Les Planes, the most remote district of Barcelona, formed by three distinct areas.

Ideal for escaping the city bustle and connecting with nature, the area is sparsely populated, with few attractions like the Tibidabo amusement park. The region is known for restaurants in old masies (farmhouses) serving delicious Catalan dishes grilled on-site.

In the southern part of the district is Vallvidrera, which emerged around 1540 near the church of Santa Maria de Vallvidrera. It became a popular summer destination for many Barcelonans.

Urban development in Vallvidrera happened in the second half of the 19th century, with significant projects like the Pantà Vallvidrera reservoir in 1864, the Vallvidrera-Tibidabo access road in 1888, and the Carretera de les Aigües in 1902. This turned Vallvidrera into a residential neighborhood, though it still retains a village-like atmosphere.

The area’s numerous vantage points and nature trails make it popular among locals. Vil.la Joana, now housing the Museu Casa Verdaguer, is one of the most famous buildings, commemorating the Catalan poet who died there in 1902.

Tibidabo Mountain: A Leisure Destination

Tibidabo Mountain has always been a place for leisure activities. Its development began in the late 19th century with the construction of a hotel, a chapel, a Moorish pavilion, and the Carretera de l’Arrabassada.

However, the most famous structures on Tibidabo are the Temple del Sagrat Cor (comparable to Paris’s Sacré Coeur), the iconic communication tower by Norman Foster, and the namesake amusement park contributing to its nickname “magic mountain.”

This vintage amusement park is the main attraction of Tibidabo Mountain, drawing many families for a fun day out.

Les Planes: A Summer Retreat

Located on the Vallès side of the Collserola mountains, Les Planes was for many years primarily a summer retreat for Barcelona residents, with hotels, fountains, and picnic areas.

The first urban development began in the early 20th century, resulting in a modest neighborhood forming sporadically.

It wasn’t until 1980 that an urban development plan was approved, resulting in a unique neighborhood of detached houses amidst the mountains, hard to associate with a large city like Barcelona.

Guide to Sarrià – Sant Gervasi

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is Barcelona’s district with the highest income and living standards, reflected in its upscale ambiance and excellent array of shops, cafes, and restaurants. In addition to several key attractions, some still unknown to the general public, the district boasts beautiful parks and atmospheric spots. This otherwise quiet area comes alive at night with exclusive cocktail bars and nightclubs. For a true local experience, follow these tips!

Must-See Attractions in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Key attractions in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi include Tibidabo Mountain with its amusement park, CosmoCaixa science museum, and the historic Tramvia Blau. The district also houses lesser-known works of Gaudí, still off the radar for most tourists.

• Tibidabo Mountain: Barcelona’s highest mountain, dominated by the monumental Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor by Enric Sagnier, offers various attractions including an amusement park, Norman Foster’s modern communication tower, and an astronomical observatory.
• Collserola Natural Park: The largest green area in Barcelona, known as “the lungs of Barcelona,” located in the Collserola hills.
• Carretera de les Aigües: A favorite walking path among residents, offering breathtaking viewpoints over the city.
• Torre de Bellesguard: A unique Gaudí-designed detached villa, now open as a museum, is one of Barcelona’s least-known Gaudí works.
• Portal Miralles: A hidden Gaudí gem in Sarrià. The wavy structure was the gate and main entrance to the Finca Miralles estate. The Gaudí statue at the entrance, by Joaquim Camps Giralt, was added later.
• Torre Andreu (La Rotonda): A neoclassical and modernist building by architect Adolf Ruiz i Casamitjana, known for its beautifully decorated turret.
• CosmoCaixa Science Museum: One of Europe’s largest and most modern science museums, focused on introducing children to the wonders of science in a playful manner.
• Tramvia Blau: For many years, this blue tram was the most enjoyable way to reach the Tibidabo amusement park, along with the Funicular del Tibidabo. Currently, the Tramvia Blau is out of service and not operational.
• Cable Railways: Two funicular railways lead to the Collserola hills, the Funicular de Vallvidrera and Funicular del Tibidabo, both offering magnificent views of Barcelona en route.
• Bar Tomás: Given the fame of Bar Tomás’s patatas bravas as the city’s best, they are a must-try when in the area!

Fun Things to Do in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Exploring the chic Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, you quickly immerse in the world of affluent Barcelonians – where they shop, dine, and hang out. Beyond the famous attractions, the rest of the district remains largely untouched by tourism. Here are suggestions to experience Sarrià-Sant Gervasi like a local.

• Window Shopping: If your budget allows, you can indulge in shopping at the finest boutiques and specialty stores in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi. Alternatively, enjoy window shopping. Simply peering into the elegant shop windows of Carrer Major de Sarrià, Avinguda de Pau Casals, and Carrer de Muntaner often provides plenty of inspiration.
• Sampling Exclusive Delicacies: Throughout Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, you’ll find delicatessens and exclusive liquor stores offering Spain’s finest products. There’s even a caviar (Caviar Nacarii) and a cava store (Tannic by Freixenet), albeit with hefty price tags. Foodies will especially love visiting local fresh markets like Mercat de Galvany and Mercat de Sarrià, where locals shop.
• Fine Dining: Enjoy dining at Michelin-starred ABaC, or classics like El Asador de Aranda and La Venta. These renowned restaurants are popular among locals. For a culinary haven, head to Passatge Marimón, home to names like Hisop and Coure.
• Drinks with a View: Locals love having a drink at the bars of Plaça Doctor Andreu, situated at the foot of Tibidabo Mountain, offering beautiful views over the city from their terraces. These bars transform into vibrant cafes in the evening and are popular for romantic dates.
• Upscale Nightlife: The bars and nightclubs in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi attract trendy crowds, and it’s not uncommon to spot a football player or music star. Enjoy drinks at bars on Carrer Santaló, then head out to clubs like Sutton, Bling, Costa Breve, Luz de Gas, or Otto Zutz. For a relaxed vibe, lounge at Nuba’s terrace.
• Hiking in Nature: Nature enthusiasts will enjoy walking in the Collserola Natural Park woods. Alternatively, follow the 10 km Carretera de les Aigües, popular among walkers, runners, and cyclists.
• Visiting Viewpoints: In Collserola, there are numerous miradors offering the best views of the city. One of the most popular viewpoints is Mirador de Sarrià.
• Stargazing: Both the Fabra astronomical observatory and community center Vil·la Urània offer special tours and astronomical observation sessions.
• Hidden Gardens: To unwind, visit the numerous city gardens in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, such as the charming Jardins Muñoz Ramonet, Jardins de Vil·la Florida, or Vil·la Celilia and Vil·la Amèlia. Other interesting parks include Turó Parc and Parc del Turó del Putxet.
• Modernist Buildings: The area’s past as a summer residence has left many modernist villas still standing. Apart from well-known Torre Bellesguard and La Rotonda, there are numerous beautiful Modernista-style buildings. The most exquisite mansions are found along Avinguda del Tibidabo.

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi with Kids

Besides the famous Tibidabo amusement park and CosmoCaixa science museum, children can also enjoy the indoor playground Peek-a-Boo, play outside and enjoy nature in Parc de l’Oreneta, or picnic by the hidden Pantà de Vallvidrera lake in Collserola.

At Bocconi’s terrace in Plaça del Consell de la Vila, you can relax while children play safely in the square. Bar-restaurant 5° Pino, with a lovely terrace under pine trees and a small playground, is also recommended.

For children’s shopping, visit Petit Oh! and Baby Fun.

Events in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Various events are held throughout the year in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, with the vibrant nightlife and Tibidabo amusement park drawing many people.

• Tren del Parc de l’Oreneta: Every Sunday morning, an old-fashioned miniature train takes children for rides around Parc de l’Oreneta.
• Sant Medir: The sweet festival of Sant Medir is celebrated every March in Sarrià and Sant Gervasi.
• Sopars amb les estrelles: During summer, enjoy an exclusive dinner under the stars at Observatori Fabra.
• Festa Major de Sarrià: In late September or early October, the Sarrià neighborhood festival is known for its decorated balconies.
• Halloween at Tibidabo: The amusement park organizes a spooky Halloween event with themed attractions.
• Christmas at Tibidabo: Tibidabo also hosts a Christmas-themed family event.

Dining in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

There’s no shortage of great dining options in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi! While the district has an upscale image, there are eateries for every budget, from quick bites in cafes to star-quality meals in chef-worthy restaurants. Culinary enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the gourmet restaurants at Passatge Marimón. Below are some of my favorite dining spots in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi.

Coffee and Bakeries

• Foix de Sarrià (Plaça de Sarrià, 12-13 and Carrer Major de Sarrià): the most renowned bakery in Sarrià, in operation since 1886. Their location at Plaça de Sarrià includes a small café area in the back.
• Pastisseria Canal (Carrer de Muntaner, 566 and Carrer de Calvet, 15): best croissants can be found at this pastisseria, awarded as one of the best in Spain. They have two shops in the district and have been there since 1970.
• On y va Coffee (Carrer de la Ciutat de Balaguer, 45 and Carrer Vergos 55 Bis): a modern coffee shop with delicious bagels and gluten-free products. The Carrer Vergos location also includes a bike shop, another passion of the owners.

Lunch Spots

• Pinhan Bar (Turó Parc): a hidden kiosk in the middle of Turó Parc where you can enjoy a great lunch or order a picnic menu to take to the park.
• El Canalla (Carrer Major de Sarrià, 95): Mediterranean zero km-cuisine based on tapas and small dishes. Lunch menu from €10 per person.
• Buenas Migas (Carrer de Balmes, 470): a kid-friendly café where you can enjoy delicious focaccias or salads.

Restaurants

• Can Punyetes (Carrer de Marià Cubí, 189 and Carrer de la Ciutat de Balaguer, 50): a simple Catalan restaurant where you can taste the best of the local cuisine.
• Iluzione (Carrer de Ferran Agulló, 18): Italian gastrobar with a beautiful and trendy interior.
• La niña de mis ojos (Carrer Laforja, 83): a popular bistro restaurant, with surprising (tapas) dishes. Don’t miss their original patatas bravas.

Tapas Bars

• Bar El Tomàs de Sarrià (Carrer Major de Sarrià, 49): a traditional tapas bar where you can taste the authentic ‘bravas de Tomás’; for many, the best patatas bravas in the city!
• Morro Fi (Passeig de la Bonanova, 105): a popular tapas bar in Sarrià. Don’t miss their vermouth and order some tapas to go with it.
• Bambarol (Carrer de Santaló, 21): tapas restaurant, ideal for a gourmet evening.

Drinks and Nightlife in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is one of the main nightlife centers in Barcelona, often visited by the wealthy, celebrities, and those who want to mingle with the jet set. The otherwise quiet streets of Santaló and Laforja are flooded with party-goers at night. Most nightclubs are located around Carrer Tusset and Aribau, at the corner with Avinguda Diagonal. Here are some suggestions for a night out:

• Mirablau (Plaça del Doctor Andreu): one of the most magical places to have drinks with an incredible panoramic view of Barcelona.
• Feroz (Carrer de Tuset, 27): a trendy restaurant and cocktail bar near some of Barcelona’s most famous nightclubs.
• Espit Chupitos (Carrer de Lincoln, 19): a fun shot bar near the popular nightclub Otto Zutz.

Staying in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Staying in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is often not the first choice for most city travelers due to the distance from the center. However, it can be a great alternative for those who want to immerse themselves among the upper class or seek tranquility. Moreover, you’ll find some sublime hotels here, such as ABaC and Gran Hotel La Florida.