Best known for its elegance and opulence, the upscale Sant Gervasi neighborhood on the outskirts of the city center was originally a Roman colony. Today, it is largely a wealthy residential area, and a great place to stay if you’re looking for a tranquil, authentic vibe. You’ll find plenty of hidden gems here, including picturesque parks, immaculate boulevards, artisanal boutiques, and the best “patatas bravas” in the city. Barcelona’s beautiful people live, work and shop in this quiet paradise that borders on Gracia. One of the most expensive areas of Barcelona and the least frequented by tourists, this area has a special “small-town” charm in the heart of the city.. El Prat Airport: 20 minutes by car without traffic or 55 minutes by public transit Sants Station: 20 minutes by public transit Plaça Catalunya: 15 minutes by public transit Sagrada Família: 20 minutes by public transit