Sant Andreu
sant andreu
Sitting in the northern part of Barcelona, Sant Andreu has a very traditional feel as it is more local and less touristy. The district has agricultural origins and, like other Barcelona districts, it was independent until 1897. Although outside the city center, it is immersed in the essence of Catalonia: picturesque spots, history, centuries-old shops, and modern amenities blend seamlessly.
Major Metro Stops:
La Sagrera: L1-Red, L5-Blue, L9-Orange, and L10-Light Blue
Sant Andreu: L1-Red, R2 and R11 Renfe trains
ABOUT SANT ANDREU
Sant Andreu grew from a series of farmhouses built around the parish church of Sant Andreu del Palomar. The church dates back more than a thousand years and is one of the traditional gateways to Barcelona which, for years, was home to factories and textile mills. Sant Andreu has an industrial past but its old factories have now been transformed into modern amenities, parks, and art centers, meaning that the district holds an interesting mix of families, lifelong residents, and young artists and artisans. The Sant Andreu barrio is a reflection of the "new" Barcelona mixed with the past.
The Sant andreu to-do list
Stroll through the Plaza del Mercadal or down the Carrer Gran de Sant Andreu, the main street of the neighborhood, to experience what it must have been like to live in a town which was once separate from Barcelona.
This neo-Gothic Church of Sant Andreu del Palomar symbolizes the history of the neighborhood. You can find this church in the Plaza d’Orfila.
The Mercat de Sant Andreu resembles a village and radiates a buzzing atmosphere. Despite its modest size, you can find almost anything you are looking for.
Looking to take a relaxing stroll? The Parc de la Maquinista de Sant Andreu has a large pond lined with trees and shaped like an orange slice.
Bac de Roda Bridge (locally known as the Calatrava Bridge), marks the border between San Andreu and the neighboring district of San Martí. The curved style of the bridge, along with the tight cables, were inspired by the human body.
restaurants
Mercat de Sant Andreu - Plaça del Mercadal, 41. The market was recently redone and now offers 15 fresh food stalls. Think La Boqueria but with a much more local and authentic feel!
Churrería Sant Andreu - Carrer Gran de Sant Andreu, 241. The best churros con chocolate in the area!
Bar Colombia - Rambla de Fabra i Puig, 1. A family owned local with traditional tapas and bocatas!
For more ideas on where to eat in Sant Andreu, click here!