Author: Natàlia Gibernau

10 Top Barcelona Travel Tips for First-timers

Natàlia Gibernau

The best Barcelona Travel Tips are right here, so look no further! Hand selected by locals, these tips tell you everything you need to know for your first trip to Barcelona.

Find the answers to all the questions you have about visiting this wonderful city for the first time, plus some great Barcelona Travel Tips to ensure your stay is safe, fun and truly authentic.

This list will help you prepare for a fantastic trip to a city everyone should visit once in a lifetime! What are you waiting for?

Barcelona travel tips

1. Learn simple Catalana phrases to rock it

The first of our Barcelona Travel Tips is about language. You may not know this, but Catalan is very widely spoken throughout the region of Catalonia and in Barcelona. Although in most places you can get by with English, and Spanish is also widely spoken, we recommend impressing locals with some basic words and phrases. A “Bon dia” or “merci” (not the French kind) will go a long way! It’s also worth remembering that street names are in Catalan (carrer means street).

Check out our article here for 8 simple Catalan phrases you can’t visit Barcelona without.

2. Avoid being pickpocketed with these tips

Next on our list of Barcelona Travel Tips is a piece of advice to keep you safe: the city in general is very safe and most tourists (and locals) don’t experience any problems. However, pickpocketing is rife, above all on public transport and in the city’s busiest areas (La Rambla, El Gòtic area, etc.), so we recommend you always watch your belongings and never leave your bag, phone etc. on tables or in visible spots when you are eating.

Discover our article on more tips to avoid being pickpocketed in Barcelona.

3. Shall I go to a restaurant i Les Rambles?

Yes, Les Rambles is one of Barcelona’s most famous spots and we do recommend you visit it. However, the restaurants and bars near Plaça Catalunya and towards the beach are, quite plainly, tourist traps. One of the most important Barcelona Travel Tips you’ll hear is avoid these spots at all costs.

Head away from the busiest treats to the areas of Born, Eixample, Gràcia or Poble Nou for tasty tapas, international cuisine, light bites and more. On our blog you’ll find our favourite Catalan restaurants, our top vegetarian eateries and Barcelona’s best Japanese restaurants for those looking for something different.

4. Stay close to the centre

The next of our Barcelona Travel Tips is to stay close to the centre on your first trip to the city to make sure you can reach the city’s most popular sights on foot. The old quarter (el Gòtic) will have you within walking distance of La Boqueria Market, Santa Maria Basilica and Les Rambles. Stay in Eixample and discover Gaudí’s masterpieces on foot.

Don’t miss our guide to our best apartments by Barcelona neighbourhood when planning your trip for the most central short- and long-term rentals in privileged locations.

5. Free museums on Sundays in Barcelona

Another of our top Barcelona Travel Tips for first-timers and veterans alike is to hit Barcelona’s free museums on Sundays. Yes, you heard right! Many of the city’s museums open their doors on Sundays (subject to reservation). Discover them here.

6. Lets discover beautiful parks in the city

Barcelona is a thriving city and if you want to escape the hustle and bustle head to one of its beautiful parks to disconnect. Why not take a picnic and make an afternoon of it?

Find our top parks in Barcelona here!

7. How to get around Barcelona?

Getting around Barcelona is easy thanks to its well-connected public transport network. This list wouldn’t be complete without some Barcelona Travel tips on how to get around the city. We recommend buying a T-Casual ticket for 10 trips on the metro or bus or the Hola BCN! card for unlimited travel across the city.

8. Barcelona is synonymous with Gaudí

Barcelona is synonymous with Gaudí and we truly recommend visiting his masterpiece that is the Sagrada Família. Barcelona Travel tips will help you beat the queues and ensure your spot by reserving your ticket online in advance, as they can fly especially during the peak months.

Learn more about this beautiful monument and the architect behind it here.

9. Shall I tip in Barcelona?

To tip or not to tip! That is the question. It can be a complicated business, but the penultimate of our Barcelona Travel Tips is about tipping. Although this form of courtesy isn’t common in Spain, there are some situations when you might like to leave a tip.

Check out our article on how much to tip in Barcelona here.

10. Enjoy an amazing day trip from Barcelona

Last on our list of Barcelona Travel Tips is to make the most of your time in this wonderful part of the world. If after exploring the city you have a day or afternoon to spare, we recommend taking the train or renting a car and discovering some of the hidden treasures Catalonia has to offer in addition to its bustling beach destinations.

You’ll find our favourite day trips from Barcelona here.

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What language do they speak in Barcelona? A trapestry of culture and history

Natàlia Gibernau

What language do they speak in Barcelona? Barcelona is renowned for its rich history, awe-inspiring architecture, and passionate culture. While modern-day Barcelona is a bustling metropolis attracting millions of tourists annually, its language reflects the intricate tapestry of its past.

Historical Context

To find out what language do they speak in Barcelona it’s only fair to give you some historical context. The linguistic landscape of Barcelona is deeply rooted in its history, with influences from various civilizations. The first known inhabitants were the Iberians, who likely spoke a language from the Iberian Peninsula. In 218 BC, the Romans captured the city and brought Latin, which became the dominant language over time. The fall of the Roman Empire led to the migration of Germanic tribes, such as the Visigoths, who left their mark on the language.

In the 8th century, the Moors, a Muslim group, conquered the Iberian Peninsula, including Barcelona, introducing Arabic to the linguistic mosaic. This era lasted until 801 AD when Charlemagne’s Frankish forces took control of the region during the Carolingian Empire. Consequently, the linguistic blend grew to include Frankish influences.

By the 9th century, the County of Barcelona emerged as an important political entity. As the region gained independence from Carolingian rule, a distinct Romance language, Old Catalan, started to evolve. This language served as the foundation for the modern-day Catalan language.

Did you guessed what language do they speak in Barcelona?

Today, Catalan is the official language of Catalonia, with Barcelona as its capital. It is also spoken in Valencia, the Balearic Islands, Andorra, and parts of France and Italy. Catalan is a Romance language belonging to the same family as Spanish, French, and Italian.

What language do they speak in Barcelona
What language do they speak in Barcelona?

Common Catalan Phrases for Beginners

If you’re visiting Barcelona as a beginner, learning some basic Catalan phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture:

  1. Hello: Hola (OH-lah)
  2. Good morning: Bon dia (BOHN DEE-ah)
  3. Good afternoon/evening: Bona tarda (BOH-nah TAR-dah)
  4. Goodnight: Bona nit (BOH-nah neet)
  5. Please: Si us plau (see oos PLOW)
  6. Thank you: Gràcies (GRAH-syes)
  7. Yes: Sí (SEE)
  8. No: No (NOH)
  9. Excuse me/sorry: Perdoni (pehr-DOH-nee)
  10. I don’t understand: No ho entenc (NOH oh en-TENK)
  11. How much is this?: Quant costa això? (KWANT KOHS-tah ah-SHOH?)
  12. Where is…?: On és…? (OHN ehs…?)
  13. My name is…: Em dic… (EM deek…)
  14. I’m from…: Sóc de… (SOHK de…)
  15. Can you help me?: Em podeu ajudar? (em poh-DEW ah-zhoo-DAHR?)

The Catalan language plays a crucial role in preserving the region’s identity and fostering a sense of community among its speakers. The language has been both a source of pride and a symbol of resistance throughout history. During times of political turmoil, such as under Francisco Franco’s dictatorship, the use of Catalan was suppressed, further igniting the desire to preserve and promote the language.

In recent decades, Catalonia has gained a level of autonomy, and the Catalan language has experienced a revival in various domains, including education, media, and literature. Street signs, official documents, and public communication often appear in both Catalan and Spanish.

Language and Tourism

As a tourist, knowing a few phrases in Catalan can enhance your interactions with locals and make your experience more rewarding. Though many people in Barcelona also speak Spanish and English, using Catalan phrases can demonstrate your appreciation for the local culture and foster a deeper connection with the city and its people.

In conclusion, Barcelona’s language is a captivating tapestry woven with influences from the Iberians, Romans, Moors, and Frankish peoples. The modern-day language, Catalan, reflects the region’s unique history and identity. While visiting Barcelona, embracing the local language can open doors to unforgettable experiences and create lasting memories of this enchanting city.

So now that you know what language do they speak in Barcelona, are you ready to plan your next adventure to this wonderful city?

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Trencadís  – What is it and where can I find it in Barcelona?

Natàlia Gibernau

Trencadís may not be a word that you’re not familiar with, but if you’ve visited Barcelona before, you will certainly have seen it around you in the streets, in buildings, in parks, in souvenir shops… These mosaics are an explosion of colour, each little piece uniquely different in shape, pattern and colour scheme, yet when pieced together they come and form one cohesive and magnificent artwork. Not to mention, Trencadís is absolutely captivating when glittering under the Barcelona sun, as the light bounces off the tiles and brings the vibrant colours to life. It is no wonder that this technique has become synonymous with Mediterranean culture and design.

Trencadís
Trencadís – Park Güell

What is Trencadís?

Trencadís is a Catalan term that literally means “chopped” and is the name for this artistic method that was popularised in 20th century Catalan modernism by artists like Antoni Gaudí and Josep Maria Jujol, Trencadís is a mosaic-like effect, achieved by cementing together random shards and pieces of broken chinaware, piece by piece like a jigsaw. Sometimes other materials are used, like glass, buttons or shells. In French, this technique is known as “pique assiette”, which translates to “plate thief”, perhaps referring to the use of recycled or “scrounged” materials – in other words, materials that ceramic factories often discarded.

What is the origin of the Trencadís?

Well, legend has it that Gaudí was visiting the ceramics workshop of Lluis Bru, and when he saw how tediously slow he was putting the pieces together, the impatient Gaudí simply grabbed a tile, shattered it into a hundred pieces on the ground, and stuck them on by the fistful, exclaiming “We must do it like this or we’ll never finish!”. Whether or not the story is true, it is true that the Catalan architect certainly used the innovative craft extensively and transformed it into one of his most signature techniques, which he applied in many of his architectural creations in Barcelona.

Where can I find Trencadís in Barcelona?

One of the most famous examples of Trencadís is brought to life, in the form of the world-famous mosaic, affectionately known as “El Drac” that majestically lazes on the steps in Park Güell. Also, the pavilion seating area in Park Güell, where you can get a panoramic view of Barcelona, is adorned in multi-coloured mosaic tiles, and is a popular photography point for visitors of Barcelona. Throughout the park you’ll find the distinctive artform of Trencadís-covered spheres, columns, and buildings too. The colors that predominate in the work are blue, green and yellow, which for Gaudí symbolized Faith, Hope and Charity.

Trencadis Drac Parc Güell
Trencadís – El Drac

One of Gaudí’s other Trencadís masterpieces is Casa Batlló on Passeig de Gràcia, which when illuminated during the nighttime almost comes alive with magic, glowing and shimmering in the dark. Even the stone benches that line the luxurious shops on Passeig de Gràcia are covered in the signature mosaic tiles.

In Sant Pau, mosaics were used everywhere to introduce floral motives into the hospital, and can be found in murals, on the ceilings, floors and walls. On the floor of Parròquia de Sant Pacià, a geometric design of marble mosaic lies on the floor, created by a young Gaudí.

With Trencadís found on many different architectural creations in Barcelona, just keep your eyes peeled while wandering around, and you’re sure to stumble upon another mosaic-covered beauty. Did you find any that we missed out? Let us know!

Best Private Clubs in Barcelona You Should Know About

Natàlia Gibernau

Private clubs, members-only clubs, social clubs – whatever you want to call them, Barcelona welcomes them all! In the past few years, several of these community-based hubs have popped up across the city, offering settings that combine sanctuary and respite with business and networking to its members.

Despite the pandemic causing many businesses to close down, these private clubs in Barcelona have flourished, with many new spaces opening up. Their main offering is comfy and thoughtfully designed spaces to work, areas for relax – including spas, gyms and pools – and ideal spots for networking, where meeting diverse, yet similar-minded individuals has never been so easy.

If you’re visiting Barcelona for a long-term stay for business or leisure, or if you’re a digital nomad eager to mingle with other creatives and local talent, don’t miss our list of the best private clubs in Barcelona!

Soho House Barcelona

Plaça del Duc de Medinaceli, 4,

Soho House Barcelona was one of the first private clubs in Barcelona, opening its doors in 2016. With stunning views of the port and a stone’s throw away from the Gothic area, this luxurious property boasts all the comforts of home in an unbeatable location.

Similar to its clubs in London, New York, Istanbul and Miami, Soho House Barcelona welcomes creatives of all types to enjoy its top-class facilities. Enjoy a signature cocktail at the rooftop bar with a gorgeous pool, hit the gym or seek contemplation and reflection in a yoga class. It’s also a great place to mix with like-minded people and network during your time in Barcelona.

The club also boasts the Little Beach House in Garraf, a short train ride up the coast from Barcelona, where members can enjoy a laid-back beach vibe, while still making the most of the benefits of one of the most popular private clubs in Barcelona.

Private Clubs in Barcelona
Private Clubs in Barcelona: Soho House

Juno House

Carrer d’Aribau, 226

The first women’s-only private club in Barcelona, Juno House opened its doors at the beginning of 2022. With the aim of providing women with a place where they can enhance their professional career, find like-minded talented women and support their own wellbeing in a holistic setting.

Named after the powerful goddess Juno, the beautiful space in the former Flour Factory on the centrally located Aribau hosts mentoring sessions, workshops and talks, and also features thoughtfully curated workspaces. The Little Juno space allows mums to get back to work with kid’s classes and more. The intimate Clubhouse is the perfect setting for after-work drinks and stimulating conversation.

Private Clubs in Barcelona: Juno House

The Sircle Club

Carrer del Rosselló, 265

In the heart of the city, just a short walk away from Passeig de Gràcia and Gaudí’s La Pedrera, this members-only space has something for everyone, with a special focus on innovators and entrepreneurs.

Relax and unwind at the luxury Spa by Signature, with access included in the monthly membership. Those visiting the city for work will also enjoy the exclusive workspaces and library with a dedicated female-author section. Members-only events at this private club in Barcelona include professional workshops and inspiring discussions and readings.

Private Clubs in Barcelona - The Sircle
Private Clubs in Barcelona: The Sircle

The Wild Bunch

Carrer d’Espinoi, 8-10

This business centre in the north of the city – close to the Tibidabo mountain – is one of the most coveted private clubs in Barcelona. Its interior décor is reminiscent of old British clubs you’d stumble across on the streets of London: think leather armchairs, lavish rugs and deep mahogany paneling.

The clientele is predominantly male community open to individuals of diverse politics, opinions and from different industries. Combining business and pleasure, The Wild Bunch offers a relaxing setting for business meetings – with a bar, pool table and large TV screens for football matches. The Wild Hub is its more results-focused branch for investors and entrepreneurs, operating under the three pillars of analysis, funding and consulting.

So there you have it, our list of the top private clubs in Barcelona. We recommend visiting their websites for more information on membership prices, how to apply to become a members, and the range of services and benefits they offer.

The Wild Bunch -Private Clubs in Barcelona
Private Clubs in Barcelona: The Wild Bunch

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6 Curious Facts about Sagrada Família’s history

Natàlia Gibernau

Over the years, Barcelona has become synonymous with Gaudí’s Sagrada Família: its magnificent yet unfinished towers, its captivating sculpted exterior, its light-filled interior…

The Sagrada Família has been bringing people from far and wide to Barcelona for decades, yet what is it that fascinates visitors so?

Have you ever wondered why Gaudí built the Sagrada Familia? And when, after over 100 years, it will eventually be finished?

In this article we explain these six curious facts about the history and the construction of the Sagrada Família that are sure to make you even more curious about it.

Gaudí did not lay the Sagrada Família’s first stone

It was in 1881 that the Saint John Devotee Association (Asociación de devots de Sant Josep) bought a plot of land measuring 12,800 m2 on which to build the temple. However, it wasn’t until 19 March, 1882 that the first stone was laid – not by Gaudí – but by the architect Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano. In fact, Gaudí inherited the project from said architect in 1883 with a much more aspiring outlook than his predecessor.

Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano - Sagrada Família

Gaudí dedicated 43 years of his life to the Sagrada Família

As we have mentioned, Gaudí’s plan for what would be the Sagrada Família was highly ambitious. His original plans were for a temple with 5 naves, 3 facades, 18 towers. This would be, by far, his most ambitious project to date, and also the one he sought the most perfection in. From the year 1914 onwards, Gaudí stopped all other work and focused exclusively on the Sagrada Família.

Sagrada Família -plans sketched by Gaudí


Gaudí lived only to see the construction of the Nativity Façade

The Sagrada Família boasts three façades, each dedicated to a moment in the life of Christ: his birth, his suffering and resurrection and his eternal glory. It was in 1925 that he managed to finish the bell tower of the Nativity Façade, a mere year before his tragic death.

Gaudí knew that he would never see the Sagrada Família finished, therefore he left dozens of plans, sketches and instructions so it could be finished exactly how he had imagined. However, this information was tragically lost and burnt during the Spanish Civil War.

Sagrada Família - Nativity façade in 1899
Nativity façade, 1899. Author: Aleu

The temple represents the life of Jesus and will be the tallest building in Barcelona

With the construction of the Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s wish was to represent the life of Jesus. The soon-to-be 18 towers will be dedicated to his disciples, the four Evangelists and the Virgin Mary. The tallest tower of all, scheduled to be finished in 2022, will be dedicated to Jesus Christ and topped by an impressive cross. 

With this, it will reach a total height of 172.5 metres, becoming the tallest building in the city of Barcelona. What’s more, it will also take the title for the tallest church in the world.

There are no straight lines in its architecture

In the entirety of Gaudí’s magnificent temple there is not one straight line. This masterpiece is an imitation of nature at its purest – from columns that emulate trees to an abundance of diverse flora and fauna. It was Gaudí himself who said: “The straight line belongs to men, the curved one to God.”

Sagrada Família - Current state of the construction progress of sagrada familia

It will be finished in 2026 to coincide with the centenary of Gaudí’s death

A mere 144 years since it was started, the Sagrada Família is scheduled to be finished in the year 2026, marking one hundred years after Gaudí’s death in 1926. However, just because the construction is finished doesn’t mean that the temple itself is finished. There is still many a decorative element to add!

This date will be considered even more special if Gaudí obtains sainthood from the Catholic Church, the proposal for which was initiated in 2000 by an association of his devotees.

Sagrada Família - Antoni Gaudí picture

So, whether you’re visiting the Sagrada Família for the first or umpteenth time, we hope these interesting facts will open your eyes to the history behind it. 

Taxis in Barcelona – The best guide step by step

Natàlia Gibernau

Taxis in Barcelona are available 24-hours a day thanks to the city’s ample cab network. Getting a taxi can be one of the quickest and simplest ways to get around the city. Prices can be cheaper than other cities throughout Europe and waiting times dramatically lower.

Whether you need to take a taxi from the Barcelona El Prat airport, if you miss the night bus mid-week after an evening of dinner and drinks, or when returning to your apartment after a day sight-seeing, getting a taxi in Barcelona is often an essential part of your stay in Barcelona.

We understand that jumping in a taxi abroad can be a daunting experience if you’re not prepared. That’s why we’ve put together this brief guide to taxis in Barcelona.

taxis in barcelona

Official taxis in Barcelona

You can’t miss the taxis in Barcelona thanks to their black and yellow colours. Keep an eye out for the lights on top of the car: green means available and orange means that the taxi is occupied.

If you’re staying in one of our well-located apartments, you’ll probably only have to wait a few minutes before spotting a taxi to hail down. Remember that some of the central streets in Barcelona are pedestrianised, so you may have a to walk to a main street to get a cab.

Taxi ranks in Barcelona

As in many cities, it is very common to hail a cab down by raising your hand from the side of the road when you see a taxi with a green light. However, there are of course many taxi ranks scattered throughout the city to make finding a taxi that little bit easier.

Bear in mind that the taxi driver can only stop if their car is free and it has not been reserved, and you are currently more than 200 metres away from a taxi rank. What’s more, taxi drivers can refuse to drive passengers under the influence of alcohol and drugs. They are also not obliged to accept animals (with the exception of guide dogs).

There are more than 300 taxi ranks around the city, all which can be consulted here. The city’s biggest ranks can be found at the three airport terminals, the four stations of the Barcelona Port (Moll Adossat) and Estació de Sants.

How much are taxis in Barcelona?

Taxis in Barcelona are more expensive than other forms of public transport in the city such and the bus and metro, however they are affordable and not as expensive as other European cities, as we have mentioned.

All taxis in Barcelona use a meter, so you don’t have to worry about being ripped off. Fares in Barcelona depend on the time of day and if you are travelling on a national holiday. The minimum price for taxis in Barcelona is €2.25 except on Saturdays and holidays between 8 pm and 8 am, when the minimum charge goes up to €3.20.

Remember that the following supplements are added to the final price shown on the meter at the end of the journey:

  • Airport (origin/destination): €4.30 (see below for more information about getting a taxi to/from the airport)
  • Port station (Moll Adossat) (origin): €4.30
  • Main city stations (Sants Station and Fira Exhibition Centre): €2.50
  • Vehicles for 4–8 passengers: €4.30
  • Special nights*: €3.10

*23/06 – 24/06, 24/12 – 25/12 and 31/12 – 01/1

Here you can find a breakdown table of the fares and tariffs for taxis in Barcelona. You can also calculate the estimated cost of your route in advance of your journey here or download the official app for your phone to use it on the go.

If you are unsure whether you should leave a tip or not, check our article here about tipping in Barcelona.

Taxi in Barcelona

Taxis in Barcelona to/from the airport

When you land at Barcelona El Prat airport, we understand that you want to get to your apartment as soon as possible and start enjoying the city straight away. Getting a taxi from the airport is simple – you’ll find several taxi ranks at both terminals. Simply follow the signs after passport control

The minimum cost of a taxi to and from Barcelona airport is always €20 and generally journeys tend to cost between €30–€35 to and from the city centre.

Getting a taxi in Barcelona during the COVID-19 pandemic – May 2020

It is still possible to take a taxi in Barcelona during the COVID-19 pandemic, however it is mandatory to observe the following rules:

  • As of 3 May 2020, it is mandatory to wear a mask when using public transport
  • A maximum of one passenger is allowed per journey, unless you are accompanying a disabled individual or a minor
  • Open the taxi door using your non-dominant hand
  • Sit in the back of the taxi and follow social distancing rules
  • Taxi drivers will issue receipts only on request

Getting a taxis in Barcelona can be a daunting task – but not any more! Remember you can consult the Barcelona official public transport page here to find further information on taxis in Barcelona in English.

A tour of 10 Gaudí buildings in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Shall we go on a tour of the Gaudí Buildings in Barcelona? Barcelona is a destination known all over the world for being synonymous with the name of this epic artist and architect. He dedicated his entire life to his work and his buildings are some of Spain’s most spectacular examples of architecture. Yes, we’re talking about Antoni Gaudí – the king of modernism in Barcelona, the Catalan genius.

A trip to Barcelona would not be complete without discovering the work of an artist ahead of his time. Gaudí defied the rigidity of formal architecture until he found his own colourful, imaginative style, through which he and Barcelona flourished.

Here we have put together a guide to some of the most well-known and not so well-known Gaudí buildings in Barcelona. Discover the essence of Gaudí through his most emblematic works.

Portal Finca Miralles (1901-1902)

The Miralles gate to a no longer existing housing estate is perhaps one of Gaudí’s lesser-known designs. Between the years 1901 and 1902, Gaudí constructed the entrance and the wall that today surrounds a quiet residential area. If you’d like to admire Gaudí’s work but avoid the crowds, this is for you.

Porta Finca Miralles - Gaudí Buildings
Porta Finca Miralles – Gaudí Buildings

Col·legi de les Teresianes (1888–1889)

Another one of Barcelona’s better-kept secrets, this Gaudí building was first built as a Teresian nunnery. Even though the building is today a school and cannot be visited, you can still pass by this Gaudí building – inspired by a neogothic castle and religious symbolism – to catch a glimpse of its stunning exterior.

Col.legi de les Teresianes - Gaudí Buildings
Col.legi de les Teresianes – Gaudí Buildings

Torre Bellesguard (1900–1909)

Steeped in history and legend, this Gaudí building was constructed upon the ruins of the palace where the ancient king  “Martin the Humane” resided. Also known as Casa Figueres, this manor house captures both gothic and modernist styles.

Torre Bellesguard - Gaudí Buildings
Torre Bellesguard – Gaudí Buildings

Parc Güell (1900–1909)

Many have heard of this monumental Gaudí building and park, however few know its story. Parc Güell was originally designed to be a city-garden for the bourgeoisie of Barcelona, home to green courtyards, exquisite chapels, beautiful homes and sprawling pavilions. Despite these plans of grandeur, given its distance from the city, Parc Güell became the public park we know it as today.

Parc Güell - Gaudí Buildings
Parc Güell – Gaudí Buildings

Casa Vicens (1883–1888)

Located in the neighbourhood of Gràcia and only recently opened to the public, Casa Vicens is the very first of the Gaudí buildings. Built as a summerhouse for the Vicens family, this exquisite work of modernist architecture is an example of a blossoming Gaudí who aimed at bringing nature and all its splendour to the inside of his structures.

Casa Vicens - Gaudí Bulidings
Casa Vicens – Gaudí Bulidings

Sagrada Família (1883–1926)

It may be unfinished but the Sagrada Família is, without a doubt, the most renowned of all the Gaudí buildings. Started in 1882, Gaudí dedicated over 40 years of his live to the basilica. This icon of Barcelona and Gaudí’s greatest masterpiece is simply a must-see!

La Sagrada Família - Gaudí Buildings
La Sagrada Família – Gaudí Buildings

Casa Milà (La Pedrera) (1902–1912)

Known as “La Pedrera” (The Stone Quarry) due to the stony appearance of its façade, the shape of this Gaudí building is reminiscent of the sea. Over the years it has served as a consulate, an event hall and a hotel for the city’s most illustrious guests.

Casa Milà- Gaudí Buildings in Barcelona
Casa Milà- Gaudí Buildings in Barcelona

Casa Batlló (1906–1910)

Built on top of an already existing building, Casa Batlló is Gaudí’s most colourful and imaginative work. This Gaudí building is inspired by nature and possibly even based on the legend of Saint George and the dragon. Why not visit for yourself to find out more!

Casa Batlló - Gaudí Buildings
Casa Batlló – Gaudí Buildings

Casa Calvet (1888-1890)

Perhaps one of the subtler of the Gaudí buildings, Casa Calvet was originally built as an apartment block for Pere Mártir Calvet. The textile manufacturer commissioned Gaudí to design a space where he could live, with a ground floor dedicated to his commerce.

Casa Calvet - Gaudí Buildings
Casa Calvet – Gaudí Buildings

Palau Güell (1886–1888)

This opulent mansion built for the Gaudí’s friend Eusebi Güell is located in the heart of the district of Raval. It was opened to the public in 2011 and was the first of Gaudí’s most significant works.

Palau Güell - Gaudí Buildings
Palau Güell – Gaudí Buildings

Barcelona would not be the destination it is today if it weren’t for this ground-breaking modernist architect and his pioneering buildings. The above Gaudí’s buildings have become icons of Barcelona, which one is your favourite?

El Raval District Guide: 9 Things to See and Do

Natàlia Gibernau

Barcelona’s El Raval district is part of the city’s Ciutat Vella (old quarter). It is literally a stone’s throw away from the city’s famous Las Ramblas and Plaça Catalunya, so there is no excuse not to visit this emblematic part of the city.

What is today a colourful, vibrant neighbourhood was once a forgotten area of Barcelona associated with crime and prostitution. Yet it has recently seen a new lease of life with changes for the better, making it a neighbourhood in Barcelona with a truly unique personality with many a thing to see and do.

There is always something going on in El Raval come night or day, rain or shine. We’re not exaggerating when we say every corner of this district is brimming with art, culture and life.

We’ve put together this guide to El Raval district in Barcelona to make sure you don’t miss a thing. So grab your camera and get ready to discover 9 of the best things to see and do in El Raval.

1. CCCB – Centre for Contemporary Culture

Carrer de Montalegre, 5, 08001 Barcelona

An unmissable stop on your tour of El Raval is this space dedicated to modern-day culture that is packed with fun activities and exhibitions for all ages and tastes. From life on other planets and the latest scientific discoveries to art, film and literature from all over the world, the CCCB programme has something for everyone. What’s more, entrance is free on Sundays after 3 pm – but make sure you reserve your spot in advance!

EL Raval - CCCB
CCCB – Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona

2. MACBA – The Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona

Plaça dels Àngels, 1, 08001 Barcelona

Just around the corner is the MACBA, which you’ll recognise by its stunning modern glass façade, housing a diverse array of permanent and temporary exhibitions by local and international artists from the later half of the twentieth century to the present day. Check out the website for guided tours, workshops and activities for kids.

MACBA
MACBA

3. La Rambla del Raval

One of our favourite things to do in El Raval is take a stroll down La Rambla del Raval. This extensive tree-lined boulevard is brimming with ethnic and cultural diversity, and is where you’ll catch street artists for a colourful experience in El Raval District.

La Rambla del Raval
La Rambla del Raval

4. Take a photo with el Gat de Botero

Whilst you’re at La Rambla del Raval, don’t forget to snap a selfie with the district’s famous bronze sculpture of a cat by Fernando Botero, famous Colombian sculptor.

El Gat de Botero
El Gat de Botero

5. Go alternative shopping

El Raval is the place to be when it comes to vintage and alternative fashion. You’ll find everything and anything from handmade dresses and second-hand bargains to accessories from the 60s, 70s and 80s. Be sure to head to Calle Riera Baixa, which is lined with pop-up stalls every Saturday morning. What’s more, don’t miss the Fleadonia flea market on Sundays in Plaça de Blanquerna for even more bargains!

Flea Market in El Raval
Flea Market in El Raval

6. La Boqueria Market

La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona

Talking of markets, you simply can’t miss the symbolic La Boqueria market nestled between El Raval and Las Ramblas. Here you’ll find every fruit and vegetable under the sun, freshly squeezed juices, specialist products from around Spain and tapas bars packed with tourists and locals alike – be sure to get there early to try dishes made with fresh market produce. Famous around the world, this vibrant space has become synonymous with a trip to Barcelona.

Mercat de la Boqueria
Mercat de la Boqueria

7. Filmoteca de Catalunya

Plaça de Salvador Seguí, 1, 08001 Barcelona

This film archive located in the heart of El Raval strives to preserve film and audiovisual culture, with particular focus on Catalonia. Discover a range of film screenings throughout the week in original language version, in addition to photography exhibitions and a small bookshop.

Filmoteca de Catalunya

8. Discover Carrer Joaquín Costa’s nightlife

If you’re looking to discover the true side of El Raval, be sure to head to Carrer Joaquín Costa for an evening that promises some of Barcelona’s coolest bars, live music and your favourite tipple. Afterwards, why not head to Marsella bar on Carrer de Sant Pau, 65. Rumoured to be Barcelona’s first bar and frequented by Picasso and Hemingway, the drink of choice here is absinthe.

Marsella - Bar in el Raval
Marsella Bar

9. Savour the flavours of El Raval

Given the ethnic diversity of this neighbourhood, it’s no surprise that here you’ll find a plethora of restaurants serving food from far-flung places and places closer to home. Here you’ll try some of the best Indian, Vietnamese, Lebanese, Catalan and vegetarian cuisine.

Bar Cañete - where to eat in El Raval
Bar Cañete

10. L’antic Hospital de la Santa Creu & the National Library of Catalonia

Carrer de l’Hospital, 56, 08001 Barcelona

Formerly a hospital, this example of Catalan Gothic architecture can be visited today as the National Library of Catalonia, with its mission being to collect and preserve Catalan-language books and heritage. Don’t miss the beautiful courtyard of this hospital, which was where Gaudí himself was cared for before he died.

Biblioteca de Catalunya in El Raval

11. Visit the Drassanes Reials de Barcelona (Royal Shipyards of Barcelona)

Av. de les Drassanes, 1, 08001 Barcelona

Home to the Barcelona Maritime Museum, these former shipyards boast a spectacular collection of ships and are steeped in history. Head there to learn of the role the city played in the construction of these impressive vessels.

Drassanes Barcelona
Drassanes

12. Sala Barts

Av. del Paral·lel, 62, 08001 Barcelona

Known as Barcelona Arts on Stage, this emblematic venue that first opened its doors in El Raval in 1892 hosts theatre, music and cultural events and festivals. Be sure to check out its website to see what’s on!

That concludes our guide to El Raval District in Barcelona. Let us know what your favourite thing to do in El Raval is!

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