Barcelona Museums

Barcelona museums become an attraction in themselves and here we give the best options depending on the tastes of the target audience, open doors days, where to get early tickets, discounts and even museums to go with children

Visit the Incredible Montserrat Monastery

Explore the Montserrat Monastery, One of the Best Attractions of Barcelona

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Barcelona is a dream vacation spot due to its countless, intriguing attractions!  The Montserrat Monastery near Barcelona has been a place of great religious significance for generations.  What began as a Roman temple to worship Venus transformed into a monastery in 880 A.D. by hermit monks.  It has been said that unbelievable miracles occurred here in the 12th century that caused tremendous growth in the monastery.  Today, this attraction is still a destination of pilgrimages and also serves as a place for people to visit and learn about the history of this area.  Discover what this attraction has to offer and make plans to see it today!

Getting to the Montserrat Monastery from Barcelona

The Montserrat Monastery is perched atop a towering mountain, overlooking breathtaking views of Spain.  If you’re traveling to this attraction from Barcelona and wondering how to get there, you can catch a train from the Barcelona-Plaça Espanya Station that leaves every hour and will carry you up the steep, dizzying incline to this majestic destination above.  The Montserrat Monastery hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. and is open all week long.  Tickets can be purchased through the Montserrat Monastery website.

History and Art of the Montserrat Monastery

Over one thousand years of preserved artwork and historical artifacts are kept here in this beautiful establishment.  These pieces total to almost 1,300 items; the oldest of these collections can be traced all the way back to 13th century BC Egypt.  In addition to numerous icons and liturgical objects from all places and time periods, the Museum of the Montserrat is home to countless paintings created by some of the most talented artists in the world, including Picasso and Salvador Dali.  One of the most beloved pieces here, however, is the statue of the Black Madonna at Montserrat Monastery; visitors and locals alike flock to see this beautiful representation the patron saint of Catalonia.  

Things to Do at the Montserrat Monastery

In addition to touring the many art displays and history exhibits, the Montserrat Monastery offers many other activities as well.  An interactive audiovisual room is available to help visitors learn more about the three pillars that support this institution: the mountain, the sanctuary, and the monastery.  For further education, you can also take a Montserrat Monastery map and an audio guide to lead you on a tour of the Holy Cave, the Basilica, and the Degatolls’ Path.   

Hiking near the Montserrat Monastery

This area also includes the Montserrat Nature Park, a gorgeous portion of the great outdoors that contains numerous trails for walking and hiking.  Go on a stroll along the Hermitage Trail, where individuals traversed for years and years to reach a place of peace for quiet meditation and contemplation.  You can also climb to the top of the Montserrat Peak for jaw-dropping, panoramic views of the surrounding scenery, or take a one-day course on rock climbing to learn a new, exciting skill!  Experienced hikers love the challenge that the Cavall Bernat presents; this long, slender rock needle protruding from the face of the mountain is a climb meant only for expert outdoorsmen!

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Photo by Андрей Шевченко / Thinkstock

Best 9 Museums in Barcelona 2024 – Guide for Art Lovers

Natàlia Gibernau

Discover the best museums in Barcelona! No matter where you walk, it’s easy to see that art, culture and architecture form such a huge part in Barcelona’s cultural identity. It’s therefore no surprise that Barcelona is home to a dizzying number of museums, spanning a wide range of topics. For art, museums in Barcelona pay homage to some of the biggest names in art history, like Picasso, Joan Miró, Antonio Tàpies, and also to lesser-known modern day artists; styles ranging from contemporary to Modernism; exhibitions can be of massive large-scale productions of up to a hundred pieces shipped from all over the world, or just a smaller exhibition of a dozen carefully curated pieces. In the best museums in Barcelona, there’s a whole treasure trove of knowledge and culture waiting for you to delve into… Keep reading for our suggestions of best museums in Barcelona.

Bes Museums in Barcelona

National Museum of Art of Catalonia (MNAC)

Located in Montjuïc Palace, MNAC covers Catalan art from the 10th to the 20th century, has exhibitions of art from the Romanesque, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau, amongst others. Just the building itself is a sight that will inspire – no wonder it is considered one of the best museums in Barcelona.

Best Museums in Barcelona - MNAC

Picasso Museum

Opened in 1963, this museum houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist, and also reveals his deep intimate relationship with Barcelona, one that carried on until his death.

Best Museums in Barcelona - Picasso Museum

European Museum of Modern Art (MACBA)

A museum that transcends three centuries: located in a beautiful old 18th-century palace, showcasing the finest figurative contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries.

Joan Miró Museum

One of the best museums in Barcelona, it’s dedicated to Catalan artist and master of Surrealism – Joan Miró. The impressive collection of his work includes paintings, drawings, and sculptures of around a thousand pieces.

Antoni Tàpies Museum

Born in Barcelona, Antoni Tàpies created abstract and imaginative contemporary art with a social message. Here you can view an extensive collection of the Catalan painter’s work during his formative years.

Catalunya History Museum

Travel through time and see how Catalonia’s heritage has changed, from back in the Stone Ages to the modern day. As you explore the exhibition, you’ll walk through the history narrative of the city too.

Frederic Marès Museum

Located in Gothic Quarters, this museums preserves the collections assembled by it’s founder, including sculptures, plus amusing items like photographs, toys, keys, pipes, and clocks.

Egyptian Museum

With over 20,000 square meters, here you can explore one of the world’s most ancient civilizations, back to the mystical time of grand pharaohs, mummies and jewels.

Gaudí House Museum
Of course, it’s impossible not to mention Gaudí, one of the greatest and most well known names in Spanish culture. Walk down any corner of the city and you will see his artistic influence spread everywhere, from lampposts, to buildings, to floor tiles, to cathedrals… Come here to where the famous architect and designer called home, and for an intimate glance into his life and works.

Best Museums in Barcelona - Gaudí's Home

Have you been to any of the above museums before? Which do you personally think are the best museums in Barcelona? Let us know!

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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?

6 ways to enjoy the culture of Barcelona from your home

Natàlia Gibernau

Enjoy the culture of Barcelona from your home: Although life as we know it has changed these past two weeks, you don’t have to forgo the wonderful cultural proposals that Barcelona has on offer.

From virtual museum visits, talks, shows, concerts and more, we’ve put together this list that will lift your spirits and ensure Barcelona’s cultural soul stays strong during this time.

So, this evening instead of watching another Netflix series, why not gather together with your family or housemates, and check out some of the Catalan’s capitals brilliant cultural experiences from the comfort of your sofa. 

Virtual visits to museums

Despite the city’s museums having closed their doors during this period of confinement, you can still explore their corners with these virtual visits. From the Picasso Museum, the Barcelona Museum of Design, the Catalonia National Museum, the Museum of Modern Art and much more, pick your favourite and get lost in their diverse collections. Here you’ll find a list we’ve put together with links to access the virtual visits.

Virtual visits to museums - Culture of Barcelona
Virtual visits to museums – Culture of Barcelona

Barcelona e-library

The libraries of Barcelona have opened their shelves to the public during this extraordinary time to share their collections online. There are more than 100,000 titles available in Catalan, Spanish, English, French and German that you can lend virtually. Enjoy e-books, magazines, films, audiobook, documentaries and much more with your Catalan library card. Find out more here.

Barcelona Elibrary - Culture of Barcelona
Barcelona Elibrary – Culture of Barcelona

VIDA Festival live

If you’re like us, you’re already thinking about those long summer nights and outdoor festivals. We recommend checking out the “Vida at Home” cycle of concerts. The festival – which is scheduled to be held in Vilanova i la Geltrú this July – will be streaming live performances every day this week at 19h on their Instagram page. Enjoy acts from Ferran Palau, Enric Montefusco, The New Raemon, Núria Graham, and many more. 

Vida Festival Live - Culture of Barcelona
Vida Festival Live – Culture of Barcelona

Virtual Gaudí

If you were planning a trip to Barcelona and are craving the city’s masterpieces, here we have your Gaudí pick me up. Check out these virtual visits of La Pedrera and Casa Battló. These 360º tours are almost as good as the real thing! Get up and close to two of Gaudí’s masterpieces and discover the history of modernism in Barcelona from your home.

Virtual Gaudí

Opera in your living room

The Liceu theatre has launched a special initiative to bring its latest opera extravaganzas straight to your living room. Normally you have to get dressed up to go to the opera, but not any more! Don your favourite pyjamas and get ready for an evening of Madam Butterfly, Aida, Normaor Rigoletto. All you need to do is register at this link and enter the code ‘OperaEnCasa’ (OperaAtHome).

Opera in your living room
Opera in your living room

Science, art and technology

The Open University of Catalonia and the libraries of Barcelona have come together to offer a series of five videos that explore the relationship between art, science and technology. Put together by the OUC professor, Pau Alsina, this conference raises questions that have been explored throughout history to help us to understand more about the world around us and how we, as humans, create within it. Discover the conference here.

Open university of Catalonia

Find more exciting ways to spend your time at home with this programmeof cultural initiatives you can enjoy from home, put together by Barcelona City Council’s Institute of Culture.

Let us know, how have you been spending your time at home? 

10 virtual visits to Museums of Catalonia to discover without leaving home

Natàlia Gibernau
Virtual visits to Museums of Catalonia, the Museu Dalí
Museu Dalí – Museums of Catalonia

1. Museu Dalí – Fundació Gala

Virtual visit here

2. Museu d’art Contemporani de Catalunya (MACBA)

Virtual visit here

3. Museu Picasso

Virtual visit here 

4. Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)

Virtual visit here

5. Museu Egipci de Barcelona

Virtual visit here

6. CosmoCaixa

Virtual visit here

7. Museu Martítim de Barcelona

Virtual visit here

8. Museu Frederic Marès

Virtual visit here

9. Monestir de Pedralbes 

Virtual visit here

10. Museu del Disseny

Virtual visit here

We hope you had an amazing experience through these 10 virtual visits to Museums of Catalonia!

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Best Museums in Barcelona – Guid for Art Lovers

Day Trip to Salvador Dalí Museum from Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Shall we go on a day trip to Salvador Dalí Museum? North of Barcelona lies the sleepy town of Figueres. On first glance it may not seem that different to other Catalan towns, with its quaint squares and local cafés and restaurants. Yet this seemingly normal town is the birthplace of the master of surrealism: Salvador Dalí.

For visitors to Barcelona who wish to escape the crowds and delve into Dalí’s sublime mind, we’ve put together this small guide for a surreal day-trip for the whole family.

Salvador Dalí museum - Dalí Figueres

History of the Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum

Dalí travelled the world as an artist, conquering Spain, France and the US, yet Figueres always held a place in his heart. It was this reason that he chose it as the home for his museum.

It was in 1974 that the town’s old theatre – which was destroyed in the Civil War – was reopened to showcase a large selection of his art. Dalí wanted a place where visitors could immerse themselves in his diverse range of work. He supervised the entire design and reconstruction to ensure his wishes were fulfilled, staying at a nearby hotel.

The result, as you will discover, was a flamboyant, indescribable space that goes beyond what any other local artist achieved. This is Dalí’s legacy as a surrealist and will surely be the most original and unique museum you ever visit.

Visiting the Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum

From the famous eggs perched on the museum’s rooftops to Dalí’s very own black Cadillac where it rains, Dalí’s aim was to astound, amaze and amuse. 

Every room and every piece proposes a question to the visitor and we are sure you will come up with your own conclusions about Dalí’s works. Discover the Mae West room designed with the actress’s facial features. Look out for pieces dedicated to Gala, the love of his life. Stare in wonder at the Oscar statues.

A ticket to the museum cost €14 for adults and are free for under 8s. We’d recommend saving 2–3 hours for the visit to ensure you make the most of this surreal experience. Museum opening times vary depending on the season (peak season 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.) and exhibition rooms close around 15 minutes before the actual closing time. There is also the option to book a guided tour with an expert guide, who will share stories about Dalí’s life, the inspiration behind his theatre-museum and its most eccentric and bizarre pieces.

Salvador Dalí Museum
Salvador Dalí Musum

Exploring Figueres

Aside from the town’s top attraction, Figueres itself is also worth exploring. Look a little closer and you might be surprised – there is a little bit of Dalí to be found on every street corner. If you decide to stay a little longer after your surreal trip, take a wander through its cobbled streets and discover its emblematic churches, the Plaça de Gala y Salvador Dalí and the Rambla de Figueres, and the Toy Museum of Catalonia (where you will get 30% discount on entry with your Dalí theatre-museum ticket). You won’t be disappointed!

How to get there

Figueres is located close to the city of Girona and around 140 km away from Barcelona.

Getting there by public transport is relatively easy. Take the train to the Figueres-Vilafant railway station from Barcelona Sants station and, in a short journey of 55 minutes, you’ll be in Figueres. Return tickets start from €30 depending on the train service (Ave or Avant). The museum is about 10 minutes walking distance from the station.

If you prefer to take the bus, Sagalés coaches offer services from Barcelona El Prat Airport or Barcelona Estació del Nord, which take just under 3 hours. Tickets cost €20 each way and you’ll take either bus 602 or 603.

If you’ve hired a car, take motorway AP-7 towards France and take the Figueres exit. Then head towards Figueres city centre.

Check out the opening times and ticket prices, book online and find out all you need before you visit the Dalí theatre-museum here.

The Dalí museum is a flamboyant and spectacular experience not to be missed!

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Why Park Güell is One of the Most Beautiful Parks in Barcelona

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Exploring Park Guell is one of the best things to do in BarcelonaAlthough Barcelona has countless extraordinary attractions, Park Güell is one you absolutely can’t skip!  Learn all about this beautiful treasure and buy your tickets today.  

All the Park Güell Information You Need to Know before You Visit

Park Güell History

This colorful attraction was originally commissioned by Eusebi Güell, who desired an upscale estate for the aristocrat of Barcelona to live in.  The famous Antoni Gaudí (the architectural genius behind other iconic Barcelona landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo) was chosen to design this area; he began its construction in 1900.  Güell had spotted a beautiful window display that Gaudí had created one day and decided at once that he was the right man for the job.  Gaudí used his trademark style of bright colors and swirling patterns to establish a private estate that was truly unlike anything else around.  He built numerous villas for the wealthy figures in the area and even moved in himself a few years later.  However, this area lacked one essential thing: a good transportation system.  Due to this, people started abandoning their homes here a few years later and the area transformed into a private garden for public events.  It later became a public tourist attraction in 1960s so everyone could appreciate this magnificent place.

What to Do at Park Güell

You can spend hours and hours here at Park Güell.  One of the main reasons why it draws so many visitors is the Gaudí House Museum located here.  This building, which was once Gaudí’s home, contains countless artifacts and memorabilia that offer incredible insight into the life of this extraordinary and revolutionary architect.  You can also participate in guided tours of the other buildings in this park to learn more about Gaudí, the Modernisme movement, the people who loved here, and other interesting Park Güell facts.

Park Güell Hours and Location

The Park Güell hours vary from season to season, so check online before you visit so you know when to go.  This park is located off Carrer d’Olot in Barcelona.  Metros, buses, and taxis are all able to access this spot; you can also arrange for a coach to pick you up if you’re arriving with a group.

How to Purchase Park Güell Tickets

You can purchase your tickets at the Park Güell ticket office or you can conveniently buy them online.  Ticket purchases can be made up to three months before your visit, so start planning ahead and buy your tickets today to skip the lines!

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Photo by Tomas Sereda / Thinkstock

Why the Turó de la Rovira is So Amazing

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See views of Barcelona from the turó de la roviraBarcelona is a beautiful city steeped in history and culture.  You’ll find all kinds of secret treasures hidden throughout this remarkable destination, from bars on the beach to ancient historic sites.  One of the best spots you need to visit in Barcelona is the Turó de la Rovira.  Offering the best views in the entire area, this place also represents a significant point in Barcelona history.  Discover everything there is to know about this attraction off the beaten road and add it to your itinerary today! Read more →