Gothic Quarter, Barcelona
Located just 40 minutes from Barcelona, La Roca Village reflects the essence of the Mediterranean. Its design, inspired by traditional architecture and Gaudí’s distinctive motifs, turns every visit into an open-air shopping experience that immerses you in the wonders of the Mediterranean. With more than 150 prestigious boutiques, it has established itself as the most exclusive shopping centre in the region.
La Roca Village is open Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm.
PortAventura World Parks & Resort is located on the Costa Dorada, just 110 km from Barcelona. Since opening in 1995, it has become the number one theme park in Spain and the third largest in Europe.
The fun never ends at PortAventura World. The PortAventura park has 41 exciting rides and 40 shows in 6 spectacular themed areas: Mediterranean, Polynesia, Mexico, China, Far West and SesamoAventura. In summer, you can also enjoy a family visit to the Caribe Aquatic Park, with its 14 water attractions.
And that’s not all. In 2017, Ferrari Land, the only Ferrari theme park in Europe, will open its doors to visitors. Here you can experience 11 exclusive attractions and immerse yourself in the exciting world of the Italian racing team and Formula 1.
Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf, designed by the architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, is a historical monument that marked the entrance to the 1888 Universal Exhibition held in the Parc de la Ciutadella. With a height of 30 metres and an exposed brick structure inspired by the Neo-Mudéjar style, this arch differs from others in that it focuses on artistic, scientific and economic progress rather than military glorification.
The sculptures and decorative tiles that decorate the Arc de Triomphe tell fascinating stories, such as the accession of nations to the universal competition and the distribution of rewards to the participants in the exhibition. On the left, allegories of the sciences and the arts, with Apollo as the central figure, bring to life creativity and intellectual progress.
This monument is strategically located in Barcelona and has hosted sporting events, festivals and concerts, including Primavera Sound. It is also a cultural monument registered as an Asset of Local Interest (BCIL).
Located in the heart of Barcelona, the Cathedral of Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia is a silent witness to eight centuries of history. This majestic Gothic cathedral houses an interior full of secrets to be discovered. One of its most precious treasures is the relics of Santa Eulàlia, the patron saint of Barcelona, which rest in its magnificent Gothic crypt.
A fascinating history
The history of the cathedral dates back to 1298, when King James II the Righteous ordered it to be built on the site of a Romanesque and, before that, early Christian cathedral. This Gothic building has a cruciform floor plan with three naves, an ambulatory and a transept. Its artistic treasures include the marble altar, consecrated in 1337, and the impressive choir, begun in 1390. The choir stalls are one of the most outstanding examples of Catalan Gothic sculpture, and even Juan de Borgoña painted the coats of arms of the Order of the Golden Fleece on them.
The cloister and its octagons
The cloister of the cathedral, built between the 14th and 15th centuries, is an oasis of peace. Its two outer doors, the Pietat and the Santa Eulàlia, open onto a garden with palm trees, magnolias, an orange tree and a fountain. Thirteen geese roam here in honour of Santa Eulàlia, who was martyred at the age of thirteen.
Relics and legends
Inside the cathedral you’ll find the tombs, altars and devotions of more than one hundred and forty saints. Three saints stand out: Santa Helena, whose image is in the dome; Santa Lucia, to whom the Romanesque chapel is dedicated; and, of course, Santa Eulalia, the co-patron saint of Barcelona, whose tomb is in the Gothic crypt. In addition, the cathedral’s 21 bells, all named after women, bear witness to fascinating stories, such as that of Honorata, who rang out the call to rebellion during the siege of 1714.
Explore living history
Much more than an architectural structure, Barcelona Cathedral is a living witness to the city’s history. Immerse yourself in its legends, marvel at its architecture and enjoy the panoramic views it offers.
This lively 1.2km promenade has its roots in 18th century modernity. Over the years it has been a meeting place for all social classes. A place to see and be seen.
Starting at Plaça de Catalunya, you’ll experience the transition between the modern Eixample district and the charm of the old town. Walk down La Rambla and a few steps away you’ll find the Canaletes Fountain, where legend has it that whoever drinks from it will always return to Barcelona. A few metres further down you’ll find La Boqueria market, where you can discover Barcelona’s culinary treasures.
If you’re an art lover, the Miró Mosaic and the Santa Monica Art Centre are a must. Here you can immerse yourself in the creativity of local and international artists.
If architecture is your passion, don’t miss Palau Moja and Palau Güell, two architectural gems that tell stories of bygone eras.
But La Rambla is more than monuments and historic buildings; it is life in motion. As you stroll along, you’ll come across human statues that come to life, florists that exude enchanting scents, and portrait artists who capture the essence of this unique setting.
The tour culminates at the Columbus Monument near Port Vell, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea.
If you want to experience the essence of Barcelona, take a stroll along La Rambla, a place where history and contemporary life intertwine and where every step leads to a new discovery.
The Gran Teatre del Liceu is a cultural treasure in the heart of Barcelona. This majestic opera house, known as ‘El Liceu’, is an architectural gem designed by the talented Miquel Garriga i Roca. Its history dates back to 1847, when it was originally built to house the Conservatoire de Música (Conservatory of Music) and to offer high society the opportunity to enjoy exciting opera performances.
The Liceu is an iconic symbol of Barcelona and is strategically located on La Rambla.
Throughout its history, this theatre has witnessed unforgettable performances by some of the world’s leading opera singers. Although it has faced challenges such as fires in 1861 and 1994, as well as an assassination attempt in 1893, the current building is a faithful restoration of the original, carefully reconstructed after the last fire.
Today, the Gran Teatre del Liceu offers an incomparable experience with a capacity of 2292 seats divided into five amphitheatres. As well as attending a performance, we invite you to discover its interior treasures, such as the impressive Sala Gran, the welcoming Foyer and the elegant Saló dels Miralls. Don’t forget to visit the Círculo del Liceu, whose rooms are decorated with paintings by artists such as Ramón Casas and Modest Urgell.
If you love opera, dance or classical music, the Gran Teatre del Liceu is a must-see in Barcelona. The season runs from September to July, and throughout the year you can enjoy guided tours that will immerse you in the theatre’s rich history.
The Columbus monument is located in the heart of Barcelona, between La Rambla and Passeig de Colom. The impressive 7-metre-high statue, the work of sculptor Rafael Atché, depicts Columbus pointing towards the horizon. The sculptural ensemble measures 60 metres in total.
The viewing platform offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Barcelona, from Port Vell to the majestic Montjuïc mountain. Designed by Gaietà Buïgas i Monravà, it was the highlight of the coastal improvements made for the 1888 Universal Exhibition.
Located on the lower part of La Rambla, Arts Santa Mònica is much more than a cultural centre. Built on the foundations of a former convent dating back to 1636, this fascinating space has become a beacon of creativity and digital culture in the 21st century.
Designed by renowned architects David and Albert Viaplana, the building retains the historic essence of its Renaissance cloister while embracing modernity with an outdoor ramp that offers unique views of La Rambla.
Since it opened in 1988, the Santa Mònica Art Centre has hosted more than one hundred and fifty exhibitions and conferences on a wide range of artistic disciplines, from architecture to gastronomy. It is also dedicated to the promotion of new artistic trends and actively collaborates with the community.
If you are a lover of contemporary art and innovation, this is a must-see destination in Barcelona. Immerse yourself in a world of creativity in an environment that blends past and present in a unique way. Let the avant-garde vision of Arts Santa Mònica inspire you as you explore the artistic heart of the city.
Discover Barcelona from a unique perspective aboard the Golondrinas (Swallows), which have been in operation since the Universal Exhibition of 1888 and are still moored in their original location in the port, in front of the Columbus monument.
The Golondrinas offer two exciting routes: the “Barcelona Port Route 45”, a 45-minute tour that immerses you in the essence of the Port of Barcelona, taking in emblematic landmarks such as the World Trade Centre, the Puerta de Europa Bridge and the Clock Tower. Or you can choose the “Barcelona Port i Litoral 60′ Route”, a 9-mile cruise along Barcelona’s coastline, taking in the city’s skyline from Port Vell to Port Fòrum.
A classic experience with over 130 years of history in the Port of Barcelona. Enjoy the sea breeze, panoramic views and Mediterranean authenticity all in one trip. An exciting way to see Barcelona from a unique perspective.
Start your tour next to the Columbus monument, where La Rambla meets the sea. Here you’ll find the Reales Atarazanas, a majestic building that houses the Barcelona Maritime Museum. Explore its collection of objects, documents, models and ships that tell the fascinating story of navigation.
Continue to the Moll de la Fusta, where you’ll be amazed by the eye-catching sculpture by American pop artist Roy Lichtenstein and Mariscal’s iconic ‘Gamba’. Here you can also visit the pailebote (pilot boat) Santa Eulàlia, a historic schooner built in 1918 and declared an Asset of National Interest in 2011. Take a look inside and discover the secrets of sailing in those days.
If you go all the way to the Moll d’Espanya, you’ll reach two must-see destinations: The Barcelona Aquarium and the Maremàgnum shopping centre. The aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and will immerse you in a Mediterranean sea full of life. With 35 aquariums housing 11,000 specimens of 450 different species, including sharks, and an 80-metre underwater tunnel, you’ll feel like you’re walking on the sea floor.
Next door, the Maremàgnum shopping centre offers shopping, dining and entertainment in a setting overlooking the sea. From exclusive shops to cultural events, Maremàgnum is a place that combines the tradition of the port with the modernity of Barcelona.
Port Vell is only a small part of Barcelona’s port, which stretches for 20 kilometres along the coast. This industrial port is also the largest cruise port in the Mediterranean, and from the Portal de la Pau you can board the traditional golondrinas for a relaxing cruise around Port Vell.
The World Trade Center Barcelona, an impressive business complex located in the picturesque port of Barcelona, is a symbol of architectural innovation. Designed by renowned architect Henry N. Cobb and inaugurated in 1999, this business centre resembles a majestic ship that blends harmoniously into the Mediterranean environment.
The complex offers a wide range of business options, with 40,000 square metres of modern office space available for lease and adaptable to a variety of business needs. In addition, the World Trade Center Barcelona has a Congress and Convention Centre with 20 meeting rooms and an impressive capacity of up to 1,500 people, making it the perfect venue for international events, scientific meetings and product launches.
In short, the World Trade Center Barcelona offers an exceptional business environment in an inspiring setting. With its unique design, flexible services and global connections, it is an essential destination for growing businesses, as well as for those seeking privileged views of Barcelona from its upper floors.
The Transbordador Aeri del Port de Barcelona, also known as the Port Cable Car, is one of the city’s historical jewels. This impressive transport system connects the Torre de Sant Sebastià in Barceloneta with the Miramar station on the Montjuïc. A unique tourist attraction, it offers visitors an exceptional panoramic view of Barcelona’s most emblematic monuments.
The history of the Transbordador Aeri del Port is fascinating. It was conceived in 1926 by Carles Buigas, with the collaboration of Ramon Calzada and Josep M. Roda, with the aim of linking the 1929 Universal Exhibition to the maritime section of the port. Despite some financial and time problems, the project was completed in 1931 and quickly became a symbol of the city.
During the Spanish Civil War, the service was suspended and the towers were used strategically in the defence of the port. However, in 1958 the company Teleféricos de Barcelona S.A. took over the management of the installation, and on 20 May 1963 the cable car was reopened. The towers of Sant Sebastià (78.4 metres high) and Jaume I (107 metres high) were restored to their original splendour and now form part of the catalogue of Barcelona’s Historic-Artistic Heritage.
This cable car offers visitors several options. You can choose to go up in the Barceloneta car and come down in the Montjuïc car, or vice versa. You can also take an exciting return trip to enjoy the views even more. Visitors should note that the Jaume I Tower is closed half way up, but the rest of the journey is an unforgettable experience.
It is an emblematic place that combines nature, culture and entertainment. Inaugurated in 2004, it is the result of the ingenuity of the outstanding designers Elías Torres and José Antonio Martínez Lapeña, created to house the Universal Forum of Cultures in 2004.
The 200,000 square metre park is notable for its variety of spaces, such as the iconic Forum building, designed by Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron, which now houses the Barcelona Museum of Natural Sciences. You’ll also find the Barcelona International Conference Centre, designed by Josep Lluís Mateo, with its unique metal structure.
In addition to its architectural importance, the Parc del Fòrum is used to host major events such as the Festes de la Mercè, the Cruilla and Primavera Sound festivals, the April Fair of Catalonia and the Cirque du Soleil.
The park also houses interesting works of public art, such as ‘Barcelona postcards of postcards’ by Eugènia Balcells and ‘Sixth wall’ by Tony Oursler, which can be enjoyed at night. You’ll also find emblematic spaces such as the large photovoltaic panel and the Forest of Columns.
If you want to relax and enjoy the sea, the bathing area designed by Beth Galí and Jaume Benavent offers a unique experience in the form of a beach without sand.
La Rambla de Catalunya is an iconic promenade in the heart of Barcelona, starting at Plaça Catalunya and stretching majestically all the way to Avinguda Diagonal, offering a wide variety of shops, bars and restaurants. As you stroll down this charming street, you’ll notice two impressive sculptures: Sitting Bull, at the junction with Gran Via, and the Flirting Giraffe, near Avenida Diagonal, both the work of sculptor Josep Granyer.
At number 126 you’ll find Casa Serra, a magnificent modernist building designed by the famous architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch. Now the headquarters of the Diputació de Barcelona, it is an architectural jewel not to be missed. Also at number 115 is the church of San Raimundo de Peñafort, with an impressive neo-Gothic façade designed by Joan Martorell.
In 1990, major improvements were made to the Rambla de Catalunya, including the widening of the side pavements and the complete renovation of the central promenade, making it an even more pleasant place to stroll.
Located in the heart of the city, Passeig de Gràcia has been a landmark for tourists, architecture lovers and luxury seekers for decades.
Walking along its 1.6 kilometres is a journey into the history of Barcelona. In the 19th century, Passeig de Gràcia was a favourite haunt of the aristocracy, who enjoyed its elegant cafés, restaurants and theatres. This historical charm is combined with the innovative vision of Ildefons Cerdà, who played a decisive role in the development of Barcelona’s Eixample.
The real jewel of Passeig de Gràcia is its modernist architecture, where names such as Antoni Gaudí, Puig i Cadafalch, Lluís Domènech i Montaner, Enric Sagnier and others have left an indelible mark. Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, Casa Amatller, Casa Fuster and Palau Robert are a must for architecture lovers who want to see these masterpieces with their own eyes.
The Passeig de Gràcia Gardens, a former amusement park, offers moments of fun and nostalgia, including the much-loved Champs Elysées Gardens with its amusement park and roller coaster. In addition, the famous trencadís benches, designed by the architect Pere Falqués i Urpí in 1906, add a touch of charm and art to the experience of strolling along this avenue.
Today, Passeig de Gràcia is synonymous with luxury and shopping. Its international boutiques offer the latest trends and exclusive products.
It is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2026.
It was originally inaugurated in 1957 as the Estadi del FC Barcelona, but was popularly known as Camp Nou, a fact that led to a referendum in the 2000-2001 season that made the current name, Camp Nou, official.
In 1984, the Barça Museum was incorporated, and over the years it has become the most visited museum in Catalonia. The stadium has also hosted major musical events such as Bruce Springsteen, Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, U2, Julio Iglesias and Los Tres Tenores, among others.
The Palau de Mar, built between 1880 and 1890, is an impressive example of the city’s port architecture. It originally housed the General Merchant’s Office and is now home to the Museum of the History of Catalonia and the Centre of Contemporary History. This Cultural Asset of Local Interest (BCIL) is an essential part of Catalonia’s industrial heritage and offers visitors a window into the region’s history.
The Vila Olímpica, or Olympic Village, is a district created for the Barcelona ’92 Olympic Games. In the midst of the transformation of an industrial area known as Icaria in Poblenou, it was not only the official residence of the athletes during those games, but also changed the profile of the city forever.
Walking along its wide avenues, such as the Paseo Marítim, is an experience that immerses you in the Olympic spirit of Barcelona.
The Mapfre Tower and the 154-metre-high Hotel Arts tower majestically over the Olympic Port. Frank Gehry’s Peix d’Or sculpture, which changes colour in the sunlight, pays homage to the area’s maritime past.
Facing the sea, the 400-metre Nova Icària beach is a haven for everyone, with children’s games, table tennis and two volleyball courts. Its proximity to metro and bus stops makes it an easily accessible beach.
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, located in the El Born district, is the most authentic example of Catalan Gothic in Barcelona. Built by the master architects Berenguer de Montagut and Ramon Despuig between 1329 and 1383, this masterpiece of imposing naves features a ribbed vault and a central rose window as outstanding elements of its design.
A tour of the interior reveals the magnificent stained glass windows dating from 1341-1385, of which the Lavabo and the Ascension are two of the most outstanding. It is impossible not to stop in front of the great rose window, rebuilt after the earthquake of 1428, which depicts the coronation of the Virgin with surprising realism.
As well as the architecture, the history behind the building is also fascinating. La Ribera, a historic area of Barcelona, played a crucial role. While the Cathedral of Barcelona was associated with the nobility, the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar was built by porters, known as bastaixos in Catalan, who carried stones from the Montjuïc quarry to El Born square.
For those who want to discover more, a tour of the roofs offers a panoramic view of Barcelona. You should also visit the crypt and the deambulatory, where some very important historical remains are preserved.
Located in the heart of the Raval district, the Palau Güell is one of Antoni Gaudí’s earliest and most impressive works. Commissioned by his patron, Eusebi Güell, this modernist building is a living testimony to the architect’s genius.
The entrance to the Palau, decorated with a parabolic arch and wrought-iron grilles that resemble the tails of snakes, opens onto a world where Arab, Byzantine and Mudejar inspirations merge. Once inside, it is impossible not to marvel at the coffered wooden ceilings, the ingenious lighting and ventilation system and, of course, the mushroom-shaped columns in the basement.
Known for works such as the Sagrada Familia, Casa Vicens, Finca Güell, La Pedrera and Casa Batlló, Gaudí was constantly experimenting and evolving. At Palau Güell, he first introduced an irregular mosaic covering that would become one of his most distinctive features. Don’t forget to go up to the terrace and admire the twenty sculptural chimneys that adorn the roof.
What’s more, if you’re a real Gaudí fan, the Palau organises themed tours to help you discover every detail of this masterpiece, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984.
Located in the historic Gràcia district, Casa Vicens is an architectural jewel that marks the beginning of the career of the renowned Antoni Gaudí. Designed with a unique modernist vision, this masterpiece stands out for its patterned tiles inspired by the Moorish carnations that grew in the house’s own garden.
Walking around its exterior, one cannot help but be captivated by the detailed cast-iron railings, which faithfully reproduce the plant motifs of palm leaves. Every corner of this building is a tribute to innovation and nature, from the structure that plays with the straight line to the Mudejar details that recall a heritage rich in tradition and culture.
In 2005 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, confirming its importance on the world architectural scene.
For those interested in completing their tour of Gaudí’s buildings in Barcelona, it is essential to include Casa Vicens in your itinerary. Until 2014, this was the only Gaudí building in Barcelona that was not open to the public.
How to get there: FGC S1/S2 Peu del Funicular + Funicular Vallvidrera + Bus 111.
Situated at the highest point of the city and partly inspired by the Sacré-Cœur in Paris, this temple is a mixture of neo-Byzantine, neo-Gothic and Catalan modernist styles.
Visitors can admire the crypt, with Catalan modernist influences, and the majestic portico, decorated with sculptures such as the Virgin of Guadalupe and the Virgin of the Help of Christians, in honour of Saint John Bosco. It is also common to see worshippers in perpetual adoration in the naves, a tradition encouraged by Pope John XXIII.
From the temple, the internal lift takes you to the terraces and the highest tower, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Vallés and the whole of Barcelona, including attractions such as Montjuïc and the Fabra Observatory. And for those looking for a bit of fun, the Tibidabo amusement park, founded by Dr Salvador Andreu, is right next door.
Founded in 1327, the convent of the Poor Clares is a living example of Catalan Gothic architecture, an oasis of tranquillity that will take you back in time.
In addition to the church and the convent museum, you will also discover the Gothic cloister, one of the largest in the world, with columns carved in numolitic stone.
Inside the monastery you’ll also find a garden of medicinal plants, a green oasis that looks like something out of a medieval fairy tale. And for art lovers, the Ferrer Bassa paintings, a fusion of Catalan Gothic and Italian Trecento painting, are a must.
If you want to delve deeper into history, don’t forget to visit the exhibitions held in the monastery.
Founded in 1904 and belonging to the Reial Acadèmia de Ciències i Arts de Barcelona, it is the fourth oldest active observatory in the world. Through its imposing telescopes, including the historic 1904 Mailhat refractor, visitors can immerse themselves in the study of astronomy and observe double stars, asteroids and comets.
As well as revealing the secrets of the universe under its great dome, it also collects valuable data on meteorology and seismology, contributing to global scientific progress. In addition to its research, the observatory is renowned for its outreach programmes, where talks and guided tours enlighten the curious and amateur observers alike.
If you’re in Barcelona in the summer, don’t miss the opportunity to dine under the stars in this emblematic place and stroll through its small botanical garden.
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