Placa de Catalunya | The Definitive Guide | Barcelona City Guide

What is Plaça de Catalunya in Barcelona?

In the heart of Barcelona lies Plaça de Catalunya, a large plaza embossed with sculptures, magic fountains and grass surrounded by monumental buildings. Here, Ciutat Vella (old city) and the modern 19th-century district of Eixample merge, offering an eclectic and energetic experience. Unveiled in 1927 by King Alfonso XII, this bustling square with a plethora of breathtaking modernist architecture and bustling shopping arcades manages to draw in locals and tourists with equal aplomb. Plaça Catalunya Barcelona is the perfect spot in Barcelona to stop by and immerse oneself in the throbbing hum of vibrant city life.

Plaça de Catalunya: At a Glance

Address: Plaça de Catalunya, 08002 Barcelona, Spain

Best Time to Visit: May - Early September

Highlights: Sculptures, Gardens, Fountains, Shopping

Nearest Landmark: Closest to the district of Eixample

Public Transport: By Metro: Catalunya station (lines L1 and L3), By Bus: Routes 14, 24, 41, 42, 55, 58, 59, 67, 68, 91, H16 and V15.

Best Places to Eat: Durango Diner, Fuggi, Little Corea

Best Places to Stay: **Caledonian Hotel, Hotel Acta Atrium Palace, Renaissance Barcelona Hotel

Why Visit Plaça de Catalunya

Plaça de Catalunya in Barcelona is an embodiment of Catalan pride with its rich history and stunning architecture.
Witness unique contemporary architecture in the form of sculptures and noteworthy monuments.
Plaça de Catalunya never sleeps! Enjoy vibrant streets, live musical shows, concerts, and colorful fiestas and celebrations.
Admire works around the plaza by renowned artists like Josep Clarà.
Sit on a bench and take in the sights and sounds around you.

What is the Best time to Visit Plaça de Catalunya?

May - Early September is one of the best times to head to Plaça de Catalunya and explore this quaint and historic place, and experience its energy and vibe.
The long, sultry days are perfect for exploring its many attractions.
Even late March to April and late September can offer the best of both worlds with fiestas held during spring and later summer and autumn.

Top Things to do in Plaça de Catalunya

If you are passing through Barcelona and planning a stopover at Plaça de Catalunya in Barcelona, which we highly recommend, here is a compact list of ten things you must try to fit into your itinerary.

1. Attend a Concert at Palau de Música Catalana

If you happen to have a free evening in Barcelona, visit the Palau de Música Catalana, and enjoy one of the many concerts offered throughout the year at the concert hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tickets from €10

2. Stroll Through Rector Olivera Gardens

Tucked away in the Eixample neighborhood are one of its hidden treasures, the Rector Olivera Gardens. Take a stroll through these gardens to get a taste of everyday Barcelona life and glimpse the Church of Conception from a different viewpoint.

3. Head to Gothic Quarter

Take a walk down history by visiting the charming Gothic Quarter, or Barri Gòtic, with its narrow medieval streets filled with architecture dating back 2000 years, trendy bars, clubs and sumptuous Catalan restaurants.

A Guide to Gothic Quarter Barcelona

4. Visit Casa Batllo

Make time to visit one of Anton Gaudi’s signature creations, Casa Batllo, while exploring Catalonia Square Barcelona. An erstwhile common house, its transformation to a dreamlike structure from floor to ceiling symbolizes the renewal of Barcelona.

Tickets from €35

5. Explore La Rambla

Starting just north of the Placa De Catalunya is Rambla De Catalunya. Stroll down this quiet tree-lined street, and shop at some of its trendy shopping centers that house luxury brands, and finally gorge on some some mouth-watering Tapas at Cervesería Catalana.

6. Admire Francesc Masia

Be sure to check out the Monument Francesc Masia, a unique sculpture in the shape of an inverted staircase, that was erected in the honor of the Francesc Masia, the first president of the Catalunya region, who was assassinated in 1933.

7. Visit Font dels Sis Putti

Discover the beautiful fountain of Font dels Sis Putti on one side of the Placa De Catalunya. A treat for sore eyes, this fountain constructed in 1926 has some beautiful sculptures of six chubby little young male figures or putti. The fountain symbolizes the birth of the Greek goddess Aphrodite.

8. Witness a Moving Sculpture

Visit Dona amb imatge de la Mare de Deu, part of the sculptural ensemble by the fountain at the north part of the plaza. It is a moving sculpture that features a mother cradling her child, while the child clings to her neck.

9. Head to Hard Rock Cafe

Follow up on your sightseeing tour with a drink at Hard Rock Cafe of Plaça de Catalunyà. Rest and enjoy the view and soak in the vibe and energy of the Catalonia Square Barcelona.

A Guide to Food & Drinks in Barcelona

10. Go Shopping Around Plaça de Catalunya

Visit Passeig de Gracia for international designers or head to Carrer Pelai if you're looking for something more local and inexpensive. Bring home souvenirs to keep all your memories in Barcelona intact!

A Guide to Shopping in Barcelona

11. Walk Down the Quaint Street of Tallers

This quiet little pedestrian street is perfect to find some shade from the Barcelona sun. There are boutiques for you to explore as you take a pleasant stroll admiring the peaceful surroundings.

12. Sit on a Bench and Relax

Once you stroll around this vibrant plaza, find the nearest bench to rest for a while. Grab a quick bite and take in the bustling atmosphere all around you. There's a never a dull moment at Plaça de Catalunya!

Top Experiences in Barcelona

Travel Tips & Hacks for Plaça de Catalunya

Learn a few words of Catalan to blend in. Keep phrases like Bon dia (good morning), si us plau (please), vagi be (be well), and Visca Barça! (long live FC Barcelona!) handy.
Beware of pickpocketing, mugging, and bag snatching in the city. If you are a victim of theft, dial ‘112', you can also avail of their services in English or visit the Help Center for Tourists at 43 La Rambla. It is open 24 hours a day.
Plan ahead and book your tickets to tours in advance to avoid long queues.
Consider purchasing the Barcelona Hola Travel Card which gives you unlimited metro and bus rides for 2-5 days.

Travel Tips & Hacks for Plaça de Catalunya

Learn a few words of Catalan to blend in. Keep phrases like Bon dia (good morning), si us plau (please), vagi be (be well), and Visca Barça! (long live FC Barcelona!) handy.
Beware of pickpocketing, mugging, and bag snatching in the city. If you are a victim of theft, dial ‘112', you can also avail of their services in English or visit the Help Center for Tourists at 43 La Rambla. It is open 24 hours a day.
Plan ahead and book your tickets to tours in advance to avoid long queues.
Consider purchasing the Barcelona Hola Travel Card which gives you unlimited metro and bus rides for 2-5 days.