Plaça de Catalunya

Placa de Catalunya which includes a city, heritage architecture and a square or plaza
Placa de Catalunya showing a statue or sculpture and outdoor art
Plaça de Catalunya
Plaça de Catalunya
Plaça de Catalunya


This popular Barcelona meeting point connects the old city with the new and is famous for its shopping, monuments and festival celebrations.

Plaça de Catalunya marks the heart of Barcelona’s city centre. Surrounded by shops and peppered with monuments, this grand square is where the Ciutat Vella (Old City) and the modern 19th-century district of L’Eixample converge. King Alfonso XII unveiled the square in 1927 on the site of the former gates to the old city walls.

As you explore Barcelona and pass between its eclectic neighbourhoods you are bound to cross the square numerous times. Admire the various sculptures and monuments. These include works by revered Catalonian artists such as Josep Clarà, Josep Subirachs and Eusebi Arnau. Alternatively, sit on one of the grass verges or benches and watch as the energetic city life flows by.

If you are visiting Barcelona to shop then Plaça de Catalunya is an ideal departure point. Browse the department stores bordering the square or stroll along some of the city’s most important streets. The tree-lined promenade La Rambla runs to the city harbour and is a constant hive of activity. Here you’ll find high street brands and independent boutiques plus historic buildings, tapas bars and the Boqueria Market.

In the opposite direction is Passeig de Gràcia, a showcase of the finest contemporary architecture of the L’Eixample neighbourhood. Find two of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous creations, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, alongside upscale fashion stores, bars and restaurants. The streets Portal de l’Àngel and Rambla de Catalunya present even more shopping opportunities.

The large central space of Plaça de Catalunya is frequently used for festivals and celebrations. Watch free concerts on the National Day of Catalonia, a festival held annually on September 11. The square also hosts live music during September’s Mercé Festival, which commemorates Barcelona’s patron saint.

Plaça de Catalunya sits in the heart of Barcelona. As well as being a tourist attraction it serves as an important transport hub. Public buses, trains and the metro stop here and it is also where the city’s hop-on, hop-off tourist buses begin their routes. The airport shuttle bus starts and finishes here too.

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Things to do near Plaça de Catalunya

Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona's vibrant hub, offers a plethora of activities including shopping, lively festivals, and live music. Visitors can explore the nearby amusement park for some thrilling fun. With its bustling atmosphere, this central square is the perfect starting point to immerse yourself in the city's culture and entertainment.

Shopping

Discover the vibrant Boqueria Market, a public market 644m from Plaça de Catalunya, bustling with local produce and atmosphere. El Corte Inglés, a shopping mall 161m away, offers a mix of entertainment and shopping, ideal for families. For a unique experience, visit Sant Antoni Market, 1.1km from the square.

Recreation

Experience the excitement of Camp Nou, a renowned stadium offering a vibrant sports atmosphere. Enjoy a concert at the stunning Palau de la Música Catalana, just a short stroll away. For relaxation, take a dip at Montjuïc Municipal Pool, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, located 20.9km from Plaça de Catalunya. For a family-friendly adventure, take a ride on the Port Cable Car, situated 1.6km away. For climbing enthusiasts, Climbat Foixarda offers outdoor challenges 3.2km from the square.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tivoli Theatre, only 322m from Plaça de Catalunya, where culture and romance thrive. For a thrill, visit Happy Parc - Pau Claris, 483m away, offering an exciting arcade experience. Don’t miss Teatre Coliseum for more cultural entertainment, also 322m away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Plaça de Catalunya

Plaça de Catalunya offers a delightful array of attractions, perfect for every type of traveller. From charming streets and historical churches to fascinating art museums, there's something for everyone. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, or simply wish to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Barcelona, this central hub provides a wonderful gateway to explore the city's rich heritage and lively spirit.

  • La Rambla: Stroll along this vibrant street, bustling with life and energy. La Rambla is famous for its street performers, shops, and cafes, offering a true taste of Barcelona's lively atmosphere.
  • Barcelona Cathedral: Explore this stunning example of Gothic architecture, located in the heart of the city. The Barcelona Cathedral boasts intricate details, beautiful stained glass windows, and a serene cloister, providing a rich cultural experience.
  • Casa Batlló: Visit this iconic modernist building designed by Antoni Gaudí. Casa Batlló's unique façade and imaginative interiors reflect the whimsical nature of Gaudí's work, making it a cultural gem worth exploring.

Best time to go to Plaça de Catalunya

The best time to visit Plaça de Catalunya is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January48.9°F (9.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February49.8°F (9.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May63.7°F (17.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June71.8°F (22.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July77.0°F (25.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August77.4°F (25.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
September72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October65.8°F (18.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.1°F (10.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Plaça de Catalunya

When visiting Plaça de Catalunya, consider travelling between November and January for the best hotel rates. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or check Expedia’s last-minute deals for savings. Mondays are generally the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays tend to be pricier. To save on transport, use the efficient public transport system, and look for free activities in the vicinity, such as strolling through the iconic square. Consider booking a package deal that includes flights, accommodation, and activities for added savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Plaça de Catalunya are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Plaça de Catalunya about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Plaça de Catalunya is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Plaça de Catalunya is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to tailor your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your costs by booking a package through Expedia, which combines your hotel stay near Plaça de Catalunya with your flights and activities.

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