This bustling square in the heart of Barcelona is renowned for its festivals, shopping and monuments.

In the centre of Barcelona is Plaça de Catalunya, the city’s bustling public square. This pleasant plaza is situated at the meeting point of the Ciutat Vella (Old City) district and the newer L’Eixample district. Constructed in 1927 by King Alfonso XII, the square is built where the old city wall’s gates used to stand.

Due to its central location, visitors who are crisscrossing the city during their sightseeing will encounter Plaça de Catalunya several times. Sprinkled throughout the square are monuments and sculptures, made by some of Catalonia’s most famous artists such as Eusebi Arnua, Josep Clará and Josep Subirachs. Relax on the grass and take a break from the fast-paced city.

On the other side of the square is Passeig de Gracia. This wide boulevard is home to some of the best contemporary architecture within Catalonia. Two buildings of particular note are Antoni Gaudi’s renowned designs, La Pedrera and Casa Batlló, which are nestled between a variety of fashionable restaurants, bars and stores. For additional shopping, walk down Portal de l’Angel and Rambla de Catalunya.

Plaça de Catalunya hosts a variety of celebrations and festivals. The National Day of Catalonia festival is held every year on September 11 and visitors can enjoy a free concert. Also in September is the Mercé Festival, which honours the patron saint of Barcelona with live music, a parade and fireworks.

The popular Plaça de Catalunya is also one of the transportation centres of the city. Trains, the metro and public buses all converge at the square. Visitors who wish to take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour begin their journey in the square, and it is also the place to catch the airport shuttle.

Plan a trip to see Plaça de Catalunya

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Hotel ILUNION Les Corts Spa

Les Corts

Save 100% on your flight

NZ$1,370

per person

29 Aug - 5 Sept

found 18 hours ago

Return flight included

London (STN) to Barcelona (BCN)

8.4/10 Very good! (873 reviews)

My third time staying here. The first was ten years ago and the second 7 years ago. This stay was the best by far, the lobby and restaurant area are lovely and great to eat at. The spa is amazing! The room had all that I needed. If you’re unsure of the area, it is on quite a residential/local part of Barcelona, so there aren’t much tourists and no night life. The metro runs straight into the centre of the city and only takes 20-40 mins depending on where you want to go. I had noisy neighbours one night and the hotel reception dealt with it immediately. I cannot fault the staff or hotel for anything at all. A great stay for my first solo trip!

Reviewed on 19 June 2026

Apartments Sixtyfour

Eixample

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NZ$3,230

per person

29 Aug - 5 Sept

found 18 hours ago

Return flight included

London (STN) to Barcelona (BCN)

9.6/10 Exceptional! (496 reviews)

We rented 2 bedroom apartment and spent 4 nights. We really enjoyed our stay. Having 2 separate rooms made it easier to adjust sleep schedules and deal with the jet lag. Location was great. Surrounding area seemed upscale and felt very safe. It was a bit of a walk to gothic quarters but was happy that I chose this area as there were constructions going on at La Rambla street. Staff were wonderful. This place has the best of both apartment and hotel. It has a full size kitchen and washer but you can also have access to hotel breakfast next door at Sixty Two for a small fee and has access to front desk staff at Sixty Two 24/7. Breakfast was wonderful and very convenient. Highly recommend the place.

Reviewed on 22 May 2026