In this guide you will find the best architectural routes in BarcelonaOrganized by style and neighborhood, with itineraries designed to be enjoyed in one day or over several days. Ideal if you’re looking for travel inspiration, if you’re interested in history, design, or simply want to see the city from a different perspective.
Because Barcelona is so much more than the Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas, or Park Güell. Beyond the usual tourist routes, there is a Secret Barcelona Full of history, art, and charming corners that allow you to discover the city from a different perspective. If you’re looking for Looking for alternative plans in Barcelona and want to explore the city beyond the tourist trails? These lesser-known cultural routes are for you.
Below we show you the 5 architectural routes and all the details you need to know to get to know the city of Barcelona in a simple, special and unique way.
Barcelona’s Modernist Route: The Essential Tour of the Eixample
When we talk about architecture in Barcelona, Modernism is the first major protagonist. And the best place to discover it is the Eixample, the district where some of the most important Modernist buildings in Europe are located.
What to see on Barcelona’s modernist route?
This itinerary is perfect if you want to explore Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona on foot, as everything is relatively close together. The must-see stops in the city are:
- Casa Batlló (Passeig de Gràcia)
- Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
- Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
- Casa Lleó Morera
- Passeig de Gràcia, one of the most elegant promenades in the world
- Hospital de Sant Pau, a modernist gem (a must-see)
- Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s most emblematic work
The Modernist Route takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on whether you visit the interiors. This tour is designed to be done on foot, so remember to wear comfortable shoes!
Gaudí Route in Barcelona: the best works of the most famous architect
If your goal is to take a tour focused exclusively on Gaudí, this route is for you. It’s one of the most popular among travelers visiting Barcelona. Below, we’ll show you the main Gaudí monuments in Barcelona. These are the city’s biggest attractions, so we recommend booking tickets in advance if you plan to visit the interiors.
What to see on the Gaudí route in Barcelona?
- Park Güell
- Sagrada Família
- Casa Batlló
- La Pedrera
- Palau Güell (ideal if you continue towards the center)
Gothic route in Barcelona: medieval architecture in the heart of the city
Gothic architecture in Barcelona is concentrated especially in the Gothic Quarter. and nearby areas of Ciutat Vella. Here the city changes style completely: alleyways, hidden squares and medieval buildings that preserve centuries of history.
What to see on Barcelona’s Gothic Route?
- Catedral de Barcelona
- Plaça del Rei
- Plaça Sant Jaume
- Basílica de Santa Maria del Pi
- The Roman walls (yes, there are visible remains)
- The Call (old Jewish quarter)
This route is ideal for those looking for a cultural tour of Barcelona and who want to discover history, art and architecture in a short time.
The Gothic route lasts between 2 and 3 hours, so it’s perfect for a morning or afternoon.
Contemporary architecture route in Barcelona: the city’s most modern side
Barcelona is also an international benchmark for modern architecture. If you’re looking for Contemporary architecture in Barcelona: there is a very comprehensive route that combines iconic buildings, urban design, and new generation areas.
What to see on a contemporary route in Barcelona? – Area of Glòries y Poblenou
- Torre Glòries (antes Torre Agbar)
- Disseny Hub Barcelona
- Mercat dels Encants
- 22@ Poblenou (distrito creativo)
- Museu Can Framis
- Frente marítimo y playas del Poblenou
This route can be adapted as an architectural tour of Poblenou, ideal for those looking for something different, less touristy and more modern.
The contemporary route lasts between 3 and 5 hours, depending on the number of stops made.
Architectural route through Montjuïc: buildings, museums and panoramic views
Montjuïc es una zona excelente si te interesan las rutas que combinan arquitectura, naturaleza y buenas vistas. Esta ruta es perfecta para visitantes que quieren salir del centro sin alejarse demasiado.
What to see on the architectural route through Montjuïc?
- MNAC (National Museum of Art of Catalonia)
- Poble Espanyol
- Fundació Joan Miró
- Mies van der Rohe Pavilion (international architecture)
- Olimpic Ring (Palau Sant Jordi, Estadio, etc.)
In conclusion, Barcelona is one of the most comprehensive destinations for architecture lovers. Whether it’s for its modernism, its medieval history, or its contemporary skyline, the city offers routes for all styles and timeframes. Do you know of any other architectural routes in Barcelona?
📌 Save this guide if you are going to travel or share it with someone who is planning their visit.