Eixample Travel Guide

Discover Eixample, Barcelona through this detailed travel guide which covers the must-visit attractions, best things to do, week-long itinerary, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to Eixample

Eixample is a district of Barcelona, Catalonia, known for its elegant architecture, excellent restaurants and cafes, museums, galleries, and nightlife. The district is divided into two parts- Left Eixample (Esquerra de l’Eixample) and Right Eixample (Dreta de l’Eixample), both of which offer a unique experience for travelers. Eixample is home to several popular attractions such as Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, and La Pedrera, making it one of the most visited districts of Barcelona.

List of Places to Visit in Eixample

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sagrada Familia - A masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi, this basilica is a must-visit attraction in Eixample. The intricate details of the facade and the stained glass windows will take your breath away.
  • Casa Batllo - Another architectural gem of Gaudi, this building is famous for its animal-inspired facade and swirling balconies.
  • La Pedrera/Casa Mila - This building stands out for its wavy chimney stacks and twisted iron balconies and rooftop terrace.
  • Palau de la Musica Catalana - Designed by the architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner, this music palace is renowned for its ornate facade and spectacular interiors.

Natural Attractions of Eixample: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc de Joan Miro - A park that features a large colorful sculpture by Joan Miro and is surrounded by palm trees where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
  • Parque de la Ciutadella - This park is known as the “green lung” of Barcelona thanks to its spacious lawns, shady trees, and lake with boat rides.
  • Passeig de Gracia - This avenue is known for its fantastic shopping and is home to several luxury fashion boutiques.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eixample

  • Montjuïc ⛰️: A scenic route that passes through the city’s main landmarks, such as the castle of Montjuïc, the Joan Miro Museum, and the Olympic Stadium.
  • Carretera de Les Aigues🚴: A bike route that follows the flow of the Besòs River and offers breathtaking views of the Catalan mountains.

Best Things to Do in Eixample: Activities and Tours

  • Flamenco Show: An evening of music and dance that showcases the soul of Spain.
  • Cava Winery Tour: Visit the popular wineries of the Penedès region, and taste the world-famous sparkling wine, Cava.
  • Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour: Explore the city at your pace with this bus tour that stops at the city’s most significant landmarks and attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eixample

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, and La Pedrera, and have lunch at El Nacional.
Day 2 Explore the Parque de la Ciutadella in the morning, have lunch at Mercat de la Boqueria, and end the day with a bike tour of the city.
Day 3 Visit the Picasso Museum in the morning and take a flamenco show in the evening.
Day 4 Take a guided tour of the Palau de la Musica Catalana and have lunch at Pla.
Day 5 Visit the beach and have lunch at Chiringuito Calamar, and finish the day with a tour of the Camp Nou stadium.
Day 6 Explore the Gothic Quarter and end your evening with a sunset rooftop drink.
Day 7 Visit the Penedes wine region, have lunch at Cal Blay Vinticinc, and end your evening with a jazz concert at Jamboree.

Food and Drink Scene of Eixample

Must-Try Dishes

  • Esqueixada: A traditional Catalan salad made with salt cod, tomato, onion, peppers, and olives.
  • Pa amb tomaquet: A toasted bread rubbed with ripe tomato, garlic, olive oil, and sea salt.

Local Beverages

  • Cava: A sparkling white wine produced in Catalonia and is similar to Champagne.
  • Vermut: A red vermouth served on the rocks and is a popular apertif in Spain.

Where to Stay in Eixample: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Casa Bonay: A trendy, boutique hotel located in the heart of the Right Eixample.
  • Casa Gracia Hostel: A modern and stylish hostel with private and shared rooms.
  • The Level at Melia Barcelona Sky: A five-star hotel with panoramic views of the city.

What to Buy in Eixample: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cava: A bottle of Cava from one of the local wineries makes for a great souvenir to bring home.
  • Espardenyes: Traditional Spanish espadrilles with a modern twist can be found at La Manual Alpargatera.
  • Ceramics: L’Artesania Catalunya boasts a vast collection of traditional Spanish ceramics.

Local Culture and Customs of Eixample

  • Language: The official language is Catalan, but Spanish is widely spoken, and many locals also speak English.
  • Etiquette: Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s customary to round up the bill in restaurants and cafes unless a service charge is already included.
  • Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and avoid wearing shorts and flip flops outside of the beach areas.

Best Time to Visit Eixample

The best time to visit Eixample is during the spring and fall months (April to June and September to November). The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists than during the peak summer season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eixample

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Explore the unique architecture of the district, including the works of Antoni Gaudi.
  • Use public transportation, such as buses, trains, and metros, to get around the city.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the pickpockets, especially when in crowded tourist areas.
  • Take photos of the street performers without agreeing on the price beforehand.
  • Drink excessively in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eixample

Eixample is generally a safe neighborhood, but it is best to stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night, and take taxis or public transportation instead.

Health in Eixample

Travelers to Spain do not require any specific vaccinations. It’s always a good idea to carry medical insurance when traveling abroad.

Getting to Eixample: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eixample

The nearest airport to Eixample is Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which is about 15 km from the district. The airport is accessible by public transport, including buses, trains, and taxis.

Bus Stations Near Eixample

The major bus station in Barcelona is Estacio del Nord, located about 2.5 km from Eixample.

Other Options

The district is accessible by train, metro, and taxis from other parts of Barcelona and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Eixample

The best way to get around Eixample is by walking or cycling. Public transport, including the metro and bus, is also an affordable and convenient option. Taxis are readily available but are more expensive compared to public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Eixample: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Montserrat: A mountain range located about 30 km from Barcelona and is known for its unique rock formations and the Benedictine monastery.
  • Costa Brava: A coast line located on the northeastern part of Catalonia and is a popular destination for beach lovers.
  • Girona: A historic city located about 100 km from Barcelona and is known for its Old town and Jewish quarter.

Conclusion

Eixample is a vibrant and historical district of Barcelona that offers a unique travel experience. From exploring the stunning architecture of Antoni Gaudi to tasting the delicious local cuisine and beverages, Eixample offers something for every traveler. With this comprehensive guide, travelers can plan their itinerary to make the most of their time in Eixample and discover the best of Barcelona.

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