Madrid to Barcelona

Top Tips for Traveling from Barcelona to Madrid

By Go City Expert

Navigating Spain: your ultimate guide to traveling from Barcelona to Madrid

By Mia Russell

Spain, a land of rich culture, captivating history, and diverse landscapes, beckons travelers to explore its iconic cities. Among them, Barcelona and Madrid stand as pillars of Spanish identity, each offering unique charm.

Navigating the journey from Barcelona to Madrid isn't just a matter of distance; it's an opportunity to witness the beauty of the Spanish heartland and immerse yourself in the essence of the Iberian Peninsula.

Let’s look at the best ways to travel and make the most of your travel experience.

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1. High-Speed Rail: a swift connection

Spain boasts one of the world's most efficient high-speed rail networks, the AVE (Alta Velocidad Española), which connects the country's major cities efficiently and comfortably. Traveling from Barcelona to Madrid by train is not only a convenient option but also a chance to witness the beautiful Spanish landscapes in comfort.

Distance and duration

The distance between Barcelona and Madrid is approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles) in a straight line. The AVE train, known for its swift speeds, covers this distance in around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the specific route and train type. So, you can enjoy breakfast in Barcelona and arrive in Madrid before lunch!

Train types and classes

Several AVE train services operate on the Barcelona-Madrid route. The most common types are the Standard Class (Turista) and the First Class (Preferente). Standard Class offers comfortable seats, onboard services, and sometimes the option to purchase snacks and drinks. If you're looking for a touch of luxury, consider First Class (Preferente), where you'll enjoy spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and access to VIP lounges in some stations.

Booking and costs

Booking your AVE train ticket is easy and can be done online, at train stations, or through authorized travel agents. Ticket prices can vary based on factors such as time of booking, class, and availability. On average, Standard Class tickets cost between €60 and €100, while First Class tickets range from €90 to €150, with possible discounts for children, seniors, and groups.

Amenities and comfort

Expect a comfortable journey aboard the AVE. You'll find spacious seating with ample legroom, convenient power outlets, and sometimes even Wi-Fi access. Some trains have designated spaces for luggage, making your trip even smoother. If you're lucky, onboard dining services might also be available.

Station information

Your Barcelona departure point is typically Barcelona Sants Station (Estació de Sants), a major railway hub offering various amenities like shops, restaurants, and waiting areas. Upon reaching Madrid, you'll arrive at Madrid Atocha Station (Estación de Atocha), a historic and architecturally impressive station with a lush, indoor tropical garden.

Tips for a smooth journey

  • Book in advance: get the best fares and ensure availability by booking your AVE train tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Check timetables: AVE trains run frequently throughout the day, so you can select a departure time that suits your schedule.
  • Stay connected: while some trains offer Wi-Fi, it's a good idea to have entertainment, reading materials, or work to keep yourself occupied during the journey.
  • Arrive early: arriving at the station before departure allows you to navigate any check-in procedures, find your platform, and settle in comfortably.
  • Enjoy the scenery: sit back, relax, and take in the beautiful Spanish countryside as you speed from Barcelona to Madrid.
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2. The scenic drive: a budget-friendly bus trip

Embarking on a journey from Barcelona to Madrid by bus offers a cost-effective and scenic way to traverse the Spanish landscape. This adventure allows you to witness the changing landscapes and charming towns as you journey through the heart of the Iberian Peninsula.

Distance and duration

The distance between Barcelona and Madrid is approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles) when measured in a straight line. However, the actual distance covered by bus might be longer due to road networks and designated routes. On average, the bus journey takes around seven to nine hours, depending on traffic conditions, stops, and your bus's specific route.

Bus options

Several reputable bus companies operate between Barcelona and Madrid, offering various options to cater to different preferences and budgets. Providers like ALSA, Avanza, and FlixBus are known for their reliable service and comfortable amenities.

Amenities and comfort

Modern buses are designed with your comfort in mind. Enjoy features such as spacious reclining seats, air conditioning for a pleasant ride, restrooms on board for convenience, Wi-Fi to stay connected (availability varies), power outlets, and even entertainment options to keep you engaged during the journey.

Booking and costs

Book your bus ticket online through the respective bus company's website or authorized booking platforms. Ticket prices vary based on factors such as the time of booking, the type of bus, and whether you opt for basic or premium services. On average, bus fares range from €30 to €60, making it a budget-friendly choice.

Bus stations

In Barcelona, the primary departure point is Estació del Nord (Barcelona Nord Bus Station), which is easily accessible and well-equipped with facilities for travelers. Upon reaching Madrid, you will arrive at Estación Sur de Autobuses (Madrid South Bus Station), where you'll find amenities like waiting areas, restaurants, and information services.

Stops and breaks

Bus journeys typically include rest stops where you can stretch your legs, use restrooms, and grab a quick snack. These stops offer a chance to break up the journey, recharge, and enjoy some fresh air before continuing.

Tips for a smooth trip

  • Plan ahead: to secure your preferred departure time and seat, consider booking your bus ticket in advance, especially during peak travel.
  • Pack snacks and essentials: while some buses offer refreshments, it's a good idea to bring along snacks, water, reading material, and any personal items you might need.
  • Comfortable attire: dress in comfortable clothing and bring a light sweater or jacket to stay comfortable throughout the journey.
  • Stay entertained: pack entertainment like books, podcasts, or movies to keep yourself engaged during the ride.
  • Arrive early: arriving at the bus station before departure gives you ample time to locate your bus, store your luggage, and get settled.
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3. Air travel: quick aerial connection

If time is of the essence, you may want to consider taking a domestic flight.

Distance and duration

The straight-line distance between Barcelona and Madrid is approximately 505 kilometers (314 miles). Flights between these two cities are quick, with an average flight duration of around 1.5 to 2 hours. This means you can enjoy breakfast in one city and explore the other well before lunchtime.

Airlines and flights

Numerous airlines operate regular flights connecting Barcelona's El Prat Airport and Madrid's Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport. Airlines like Vueling, Iberia, Ryanair, and Air Europa offer various options to cater to different schedules and budgets.

Amenities and comfort

Modern aircraft are equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. You can expect features like ergonomic seating, in-flight entertainment systems, onboard services, and sometimes Wi-Fi connectivity to keep you engaged and connected during the flight.

Booking and costs

Booking your flight is convenient and can be done online through airline websites, travel agencies, or booking platforms. Ticket prices vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, availability, and class of travel. On average, flight costs range from €50 to €150, with possible discounts for early bookings or special offers.

Airports

Departure takes place from Barcelona El Prat Airport, which is well-equipped with facilities for travelers, including shops, restaurants, and lounges. Upon landing in Madrid, you'll arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, a major international hub that offers various amenities to cater to your needs.

Transportation to and from airports

Both airports are well-connected to their respective cities via public transportation options like buses, trains, and taxis. Plan ahead for transportation or familiarize yourself with the options available upon arrival.

Tips for a seamless flight

  • Book ahead: secure the best fares and preferred flight times by booking your air travel in advance, particularly during busy travel seasons.
  • Pack light: opt for carry-on luggage to simplify your travel experience and save time at check-in and baggage claim.
  • Stay informed: keep an eye on your flight's status by using airline apps or monitoring airport information screens for updates.
  • Entertainment and essentials: bring entertainment like books, music, or digital content to enjoy during the flight. Don't forget essentials like snacks, a travel pillow, and necessary medications.
  • Relax and enjoy: sit back, relax, and take in the aerial view of Spain as you glide from Barcelona to Madrid.
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Hit the open road: Barcelona to Madrid by car

If you love the freedom of exploring at your own pace, a road trip from Barcelona to Madrid might be just what you're looking for. Traveling by car allows you to take in the scenic Spanish landscapes and make spontaneous stops along the way.

Distance and duration

The distance between Barcelona and Madrid is approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles) when taking the most direct route. However, remember that the distance covered might vary based on the way you choose and any detours you take. On average, the road trip takes around six to seven hours of driving time, excluding stops.

Routes and roads

You can take several routes to drive from Barcelona to Madrid, including the AP-2 and AP-7 highways. Having a GPS navigation system or a reliable map handy is an excellent idea to ensure a smooth journey.

Costs and fuel

The cost of the road trip depends on factors like fuel prices, tolls (if applicable), and vehicle efficiency. Check fuel prices before your journey and factor in any toll fees along your chosen route.

Amenities and comfort

Driving your own car allows you to control your comfort level. You can make stops whenever you wish, stretch your legs, and enjoy the convenience of having your belongings readily accessible.

Tips for a memorable road trip

  • Plan ahead: map out your route, estimated travel time, and potential stops before hitting the road. Traveling during off-peak hours can help you avoid heavy traffic, especially around urban areas. Plan your departure time to make the most of your driving experience.
  • Essentials and snacks: pack essentials like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and any necessary medications.
  • Stay alert: take regular breaks to stay refreshed and alert while driving. Plan stops at scenic viewpoints to appreciate the surroundings.
  • Stay charged: ensure your phone and other electronic devices are charged and ready for navigation and communication.
  • Enjoy the journey: take advantage of the freedom a road trip offers by discovering hidden gems and capturing the essence of Spain along the way.
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Places to explore en route

Discover Zaragoza

As you journey from Barcelona to Madrid, consider making a pit stop in Zaragoza. This historic city, situated halfway between the two metropolises, boasts architectural wonders like the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and Aljafería Palace. Immerse yourself in local culture by enjoying traditional tapas in the bustling Plaza del Pilar.

Embrace high altitude in Montes Universales

If you're up for a scenic detour, venture into Montes Universales, a mountain range offering hiking trails, tranquil lakes, and picturesque villages. This is an opportunity to escape the conventional route and connect with nature's beauty.

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Delve into Cuenca's beauty

Another captivating stop on your journey is Cuenca, famed for its hanging houses and dramatic gorge views. Stroll through the medieval streets, visit the Cuenca Cathedral, and take in the breathtaking vistas from the Hanging Houses.

Feast on Castilian cuisine

As you travel through Castile, indulge in the region's culinary treasures. Savor the rich flavors of roast lamb, hearty stews, and local cheeses at roadside eateries and village taverns.

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Madrid's grandeur

As you arrive in Madrid, prepare to embrace the capital's energy and grandeur. Wander through the historic streets, marvel at the Royal Palace, and immerse yourself in art at the renowned Prado Museum.

Final Thoughts

The journey from Barcelona to Madrid isn't just about reaching a destination; it's about immersing yourself in Spain's diverse landscapes, cultures, and traditions. Whether you choose high-speed rail, a scenic road trip, or a combination of modes, each option offers a unique perspective on the beauty that lies between these two captivating cities. So, embrace the road ahead and let the Spanish heartland weave its enchantment around you.

Go City Expert
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Art at the Picasso Museum in Barcelona (Image credit: Museu Picasso)
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Museu Picasso vs Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya - (MNAC) Comparison

Barcelona has quite the pedigree when it comes to art. Not to put too fine a point on it, we’re talking about the self-same region that nurtured Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró. Heck, this part of Spain is about as central to the development of European art as just about anywhere else on the continent. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the city’s fine art museums, among which the extraordinary Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya and epic Museu Picasso are among the very best. We took a closer look at these two titans of the Barça art scene, including a little bit of history and the treasures you can expect to find within… Museu Picasso: The Lowdown Vital Statistics: Opened in 1963, Barcelona’s Museu Picasso was the world’s first museum dedicated entirely to the maestro’s work, and the only one to open in his lifetime. Even today, the museum’s collection of 4,000+ pieces, located in the very neighborhood where Picasso lived and studied as a teenager, makes it one of the three largest Picasso collections on the planet, alongside the Picasso Museum in Paris, and the mighty Prado in Madrid. The museum attracts over a million visitors annually. Picasso Museum in Brief: Picasso’s fledgling art career first took wing in the medieval streets of the medieval Gothic Quarter. Here’s where he lived with his family, studied at the School of Fine Arts, and found inspiration for his celebrated ‘Les Demoiselles d'Avignon’ at a Carrer d'Avinyó brothel. It’s appropriate then that this extensive collection of his work – and particularly his earlier, pre-Cubist work – should be exhibited here, close to the very neighborhood Picasso once called home. This is no ordinary museum either. Art of this quality deserves a setting just as impressive, and the series of five adjoining medieval palaces in Le Ribera, in which the collection is housed, more than delivers. The mind-boggling number of exhibits (some 4,251 at last count) is helpfully organized into sections that primarily cover Picasso’s early years, training period and celebrated Blue Period, taking in a fairly substantial hoard of sketches and paintings from those eras, as well as a much smaller collection of pieces from his Cubist period and beyond. Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya: The Lowdown Vital Statistics: A stalwart of the Barcelona art scene since 1934, MNAC is *the* go-to for anyone with even a passing interest in Catalan art from the last 1,000 years. Set high on Montjuïc hill, this majestic collection is displayed within the historic Palau Nacional, a jaw-dropping confection that marries elements of St Peter's Basilica, Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, and other major masterpieces of European architecture. Something of a work of art in its own right then, this palatial Italian-style confection also just happens to command some of the best Barcelona panoramas in town. No wonder then that it draws in a similar number of tourists to the Picasso Museum – around a million – every year. MNAC in Brief: Go for the art and stay for the sweeping city views: visitors to the museum enjoy access to the roof terrace for unrivaled panoramas of the skyline, taking in everything from the Montjuïc Magic Fountain below to the familiar lines and angles of the Sagrada Família, and the Mediterranean beyond. It’s worth taking a peek inside too, of course. For here’s where you can marvel at Romanesque religious murals par excellence, lovingly transported here from crumbling medieval churches in the Pyrenees, as well as key pieces from the Gothic and Renaissance eras, and some of the modern masterworks that inspired Dalí, Picasso, Gaudí and Miró. In summary, MNAC boasts what is quite possibly (nay, almost certainly) the finest collection of Catalan art, ancient and modern, on this planet we call Earth. Museu Picasso: Highlights & What to Expect The Museu Picasso works hard to convey the artist’s relationship with Barcelona, from the formative years spent learning his craft in this very district to his continuing connection with the city in death. Guided tours of the local neighborhood flesh this out, revealing Picasso’s family homes, teenage hangouts and more. One such tour is included with a Barcelona pass from Go City, which also includes entry to the museum, as well as other Barcelona attractions including Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and the Sagrada Família. Find out more about the Barcelona pass and buy yours here. Cool fact: during renovations in 1960, the Mural paintings of the Conquest of Majorca were discovered concealed beneath plaster in Palau Aguilar, one of the five medieval palaces in which Museu Picasso is housed. Considered a masterpiece of 13th-century Catalan art, these magnificent murals now form the focal point of the Gothic galleries at MNAC. Back to the present day Museu Picasso now, where highlights include: ‘The First Communion’ and ‘Science and Charity’. Some of his earliest major works, these oil paintings date from 1896-1897, when Picasso was still a teenager. Must-see Blue Period works at the museum include ‘The Dead Woman’, a striking portrait of a recently deceased subject, rendered in the trademark sickly blues and greens Picasso favored between 1901 and 1904. In 1957, Picasso set about re-imagining Velazquez’s iconic 17th-century royal portrait ‘Las Meninas’, bringing his own inimitable style to the project across 58 (count ‘em) separate paintings. The resulting collection, displayed in its entirety here is, quite frankly, unmissable. MNAC: Highlights & What to Expect  For an overview of Catalan art across the centuries, the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya is second-to-none, taking in everything from medieval Romanesque and Gothic murals to Renaissance masterpieces and modern art. Highlights of this 300,000-strong collection are many, but here are a few you absolutely must not miss: Baroque and Renaissance Spanish art provides some of the museum’s undisputed highlights. We’re talking masterpieces from the likes of El Greco, Velázquez, Zurbarán and more. Don’t miss one of the collection’s signature pieces: the unsettling ‘Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew’ by José de Ribera’, in which the titular Bart’s desperate, pleading eyes seem to meet the gaze of the unsuspecting viewer (i.e. you). Murals including the Master of Taull’s majestic ‘Apse of St Taull’ and the epic Linear Gothic Catalan masterpiece that is the Mural paintings of the Conquest of Majorca, are among some of the finest examples of early medieval Romanesque art anywhere on the planet. The modern art collection covers around 150 years from the early 19th century onwards, with Romantic, realist and neoclassical pieces that preempt the work of Gaudí, Miró, Picasso et al. Check out sculptures by Campeny and the Vallmitjana brothers, and paintings by Flaugier and Fortuny, for the win. Top tip: admission to MNAC is free after 3PM on Saturdays and on the first Sunday of each month. You can book tickets for these as well as paid entry slots here. Save on Attractions, Tours and Activities in Barcelona Save money on Barcelona attractions, tours and activities with a pass from Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
best walking tour barcelona
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Walking Tours in Barcelona

Walking. One of life's many pleasures. Good for the mind, body, and soul, the simple act of walking is one often overshadowed by evil technologies like cars, buses, and bikes. Avoid these at all costs and trust your legs. They've gotten you this far. Want to take your walking to the next level? Combine it with the power of education and learning. Yes, we're talking walking tours today. Spice up those strolls with a bit of culture. Plus, some handy soundbites you can use to fool people into thinking you're more clever than you really are. These are the best walking tours in Barcelona, curated by us for you, so you can focus on strengthening those leg muscles. Always be prepared. Featuring: Sagrada Familia Tour Park Guell Guided Tour Picasso Museum Guided Tour Barcelona Architecture Tour Barcelona Ancient Markets Tour Old Town and Gothic Quarter Tour Raval Walking Tour   Sagrada Familia Tour Take a walk through time itself with a Sagrada Familia tour. Explore the history of Gaudi, Spain's most famous architect, as you explore his most famous work, the Sagrada Familia. This century-old wonder combines elements of Gothic and Art-Nouveau, mixed up on a palate with Gaudi's distinguished strangeness. Of course, a wizened guide will join you on your adventure, giving you key insight into the artist's style and history. Witness the religious symbolism present in his works. Have your mind blown by the geometry of the building's ceilings and stained-glass windows. Easily one of the best walking tours in Barcelona. You will love it.   Park Güell Guided Tour Take your tour to a more natural place with a guided tour of the wonderful Park Guell. Our man Gaudi has done it again, designing Park Guell to his ideal specifications. Not only do you get a healthy dose of the green and pleasant, you also get some of the man's signature strangeness. Learn about Gaudi's inspiration behind oddities like El Drac, a multicolored mosaic lizard. Stand in awe of the Porter's Lodge and its stunning style. Rumour has it that if you whistle Gaudi's favorite tune, your learned guide will reveal the universe's secrets to you. That is not true. Please do not do that. A tip will suffice.   Picasso Museum Guided Tour Or, if you've had enough Gaudi to fill a lifetime, why not try another of Spain's revolutionary artists? Picasso, specifically. Take a Picasso Museum Guided Tour, and learn all about one of the 20th Century's most important artistic voices. Look upon his works, but do not despair. Instead, marvel at them, as your guide showers you with facts and information about his pieces. And once the tour is over and you've devoured as much information as possible from your informative guide, you're free to roam the museum at will. Our top tip, retrace your steps and impress passers-by with your newfound knowledge. Unless they're on a guided tour, in which case, hold your tongue. You cannot compare to their majesty.   Barcelona Architecture Tour You thought we were finished with Gaudi? Think again. Take a tour of the architect's work throughout Barcelona with one of the best walking tours you'll ever discover. You'll see all the hits; Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, and even the Sagrada Familia itself. Your tour will end at Casa Amatller, the home of Catalan chocolate. Try some for yourself, if you dare. By then, you'll have explored works from other Spanish architects like Montagner and Puig i Cadafalch. Just don't try and say the latter's name five times fast. These tours are for walking, not tongue-twisters.   Barcelona Ancient Markets Tour Explore Barcelona's ancient markets and pretend you're trading with Romans on this walking tour. Learn about Barcelona's millennia of history in market trading. Explore three, yes, three ancient markets; Boqueria, Mercat de Santa Caterina, and Mercat de El Born. You'll also pass Barcelona Cathedral, which isn't a market, but that just means you're getting more bang for your buck. And be sure to visit the caganer shop and inquire about one of Barcelona's strangest traditions. It may just make you question life itself. Or not, you'll have to find out for yourself.   Old Town and Gothic Quarter Tour Travel back to the past with this guided tour through Old Town and the Gothic Quarter. Suitably named for their old-ness, you'll pass Roman ruins, medieval marvels, and much more! Learn about Barcelona's long history, and its many changes of the guard. This tour also passes by Boqueria market, so feel free to taste some local delicacies. Some cured ham and a drop of cava will hit the spot. Best take this walking tour if you want to learn more about Barcelona's history and the people who walked its streets in times past.   Raval Walking Tour Walkers beware; you need a strong stomach for the next stop on our list. Take a trip into the depths of Barcelona's sordid past with this bloodcurdling walking tour. Raval is one of the city's districts, and one with a rather macabre history. Your ghoulish guide will beguile you with gruesome tales of ghostly orphanages, haunted hospitals, and the definitely real Vampire of Raval. Please note that your guide isn't a real ghoul, unlike the Vampire of Raval, who is very real. You'll see their house and everything. It doesn't get more real than that. At the end of it all, you'll walk through Raval's south side, which has lots of graffiti. Now, that might not sound spooky, but there's nothing spookier than degenerates who dare to ruin bland walls with colors. The perfect addition to your social medias, if that's what you kids are still doing. And there ends our journey into the best walking tours in Barcelona. No matter your desire, there's sure to be one that fits you like a Spanish glove. Looking for more hijinks to get up to when visiting the Catalan capital? Walking lovers might want to check out our list of the city's best parks. Are you taking a loved one with you? Here's our guide for couples. Keep that step count up, and we'll see you next time.
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Interior of Casa Batlló
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Casa Batlló Vs Casa Milà Comparison - Gaudí Houses Compared

Gaudí masterpieces don’t come much more spectacular than Casa Batlló and Casa Milá, eye-popping architectural stars of Barcelona’s fashionable Eixample district. Designed and completed by Gaudí in the early 20th Century, these near-neighbors should be considered bucket listers for aficionados of the maestro’s work. Though, frankly, they’re pretty much essential viewing for anyone who possesses a) even a passing interest in unusual architectural design and/or b) an Instagram account. We took a closer look at these iconic Gaudí houses in our Casa Batlló Vs Casa Milà comparison. Scroll for the lowdown… Antoni Gaudí: a (Very) Short History Born in rural Catalonia in 1852, Antoni Gaudí i Cornet rose from humble beginnings to become the chief exponent of Catalan Modernisme, popularizing an architectural style that’s near-impossible to categorize but is always distinctly, inimitably Gaudí. His calling cards included geometrical forms, neo-Gothic flair, colorful mosaic tiling and structures influenced by his deep love of nature – think bones, tree trunks, butterfly wings, and so on. The majority of Gaudí’s buildings – 12 in all – can be found in Barcelona, and are among the most-visited attractions in town. We’re talking the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Vicens and two of his most flamboyant confections: the UNESCO-listed Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, all of which are included with a Barcelona pass from Go City. Find out more about the pass and how to get yours here. Casa Batlló: The Lowdown Name: Casa Batlló is named for textile magnate Josep Batlló, who commissioned Gaudí’s building redesign in 1904. It’s known locally as the casa dels ossos (house of bones), for reasons which will become apparent… Vital Statistics: Completed in 1906, it took 99 years before Casa Batlló was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. It’s located on the stylish Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona’s Eixample district, and is one of the city’s most popular attractions, welcoming around a million visitors every year.  Casa Batlló in Brief: Casa Batlló is a pure flight of fantasy, with a hallucinatory exterior that will appeal to everybody from high-art aficionados to fans of Game of Thrones. Considered one of Gaudí’s crowning glories, it’s truly a sight to behold. The striking dragon-crest roof fairly shimmers with blue-and-green ‘dragon scale’ tiles. Glass, stone and ceramic mosaic gives the facade a textured, rough-hewn look, while the skeletal carapace and creepy skull-mask balconies on the lower levels are what earned Casa Batlló its ‘house of bones’ nickname. Things are no less bonkers inside, where the staircase is designed to resemble a spine and the entrance hall feels  a bit like being in an underwater cave, complete with tortoise-shell skylights. Three Highlights of Casa Batlló: The Noble Floor. The former residence of the Batlló family features a gently undulating ceiling, mushroom-shaped fireplace and huge gallery which protrudes far over the Passeig de Gràcia. Roof Terrace. Ogle fairytale mosaiced chimneys and get close-up views of the dragon’s scaly back. Indoor Garden. This highly decorative terrace, with colorfully tiled floor and flowerpots is a tiny oasis in the heart of Barcelona. Casa Milà: The Lowdown Name: Casa Milà is more commonly known locally as La Pedrera, aka ‘the quarry’, thanks to its unusual rough-hewn facade. Vital Statistics: The last house Gaudí worked on before applying himself full-time to the Sagrada Família, Casa Milá was built between 1906 and 1912, and designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984. No more or less popular than its near-neighbor Casa Batlló, La Pedrera also attracts around a million annual visitors. Casa Milá in Brief: La Pedrera was pretty controversial when it was first built. And by controversial we mean the locals hated it. Hence the somewhat unfair nickname. History has of course been much kinder to Gaudí’s legacy and this Barcelona icon is now widely accepted to be one of the finest examples of Catalan Modernisme, all sinuous limestone curves, intricate wrought-iron balconies, and soaring mosaic-clad chimneys. Great paintings, tapestries and frescoes adorn the eye-popping interiors; rooms are also kitted out with curvaceous furnishings by Gaudí himself, each designed to slot seamlessly into the building’s flowing waves and curves. Three Highlights of Casa Milá: Roof Terrace: a total of 28 extraordinary warrior-like stone chimneys stand sentinel on the Casa Milá rooftop, vying for attention against some fairly spectacular 360-degree views of the city skyline. The Whale Attic. Come over all Jonah as you enter what appears to be the belly of a leviathan, thanks to 270 arches representing a whale’s ribcage. If that’s not enough, there’s also a quite excellent Gaudí exhibition to explore up here. Courtyards don’t come much trippier than La Pedrera’s Flower Courtyard and Butterfly Courtyard, in which you can expect fantastical shapes and colors, complemented by beautiful blooms and great Ballard-esque insects that are quite at odds with the far more sober exterior. Casa Batlló Vs Casa Milà Comparison: Which is Best? Who could possibly pick a favorite from these two extraordinary Gaudí Houses? Both Casa Batlló and Casa Milà are like nothing you’ve seen before, each with its own set of architectural quirks and fantastic visual spectacles. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to visit just one or the other. Not only are these dreamlike townhouses just a few minutes’ walk from each other; both are included with a Barcelona pass from Go City. The pass is ideal if you’re planning to see a number of top attractions on your vacation, and includes entry to Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, plus other Gaudí masterpieces including Casa Vicens and tours of the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. It also gives you access to many more Barcelona tours, activities and attractions, like the Picasso Museum and Barcelona Zoo, and could save you up to 50% on regular prices. Find out more about the pass and get yours here. Save on Attractions, Tours and Activities in Barcelona Save money on Barcelona attractions, tours and activities with a pass from Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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