Basílica de Santa María del Mar

Best Churches in Barcelona - Guide

By Dom Bewley

Heading to Barcelona this year and interested in the city's deep connection to the Catholic faith? Or just looking for somewhere to chat to the big man upstairs? Check out our guide to the best churches in Barcelona, and see which best suits you!

Including:

  • La Sagrada Familia
  • Basílica de Santa María del Mar
  • Basílica de Santa María del Pi
  • La Catedral de Barcelona
  • Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
  • and more!
Image of Church, Landmark, La Sagrada Familia,

La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia isn't just one of the best churches in Barcelona - it's one of the most unique and eye-catching buildings on Earth. Designed by renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí and only nearing completion 120+ years after work began, it's one of the most prominent jewels in Barcelona's crown.

Each element, from the spires to the interior façades, was meticulously designed around themes of Christianity. Every inch holds meaning. There's nothing quite like it in any other place on the planet, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone visiting the city, Christian or otherwise.

To make the most of your visit, and to uncover all the church's secrets, take a guided tour and get the low down from a learned guide. This is the way.

Basílica de Santa María del Pi

A 14th-century gem, the Santa Maria del Pi is named after a large pine tree that faced the church during construction. Widely considered one of the best churches in Barcelona, it mimics the Catalan Gothic style of Basilica de Santa María del Mar, with its less extravagant design and large, beautiful windows.

In fact, the Santa Maria del Pi contains one of the world's largest rose windows, which is a magnificent sight to behold! Beyond the church's undeniable beauty and calm praying space, you'll find a small museum and treasury, which claims to contain a piece from Christ's crown of thorns. Whether that is the case or not has yet to be determined, but why not go and see for yourself?

Image of Cathedral, Church, Arch, Gothic Arch, Clock Tower, Tower,

Basílica de Santa María del Mar

Built back in the 1300s, the Basilica de Santa María del Mar is a testament to the beauty of the Catalan Gothic style. And what a style it is, with simple symmetry accentuating harmony. Its massive, stunning windows bathe the interior with light, which perfectly contrasts the weighty and somewhat daunting exterior design. A calm, quiet space in comparison to the loud, awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, it's the perfect place to visit if you're not one for crowds.

Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús

Sitting atop Barcelona's Tibidabo Mountain, the tallest hill in the city, you'll find the Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús. One of the more recent creations on this list, having been built between 1902 and 1961 by father and son Enric and Josep Sagnier, it's no less beautiful and deserving of a visit.

With elements of Neo-Byzantine, Neo-Romanesque, and Neo-Gothic elements, it's a wonderful and unique mix you won't find anywhere else. On the outside, you'll admire its intricate spires and the statue of Jesus that looks out over the city. On the inside, gaze up at its massive dome.

Image of Arch, Cathedral, Church, Gothic Arch, Spire, Tower, Car,

La Catedral de Barcelona

Arguably Barcelona's second most recognizable church, the Catedral de Barcelona is one of the city's largest tourist attractions. Standing tall in the city's delightful Gothic Quarter, only something as unique and alien as the Sagrada Familia can overshadow its beauty. You can even ascend to the top of the cathedral and look over the district from up on high.

Built over the course of 150 years, you can see the different eras and styles within its design. Make sure to visit the crypt of Saint Eulalia, a prominent Christian martyr and the namesake for the church's alternative name, the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia.

Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes

Tucked away from Barcelona's tourist-heavy center, you'll find the Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes. Another of the city's 14-century creations, its simple design was ordained by the king at the time, Jaume II.

Its Catalan Gothic trappings mimic the other churches on this list built during the same period. However, what Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes does boast is beautiful gardens surrounding the entire building.

So, if you want to add a nice, green stroll to your visit, it's worth checking out.

Image of Monastery, Castle, Fortress, House, Housing, Villa, Arch, Tree, Palm Tree, Gothic Arch, City,

Sant Pau del Camp

In the free-spirited district of El Raval, you'll find the oldest church in the entire city. Built over 1200 years ago, the Sant Pau del Camp started life as a Benedictine monastery, but has since become a place of worship for many in Barcelona.

Given its age, it's the only church of its kind in the city, and has been restored multiple times. Having witnessed civil war, conflicts, and invasions, it's no wonder the church has needed some TLC over the years. It might not top this list for its fancy design or prominence, but it's absolutely one to visit for its history.

Santa Maria de Montserrat

This final entry might be a bit of a cheat as it's not technically in Barcelona, but just a short trip away, the Santa Maria de Montserrat absolutely deserves to be seen. You can make your own way there on public transport, but we'd recommend taking a stress-free guided tour up the mountain.

Santa Maria de Montserrat is a monastery founded in the 11th century and rebuilt between the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, it still functions with over 70 monks and is notable for enshrining the image of the Virgin of Montserrat.

You can head inside and look around, though, given its popularity, you may be waiting some time unless you get there early. There's also a nearby museum, where you can learn about the church's history. Easily one of the best churches in Barcelona, if you allow a little wiggle room on the subject.

And that's our list of the best churches in Barcelona! Looking for more things to do and see on your vacation to the Catalan capital? Check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can experience all of Barcelona's best bits when and how you want.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel 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
Madrid to Barcelona
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Top Tips for Traveling from Barcelona to Madrid

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
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Panoramic view of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter in the evening
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