Laid out in the 19th century on a design by Ildefons Cerda, L’Eixample lies in the heart of Barcelona alongside the atmospheric Old City. It’s home to some of Antoni Gaudi’s most notable architectural works and one of the city’s most famous meeting places, Plaça de Catalunya.
Things to do in Eixample
Not to miss in L’Eixample is the Sagrada Familia, an architecturally inspiring basilica that was designed by Antoni Gaudi and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction on the church began in 1882 (but remains unfinished) and Gaudi was entombed here after his death in 1926. Marvel at the intricately designed Nativity Facade and explore the on-site museum before enjoying the elevated views on offer across Barcelona.
Also designed by Gaudi is Casa Milà, a Modernist residential building that features an undulating stone facade and twisting wrought-iron balconies. Equipped with an audio tour, you can explore one of its furnished apartments and exhibits about Gaudi’s architectural philosophy. The impressive rooftop features ornately sculpted chimneys and regularly hosts jazz concerts.
On the southern edge of L’Eixample is Plaça de Catalunya, a bustling square dotted with fountains and statues of notable figures in Barcelona’s past. It is surrounded by shopping centres and department stores, as well as the hidden courtyard of Santa Anna Church where Spanish guitar performances are occasionally held. Plaça de Catalunya marks the northern end of La Rambla, a tree-lined pedestrian street lined with alfresco cafes and souvenir stores.
Getting around Eixample
L’Eixample is around five minutes’ drive from Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and 20 minutes from Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect to the Provença and Arc de Triomf railway stations while subways travel throughout the district.