Gaudí’s Casa Batlló was commissioned by the wealthy textile magnate Josep Batlló, who wanted his home to stand out from all others—and it certainly does. This modernista marvel is renowned for its unique rounded shapes and vibrant façade.
Table of contents
- What is Casa Batlló?
- Tickets & guided tours Casa Batlló
- Practical information
- How do you get to Casa Batlló?
- What can you expect at Casa Battló?
- History and architecture of Casa Batlló
- Extra tips
- FAQs Casa Batlló
What is Casa Batlló?
Casa Batlló is one of Antoni Gaudí’s renowned modernist buildings on Passeig de Gràcia and a true icon of Barcelona’s Eixample district. The façade is enchantingly beautiful, and the interior is equally captivating. Casa Batlló is celebrated as a perfect example of Gaudí’s work, showcasing distinctive Catalan symbolism. Since 2005, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also a favorite among children. In short, it’s a must-visit for anyone who admires Gaudí’s creativity.
Tickets & guided tours Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour
This experience offers a deep dive into one of Modernism’s most exquisite jewels, bringing the artistry of Antoni Gaudí to life in an engaging, multi-sensory way. With a script available in 15 languages, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of this architectural marvel. Plus, as you explore, watch magical paintings come to life right before your eyes. Also visit the immersive Gaudí Cube, where you can marvel at captivating LED light displays.
Casa Batlló Night Visit
Explore the main floor, light well, and attics, each with unique Gaudí designs. Discover the magic of Barcelona’s Casa Batlló after dark with a special night ticket, including an insightful audio guide. Enjoy a welcome glass of cava amid soft and warm lighting.
Be the first: morning admission with skip the line
Want to explore Casa Batlló without the crowds? Arrive early with a special early access ticket, available for entry at 8:30 or 8:45 am. This ticket offers the same benefits as the standard Ticket, but you’ll be among the first to enter the building. The price for this exclusive early access is €45. Tickets for youth aged 13-17 and students are priced at €39, while seniors (65+) pay €42. Children up to 12 years old can enter for free.
Casa Batlló – Gaudí Cube Entry Ticket
Step into an extraordinary audiovisual experience at THE CUBE, situated in Barcelona’s iconic Casa Batlló, designed by Antoni Gaudí. Descend to the basement of this architectural marvel to enter a fully immersive space, where cutting-edge visuals and sound transport you into Gaudí’s imaginative world.
Practical information
| Casa Batlló | Tickets, opening hours & public transportation |
|---|---|
| Tickets | Tickets €31 including audioguide Junior 13-17 years €25 Senior (65+) €28 Children under 12 get in for free (just make sure you order a ticket) |
| Address | Passeig de Gràcia 43 (Eixample) |
| Public transportation / subway | Metro: Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3 en L4) Bus: H10, V15, 7, 22 en 24 Hop-on Hop-off bus |
| Opening hours | Monday – Sunday: 9 am to 8 pm |
How do you get to Casa Batlló?
Casa Batlló is located on the beautiful Passeig de Gràcia number 43 in the Eixample neighborhood. It’s easy to get there from any part of town.
Metro
You can easily reach Casa Batlló by metro. The nearest metro station is Passeig de Gràcia, which is served by Line L2 (purple line), L3 (green line), and L4 (yellow line).
Hop-on Hop-off Bus
Both the northern and southern routes of the Bus Turístic (the blue and red routes) stop right in front of Casa Batlló.
Walking
Casa Batlló is within walking distance from the city center. It takes about ten minutes from Plaça Catalunya, and you can enjoy a stroll along the beautiful Passeig de Gràcia on your way.
Bicycle
Biking to Casa Batlló from the city center is also convenient. It takes around five minutes from Plaça Catalunya.
What can you expect at Casa Vicens?
Facade
The façade of Casa Batlló is a masterpiece of modernist architecture, designed by Antoni Gaudí. Its wavy roof evokes images of a dragon’s tail or reptile skin, while the imposing columns at the entrance resemble dinosaur legs or mammoth tusks. The vibrant mosaic tiles, in various shades of blue and green, shimmer as they catch the light, drawing the attention of passersby. The façade is often interpreted as representing the legend of Saint George (Sant Jordi) and the dragon, reflecting Catalan heritage.
Interior highlights
- Planta Noble (Main Floor): This was the main residence of the Batlló family, spanning 700 square meters. The space features Gaudí’s signature rounded shapes and flowing forms. Highlights include a grand window designed for both viewing and being viewed, as well as exquisite wooden ceilings and flooring.
- Patio: The patio is adorned with stunning blue tiles, which add a unique color to the space. It also houses the original wooden elevator, adding to the building’s historic charm.
- Attic: The attic is one of the most distinctive areas, showcasing a combination of aesthetic and practical design. Its simple white forms and abundant light contrast with the more elaborate designs of other areas. The ceiling’s rib-like arches are reminiscent of the dragon’s spine from the roof.
- Rooftop Terrace: The terrace offers panoramic views of Barcelona and features the dragon’s spine, made using the trencadís technique with ceramic tiles. Four distinctive chimneys on the roof are iconic examples of Gaudí’s architectural style.
Additional Information
- Elevator and Accessibility: Casa Batlló is equipped with an elevator that provides access to various floors, though walking the staircases is also a rewarding experience, offering a closer look at Gaudí’s intricate designs.
- Photography: Visitors are welcome to take photographs throughout Casa Batlló, capturing its enchanting details and unique architectural features.
- Gift Shop: Don’t miss the souvenir shop within Casa Batlló, where you can find a range of Gaudí-themed and Catalan modernist merchandise.
History and architecture of Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló was acquired in 1903 by Josep Batlló i Casanovas, a wealthy textile magnate. Initially, the plan was to demolish the old building, originally constructed in 1877 by Emilio Sala Cortés, and replace it with a new structure. However, in the end the decision was made to undertake a comprehensive renovation instead. From 1904 to 1906, architect Antoni Gaudí and his team meticulously transformed the property.
The Batlló family resided on the ground floor of the building until 1945, while the upper floors were rented out. During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), Casa Batlló housed around a hundred refugees. After the war, the building fell into disrepair. In the 1990s, the property was acquired by the family of Chupa Chups lollipop founder, who undertook extensive restoration work.
Casa Batlló opened to the public in 2002, the International Year of Gaudí, and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
Architectural features
Unlike his earlier works, such as Casa Vicens, Gaudí did not use brick for Casa Batlló. Instead, he opted for Montjuïc sandstone, which resembles clay in texture and color. The façade is renowned for its whimsical, organic shapes and vibrant ceramic tiles, reflecting Gaudí’s unique modernist style. The building’s design features intricate details and imaginative elements, making it a quintessential example of Catalan Modernism.
Mansana de la Discòrdia
The Mansana de la Discòrdia, or “Block of Discord,” is located on Passeig de Gràcia between Carrer de Consell de Cent and Carrer d’Aragó. This nickname reflects the competition for the most beautiful modernist facade, akin to the Greek myth of the golden apple that sparked the Trojan War.
This block features three iconic buildings by leading modernist architects: Casa Amatller by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Casa Lleó i Morera by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, and Casa Batlló by Antoni Gaudí. Casa Amatller, commissioned by the chocolate magnate Antoni Amatller, showcases Flemish-inspired design. Each building varies greatly in style, contrasting with urban planner Josep Cerdà’s original vision for the Eixample neighborhood.
Extra tips
View the back of Casa Batlló
For a unique perspective of Casa Batlló, head to the terrace of the Servei Estació store located at C/Aragó 270-272 (2nd floor). From this vantage point, you can view the back of Casa Batlló for free.
Noches Mágicas
From June to September, Casa Batlló hosts “Noches Mágicas,” offering evening visits to the house. Enjoy live music, drinks, and experience Casa Batlló in a truly magical setting. Your entry ticket includes a visit to the house and a glass of cava on the rooftop terrace.
Nearby lunch or dining
Feeling hungry before or after your visit? Just a ten-minute walk away is La Cervecería Catalana, located at C/Mallorca 236. This tapas restaurant is one of the best in the city, perfect for enjoying delicious local cuisine.
Spectacular mappings
Don’t miss the spectacular 3D video projections, or “mappings,” that occasionally adorn the façade of Casa Batlló. These events transform the building into a dynamic visual experience.
Also read: our general article with all the ins & outs about the sights in Barcelona.
FAQs – Casa Batlló
Yes, definitely! While many people admire Casa Batlló’s façade from the outside, the interior is equally impressive.
A tour of the house, including the entrance, second floor, patio, attic, and rooftop terrace with its unique chimneys, takes just under an hour. Add about half an hour for the immersive Gaudí Cube.
Yes, Casa Batlló is wheelchair accessible. An elevator is available to move between floors.
Absolutely! Photography is permitted throughout Casa Batlló, so feel free to capture the beauty of this architectural masterpiece.
To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the day when it tends to be quieter. For those who prefer an even quieter experience, there is a special early access ticket allowing entry at 8:30 or 8:45 AM.
Yes, Casa Batlló operates with fixed time slots for visits. When booking your tickets, you need to choose your preferred time slot in advance. Make sure to arrive at the entrance on time. You can either print your tickets or save them on your smartphone for easy access.
While tickets can be purchased at the door, it is highly recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues.
Yes, Casa Batlló is suitable for children. The unique architecture and colorful design are sure to fascinate younger visitors. There are also interactive elements to engage kids.
The easiest way to get to Casa Batlló from the city center is walking. It’s a beautiful walk up the elegant Passeig de Gràcia. Alternatively you can take a metro to metro station Passeig de Gràcia. Metro lines L2 (purple line), L3 (green line) and L4 (yellow line) stop here. Other options are listed here.
