When it comes to Barcelona, Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces are high on every visitor’s list. Among his most iconic works are three distinct houses: Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), and Casa Vicens.
Each house tells a unique story and offers a glimpse into the genius of one of the world’s most celebrated architects. Here’s a quick guide if you're planning to visit them.
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is a whimsical, dreamlike building located on Passeig de Gràcia. Built in 1877, it was redesigned by Gaudí in 1904 for the Batlló family. Often called the “House of Bones” due to its skeletal design elements, the façade features colorful mosaics, flowing curves, and a roof that resembles the scales of a dragon. It’s a masterpiece of Modernisme, showcasing Gaudí’s unique ability to blend architecture with nature.
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| the facade of Casa Batlló |
How to Get to Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is located at Passeig de Gràcia, 43, in the Eixample district. By metro, you can take Line 2, 3, or 4 to Passeig de Gràcia station. You can also go by bus with routes H10, V15, 7, or 22 all stopping nearby.
What to Expect at Casa Batlló
Inside Casa Batlló, you’ll find yourself immersed in Gaudí’s creative genius. The building is designed to feel alive, with flowing curves, colorful mosaics, and imaginative use of natural light. The central staircase resembles the spine of a mythical creature, while the blue-tiled courtyard creates a calming atmosphere that shifts in hue as you ascend. The rooftop is another highlight, where the dragon-inspired design comes to life.
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| the interiors of Casa Batlló |
Casa Batlló provides a SmartGuide, an augmented reality audio guide included with your ticket. This device enhances your visit by overlaying animations and information onto the rooms as you explore. It’s perfect for learning the stories behind Gaudí’s design choices and gaining deeper insight into the building’s history.
The immersive “10D Experience,” available in some ticket options, offers a multisensory journey where you can walk through light, sound, and projections inspired by Gaudí’s imagination. It’s a unique way to engage with his work on a whole new level.
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| the intricate walls surrounding the stairwell inside Casa Batlló |
Admission & Hours
Hours: Open daily, usually from 9am to 9pm
Tickets: Standard tickets start at €35. Book online in advance to skip the line, as it’s one of the city’s busiest attractions and tickets can sold out really fast especially during peak tourism season.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
Casa Milà, commonly known as La Pedrera (The Quarry), is another gem on Passeig de Gràcia. Completed in 1912, it was Gaudí’s last private residential commission. The undulating stone façade and wrought-iron balconies give the building its nickname. Inside, Gaudí’s innovative designs focused on functionality, light, and ventilation, making it as practical as it is beautiful.
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| the facade of Casa Milà |
How to Get to Casa Milà
Casa Milà is located at Passeig de Gràcia, 92. You can take the metro Line 3 or 5 to Diagonal station or buses V15, 24, or H10. It's also a short walk from Casa Battló so you can easily visit these two places in one day.
What to Expect at Casa Milà
A visit to Casa Milà starts with the courtyard, where you’ll see the innovative way Gaudí used light and ventilation to make the building practical and beautiful. Inside, the Espai Gaudí exhibition in the attic gives you an in-depth look at his architectural methods, featuring models, drawings, and audiovisual displays that explain his inspirations and techniques.
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| one of the dreamy murals inside Casa Milà |
The rooftop terrace is one of Casa Milà’s most iconic features. Here, you’ll find surreal, sculptural chimneys that feel like they belong in a fantasy world, alongside stunning views of Barcelona. The rooftop also offers a glimpse into Gaudí’s ability to combine form and function.
Casa Milà provides an audio guide included with your ticket, available in multiple languages. It’s packed with fascinating details about the building’s construction, history, and design, making it easy to explore at your own pace. If you’re visiting in the evening, the night tour includes a light and sound show on the rooftop, adding a magical touch to the experience.
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| the iconic rooftop of Casa Milà |
Admission & Hours
Hours: Open daily, typically from 9am to 8:30pm, with a special night tour available
Tickets: General admission starts at €25. For a unique experience, consider the night tour, which includes a light and sound show on the rooftop.
Casa Vicens
Casa Vicens, located in the Gràcia neighborhood, was Gaudí’s first major work and a stunning example of his early style. Built between 1883 and 1885 as a summer home for the Vicens family, the building combines Moorish, Oriental, and neoclassical influences. Its vibrant tiled façade and lush garden make it stand out from Gaudí’s later works.
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| the facade of Casa Vicens |
How to Get to Casa Vicens
Casa Vicens is located at Carrer de les Carolines, 20-26. To get here, you can take the metro Line 3 to Fontana station or buses 22, 24, or 27.
What to Expect at Casa Vicens
Compared to Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, Casa Vicens feels more intimate and less crowded, making it a peaceful retreat. The house is a vibrant mix of Moorish and Oriental styles, with intricate tiles and colorful designs adorning the façade. Inside, you’ll find detailed woodwork, painted ceilings, and original furniture designed by Gaudí himself.
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| the enclosed porch of Casa Vicens |
The garden is a charming space, featuring bright ceramic tiles and decorative elements that blend harmoniously with the greenery. It’s a great spot to relax and take photos.
Casa Vicens offers an audio guide included in the ticket price, giving you an informative tour through the house and its history. For a more in-depth experience, guided tours are also available at select times, led by experts who provide fascinating insights into Gaudí’s first major project.
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| easily the most stunning room in Casa Vicens |
Of the three houses, Casa Vicens was my personal favorite. There’s something magical about how vibrant and playful it feels, while still showcasing Gaudí’s incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail. It’s less overwhelming than the others, making it the perfect place to appreciate his early work without the crowds.
Admission & Hours
Hours: Open daily, generally from 10 AM to 7 PM.
Tickets: Entry starts at €16. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
These houses are some of the most popular attractions in Barcelona, so book your tickets online and well in advance. To avoid crowds, I'd recommend visiting during the first or last time slots.
Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply looking to make the most of your trip to Barcelona, these three iconic houses are must-visit stops on any itinerary.
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