Barcelona Cathedral (Catedral de Barcelona)

The Basics

A major landmark in Barcelona, the cathedral is featured on nearly every sightseeing excursion, from bicycle tours to tapas crawls. Worshipers can enter for free, while there’s a donation requested for cultural visits, as well as for access to the choir and rooftop terraces, which offer one of the best views over medieval Barcelona. Don’t miss a trip down to the crypt to see the tomb of Santa Eulalia and the reliefs depicting her martyrdom.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Barcelona Cathedral is a must-visit for history buffs, spiritual travelers, and first-time visitors.

• Remember to dress respectfully by wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and extend to your knees or lower; the cathedral is an active place of worship.

• The cathedral is wheelchair accessible; there’s an accessible entrance at the cloister on Carrer del Bisbe.

How to Get There

The Barcelona Cathedral is centrally located and easy to reach on foot from anywhere in the Old City. From other areas of the city, take the metro to Liceu (Green Line) or Jaume I (Yellow Line), or ride the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus to Catedral-Gotic station.

When to Get There

The cathedral is open daily throughout the week for worship during the morning and evening hours, and for cultural visits during the afternoon. Plan to visit on a weekday during the shoulder season (October to April) to enjoy the cathedral with smaller crowds.

The Geese of Saint Eulalia

The palm-filled cloister of the Barcelona Cathedral is home to 13 special residents, a flock of geese that have been enjoying the garden and fountains since medieval days. The number of geese is believed to represent the age of Eulalia, the city’s patron saint, at the time she was martyred.

What is the history behind Barcelona Cathedral?

Barcelona Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, dates back to the 13th century. Construction began in 1298 on the site of a Romanesque cathedral, with the neo-Gothic facade completed in the 19th century. It's dedicated to Saint Eulalia, Barcelona's patron saint.

What are the must-see features inside Barcelona Cathedral?

Inside Barcelona Cathedral, visitors shouldn't miss the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament and of the Holy Christ of Lepanto—a side chapel that dates back to the 15th century. Other must-see features include the Holy Christ of Lepanto Crucifix, the stained glass windows, the crypt, and the cloister with its resident white geese.

Can visitors attend Mass or religious services at Barcelona Cathedral?

Yes, visitors can attend Mass and religious services at Barcelona Cathedral. These occur throughout the week at multiple times of the day, but are usually in Catalan or Spanish. It’s advisable to check the timings in advance, as religious services can change if there are special holidays or events.

Is photography allowed inside Barcelona Cathedral?

Yes, photography is permitted inside Barcelona Cathedral, though visitors are encouraged to refrain from using flash, tripods, or selfie sticks to maintain a serene atmosphere for worshippers and other visitors. Respecting the sacred nature of the cathedral enhances the experience for everyone, allowing all to appreciate its beauty and significance.

Are there any special events or festivals held at Barcelona Cathedral?

Yes, Barcelona Cathedral hosts various events such as the La Mercè Festival, featuring illuminations and music in front of the cathedral. It also holds concerts, organ recitals, and processions during Easter and Christmas. The cathedral offers a rich cultural experience, blending religious traditions with artistic and musical celebrations year-round.

How can I get to Barcelona Cathedral using public transportation?

To reach Barcelona Cathedral via public transportation, you can take the metro yellow L4 line to Jaume I station, which is around a 4-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can get the #47, #120, or N8 buses to Via Laietana - Pl Ramon Berengue, which is around a 3-minute walk away.

Ways to explore

The Barcelona Cathedral is featured on most Barcelona sightseeing tours, from e-bike trips that ride past the city’s top attractions to small-group walking tours focused on the history of the Gothic Quarter. You can often add to your experience with a tapas tasting or flamenco show.

To see the cathedral’s resplendent interior, you’ll need a ticket. The full visit includes an audio guide for the chapels, choir, and rooftop, offering views of the bell towers and the city beyond. Don’t miss visiting the crypt to see the tomb of St. Eulàlia and the reliefs depicting her martyrdom.

Accessibility

The Barcelona Cathedral is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp entrance on Carrer del Bisbe and an elevator to the rooftop. While the crypt can only be reached with stairs, the cloister and other visiting areas are accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Only bring essentials, as the church doesn’t allow large bags.

What to wear

Like many churches, the Barcelona Cathedral requires visitors to cover their legs and shoulders and doesn’t allow hats.

Not allowed

Flash photography, food or drink, bulky bags

Amenities

Paid restrooms, gift shop, audio guides

Address

In the Gothic Quarter, the Barcelona Cathedral is easy to reach from many attractions in the old town—La Rambla and Ciutadella Park are both within a 15-minute walk. If you’re coming from another part of town, you can use public transportation or take a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus.

Driving

Rather than navigate through central Barcelona, where parking is tricky and many streets are for pedestrians only, call a taxi or use a rideshare app to get to the cathedral.

Public transportation

Ride the metro to Liceu (L3 line) or Jaume (L3 line), and the cathedral is a short walk away. Several buses also stop nearby on Via Laietana.

Best times to visit

Head to the cathedral in the morning on a weekday, when it’s least crowded and you’ll find the softest light on the rooftop terrace.

Best days to visit

The Barcelona Cathedral is always busy, though weekdays tend to be less crowded. Just note that it’s only open in the afternoon on Sundays.

Best months to visit

The cathedral is a year-round attraction, but it’s particularly nice anytime from October to April, when there are fewer tourists in Barcelona and the covered landmark provides a respite from occasional rainstorms.