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Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations in Spain, it’s well known for a handful of ancient landmarks like its Gothic district and a wide arrange of iconic buildings like Casa Batllo, but did you know this Spanish city is also known for its squares (or plazas, as the locals call it)? For more tips on planning your visit, a detailed Travel guide to Barcelona can help highlight the best ways to experience the city’s charm.
Yes, chances are that wherever you go in Barcelona you’ll find a square, since the beginning of the city in ancient times, plazas were and still are an important part of the local’s daily life. It’s a place to sip coffee, people-watch, and soak in the Mediterranean culture.
But for most of the tourists exploring the charmin squares and plazas of Barcelona is more than that it’s like stepping into a vibrant tapestry woven with history.
Best Squares and Plazas to Visit in Barcelona
There are a ton of iconic squares in Barcelona, some are older than others, and more vibrant than others, that’s why knowing where to start can be helpful.
Also, most holiday apartments in Barcelona are located near squares, so it can be easier for you to explore them.
Here are some of the best plazas to visit in Barcelona:
Plaça de Sant Felip Neri
The Sant Felip Neri square is located in the Gothic quarter and is smaller than other plazas in the city but it’s arguably the prettiest square in Barcelona.
The square takes its name from the small Baroque church that can be found on one side of the plaza. You can find an old octagonal stone fountain, and some trees but what gives its unique atmosphere is the fact that the plaza is surrounded by Gothic buildings.
As as you step on the cobblestone floor you will feel like you traveled back in time.
American rock band Evanescence even featured this square in their music video for “My Immortal.” Sant Felip Neri Square is a quiet refuge, a place to pause and reflect.
Plaça Reial
Plaza Real or the Royal Square is by far the most popular square in the whole city, that’s due to its proximity to La Rambla (an iconic place in Barcelona), but the square has a unique charm to it.
Surrounding the square you can see neoclassical apartment buildings that can be rented with Lugaris, during the day exudes elegance and during the night it becomes a popular spot for nightlife.
Here you can find bars, coffee shops, palms, and places to sit and see people walking. Don’t miss the impressive fountain, El Font de les Tres Gràcies.
Plaça Prim (Plaça dels Pescadors)
Plaza Prim is one of the most popular squares in the Poblenou neighborhood, easy to recognize due to its cast-iron fountain in the center and three huge Ombu trees behind it.
It’s also called Plaça dels Pescadors (or fisherman’s square) since back in the day it used to be the place where workers and fishermen gathered.
The square is surrounded by typical buildings that are characteristic of seaside neighborhoods in this part of Europe.
Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol & Plaça del Pi
These twin squares sit side by side, and they have one thing in common, the imposing Santa Maria del Pi church.
Both squares have a lot of character, in Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol you can find artists and musicians, while across the way the Plaça del Pi offers a unique atmosphere with the music in the distance and the best views of the church, but if you visit on Friday you will find the lively Mercat del Pi.
The squares have several market stalls, coffee shops, and bars nearby.
Plaça de la Sagrada Família
Yes, even the iconic Sagrada Família has its own square. Here, you’ll find a front-row view of Gaudí’s masterpiece. The square has a lot of different trees and pathways for you to walk, the biggest draw is that you’ll have views of the church at all times.
On the square, you find people offering bike tours, food stands, and a lot of tourists and locals.