Eixample, the modernism district

The Eixample Quarter is the area located in the north side of Plaça de Catalunya, the geographical centre of the city. It is not only the most emblematic quarter of Barcelona, but also a very diverse area in terms of shopping, restaurants and nightlife. it is the symbol of the modern Barcelona. In this area you will find some of the most beautiful attractions of Barcelona like Casa Batllò e Casa Mila of Antoni Gaudì.

The Eixample is divided into two main areas: Eixample Esquerra (left) and Eixample Dreta (right). In total, this district consists of six different neighborhoods.

History

The Eixample represents the Enlargement Quarter, as it was an enlargement of the city made in the middle of 1800. Until the walls of the Old City were destroyed, small settlements were dispersed in the surrounding countryside. With the arrival of the Industrial Revolution, the population grew dramatically.

The districting was part of the City Plan designed by the engineer Ildefons Cerdà, whose urban plan was adopted more than 150 years ago, in 1859.

From this point the city of Barcelona was transformed: from a busy, saturated small city to a new urban conception, with a totally renovated area formed by long and wide avenues and luxurious Art Noveau buildings.

The demolition of the walls contributed to the expansion of the city: many of the former surrounding villages become new neighborhoods of the New Town: Sarria, Gracia, Sants.

Things to see in the Eixample

We created a little selection of the main attraction to see in the Eixample quarter. Click on each of them and explore the dedicated section for nore detailed information and entry tickets.

- La Sagrada Familia

- Casa Milà-La Pedrera

- Casa Batllò

- Passeig de Gràcia for some luxury shopping

Discover all the guided tours and explore the city with a local guide.

Hotels in the Eixample area

The Eixample area is one of the best areas to stay in Barcelona because it is close to many attractions. In our where to stay section you will find several hotels but these two are our favorites in the area:

- Buba House - for a budget option in the heart of the city

- The Mandarin Oriental - for a unique luxury experience