Plaça Reial
Plaça Reial also known as the Royal Square, is a square in the GOTHIC QUARTER of Barcelona. It situated beside LA RAMBLA. The square is also the only arched square of the city, which boasts character and makes it exceptional. It borders the Rambla of the Capuchins, Ferran Street, Colon Street, and Escudellers Street. The square constitutes a famous touristic attraction; especially at night and is well-known for its open-air terraces and popular meeting place during the summer.
History of Plaça Reial
Between 1842–1848, was a convent, later converted into a theater. It originally based on what is now known as Plaça Reial. It was then designed by Francesc Daniel Molina Casamajó in the 19th century as a square to be inhabited by affluent families; its demise in class has corresponded inversely with its popularity. Following a complete renovation of the square in 1982, it is more popular than ever, both day and night.
Places of interest on Plaça Reial
As the peoples’ panacea since 1823, the Herboristeria del Rei, on Carrer Vidre (just off the square) is said to be one of the oldest shops in Barcelona. What remains of the original Elizabethan style decoration was created by Soler Rovirosa. On the other hand, he was one of the greatest theater scenographers of the 19th century. Boasting a wide range of natural remedies, this shop is definitely worth a visit.
ANTONI ROVIRA I TRIAS designed the iron fountain “Tres Gràcies” (Three Graces), located in the center of the square. Two lanterns designed by ANTONI GAUDÍ look at the top of a helmet lamp highlighting a winding dragon. On it, the architect conveyed the heroism of medieval Catalan conquerors. Around the square, you can see a number of details like the busts of sailors and American explorers and badges.
Events on Plaça Reial
Since its opening in 1848 to honor King Ferdinand VII, hence the name “Royal Square”, it has lost some limelight. However, it is still well-known for its many outdoor venues and events central to the plaza.
The most important annual Catalan celebration is LA MERÇÈ. And since 1871 La Fiesta de la Virgen Merçè has held parties in Plaça Reial each year on 24th of September. It is a festival of live music, fireworks, and gegants i capgrossos (stilted people with giant paper-mâché heads that parade the streets).
Regardless of whether you are in Barcelona during September, every Saturday the plaza hosts a free open-air musical concert at noon. And on Sunday mornings, between 10 am and 2.30 pm, stamp and coin collections from around the world that you can find there.
As soon as the stamp and coin collections are over, an impromptu flea market run by local elderly people takes place. Although, be wary of your belongings as pick-pockets love all markets!
Nightlife on Plaça Reial
The Plaza is more famous nowadays for its nightlife as there are a variety of clubs each catering to different tastes in music and entertainment. Be sure to check out the “secret” Pipa Club (pipe smoking club).
#Pipa Club
Hidden away up an innocuous stairwell, the club opens at 11 pm. Furthermore, it serves drinks with a view of the square up until 5 or 6 am. Prices for drinks range from around €3 for a beer and €5 for mixed drinks.
Opening Hours : Tue-Sun (10:00pm-3:30am)
Address: Pl. Reial, 3, 08002 Barcelona
#Sidecar
The most popular nightclub is Sidecar. Both locals and foreigners visit it frequently all year round. Entrance typically varies from €5 to €15 depending on the entertainment.
Opening hours : Wed-Sun (5:00pm-3:30am)
Address : Pl. Reial, 7, 08002 Barcelona
#Jamboree & Tarantos
Sala Tarantos and Sala Jamboree are connected internally, both offering particular styles of music. During the week, Jamboree focuses on jazz, where Tarantos targets flamenco, dancing, and music. They perform live shows every day! With prices starting at €5 they are a brilliant way to experience the passion and style of Latin culture first-hand. At the weekend Jamboree becomes more of a touristic hot-spot, musically moving into more commercial genres like dance and R’n’B. And during the summer nights, the square is bursting with enticement and buzzing with people from all over the world.
Opening hours: Check on the website
Address : Pl. Reial, 17, 08002 Barcelona
Living near Plaça Reial
If you’re staying in Barcelona, living near this famous square is ideal as the scene is quiet and the location is close to everything, being in the heart of the city. Not forgetting its stunning view of beautiful long palm trees, magnificent architecture that dates back to the 19th century, and the buzzing atmosphere, all year round. There are many apartments available that are close to the square and La Rambla in general. Make sure to visit Plaça Reial and BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION in advance!
Top Tips
- Insider tip: Plaça Reial and Plaça del Rei sound very similar, but are not the same. If anybody gives you directions including any of the two, double-check and ask again which of the plazas they are referring to.
How to get there
- Transport: Metro: Get off at Liceu or Drassanes | Buses: 14, 59, 91 | Walking: Follow Las Ramblas down towards the sea as far as La Rambla dels Caputxins, then after Teatre del Liceu and on the opposite side of the street take Carrer de Colom, which leads into the square.
- Address: Plaça Reial, 1, 08002, Barcelona
Are you planning a trip to Barcelona and looking for somewhere to stay? Why not take a look at the available apartment rentals on our website! Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.