Modernisme and Gaudi in Barcelona

Explore Barcelona through the architecture and ideas of Antoni Gaudí on this richly led cultural journey on the 175th anniversary of his birth. From the soaring ambition of the Sagrada Família to the colourful fantasy of Park Güell, the city’s streets and skylines reveal the birth of Catalan Modernism at the turn of the 20th century. Expert commentary places Gaudí within his wider artistic and social context, while visits to key works by his contemporaries illuminate a period of extraordinary creativity. With carefully paced sightseeing, insightful talks, and time to absorb Barcelona’s distinctive atmosphere, this tour offers a rewarding introduction to one of Europe’s most imaginative architects and the enduring legacy he left on his city.

ITINERARY

Day 1: London to Barcelona
Fly from London Heathrow to Barcelona and transfer to the hotel. En route visit Cripta de la Colonia Guell with commentary from Professor Anne Anderson. Gaudí used experimental techniques here that he later applied to the Sagrada Familia, with the crypt featuring a blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Tonight we enjoy a welcome drink, talk from Anne: 'Modernism: Gaudi in Context', followed by dinner at the hotel. 

Day 2: Sagrada Familia
Morning visit to the Sagrada Familia with a guided visit covering the exterior and interior of the building. Torre de la Pasion is the tallest tower of the cathedral at a height of 75 metres; optional walk up a spiral staircase to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city. Gaudí devoted the last 12 years of his life to the Sagrada Familia project, and it is seen as his defining work. Originally the Basilica was designed in a neo-Gothic style, but Gaudí transformed the design into a blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. The Catalan Modernist architecture includes ornate facades, mosaics, sculptures and stained glass. In the afternoon we visit Hospital de Sant Pau, designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner and built between 1901 and 1930. Originally a functioning hospital, it now serves as a cultural centre and UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing stunning Art Nouveau architecture across its interconnected pavilions and gardens. Evening talk from Anne: 'Speaking Stones: Gaudi's Symbolism'.

Day 3: More Gaudi sites
Today we explore more of Gaudi's work, starting with a guided tour of Palau Guell, which was one of Gaudí’s earliest masterpieces. Originally designed in 1900, the project was inspired by British garden cities and was intended to be a luxury housing development, before transforming into a park in 1926. Boasting panoramic views of Barcelona, Park Güell is known for its vibrant mosaics covering stairways, benches and columns. After free time for lunch (not included) we visit Palau de la Musica Catalan, a concert hall decorated with mosaics, sculptures, and stained glass. Here we enjoy a live organ experience at the end of our visit (subject to museum scheduling).

Day 4: Iconic Gaudi
We cover more of Gaudí’s iconic works including Torre Bellesguard with its dragon shaped roof; and Casa Vicens - his first major project, and inspired by Islamic architecture in Spain with Moorish arches, iron balconies, and bright tilework.

Day 5: Two Casas
Morning visit to Casa Batlló, located in the heart of Barcelona and often known as the "House of Bones" due to its skeletal appearance with balconies resembling skulls. Originally built in 1877, Gaudi transformed the building to maximize natural light. The interiors features curved woodwork and stained glass, and the facade is covered in broken ceramic mosaic. Our final guided tour today is of Casa Mila, one of Gaudí’s most innovative works. It features two large interior courtyards, a rooftop terrace, and was one of the first residential buildings in the city to include a lift and a garage. Farewell dinner at a local restaurant tonight.

Day 6: Depart Barcelona
We have free time today then transfer to the airport after lunch for our return flight back to London Gatwick. 

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 18 passengers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as demanding due to the amount of walking at and between each site, with lots of standing for viewing. Some paving may be cobbled, and uneven underfoot. On Day 2, there is an optional walk up a steep spiral staircase at Sagrada Familia. Please visit the mobility page of our website for more information, or contact our team with any questions prior to booking.

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Gatwick to Barcelona
• Five nights’ bed and breakfast at the four-star Hotel Balmoral, based on shared occupancy of twin/double room
• Welcome drinks reception
• Two dinners 
• Two lectures by Professor Anne Anderson
• Coach transfers, tours and entrance fees as per the itinerary
• Accompanied by Professor Anne Anderson throughout
• Tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double room for sole use supplement - £394
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Hotel Balmoral

This well-located 4-star hotel offers a calm setting in the elegant Sarrià–Sant Gervasi district, close to Avinguda Diagonal, providing easy access to the city's renowned art and architecture. The hotel features a restaurant, terrace, bar, gym, and comfortable, modern rooms with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, mini bar, safe, kettle, hairdryer, and complimentary toiletries. 

Hotel Website