Arenas de Barcelona

Bullring, Shopping Centre and Viewing Point in Barcelona

Arenas de Barcelona
Arenas de Barcelona
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman

Arenas de Barcelona is one of the city's most striking “before-and-after” buildings: a historic bullring reborn as a modern shopping and leisure complex, right on the edge of Plaça d'Espanya. Even if you're not here to shop, it's worth stopping by for the circular architecture, the lively atmosphere, and the rooftop-level views that frame Montjuïc, the Magic Fountain area, and the grand avenues radiating out from the square.

It's an easy add-on to a walking tour of Plaça d'Espanya and Montjuïc, or a practical break point between sightseeing blocks. The best places to see are the exterior façade (especially from the plaza), the interior ring where you can appreciate the building's original form, and the upper levels where you can step out for skyline panoramas.

History and Significance of the Arenas de Barcelona

Arenas began life as a bullring, part of a wider wave of late-19th and early-20th century entertainment architecture in Barcelona. Its circular footprint and prominent location near Plaça d'Espanya made it a landmark long before it became a place to browse shops and grab dinner.

As the city’s relationship with bullfighting changed, the building’s purpose shifted too. Rather than disappearing, Arenas was adapted and repurposed, keeping the recognizable shell while transforming the interior into a multi-level complex.

Today, its significance is less about spectacle and more about reinvention: it’s a clear example of Barcelona’s talent for reusing historic structures in a way that still feels urban, social, and very local.

Things to See and Do in the Arenas de Barcelona

Start outside: the building reads best from Plaça d’Espanya, where you can take in the full curve of the façade and the contrast between old brickwork and the surrounding modern cityscape. Once inside, look up and around to appreciate how the circular plan shapes the experience, with levels stacked like a ringed amphitheater.

For travelers, the biggest “do” is the rooftop time. Even if you only come for a coffee or a quick meal, aim to spend a few minutes up high to catch the Montjuïc axis, the flow of Gran Via, and the constant motion of the plaza below.

If you need a practical stop during a busy sightseeing day, Arenas is also a reliable place for restrooms, air-conditioning/heat, and a wide choice of casual-to-sit-down food options without committing to a full neighborhood detour.

How to Get to the Arenas de Barcelona

Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) is the main international gateway, and Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO) is a common low-cost alternative for some routes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Barcelona on Booking.com.

If you're arriving by rail, Barcelona Sants is the primary station; from there, the metro and buses make it straightforward to reach Plaça d'Espanya and walk over in minutes. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By car, you can reach the area via major city arteries, but traffic around Plaça d’Espanya can be slow and parking is often the biggest challenge. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Arenas de Barcelona

  • Official website: https://cclasarenas.com/
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00–22:00. Sunday: 10:00–21:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go earlier in the day for a calmer feel, or time your visit for late afternoon to roll straight into dinner with views.
  • How long to spend: Plan 45–90 minutes for a quick look plus a rooftop drink; add more if you’re shopping or eating.
  • Accessibility: The building is modernized and generally step-free inside, with elevators connecting levels.
  • Facilities: Expect restrooms, plenty of seating, multiple dining options, and a convenient place to take a weather break.

Where to Stay Close to the Arenas de Barcelona

For the easiest logistics, base yourself around Plaça d’Espanya and the Eixample edge for fast metro links and walkable access to Montjuïc.

Occidental Barcelona 1929 A smart pick for travelers who want a modern, comfortable base steps from Plaça d’Espanya, with an easy hop to both Arenas and Montjuïc.

Catalonia Barcelona Plaza Ideal if you want to stay right on the square; it’s hard to beat for convenience, and the location makes early starts and late returns effortless.

B Hotel A reliable mid-range option close to Arenas, often chosen for its straightforward comfort and easy transport connections.

Pestana Arena Barcelona Good for a quieter sleep just off the busiest streets, while still staying within a short walk of Plaça d’Espanya.

Hotel Vilamarí A practical choice for travelers who want a calm, well-connected base between the exhibition area and the city’s central sights.

Is the Arenas de Barcelona Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you’re already in the Plaça d’Espanya and Montjuïc zone. The building is visually memorable, the rooftop perspective is genuinely useful for orienting yourself, and it’s one of the easiest “architecture plus views” stops you can make without committing to a long museum visit.

Honest Pivot: if you dislike shopping centers on principle or you're short on time and prioritizing Gaudí, the Gothic Quarter, and waterfront neighborhoods, you can skip the interior and simply admire the exterior from the plaza before moving on.

What Other Travellers Say...

4.2 (69,093)
Tenerife Julie
3 months ago
"Amazing place! We loved it. A great transformation from bull ring to shopping centre. Lots of shops, cinemas and places to eat with a superb roof topview over the city. Very clean, plenty of restrooms. Thoroughly recommend a visit here. The views from the roof are amazing...."
Prakash Mishra
a month ago
"During my stay in Barcelona in Nov ’25, I used to walk in the evenings from Fira de Barcelona to Arenas. It’s hard to imagine that this beautifulcircular building was once a bullfighting arena and was built in 1900. Today, the historic outer facade is preserved, while the inside has been transformed into a modern mall. The rooftop offers great views of Placa de Espanya, especially around sunset. The food court had Taco Bell along with a mix of local shops serving tapas, burgers, falafels, and more. A nice blend of history, food, and shopping...."
Marija Seiz
a month ago
"A large shopping mall, but with a small number of boutiques. It’s not what we expected; the selection is very limited. On the other hand, there arequite a few restaurants. What is especially unpleasant is that security follows visitors, even into the restroom. It’s not worth visiting, except for the rooftop terrace, which offers a nice view...."

For Different Travelers

Arenas works best as a flexible stop: you can treat it as a quick viewpoint, a meal break, or a practical reset between major sights. Because it’s right by a major transport hub, it also fits neatly into many itineraries without extra backtracking.

Families with Kids

Families often appreciate Arenas as a low-stress pause button: it’s easy to navigate, you can find familiar food quickly, and there’s space to regroup. It’s also a good “reward stop” after walking around Plaça d’Espanya or heading up toward Montjuïc.

For a smoother visit, aim for earlier hours when crowds are lighter and lines at popular eateries are shorter. The rooftop is a fun moment for kids who like big-city views and watching traffic patterns from above.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, Arenas is less about shopping and more about timing: arrive late afternoon, take in the skyline, then settle into a rooftop dinner or a relaxed drink. The circular architecture and the city panorama make it feel more special than a typical mall stop.

If you’re planning a photo-friendly stroll, pair it with Plaça d’Espanya at golden hour and a walk toward the Magic Fountain and Montjuïc viewpoints afterward.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers can use Arenas strategically: it’s a convenient place for restrooms, a quick snack, and a break from weather without paying museum admission. Even if you don’t buy anything, the building itself is worth a look.

If you're watching costs, treat it as a short architectural stop on a walking route rather than a shopping destination. Combine it with free outdoor sights around Plaça d'Espanya and Montjuïc's public spaces.

FAQs for Visiting Arenas de Barcelona

Getting There

Yes, it’s right next to Plaça d’Espanya, making it one of the easiest stops in the area. You can walk from the center of the square in just a few minutes.
Plaça d’Espanya is the most convenient hub, with multiple lines and frequent service. From the station exits, follow signs toward the plaza and you’ll see Arenas immediately.
Yes, it’s a natural pairing because the transport connections and walking routes overlap. Many travelers use Arenas as a meal break before or after Montjuïc sights.

Tickets & Entry

No ticket is needed to enter the building as it functions as a shopping and dining complex. You only pay for what you choose to do inside.
Some rooftop access points can be tied to specific venues or services, so it’s best to confirm on-site if you’re aiming for a particular terrace. In general, you can reach upper levels easily, but experiences may vary by area.
For casual visits, no booking is necessary. If you’re planning a specific restaurant at peak hours, reserving can be a good idea.

Visiting Experience

It’s both, but sightseeing value comes from the architecture and the rooftop-level views. If you’re nearby, it’s a high-reward, low-effort stop.
Walk the exterior first, then head inside to see the circular interior and go up to the higher levels for views. This gives you the “Arenas story” in under an hour.
It can be busy on weekends and evenings, especially around dining times. Earlier visits tend to feel calmer.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s an easy anchor point for routes that include Plaça d’Espanya, the Magic Fountain area, and Montjuïc. It also works as a meeting point because it’s so recognizable.
Pair it with Plaça d’Espanya viewpoints and a walk toward Montjuïc for a strong half-day plan. If you prefer neighborhoods, you can also continue into Eixample streets for architecture spotting.
Yes if you want a livelier atmosphere and dinner options. Just expect more people and a more “evening-out” vibe than a quiet architectural visit.

Photography

The best angles are from Plaça d’Espanya where you can capture the full curve of the façade. Higher levels give you city panoramas and strong leading lines over Gran Via.
Late afternoon and sunset can be excellent for warm light over Montjuïc and the city grid. Arrive a bit early to secure a comfortable viewing spot.
Policies can vary by area and by how busy it is. If you’re carrying a tripod, be prepared to keep it compact and avoid blocking walkways.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally yes, as it’s a modernized complex with elevators and step-free routes. If you have specific needs, ask staff for the easiest elevator path to your destination.
Yes, and it’s one of the most convenient places in the Plaça d’Espanya area for a restroom break. This makes it especially useful during long walking days.
Yes, you’ll find casual cafés and seating areas that work well for a quick recharge. It’s a practical stop in hot or rainy weather.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, it’s reliable for choice and convenience, especially if your group can’t agree on one cuisine. It’s also easy to fit into a sightseeing schedule.
Yes, you can usually find casual meals and snacks without a long sit-down. Going slightly off peak hours helps with both price and queues.
Often yes, depending on which venues you choose on the upper levels. It’s a nice way to get the panorama without turning the visit into a full shopping trip.

Safety & Timing

It’s a busy, central area with lots of foot traffic. Like anywhere in Barcelona, keep an eye on belongings in crowds and on public transport.
Mornings and earlier weekdays tend to be calmer. Weekends and evenings are typically the busiest.
Eat a bit earlier or later than standard Spanish meal times. If you’re set on a specific restaurant, consider reserving.

Nearby Attractions to the Arenas de Barcelona

  • Plaça d’Espanya: A monumental square and one of Barcelona’s key transport hubs, with grand views toward Montjuïc.
  • Fira de Barcelona (Montjuïc): The city's major exhibition and events area, with striking architecture and frequent happenings.
  • Magic Fountain of Montjuïc: A popular evening stop known for its fountain displays and the lively plaza atmosphere.
  • Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC): A top art museum set in a palace-like building with one of the best viewpoints in the city.
  • Parc de Joan Miró: A nearby green space featuring Miró’s large public sculpture and a relaxed local feel.

The Arenas de Barcelona appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Barcelona!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Monday - Saturday: 10:00-22:00.

Sunday: 10:00-21:00.

Price:

Free.

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 385, Eixample, 08015 Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona: 3 km
Telephone: +34 932 89 02 44
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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