Casa Amatller, Barcelona

Attraction, Historic Building and Museum in Barcelona

Casa Amatller
Casa Amatller
CC BY-SA 4.0 / FrDr

Casa Amatller is a standout Modernisme townhouse on Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona, sitting right beside the famously curvy Casa Batlló. From the street, its stepped, Flemish-inspired gable and sculpted details make it one of the most photogenic façades on the “Block of Discord,” but the real payoff is inside.

It's an easy add-on to a walking tour of Eixample Modernisme: pair it with Casa Batlló, Casa Lleó Morera, and a stroll up Passeig de Gràcia for architecture-spotting and people-watching. If you want a more intimate house-museum feel with fewer crowds, Casa Amatller often delivers that calmer, more personal experience.

History and Significance of the Casa Amatller

Casa Amatller was redesigned at the height of Barcelona's Modernisme boom, when wealthy industrial families commissioned architects to turn private homes into statements of taste, identity, and innovation. The building is closely tied to the Amatller family, known for their chocolate business, and the house reflects that turn-of-the-century confidence in craft, art, and new design.

Architecturally, it’s associated with Josep Puig i Cadafalch, one of the key figures of Catalan Modernisme. The exterior blends medieval and Northern European references with local Catalan flair, while the interiors lean into a total-work-of-art approach: furniture, decorative arts, and architectural elements are designed to feel like one cohesive world.

What makes Casa Amatller especially significant for visitors today is how “lived-in” it still feels compared with more theatrical attractions. The rooms, materials, and decorative choices create a moodier, more intimate atmosphere that helps you imagine daily life in a wealthy Barcelona home at the start of the 1900s.

Things to See and Do in the Casa Amatller

Start by taking in the façade from across Passeig de Gràcia, where you can appreciate the stepped gable and the building's crisp, storybook silhouette. Inside, the house is prized for its original decorative arts and furnishings, which give the visit a museum-quality richness without feeling sterile.

Look for the stained glass and the warm, darker wood tones that shape the home’s distinctive ambiance. Many visitors also enjoy the guided flow of the visit (often with audio support), which provides context as you move room to room—ideal if you like structure and storytelling rather than wandering freely.

After the tour, budget a few minutes to browse any small shop elements connected to the house’s history (including chocolate-themed souvenirs). It’s a simple but fitting way to end the visit and ties the experience back to the family behind the building.

How to Get to the Casa Amatller

Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) is the main international gateway, with Girona–Costa Brava (GRO) and Reus (REU) sometimes useful for low-cost carriers depending on season and 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 for high-speed and long-distance trains; from there, connect by Metro or taxi to Passeig de Gràcia for a straightforward arrival near the Modernisme sights. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Within the city, Casa Amatller is on Passeig de Gràcia (Eixample), an easy walk from Plaça de Catalunya and well-served by Metro and bus. If you're driving, expect heavy traffic and limited parking in central Eixample—using a paid garage and walking the last few minutes is usually the least stressful option. 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 Casa Amatller

  • Official website: https://centredartamatller.com/en/
  • Entrance fee: Adults (13–64): €15.50 (Monday – Friday, except Tuesday); €13.00 (Tuesday); €19.00 (weekends & holidays). Reduced: from €10.00; Junior (7–12): from €10.00; Under 7: free.
  • Opening hours: Daily: 10:00–21:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go earlier in the day for a quieter feel and better pacing through the rooms; late afternoon can also be pleasant if you're pairing it with a Passeig de Gràcia stroll.
  • How long to spend: Plan around 60–90 minutes for the visit itself, plus extra time for photos outside and a café stop nearby.
  • Accessibility: Access can be more limited than in purpose-built museums due to the historic layout; check ahead if you need step-free routing or specific assistance.
  • Facilities: Expect a curated, museum-style experience with basic visitor amenities; for longer breaks, you'll find plenty of cafés and services along Passeig de Gràcia.

Where to Stay Close to the Casa Amatller

Base yourself in Eixample around Passeig de Gràcia for the easiest walks to Modernisme landmarks and excellent transport links.

For a classic luxury stay steps from the main sights, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is hard to beat for location, service, and a polished city-resort feel. If you want timeless Barcelona grandeur with a rooftop pool and iconic views, Hotel Majestic Barcelona puts you right on the avenue with a very “old Barcelona” atmosphere.

For design-forward comfort that still feels relaxed, Almanac Barcelona is a strong pick near Plaça de Catalunya and Passeig de Gràcia. If you prefer a boutique vibe with a slightly quieter feel while staying central, Praktik Bakery adds personality and a memorable on-site bakery experience. For a reliable, well-located midrange option with easy transit connections, H10 Casa Mimosa is close to La Pedrera and makes a great base for walking days.

Is the Casa Amatller Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you love architecture and interiors and want a Modernisme experience that feels more intimate than the blockbuster attractions nearby. The preserved rooms, decorative detail, and guided context make it a rewarding stop, and many travelers appreciate that it can feel less crowded than the house next door.

Honest Pivot: If you strongly prefer self-paced visits where you can linger as long as you want in each room, the guided flow may feel a bit restrictive. Also, if your Barcelona itinerary is already packed with multiple paid Modernisme interiors, you might choose to admire the façade from the street and prioritize one interior experience instead.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (4,599)

Google reviewers rate Casa Amatller very highly and often describe it as a surprisingly strong alternative to the more famous house next door. Common highlights include small group sizes, a guided flow with audio support, and richly preserved interiors with original furnishings, dark wood, and striking stained glass. Visitors also appreciate that it typically feels less crowded and more intimate than nearby Modernisme attractions. The main drawback mentioned is pacing: because the visit is guided, some travelers feel they can't linger as long as they'd like in each room.

John Robbie Clark
a month ago
"We booked a tour here on a whim, as it was less than half the price of the more popular Casa Battlo right next door. We were not disappointed! Thetour group was small, only 4 of us which made it much better. Audio guides are provided. The house is special with its moody atmosphere accentuates by the dark wood and stained glass used throughout. The whole tour takes around an hour and the shop at the end is very reasonably priced for a gift shop...."
Miss Adel
a week ago
"Recently I had the opportunity to visit Casa Amatller in Barcelona and I want to share my impressions. The first thing I learned from the guides isthat this building belonged to the Amatller chocolate family, who were among the wealthiest and most influential families of their time, and this is visible throughout the house. Every detail of the interior and every room tells the story of the family’s wealth, taste, and culture. Especially for those interested in architecture, I highly recommend visiting this place, you will truly fall in love. I can imagine that Hayao Miyazaki may have drawn inspiration here for some of his works, the design and atmosphere are that impressive. Casa Amatller belonged to a famous chocolatier and his daughter. She was one of the first women in Barcelona to drive a car and one of the first businesswomen of her time. Their house hosted many important people in archaeology, history, and science. Inside the house is a museum of archaeological glass, more than a thousand years old, collected by the father from all over the world, and everything has been preserved as it was in those times. I was amazed, it really gives the feeling of stepping back in time. I chose the guided tour and it was completely worth it. I regret not purchasing a ticket to the photography studio, but even what I saw was incredible. The tour lasted about an hour, and we visited many rooms and corners of the house. Every part of the house has a story, and the details are so impressive that you feel the history around you. Make sure to bring a camera because there are so many photo-worthy spots. You can even plan outfits in matching colors to capture beautiful photos, but the main focus should be the tour itself. For two people, it is possible to take a few good photos without slowing down your visit. During my visit, I also tried chocolate and hot chocolate. I really enjoyed the whipped cream in the hot chocolate. I was surprised that they served it with ciabatta bread. It was a bit unusual because I expected a sweet pastry with the chocolate. The combination worked fine, but I missed fresh berries or a small fruit assortment on top to balance the flavor. To fully enjoy the hot chocolate, I recommend drinking it after the tour, because it is very hot and cools slowly. You will need about ten to fifteen minutes to drink it calmly and savor the flavor. I also already tried other products from Casa Amatller at home. The chocolate is high quality seventy percent cocoa, and the combination with passion fruit leaves was very interesting. I plan to try all the other products I purchased. Our guide was a young woman with black curly hair. She was attentive, shared many interesting facts, and made the tour comfortable and enjoyable. The staff overall were polite, friendly, and professional. On the ground floor there is a shop where you can buy chocolate from different countries and a café where you can enjoy hot chocolate. They also have a wide selection of lunches and snacks, which I recommend especially for those who like to follow different diets. This place is a must-visit for md, if you want to experience the unique atmosphere of Barcelona, explore the history of the Amatller family, admire the architecture, and enjoy high-quality chocolate products...."
Sacha Blumen
2 weeks ago
"Well worth doing the tour of this house, which is beautifully decorated and filled with gorgeous original pieces. It’s much less crowded than CasaBatllo next door. And the guides were wonderful! Don’t miss it!..."

For Different Travelers

Casa Amatller works well as a “high-impact, low-stress” stop in central Barcelona, especially when you want a focused cultural visit without spending half a day. It's also easy to combine with shopping, cafés, and other landmark façades along Passeig de Gràcia.

Families with Kids

Kids who enjoy colorful details like stained glass and decorative rooms can have fun spotting patterns and symbols, especially if you turn it into a quick scavenger hunt. Because the visit is structured, it can be easier for families than a fully open-ended museum.

That said, very young children may find the pace and “look but don’t touch” nature challenging. Consider pairing the visit with a nearby park stop or a treat break to keep energy levels steady.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, Casa Amatller is a great alternative when you want something beautiful and atmospheric without the biggest crowds. The darker woods, intimate rooms, and craftsmanship create a more cinematic mood than some brighter, more open attractions.

Plan it as part of a Passeig de Gràcia date: architecture in the afternoon, then a cocktail or tapas nearby. It's an easy way to build a romantic, walkable evening in Eixample.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers can still enjoy Casa Amatller from the outside—Passeig de Gràcia is one of Barcelona's best streets for free architecture viewing. The “Block of Discord” façades are a highlight even without entering.

If you do choose one paid interior, Casa Amatller can feel like good value when you want a curated house-museum experience. Book ahead when possible and compare ticket types and time slots to keep costs predictable.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate how the house connects architecture, family wealth, and Barcelona’s early-1900s cultural identity. The interiors help translate “Modernisme” from a style label into a lived environment.

It’s also a useful counterpoint to Gaudí-focused visits: Puig i Cadafalch’s approach feels more rooted in historical references and craftsmanship traditions. Seeing both styles on the same street makes the era’s creative competition feel real.

FAQs for Visiting Casa Amatller

Getting There

Yes, it’s an easy walk up Passeig de Gràcia and works well as part of a central walking route. If you prefer, the Metro also makes it a quick hop.
It’s in Eixample, right on Passeig de Gràcia. This area is one of the best bases for sightseeing due to its transit connections and walkability.
Yes, it pairs naturally with Casa Batlló next door and other Passeig de Gràcia landmarks. Plan a loop so you’re not backtracking during peak hours.

Tickets & Entry

It’s a good idea, especially in high season or if you want a specific time slot. Advance booking also helps you structure a Modernisme-heavy day.
Yes, discounts are commonly offered for seniors and other eligible categories. Check the official ticket page for the exact eligibility rules on your travel dates.
Some pricing structures include special rates on certain days. Confirm the current schedule before you plan your itinerary around it.

Visiting Experience

Many visitors experience it as a guided flow supported by an audio guide, which keeps the pace consistent. If you prefer lingering freely, keep that in mind.
Travelers often report it feels noticeably less crowded. That can make the rooms feel more intimate and easier to appreciate.
People frequently mention the original furnishings and decorative arts, plus the stained glass. The overall atmosphere is a big part of the appeal.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes—combine it with Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, and a Passeig de Gràcia stroll for a strong theme day. Add a café break to avoid “museum fatigue.”
Yes, because it offers a different Modernisme voice and helps you compare styles. It can also be a calmer counterbalance to the busiest attractions.
Do whichever has the better time slot, but many travelers like starting with the quieter experience first. That way, you can handle bigger crowds later with more patience.

Photography

Rules can vary by room and ticket type, so follow staff guidance on the day. If photography matters to you, check the official visitor rules before you go.
Across Passeig de Gràcia you can frame the façade cleanly, especially in softer morning or late-afternoon light. A wider shot also helps capture the neighboring buildings.
Yes, particularly for façade details and interior craftsmanship. Bring a phone lens cloth—glass and low light can make images look hazy.

Accessibility & Facilities

As a historic house, accessibility can be limited compared with modern museums. Contact the venue ahead of time if you need step-free access or specific accommodations.
Basic visitor facilities are typically available, but it’s best to plan a café stop nearby if you want a longer break. Passeig de Gràcia has plenty of options.
Policies vary, and some historic interiors restrict large bags for preservation reasons. Travel light and check current rules before arriving.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, you’re on one of Barcelona’s most café-rich avenues and near many bakeries and restaurants. It’s easy to schedule a break before or after your time slot.
Given the Amatller connection, you may find chocolate-themed items as part of the experience. For a bigger tasting detour, plan a dedicated chocolate shop stop in the center.
Yes—book a defined time slot, then choose a nearby spot within a few blocks. That keeps your day efficient and reduces transit time.

Safety & Timing

It’s generally busy and well-trafficked, but keep normal city awareness. Watch your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Earlier slots often feel calmer and help you avoid peak street crowds. Late afternoon can also be pleasant if you’re continuing into an evening walk.
Yes, it’s ideal for a half-day plan with one or two nearby attractions. Keep your schedule realistic so you’re not rushing between timed entries.

Nearby Attractions to the Casa Amatller

  • Casa Batlló: Gaudí's iconic, wave-like masterpiece next door, famous for its rooftop and immersive interior.
  • La Pedrera (Casa Milà): Another Gaudí landmark a short walk up Passeig de Gràcia, known for its stone façade and rooftop chimneys.
  • Plaça de Catalunya: A central hub for walking, shopping, and transport connections between Eixample and the old city.
  • Palau de la Música Catalana: A Modernisme concert hall with a spectacular interior, great for tours or an evening performance.
  • Gothic Quarter: A short ride or longer walk away, offering medieval lanes, small plazas, and a very different side of Barcelona.

The Casa Amatller 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:

Daily: 10:00-21:00.

Price:

Adults (13-64): €15.50 (Monday - Friday, except Tuesday); €13.00 (Tuesday); €19.00 (weekends & holidays). Reduced: from €10.00; Junior (7-12): from €10.00; Under 7: free.

Address: Pg. de Gràcia, 41, Eixample, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona: 2 km
Telephone: +34 934 61 74 60
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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