About this free tour
In the 19th century Barcelona underwent a radical transformation. Industrialisation filled the city with factories, workers and new ideas. On this free tour you'll trace that transformation with a historian: from the Cerdà Plan that created the Eixample to the steam-powered mills of Poblenou, via the new markets and workers' cooperatives. You'll understand how modern Barcelona was born out of the tension between the power of capital and the workers' struggle.
Route highlights
- Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Ciutadella
- The Cerdà Plan – the grid that revolutionised urban planning
- Recinte del Cotoner – the first industrial steam mill
- Mercat del Born – archaeological remains from 1714
- Poblenou – the Catalan Manchester
The itinerary, step by step
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Arc de Triomf
The gateway to the Barcelona of the 1888 World's Fair.
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Parc de la Ciutadella
The birthplace of modern Barcelona.
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El Born – market and remains
The neighbourhood destroyed in 1714, frozen underground ever since.
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Passeig de Sant Joan
The avenue of the Modernista industrialists.
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Industrial Poblenou
The remains of the Catalan Manchester.
Meeting point
Passeig de Lluís Companys, 1, Barcelona
Available on 2, 3 and 4 October, at 11am and 6pm
Prefer to go at your own pace?
This same route is also available as a self-guided audio tour: listen whenever you like, with no schedule or group, with unlimited access for 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does this route take?
- This route lasts approximately 2h 30min and covers 4 km through Eixample & Poblenou. The difficulty level is moderate, suitable for most visitors.
- Where is the meeting point?
- The meeting point is at Arc de Triomf (Passeig de Lluís Companys, 1, Barcelona). Available on 2, 3 and 4 October, at 11am and 6pm.
- How much does this free tour cost?
- This free tour is pay-what-you-want: there's nothing to pay to book, and at the end of the route you leave whatever tip you consider fair based on your experience. If you'd rather pay a fixed price, this route is also available as a self-guided audio tour for €7.99. Check our pricing guide.
- What languages is the route available in?
- This route runs in Català, Castellà.
