Drassanes Reials (Royal Shipyards), Barcelona, Spain - A harbor filled with lots of boats next to tall buildings
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Drassanes Reials Barcelona

4.7
·572 reviews·Barcelona, Spain

A monumental Gothic shipyard, Drassanes Reials Barcelona is a historic marvel hosting world-class art exhibitions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

1st & 3rd Sundays

Free entry days!

CrowdMedium
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Drassanes Reials (Royal Shipyards), Barcelona, Spain - A harbor filled with lots of boats next to tall buildings

Drassanes Reials Barcelona

Best Time

1st & 3rd Sundays

Free entry days!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A monumental Gothic shipyard, Drassanes Reials Barcelona is a historic marvel hosting world-class art exhibitions.

4.7
(572 reviews)

"Step back in time at one of the world's best-preserved medieval shipyards, now a stunning venue for art."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry Sundays

Visit on the 1st & 3rd Sundays for free admission. Arrive early to beat queues!

🎟️ Book Exhibition Tickets

Popular exhibitions like 'Amazonia' sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Architecture

Gothic Architecture

Main Shipyard Halls

Marvel at the vast, soaring Gothic arches and impressive stone construction of this medieval shipyard. A true architectural gem.

Amazonia Exhibition

Amazonia Exhibition

Exhibition Halls

Experience Sebastião Salgado's powerful photographic journey through the Amazon rainforest. An unforgettable visual spectacle.

Jardí del Baluard

Jardí del Baluard

Rooftop Garden

Discover a hidden green oasis atop the old city walls, offering unique views and a tranquil escape.

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Royal Shipyards

Discover the historic Drassanes Reials, a stunning Gothic shipyard in Barcelona. Check their website for current exhibitions and opening hours, as these can vary. Entry is often free on the first and third Sundays of the month, but verify this before your visit to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Immersive Art and History Await

Drassanes Reials frequently hosts captivating temporary exhibitions, like Sebastião Salgado's 'Amazonia'. These events offer a unique blend of art and history within the impressive medieval architecture. Book tickets in advance for popular shows to guarantee entry. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
1st & 3rd Sundays
Why
Free entry days!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays (mornings)
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Drassanes Reials de Barcelona 🗓️ 1r i 3r diumenge de cada mes 🗓️ Agost tancat ⏰ Entrada lliure 🌿 Un jardí secret sobre la muralla de Barcelona? Existeix… i el pots visitar! ✨ El Jardí del Baluard...
museumaritim
2.5K likes • 66.2K views

🎯 Free Entry Sundays

Visit on the 1st & 3rd Sundays for free admission. Arrive early to beat queues! Instagram

🎟️ Book Exhibition Tickets

Popular exhibitions like 'Amazonia' sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot. Instagram

👀Check out these immersive experiences in Barcelona⬇️ 🌳AMAZÔNIA ⌛️Duration: approx. 90 minutes 📍Drassanes Reials 🫧Bubble Planet ⌛️Duration: 1-1.5 hours 📍Espacio Inmersa. c/ Llull, 119 @bubbleplanete...
bcn_is_live
57 likes • 4.4K views
📸 Avui us compartim algunes imatges de la nostra visita a les drassanes reials, un edifici gòtic de Barcelona. 👉 Hi vam anar amb els nois del Centre de dia i ens van explicar la vida dels presoners q...
fundacio_nepp
8 likes • 242 views

🌿 Secret Garden Views

Don't miss the Jardí del Baluard for unique city perspectives. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the History

Imagine life here centuries ago; the scale of the shipyards is breathtaking. Instagram

S H O P S new edition fall ‘22 28.29.30 Octubre. Reials Drassanes Barcelona
shopsbarcelona
21 likes • 572 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry Sundays

Visit on the 1st & 3rd Sundays for free admission. Arrive early to beat queues! Instagram

🎟️ Book Exhibition Tickets

Popular exhibitions like 'Amazonia' sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot. Instagram

🌿 Secret Garden Views

Don't miss the Jardí del Baluard for unique city perspectives. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the History

Imagine life here centuries ago; the scale of the shipyards is breathtaking. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(572 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the magnificent Gothic architecture of the Drassanes Reials, often describing it as a breathtaking historical site. The venue's ability to host impactful temporary exhibitions, such as the renowned 'Amazonia', is frequently highlighted as a major draw. While the building itself is a marvel, some visitors note that the experience can be enhanced by the quality of the current exhibitions.

"I had been in the past and it is quiet and amusing although not the best in town. But this time we visited an exhibition called Amazonia by photographer Sebastian Salgado and it was absolutely amazing."

Carlos Lorenzo

"I was never interested in shipbuilding, but as I progressed through my studies, looking at exhibits of various types of boats and sailing ships, both in models and in paintings and photographs, I had great pleasure. Also in the museum you should post-show several short films, learn many interesting films and get acquainted with old maps. Please note that visiting the museum takes less than 1-1.5 hours. This was announced at 19.00 and was not announced."

Maia Kirtskhaia

"Amazing exhibition with beautiful ships. Sums up the history of naval activity of spain, plenty of information and videos help to breath in the atmosphere the past times. Would recomment especially for families with small children."

Balázs Bánhegyi

What People Like

Stunning Gothic architecture
Impressive historical scale
High-quality exhibitions

What People Dislike

Exhibition ticket costs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Drassanes Reials is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest metro station is Drassanes (L3 Green Line). Several bus routes also stop nearby. It's a short walk from the Columbus Monument and the waterfront. Instagram

While the main halls are generally accessible, some older parts of the building might have limitations. It's advisable to check with the venue directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information. Instagram

Yes, it's a pleasant and straightforward walk from the lower end of Las Ramblas. It takes about 10-15 minutes, passing by the Columbus Monument. Instagram

Several bus lines stop near the Drassanes metro station, including lines D20, H14, and V11. Check local transport apps for the most convenient route from your location. Instagram

On-site parking is generally not available for visitors. The closest public parking garages are located near the port or along Parallel Avenue. It's often easier to use public transport. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary depending on exhibitions and time of year. They are typically open Tuesday to Sunday. It's essential to check the official website for the most current hours and any special closures, especially in August. Instagram

General entry to the Drassanes Reials building itself is often free. However, special temporary exhibitions, such as 'Amazonia', usually require a paid ticket. Instagram+1

Drassanes Reials offers free entry on the first and third Sundays of each month. Be prepared for larger crowds on these days. Instagram

Tickets for temporary exhibitions are best purchased online through the official website or the exhibition's dedicated ticketing platform. This helps guarantee your entry, especially for popular shows. Instagram+1

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, particularly for paid exhibitions. Check the specific exhibition's ticketing page for details on eligibility and pricing. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the magnificent Gothic architecture of the medieval shipyards. It also frequently hosts significant temporary art exhibitions, like Sebastião Salgado's 'Amazonia', and features the unique Jardí del Baluard. Instagram+3

For the architecture alone, an hour might suffice. However, if you're visiting a major exhibition like 'Amazonia', plan for 1.5 to 2 hours, plus time to explore the building and garden. Instagram

Information on guided tours can vary. It's best to check the official website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for any available tours, especially for specific exhibitions. Instagram

The Jardí del Baluard is a charming secret garden located on the old city wall, offering a peaceful retreat and interesting views over the city. Instagram

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the main shipyard halls. However, restrictions may apply for specific exhibitions, so always check signage or ask staff. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the grandeur of the Gothic arches in the main halls. The Jardí del Baluard offers unique perspectives of the city. For exhibitions, focus on capturing the essence of the art, respecting any display rules. Instagram+1

Photography policies can vary for temporary exhibitions. While personal photos might be allowed in some areas, flash photography is often prohibited to protect the artwork. Check the exhibition guidelines. Instagram+1

Morning light can be beautiful for the architecture, creating dramatic shadows. The Jardí del Baluard might offer softer light in the late afternoon. For exhibitions, the lighting is usually controlled by the exhibit designers. Instagram

Drone usage is strictly prohibited within the historic building and its immediate surroundings for safety and preservation reasons. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the scale of the Gothic halls. For exhibitions, a versatile zoom lens or a prime lens with good low-light performance is useful. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Drassanes Reials is a historical site, its large open spaces can be engaging for children. The sheer scale of the Gothic architecture might spark their imagination about ancient ships and builders. Instagram If a family-friendly exhibition is on, it could be a great draw. Consider visiting on a free Sunday to make it a more budget-friendly outing. Instagram Remember to check for any specific family activities or tours that might be offered during your visit.

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by maritime history, Drassanes Reials is a must-visit. This is one of the best-preserved medieval shipyards in the world, offering a direct connection to Barcelona's powerful seafaring past. Instagram Imagine the construction of galleys that sailed the Mediterranean and the strategic importance of this site. The architectural grandeur itself tells a story of power and ingenuity. Don't miss the chance to explore the vast halls and absorb the historical atmosphere.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Drassanes Reials is a premier venue for significant art exhibitions, transforming the historic space into a contemporary gallery. Exhibitions like Sebastião Salgado's 'Amazonia' are critically acclaimed and offer a powerful visual experience. Instagram+1 The juxtaposition of modern art within the ancient Gothic structure creates a unique and memorable viewing environment. Always check the schedule for upcoming exhibitions and book tickets in advance, as these events are highly popular. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Maritime History

The Drassanes Reials de Barcelona (Royal Shipyards of Barcelona) are a monumental testament to the city's rich maritime past. Built in the Gothic style, construction began in the 13th century and continued for over two centuries, making it one of the largest and most important shipbuilding complexes in the medieval Mediterranean. These shipyards were crucial for the Crown of Aragon, constructing galleys and other vessels that powered its naval might and trade routes. Walking through the vast, vaulted halls, you can almost hear the echoes of shipwrights at work and imagine the bustling activity that once filled these spaces. Instagram

The sheer scale of the architecture is breathtaking, with soaring arches and robust stone pillars designed to support immense weight and span large areas. This functional grandeur has made the Drassanes Reials a sought-after venue for cultural events and exhibitions, allowing visitors to experience history and art within a truly unique setting. The building's preservation is a significant achievement, offering a tangible connection to Barcelona's seafaring heritage. Instagram

Experiencing World-Class Exhibitions

Drassanes Reials has become a premier location for hosting impactful temporary exhibitions. Notably, Sebastião Salgado's acclaimed 'Amazonia' exhibition has been showcased here, drawing significant attention. This exhibition, a result of nine years of work by the renowned Brazilian photographer, offers a profound visual exploration of the Amazon rainforest and its indigenous peoples. Instagram+1

These exhibitions leverage the dramatic backdrop of the Gothic shipyards to enhance the visitor experience. The contrast between the ancient stone architecture and contemporary art creates a powerful atmosphere. Visitors often praise the immersive quality of these shows, noting how the venue amplifies the impact of the displayed works. Instagram+1

When planning a visit, it's crucial to check the Drassanes Reials website for current and upcoming exhibitions. Popular shows often require advance booking, so securing tickets online is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. The combination of historical architecture and cutting-edge cultural programming makes Drassanes Reials a dynamic destination. Instagram+1

The Secret Garden: Jardí del Baluard

Tucked away above the historic city walls, the Jardí del Baluard offers a surprising and delightful escape. This 'secret garden' provides a tranquil green space with unique vantage points over Barcelona. It's a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and enjoy a different perspective of the city away from the usual tourist bustle. Instagram

Accessing the garden allows visitors to appreciate the integration of historical structures with modern urban life. It’s a testament to how Barcelona preserves and repurposes its heritage. The garden's presence atop the old ramparts adds another layer to the historical significance of the Drassanes Reials complex. Instagram

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