Monastery of Pedralbes Barcelona
Discover Barcelona's largest Gothic cloister and a serene medieval sanctuary, founded by Queen Elisenda.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free entry, fewer crowds
Monastery of Pedralbes Barcelona
Best Time
Free entry, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Barcelona's largest Gothic cloister and a serene medieval sanctuary, founded by Queen Elisenda.
"A peaceful escape into history with the world's largest Gothic cloister."
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Visit Tuesdays & Fridays, 6-9 PM for free entry. Perfect for budget travelers!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds. Wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Cloister
Monastery Courtyard
Marvel at the world's largest Gothic cloister, a serene, three-story architectural masterpiece.
Queen Elisenda's Royal Quarters
Royal Palace
Step back in time in the rooms of Queen Elisenda, offering a glimpse into medieval royal life.
Bassa's Frescoes
Chapel
Admire the stunning medieval frescoes by Ferrer Bassa, a true artistic treasure.
Medieval Garden
Monastery Gardens
Explore a recreated medieval garden, showcasing plants used for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Best Times
Getting There & Nearby Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Visit Tuesdays & Fridays, 6-9 PM for free entry. Perfect for budget travelers!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds. Wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture the Cloister
The 3-story cloister is incredibly photogenic. Allow time for photos!
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Combo
Combine with Parc de l'Oreneta & miniature train on Sundays.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Visit Tuesdays & Fridays, 6-9 PM for free entry. Perfect for budget travelers!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds. Wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture the Cloister
The 3-story cloister is incredibly photogenic. Allow time for photos!
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Combo
Combine with Parc de l'Oreneta & miniature train on Sundays.
🤫 Quiet Escape
Seek tranquility away from the city bustle. A serene experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Monastery of Pedralbes for its stunning Gothic architecture, particularly the magnificent cloister, and its serene atmosphere. Many appreciate the free entry hours and the opportunity to escape the city's hustle. Some note that it can feel a bit remote, and signage could be improved, but overall, it's considered a hidden gem offering a peaceful historical experience.
"The monastery was nice and peaceful, with a beautiful cloister and quiet surroundings. It’s a good spot if you enjoy history and calm spaces, but overall it didn’t feel particularly impressive or memorable. The architecture is elegant but not striking, and the museum exhibits were not engaging. You may pay a visit if you’re nearby, but I wouldn’t go out of my way for it.
We didn’t pay for tickets because in the summer they offer free entry, which made the visit feel more worthwhile."
Isha Sharma
"Great experience! During my visit there werent a crowds, personel was polite, tickets for disabilities for free, stuning architecture and nature, accessible for disabilities, the only problem were slopy and rocky road to the monastery; there were lifts inside the building so as a person with disabilities i could see every floor of this building."
Bartłomiej Wypych
"It was worth going there. Every Sunday after 3 pm its free to enter. No booking no reservation, you can directly go and enter. Parkingis easy to get."
Fiza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Monastery of Pedralbes is accessible via public transport. You can take bus lines like H4, V13, or V15, which stop nearby. Some visitors also find it convenient to take the metro to Les Corts or Plaça del Centre and then walk or take a short bus ride.
While accessible by car, parking in the area can be challenging. Public transport is generally recommended for a smoother experience.
Taking a bus is often the most direct and convenient method from central Barcelona. Enjoy the scenic route as you head towards this hidden gem.
Yes! The Parc de l'Oreneta is right next door and is a fantastic spot for families, especially on Sundays with its miniature train.
Depending on traffic and your chosen mode of transport, the journey from Las Ramblas can take approximately 30-45 minutes by public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Monastery of Pedralbes offers free admission on Tuesdays and Fridays from 6 PM to 9 PM. Outside of these hours, there is an entrance fee.
Opening hours vary, but generally, the monastery is open from Tuesday to Sunday. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for the free entry slots.
For general visits, booking in advance is usually not required, especially during the free entry times. However, for special exhibitions or guided tours, it's advisable to check if reservations are recommended.
Absolutely! The monastery offers free entry every Tuesday and Friday from 6 PM to 9 PM, making it a popular time for locals and visitors.
Admission typically grants access to the main areas of the monastery, including the cloister, chapel, museum rooms, and the medieval garden.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the magnificent three-story Gothic cloister, the Queen's Royal Quarters, the chapel with Ferrer Bassa's frescoes, and the recreated medieval garden. 
Yes, it can be. The spacious cloister and the nearby Parc de l'Oreneta offer areas for children to explore. The miniature train in the park on Sundays is a big hit.
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the monastery's architecture, history, and gardens. If you plan to combine it with the park, add more time.
Guided tours are often available and can provide deeper insights into the monastery's history and significance. Check the official website for schedules and booking information.
Photography is generally permitted in most areas, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions, especially in the chapel or museum exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
The expansive Gothic cloister is a photographer's dream, offering stunning perspectives from all three levels. The chapel with its frescoes and the serene garden also provide beautiful photo opportunities.
Photography is usually allowed in the chapel, but be mindful of any signs indicating restrictions, especially when photographing the delicate frescoes.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the cloister's architecture without harsh shadows. The free evening hours might offer a more atmospheric, golden-hour glow.
The intricate arches and columns of the cloister, the detailed stonework, and the vibrant colors of the medieval frescoes are all highly photogenic.
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging the historic site. It's best to inquire upon arrival or check the monastery's guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical exhibits might not hold the attention of very young children for long, the sheer scale of the architecture and the peaceful gardens can still be captivating. Pack some snacks and water, and consider focusing on the most visually impressive areas like the cloister and the recreated medieval garden.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even outside of the free hours, the admission fee is generally reasonable for the historical and cultural value you receive. Consider it an investment in experiencing a less crowded, more serene side of Barcelona.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
The free entry evenings are also a great time for solo visitors to experience the monastery without large crowds, allowing for a more personal and contemplative visit. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in history and architecture at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: The Cloister
+1This expansive cloister was central to the daily life of the nuns who resided here for over six centuries. Its design reflects the Catalan Gothic style, characterized by its lightness and verticality. Walking through its arcades, you can almost feel the echoes of the past, imagining the serene routines of the monastic community. It's a space that invites you to slow down and appreciate the enduring beauty of medieval architecture.
Many visitors are captivated by the serenity and grandeur of the cloister. It's a place where the hustle and bustle of Barcelona fade away, replaced by a sense of calm. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the cloister is an unforgettable part of the Monastery of Pedralbes experience.
A Royal Legacy: Queen Elisenda's Influence
+1Exploring Queen Elisenda's quarters offers a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of a queen in the 14th century. The preserved rooms provide context for her life and her devotion to the monastic order. It’s a fascinating contrast to the communal spaces of the nuns, highlighting the different strata of society within the monastery's walls.
This royal connection makes the Monastery of Pedralbes more than just a religious site; it's a testament to the power and influence of women in medieval Catalonia. The story of Queen Elisenda adds a personal and compelling narrative to the monastery's rich history.
Artistic Treasures: Ferrer Bassa's Frescoes
Despite the passage of time, the frescoes retain much of their original color and detail, offering a vivid window into the religious art of the period. The artistry and narrative power of Bassa's work are truly captivating, drawing visitors into the spiritual world they represent.
These frescoes are a testament to the monastery's historical importance as a center of culture and devotion. Their preservation allows us to appreciate the artistic achievements of the era and the significant role art played in religious life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit