Discover all the historic buildings and museums you can visit for free in Barcelona during Catalonia’s National Day 2026, and find out how to get around by public transport. Hola Barcelona takes you there!
Next 11 September, Barcelona commemorates Catalonia’s National Day. The date marks the fall of the city in 1714 to the troops of Philip V during the War of the Spanish Succession, a key episode that resulted in the loss of Catalonia’s institutions and liberties. Beyond its historical significance and official events, the National Day is now a day of civic engagement, culture and public expression.
To mark the occasion, many of the city’s most emblematic buildings, institutions and museums open their doors to the public completely free of charge. If you want to make the most of the public holiday and rediscover the city’s heritage without spending a penny, take note of the best places to visit in 2026 with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card.
1. Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya
Located in Plaça de Sant Jaume, in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, the seat of the Catalan government holds an open day that allows visitors to explore its courtyards and grand rooms, including the famous Pati dels Tarongers and Saló de Sant Jordi. It is a unique opportunity to admire one of the few medieval buildings in Europe that still serves as the seat of an executive government.
How to get there:
Metro: Jaume I (L4) or Liceu (L3)
Bus: V15, V17 and 47
Barcelona Bus Turístic: Plaça de Catalunya on the red or blue route.
2. Parliament of Catalunya
Located in Ciutadella Park, the Parliament building opens its doors to showcase solemn spaces such as the Chamber of Parliament, the grand staircase and the Saló dels Passos Perduts. The visit offers a close-up look at the seat of Catalonia’s legislative power in a unique historic and green setting.
How to get there:
Metro: L4 (Ciutadella | Vila Olímpica) or L1 (Arc de Triomf).
Bus: H14, V19 and 59
Barcelona Bus Turístic: Port Olímpic / Zoo on the red route.
With your Hola Barcelona Travel Card., you can combine different transport lines to get there with ease.
3. Museum of the History of Catalonia
Located in the Palau de Mar, in Barceloneta, it is the perfect place to explore the history of the country from prehistoric times to the contemporary era. During the National Day, admission to its exhibitions is free, making it a perfect cultural stop if you are exploring the area by the sea.
How to get there:
Metro: Get off at Barceloneta station (L4).
Bus: D20, V15, V19, 47 and 59
Barcelona Bus Turístic: Barceloneta - Museu d'Hist. de Catalunya on the red route.
4. Palau Güell
If you prefer a dose of Modernist architecture, this Antoni Gaudí masterpiece just off La Rambla is also taking part in the open-door events. Stepping inside the Güell family residence and climbing up to its rooftop, filled with colourful chimneys, is one of the best ways to spend the public holiday. Remember that unlimited metro travel is included with your Hola Barcelona Travel Card..
How to get there:
Metro: Liceu or Drassanes (L3)
Bus: 59
Barcelona Bus Turístic: La Rambla Colom on the red route.
5. El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria
El Born is one of the key places connected to the memory of 1714, as it preserves the archaeological remains of the Barcelona that was demolished after the siege. Free express visits are organised throughout the day to help visitors understand what the city was like at the time. The Archaeology Museum of Catalonia (MAC), on Montjuïc, is also taking part in the free-admission day.
How to get there:
Metro: Jaume I or Barceloneta (L4)
Bus: H14, V15 or V17
Barcelona Bus Turístic: Barceloneta - Museu d'Hist. de Catalunya on the red route.
Public transport disruptions and service tips
Due to the floral tributes, particularly at the Rafael Casanova monument, afternoon demonstrations and various events taking place across the city’s districts, mobility in central Barcelona will be subject to significant changes on 11 September:
- Bus: between approximately 5 am and 5 pm, D50, H16, V17 and 19 may be subject to diversions or restrictions due to the floral tributes. In the afternoon, between 1 pm and 9 pm, disruptions will extend to D20, D50, H12, H14, H16, V9, V11, V13, V15, V17, 19, 22, 24, 39, 47, 54, 55, 59, 63, 67, 120 and 141.
- Metro: is the recommended option for getting around Barcelona during the National Day, as it avoids surface traffic restrictions. However, please note that the Urgell (L1), Universitat (L1 and L2), Catalunya (L1 and L3), Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3 and L4), Urquinaona (L1 and L4) and Jaume I (L4) stations may experience high passenger volumes.
Experience Catalonia’s National Day in Barcelona and get around the city with ease
Get your Hola Barcelona Travel Card (with unlimited travel on the metro, bus, BusNit, FGC, tram and Rodalies in Zone 1) online with a 10% discount. Hola Barcelona takes you there!
