This year, Barcelona takes center stage as the global hub for design and urban planning. Named the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture 2026, the city is buzzing with a packed schedule of exhibitions, guided tours, and workshops. We’ve curated the best highlights for you—and most importantly, the easiest way to get there. Hola Barcelona takes you there!
2026 is no ordinary year: Barcelona is the World Capital of Architecture. This milestone brings over 1,500 activities to life under the theme "Becoming." Whether you want to explore the modernist gem of the Gustavo Gili building or the city’s innovative new "green axes," the Hola Barcelona Travel Card is your perfect Teaming partner for total freedom of movement.
Pro tip: Check the official Ajuntament de Barcelona website before heading outsome activities require booking in advance!
"Becoming": The flagship exhibition at Gustavo Gili
The former Gustavo Gili publishing house, a mid-century modern icon, hosts the event's main exhibition. It’s the perfect spot to discover why Barcelona is leading the global conversation on the future of cities. A space where history meets the avant-garde.
How to get there:
Metro: L5 - Entença
Bus: H10, V9
Open Barri Tours: Discover architecture around every corner
As part of the Barcelona World Capital of Architecture program, the "Open Barri" (Open Neighborhood) tours offer a rare glimpse into buildings usually closed to the public across all 10 districts. Expect everything from designer libraries to new "green" gable walls that are boosting the city's sustainability.
How to get there:
Metro/Bus: Depends on your chosen route. With the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, hopping between neighborhoods like Gràcia, Poblenou, or Sants is a breeze, no need to fumble with single tickets.
From Sagrada Família to Palau Robert: Gaudí’s Vision
The Architecture Capital program features a wide array of exhibitions offering a deeper look into the evolution of the Sagrada Família, marking the centenary of Gaudí’s death. Palau Robert, for instance, is the perfect warm-up act before heading to the temple itself to see the construction in person.
How to get there:
Metro: L3 / L5 - Diagonal
Bus: 6, 7, V15, V17
A visit to Palau Robert is a must-do in Barcelona. Plus, with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, you can hop straight onto the L2 metro line to go directly to the Sagrada Família.
UIA World Congress of Architects: The world is watching
Throughout June, the International Union of Architects (UIA) World Congress will bring thousands of professionals to the city. This means stunning pop-up installations in public spaces like Plaça de les Glòries or the Fòrum area.
How to get there:
Metro: L1 - Glòries / L4 - El Maresme | Fòrum
Tram: T4 - Ca l'Aranyó
Barcelona Bus Turístic: Glòries (red line)
Family Workshops: Building the city of tomorrow
Architecture is for the little ones, too! Museums like MACBA and CCCB are hosting workshops where kids can design their own models or learn about eco-friendly materials.
How to get there:
Metro: L1 / L2 - Universitat
Bus: H12, 52
Metropolitan Architecture: Beyond the city center
The celebration reaches far beyond the downtown core. Nearby towns like Sant Adrià de Besòs and Cornellà are also joining in with tours focused on industrial architecture and the creative repurposing of old factories.
How to get there:
FGC / Rodalies: Various stations depending on the activity.
With the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, you can also use FGC and Rodalies (Zone 1) trains to discover that world-class architecture is waiting in every corner of the metropolitan area.
Experience the best of design with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card
Dive into the Barcelona World Capital of Architecture program with zero limits. Your card gives you unlimited rides on the metro, bus (TMB), FGC, and Tram. Don’t waste a second at ticket machines, spend your time soaking in the city’s stunning skyline instead. Activate it and start your journey. Hola Barcelona takes you there!
