Casa Calvet Barcelona
Casa Calvet, an early Gaudí masterpiece, blends modernist elegance with intricate details, housing a coffee shop and restaurant.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Casa Calvet Barcelona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Casa Calvet, an early Gaudí masterpiece, blends modernist elegance with intricate details, housing a coffee shop and restaurant.
"Admire Gaudí's early genius in this elegant modernist building, now home to unique dining experiences."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
☕ Coffee Break Spot
D'Origen Coffee Shop offers great filter coffee in a unique Gaudí setting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Casa Calvet Architecture
Exterior and interior
Admire Gaudí's early modernist masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing intricate details and organic forms.

D'Origen Coffee Shop
Ground floor
Enjoy artisanal coffee in a beautifully designed space within the historic Casa Calvet, blending tradition with innovation.

China Crown Restaurant
Upper floors
Experience imperial Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting that harmoniously blends modernist design with Eastern aesthetics.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Gaudí's Gems
Beyond the Tourist Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
☕ Coffee Break Spot
D'Origen Coffee Shop offers great filter coffee in a unique Gaudí setting.
🍽️ Avoid Tourist Traps
Steer clear of restaurants on Las Ramblas for authentic local eats.
📸 Capture the Details
Look for the intricate carvings, stained glass, and unique architectural elements.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
☕ Coffee Break Spot
D'Origen Coffee Shop offers great filter coffee in a unique Gaudí setting.
🍽️ Avoid Tourist Traps
Steer clear of restaurants on Las Ramblas for authentic local eats.
📸 Capture the Details
Look for the intricate carvings, stained glass, and unique architectural elements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Casa Calvet is lauded as an early, elegant example of Gaudí's architectural genius, offering a unique blend of historical significance and modern commercial use. Visitors appreciate the intricate details of the facade and interior, with the D'Origen Coffee Shop and China Crown restaurant providing enjoyable experiences within the historic walls. Some find the exterior more impressive than the accessible interior, and dining can be on the pricier side.
"Gaudi's less spectacular, less popular building, but it is still worth seeing alongside the other Gaudi Casas."
Csaba Katona
"The building is beautiful, though I must admit it's a far cry from Gaudí's style. Walking past, you might miss it. It's worth seeing to see a different side of Gaudí."
Piotr Gójski
"The facade of this city building is very beautiful."
Vincenzo Gioco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casa Calvet is conveniently located in the Eixample district. You can easily reach it by metro (L2 or L3 to Passeig de Gràcia, or L1 or L4 to Urquinaona) or by bus. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other central Barcelona attractions.
Yes, Casa Calvet is very accessible by public transport. The nearest metro stations are Passeig de Gràcia and Urquinaona, both within a short walking distance. Numerous bus lines also serve the area.
Absolutely! Casa Calvet is centrally located, making it a walkable destination from many popular spots like Passeig de Gràcia and Plaça de Catalunya. It's a great way to see more of the city.
For the best exterior photos, approach from the street to capture its full facade. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for beautiful lighting.
Street parking in this area of Barcelona can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi. If you must drive, look for nearby public parking garages.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the exterior is visible from the street, to fully appreciate the interior architecture and visit the D'Origen Coffee Shop or China Crown restaurant, you'll need to enter. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as entry can be limited.
Opening hours can vary, especially as it houses businesses. It's best to check the official website or booking platforms for the most up-to-date information on access for tours or specific establishments within the building.
Entry fees typically apply for guided tours or specific access to the interior architectural spaces. Prices can vary, so checking the official booking site is advised. Dining at D'Origen or China Crown will have separate costs.
You can admire the exterior of Casa Calvet from the street at any time. To see the interior architecture, you'll likely need to book a tour or visit one of the establishments operating within the building, like the coffee shop or restaurant.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's always a good idea to check the official ticketing website for any available promotions or package deals when booking your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire facade is a photographic delight! For exterior shots, stand across the street. Inside, the lobby and staircases offer stunning architectural details. The D'Origen Coffee Shop also provides a unique backdrop.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use in the common areas and architectural spaces. However, if you are dining or visiting specific businesses, it's polite to be mindful of other patrons and staff.
Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons provide beautiful 'golden hour' light that enhances the building's textures and colors.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical buildings in Barcelona. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by local authorities.
Focus on the ornate ironwork balconies, the sculpted facade, the unique roof details, and the stained-glass windows. The interior lobby and staircase are also highly photogenic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Casa Calvet houses two distinct dining options: D'Origen Coffee Shop for artisanal coffee and light bites, and China Crown, an elegant restaurant serving imperial Chinese cuisine.
D'Origen is excellent for a coffee break or a light meal. They are known for their quality Ethiopian filter coffee and offer a pleasant atmosphere within the historic Gaudí building.
China Crown offers a refined imperial Chinese dining experience, blending modernist elegance with traditional flavors. They also have vegan options.
Given the unique location and quality of offerings, expect prices to be mid-range to upscale, particularly at China Crown. D'Origen is more moderately priced for coffee and snacks.
Reservations are highly recommended for China Crown, especially for dinner or on weekends, due to its popularity and elegant setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and allow children more space to observe. Pointing out interesting details like the animal carvings or the colorful stained glass can make the visit more interactive. While the China Crown restaurant might be more suited for older children or special occasions, the coffee shop is generally family-friendly.
☕ Coffee Lovers
Enjoying a meticulously prepared cup while surrounded by the unique ambiance of Casa Calvet provides a truly special experience. It's a perfect pit stop to recharge and reflect on the intricate details of the building.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for weekday mornings to minimize crowds and capture the building's grandeur without obstruction. The late afternoon light can also create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the stone and metalwork. Don't forget to capture the details within the D'Origen Coffee Shop and the elegant setting of China Crown.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Gaudí's Early Masterpiece
The interior is equally impressive, with a grand central staircase, stained-glass windows, and decorative ironwork. Gaudí's attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the doorknobs to the furniture. While the building is a residential and commercial space, its architectural significance is undeniable, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage designation as part of Gaudí's 'Works of Antoni Gaudí'.
Visitors can experience parts of Casa Calvet through its current tenants. The D'Origen Coffee Shop on the ground floor offers a chance to enjoy a coffee amidst Gaudí's design, while China Crown on the upper floors provides an upscale dining experience within the historic modernist structure.
Experiencing Casa Calvet Today
For a more formal experience, China Crown offers a journey into imperial Chinese cuisine. The restaurant's interior design is a thoughtful fusion, respecting the modernist elegance of Casa Calvet while incorporating elements of Chinese culture. This juxtaposition creates a memorable dining ambiance that appeals to those seeking both culinary and aesthetic pleasure.
While direct architectural tours might be limited, experiencing Casa Calvet through its businesses provides a tangible connection to Gaudí's legacy. It allows visitors to appreciate his genius not just as a historical artifact, but as a space that continues to be functional and inspiring in the 21st century. Remember to book in advance if you plan to dine, especially at China Crown.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit