Casa Calvet, Barcelona, Spain - a tall building with many windows and balconies
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Casa Calvet Barcelona

4.7
·21 reviews·Barcelona, Spain

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Casa Calvet, Barcelona, Spain - a tall building with many windows and balconies

Casa Calvet Barcelona

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(21 reviews)

"Admire Gaudí's early genius in this elegant modernist building, now home to unique dining experiences."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Casa Calvet Architecture

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

D'Origen Coffee Shop

Ground floor

Enjoy artisanal coffee in a beautifully designed space within the historic Casa Calvet, blending tradition with innovation.

Instagram
China Crown Restaurant

China Crown Restaurant

Upper floors

Experience imperial Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting that harmoniously blends modernist design with Eastern aesthetics.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Gaudí's Gems

Casa Calvet, like many Gaudí sites, can have limited entry. Booking tickets online in advance is crucial, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and preferred time slot. TikTok

Beyond the Tourist Trail

While Casa Calvet is a Gaudí masterpiece, avoid dining directly on Las Ramblas, as many spots are tourist traps. Explore nearby areas for authentic culinary experiences. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Barcelona Travel Tips #barcelonatravel #barcelonathingstodo #barcelonatips
@inbetweenpics
35.6K likes • 620.5K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your entry in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods. TikTok

☕ Coffee Break Spot

D'Origen Coffee Shop offers great filter coffee in a unique Gaudí setting. Instagram

Dot not make these mistakes when visiting Barcelona. Your Barcelona local tips #barcelonaguide #BarcelonaTips #BarcelonaFood
@inbetweenpics
25.4K likes • 394.3K views
The circular design of Barcelona’s D-Origen Coffee Shop ☕🪴 Located in Antoni Gaudi’s historic Casa Calvet, Barcelona’s @dorigencoffee shop combines tradition, innovation and sustainability. LOWPOLY cr...
lowpoly.studio
471 likes • 0 views

🍽️ Avoid Tourist Traps

Steer clear of restaurants on Las Ramblas for authentic local eats. TikTok

📸 Capture the Details

Look for the intricate carvings, stained glass, and unique architectural elements. Instagram

Little French Toast never hurt anyone… right? Pit stop at Casa Calvet @dorigencoffee – great Ethiopian filter coffee on pour-over to wash it down and charge me up to go and try to burn all these cal...
brodievissers
237 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your entry in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods. TikTok

☕ Coffee Break Spot

D'Origen Coffee Shop offers great filter coffee in a unique Gaudí setting. Instagram

🍽️ Avoid Tourist Traps

Steer clear of restaurants on Las Ramblas for authentic local eats. TikTok

📸 Capture the Details

Look for the intricate carvings, stained glass, and unique architectural elements. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(21 reviews)

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

Stunning Gaudí architecture
Elegant modernist design
Unique coffee shop experience

What People Dislike

Limited interior access
Can be pricey

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

For the best exterior photos, approach from the street to capture its full facade. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for beautiful lighting. Instagram

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons provide beautiful 'golden hour' light that enhances the building's textures and colors. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

China Crown offers a refined imperial Chinese dining experience, blending modernist elegance with traditional flavors. They also have vegan options. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Reservations are highly recommended for China Crown, especially for dinner or on weekends, due to its popularity and elegant setting. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Casa Calvet offers a visually stimulating experience for families. While it's not a playground, the unique architecture and decorative elements can capture children's imaginations. The D'Origen Coffee Shop provides a relaxed environment for a snack or drink, and the visual feast of Gaudí's design can be an engaging distraction. Instagram

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. Instagram

☕ Coffee Lovers

For coffee aficionados, a visit to D'Origen Coffee Shop within Casa Calvet is a must. They are renowned for their Ethiopian filter coffee and pour-over methods, offering a high-quality brew in an architecturally significant setting. It's a chance to combine your passion for great coffee with an appreciation for Gaudí's early modernist work. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Casa Calvet is a dream for photographers. The ornate facade, intricate ironwork balconies, and unique sculptural elements offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. The interior lobby and staircase are particularly photogenic, showcasing Gaudí's mastery of form and detail. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Gaudí's Early Masterpiece

Casa Calvet, designed by Antoni Gaudí, represents an important phase in his architectural evolution. Completed in 1900, it was one of his earlier commissions and showcases his signature blend of organic forms, intricate detailing, and innovative use of materials. Unlike his later, more fantastical works, Casa Calvet exhibits a more restrained, yet still distinctly Gaudí-esque, style. The building's facade features symbolic elements, including a carving of Saint Peter (Calvet's patron saint) and bees, representing hard work and diligence. Instagram

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'. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Experiencing Casa Calvet Today

Casa Calvet is not just a historical monument; it's a living building that integrates modern businesses within its Gaudí-designed shell. The D'Origen Coffee Shop is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering high-quality coffee in a unique setting. It's a perfect place for a mid-day break or a casual meeting, allowing visitors to soak in the atmosphere of the modernist architecture. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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