La Monumental Bullring (Plaza de Toros Monumental de Barcelona)

The Basics

Although bullfighting is now illegal in Catalonia, La Monumental Bullring has retained much of its original character. The small Museu Taurí (Bullfighting Museum) recounts the history of bullfighting in Catalonia with displays of branding irons, classic posters, and resplendent sequined matador outfits. One weekend each month, the bullring hosts a music and street food festival, complete with food trucks, local vendors, and activities for kids. Many bike tours of Barcelona pedal past the bullring.

Things to Know Before You Go

• La Monumental is a must-see for architecture buffs and anyone interested in the history of Spanish bullfighting.

• Don’t forget to bring sun protection, especially if you’re attending an event on the bullring floor.

• Be sure to stop and appreciate the ornate façade of the building, even if the museum is closed.

How to Get There

La Monumental is located on Gran Via, not far from La Sagrada Familia cathedral in the Eixample neighborhood. To reach the bullring on public transportation, take the Barcelona metro to Monumental Station (Line 2).

When to Get There

The museum is open daily year-round, but to really experience the grandeur of the bullring, plan to visit during an event or concert that lets you get out on the floor with the grandstands rising up around you.

Barcelona’s Other Bullring

La Monumental was the city’s main bullfighting venue, but it wasn’t the only one. The second, the Plaça Espanya bullring, was repurposed as a modern shopping mall after bullfighting fell out of favor in Catalonia. Today, Las Arenas mall is home to international brand shops, restaurants, and a rooftop observation deck with a stellar view of Montjüic and its colorful Magic Fountain.

Ways to explore

Although bullfighting is now illegal in Catalonia, La Monumental Bullring has retained much of its original character. The small Museu Taurí (Bullfighting Museum) recounts the history of bullfighting in Catalonia with displays of branding irons, classic posters, and resplendent sequined matador outfits. Electric and manual bike tours pedal past La Monumental to admire its elaborate facade, while tuk-tuk tours combine it with other top Barcelona attractions in the area, such as the Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s modernist masterpiece, and Playa de La Barceloneta, the city’s main beach.

Accessibility

Most of the bullfighting museum has step-free access, and staff can aid with accommodations for visitors during concerts at the venue.

Age limits

The museum and architecture might not appeal to younger visitors due to graphic exhibits and a lack of interactive attractions.

What to pack

Bring a refillable water bottle while you explore, as the complex doesn’t typically sell food and drink.

What to wear

Dress for all weather if you’re coming to a concert in this open-air venue.

Not allowed

Drinking, smoking, sharp objects, drones

Amenities

Restrooms, visitor information kiosk

Address

La Monumental is located on the Gran Via, not far from La Sagrada Familia in the Eixample neighborhood.

Driving

If you can avoid driving in Barcelona, do; traffic can be busy and parking is expensive. Instead, rely on public transportation, taxis, or rideshares.

Public transportation

To reach the bullring on public transportation, take the Barcelona metro to Monumental station (Line 2), from which it’s about a 10-minute walk.

Best times to visit

The complex typically opens from Tuesday through Sunday from midmorning until early evening.

Best days to visit

Once a month on the weekend, La Monumental hosts a street eats festival; check the website for upcoming dates.

Best months to visit

You’ll have the highest chance of catching a concert at La Monumental during the summer, when the city hosts a jam-packed cultural programme.

Special events

The former bullring typically hosts traditional Spanish musical performances, so check ticket websites such as Dice for upcoming events.