Arenas Shopping Centre: Everything You Need to Know
History
Inaugurated in 1900, Las Arenas is a shopping centre designed by Catalan architect August Font i Carreras. It was originally built and used for bullfighting and other events such as concerts hence its Moorish-inspired architecture and distinctive circular shape.
After its final bullfight in 1977, Las Arenas remained largely unused for more than two decades. However, rather than demolishing this historic Barcelona landmark, an ambitious project was developed to give the building an entirely new purpose. Plans to redevelop Las Arenas were approved in 1999, beginning an ambitious transformation that would give the historic building an entirely new purpose. The project, led by the anglo-italian architect Richard Rogers carefully preserved the arena’s distinctive façade while creating a modern structure behind it. The former bullring was transformed into a contemporary shopping, dining and leisure complex, complete with a striking dome-shaped roof and rooftop terrace offering panoramic views across Barcelona. The new Arenas de Barcelona officially opened in 2011, creating a striking contrast between its historic exterior and contemporary interior.
Shopping and Dining
The shopping centre has over 6 floors dedicated to shopping, attracting around 10 million visitors each year. Inside, you’ll find a great mix of popular Spanish and international brands, including Desigual, Lush, Sephora and Mango. Its location in Plaça d’Espanya also makes it easy to combine a shopping trip with sightseeing around the area and nearby Montjuïc.
The Arenas also has a 12-screen cinema with up-to-date technology and 3D screening as well as the Metropolitan Las Arenas sports club and a space for immersive experiences, exhibitions and cultural events.
When it’s time for a break, Arenas de Barcelona offers a wide selection of restaurants, cafés and casual dining options. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a relaxed lunch or a sit-down meal, you’ll find plenty to choose from, with a mix of local and international cuisine to suit different tastes.
Rooftop and Views
One of the main attractions of this shopping centre is its rooftop which offers 360 degree panoramic views over Barcelona and especially Montjuïc. There is a glass lift you can take to reach the top of the building or simply use the escalators inside the shopping centre for free.
From the rooftop, you can enjoy beautiful views towards Plaça d’Espanya’s Venetian Towers as well as Montjuïc and the Palau Nacional which houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia.
Why not combine your visit to the Arenas with some sightseeing? Its location in Sants-Montjuïc brings you close to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, making it easy to turn a shopping trip into a full day of exploring Barcelona. Start at Plaça d’Espanya and the impressive Venetian towers, before heading up towards Montjuïc, where you can visit the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), explore Poble Espanyol or discover the works of one of Catalonia’s most famous artists at the Fundació Joan Miró. You can also wander around the Olympic Ring and continue up to Montjuïc Castle, where you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views over Barcelona.
Source: Instagram (@arenasdebcn)
Restaurant Spotlight
Mussol
Located on the rooftop, this Catalan grill restaurant is a great spot to discover the flavours of traditional Catalan gastronomy, with a focus on quality ingredients and dishes cooked over the grill. The menu brings together local favourites such as canelons, alongside a selection of grilled meats, fresh fish and seasonal vegetables. Another highlight is the coca de recapte, a traditional Catalan savoury flatbread typically topped with roasted vegetables and ingredients such as cured meats and fish.
Source: Instagram (@mussolrestaurants)
Gelati Dino
With a passion for artisanal gelato dating back to 1978, this much-loved gelateria opened its first Barcelona location in 1933 and has been serving sweet treats in the city ever since: Alongside a tempting selection of artisan gelato in a variety of flavours, you’ll find indulgent cakes, freshly made crêpes and waffles, as well as rich coffees and frappés. Open until late, it’s the perfect spot for an afternoon treat or a sweet finish to an evening in Barcelona.
Source: Instagram (@gelati_dino _official)
How to Get There
Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 373–385, Barcelona
- Metro: The closest station is Plaça Espanya served by L1, L3 and FGC
- Bus: several city bus routes stop around Plaça d’Espanya including V7, 109, L94, H12 and 52.
Thanks to its location next to Plaça d’Espanya, the shopping centre is very well connected to Barcelona city centre and other parts of the city, as well as Montjuïc.
Opening Hours
Store opening hours
October to May
From Monday to Saturday 9am to 9pm
June to September
From Monday to Saturday 10am to 10pm
15th May to 15th September open Sundays from 12pm to 8pm
Restaurant opening hours
Check directly on the restaurants web pages
Gym opening hours
From Monday to Friday 7am to 9pm
Weekends and Bank Holidays from 8.30 am to 9pm
With its unique combination of historic architecture and modern design, Las Arenas is much more than just a place to shop. One of its biggest highlights is undoubtedly the rooftop, where you can enjoy impressive views across Plaça d’Espanya, Montjuïc and the Barcelona skyline.
Even if you aren’t planning to shop, Las Arenas is well worth a stop for its beautiful views, great selection of restaurants and cafés, and convenient location near some of Barcelona’s most iconic attractions. And if you’re planning a trip to Barcelona and looking for the perfect apartment for your stay, be sure to check out our website and discover our wide range of accommodation options.
