The charm of the classics

An anthology in its own right, the Cafè de l’Òpera has almost two centuries of history behind it. It dates back to the 18th century, before it became known as a café, when it was run as an inn and starting point for coaches setting off for cities such as Zaragoza and Madrid.

Later, in the mid 19th century, this establishment on the Rambla became a famous hot-chocolate shop, often frequented by locals attending shows at the Liceu opera house. Dating from that time, there is still a collection of mirrors and some remains of the Viennese decoration that was all the rage.

But it was not until 1929 that it was officially opened as the Cafè de l’Òpera and remodelled in the Modernista style that it still preserves today. Restored by the architect Antoni de Moragas, the café remains one of the most elegant places in Barcelona.

A place for everyone

With an incredibly diverse atmosphere, the Cafè de l’Òpera has been the meeting point for both Barcelona and foreign society throughout its lifetime. King Alfonso XIII, anarchists, bohemians, the bourgeoisie and writers have all dropped by this establishment where you can still pop in and enjoy one of the best collections of whisky in the city or sip a coffee as you contemplate history through a window to the past.