Municipal House

I took the tour. It seemed to me our group was mostly not mixing with the general public, so I think without the tour you'd see a lot less. The building is really stunning; I regretted not paying the modest photography fee. But I am nuts about Art Nouveau architecture. Perhaps you're not a big fan and a quick look would be sufficient for you. The tour costs the equivalent of $13.35; the photo permit is an additional $2.53.

By comparison, the sardine-can experiences at Casa Batllo and Casa Mila in Barcelona usually cost a minimum of $38.39 and $27.42, respectively. Those are audioguide visits.

The short answer to your question is yes , you will be missing a lot ! Guided tours of all kinds are anathema to me . I prefer doing my own preparation and research , but there are exceptions largely driven by the issue that some places , like The Municipal House , where its either the chaperoned tour , or not at all , I've visited the place several times , and the profusion of detail inside is a shame to miss . The place is rich in design details of Art Nouveau . from furniture and tile work , to richly embroidered textiles , upholstery , and drapery . Even on the tour , casting your eyes on these treasures is a must , The tour here is worth every penny , don't miss it . one other example with this visiting arrangement was The Glasgow School of Art , sadly now gone . I'm glad I took the tour there while I had the chance .

I don't believe you can see most things unless you take a tour or pay to go to a concert (not sure what you have access to if you do the latter). I loved the place, simply stunning. I paid the extra fee to take photos and am glad I did, there was so much detail - even the heating vent covers were beautiful. I believe you need to make reservations for the tour ahead of time, looks like online they're booking a couple weeks out.

Yes, the tour goes to many beautiful reception and function rooms that are not open to the general public.

I was there and thought I could move freely through the building. Not. You have to take a tour. The lobby is very pretty and deco, you can venture downstairs to the gift shop, but this is all you will see.