I’m sure you’d agree that when a wealthy industrialist employs the world’s greatest architect to construct paradise on earth it’s going to end up in tourist gold.
If you don’t there’s nearly 3 million paid tourists a year to back me up.
Yes, getting Park Guell tickets is about as standard as airport transport. Yet you wouldn’t know it. The complaints about lines from tourists range from whiny to hell-on-earth-like.
How can we avoid issues with the world’s most stunning urban park?
Reading my guide of course.
Already keen and ready? Click the button for an exclusive English guided tour:
Index
1 – Park Guell facts
2 – What to see
3 – Tickets
4 – Park Guell guided tour in English
5 – How to get to Park Guell
6 – Hours and best time to visit
7 – Park Guell hacks
8 – Park Guell map + app
9 – FAQ
Park Guell Facts
This 17 hectare park (about 13 city blocks) on a rocky hill is one of the most spectacular urban parks in the world. It keeps watch over Barcelona from the hills above the Gracia district.
Park Guell was conceived in 1900 by wealthy industrialist Eusebi Guell. His intention was to create a lavish, Utopian housing development in the middle of a park using the world’s most cutting edge architecture.
Cue Antoni Gaudi.
The legendary Catalan architect was put in charge of designing the more than 60 luxury homes of the planned community over looking the city, far away from smoky factories. All with latest technology and a touch of art.
In the end the men couldn’t even sell the show house and construction was halted in 1914.
Gaudi moved into one of the houses in 1906 and lived there until 1926: it’s now the Gaudi House Museum. Ultimately the area was turned into a municipal garden in 1926.
UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1984.
What to See at Park Guell
Park Guell is made up of two areas: The Monumental Zone and the Free Zone.
All of the most recognized portions of the park will be found in the Monumental Zone while the Free Zone is more of a backyard garden.
The Monumental Zone
At the south side entrance on Carrer d’Olot you’ll see the park hemmed in by a rustic stone wall with its emblematic ceramic medallions bearing the name Park Guell.
The two trencadís-speckled buildings on either side that look a lot like gingerbread houses from Hanzel and Gretel were once the porter’s lodge complete with waiting room and telephone booth.
The twin-flight dragon stairway entrance is flanked by two grotto terraces, one of which was used for keeping horses. A journey up the stairway is as capricious as it is magnificent: you’ll encounter goblin shapes, Catalonian symbols, and the famous tile-shard mosaic dragon: the most famous image of the park.
It’s actually a salamander 😛
Further up the staircase you’ll find the Doric Temple (a forest made of 86 columns) which was intended to be the market of the estate. Thanks to its twisted columns it gives the impression of being on a patio built on tree roots.
Keep walking and you’ll get to the Banc de Tracadis, a long bench covered in ceramics created by Josep Maria Jujol, one of Gaudi’s closest contemporaries.
Here is the massive tile-decorated esplanade and centre-piece of the park called Plaça de la Natura (Nature Square). The view of the city from there is amazing.
The Free Zone
The Free Zone takes up 92.1% of the park so you’ll have a ton of terrain to explore for free.
In general the space is much more wild and garden-like: you’ll find a seemingly endless stream of sculpture-adorned winding paths creeping uphill and offering spectacular views of the city, unseen aside from a few rooftop bars.
You’ll also see some of the park’s original homes including the famous Gaudí House Museum: it was here that architect Antoni Gaudi lived from 1906-1925. In 1963 the house was turned into a museum about Gaudi and his life.
Careful: the Gaudi House Museum isn’t property of the park. You won’t be able to visit with a standard Park Guell ticket nor any Park Guell guided tour.
Tickets can be bought online via the official website.
Park Guell Tickets
Prices
On the 25th of October 2013 the price of Park Guell tickets went from zero to €7.00. The least picturesque part of the park remains free but the monumental part (described above) is not.
- General ticket: €10.00
- Kids (7-12): €7.00
- 65+: €7.00
- Disabled visitors: €0.00 (with paid accompanying person, €6.00)
- Kids under 7: €0.00
Careful: if you leave the paid area of the park you won’t be able to re-enter.
If you read my FAQ section you’ll see there are rumours about free entry to Park Guell if you’re really, really early around 7 am. Please take this advice with a grain of salt.
Buying Tickets Online
The advantages of buying your Park Guell tickets online are two-fold.
Firstly, you choose your own times. Buying tickets in advance online ensures you get the time slot you wish for which makes planning your day easier.
Secondly, there a no lines. Just print out your ticket or show your QR code on a smart phone at the access control point to get in.
Get your tickets online by clicking the button below:
Using a Tourist Pass
If you’re going to visit both Park Guell and Sagrada Familia I suggest getting a discount tourist pass.
The best pass option including Park Guell tickets is the super-handy Barcelona City Pass. Not only do you get line-skipping entrance to Park Guell and Sagrada Familia but you also get a trip on the Bus Touristic.
It also gives you 20% discounts on virtually any other attraction including Casa Batllo, La Pedrera, Camp Nou, flamenco shows, walking tours, nightlife etc.
With this digital discount card all is done from home and you’ll skip lines everywhere:
Ticket Windows
The logical and old school approach is to get your Park Guell tickets at ticket windows.
Be advised though: this is one of Barcelona’s biggest attractions and if you do this you’ll likely be waiting in line for upwards of an hour.
Also be advised that the maximum hourly visitor admittance is 400 people. This means that even after waiting in line you’ll like be assigned a time slot which could be anywhere from 1-4 hours later depending on crowds.
Whatever you do, book your Park Guell tickets online.
Park Guell Guided Tours in English
This fantastic Park Guell guided tour is offered exclusively by Barcelona tour legends Ticketbar: you won’t even find this on the official Park Guell website.
The tours here are in English with actual flesh and blood guides who are Gaudi experts.
This 90 minute tour runs from Thursday to Monday.
The meeting point is right outside the park at 41 Carrer de Larrard.
With this tour you’ll avoid lines at the entrance and have a great education on one of the world’s best parks.
Prices: adults €31.50, children 10-17 are €27.50.
After buying your Park Guell tour tickets you’ll receive a confirmation email from Ticketbar within 24 hours.
In the email you’ll have all instructions needed for attending the tour as well as your ticket which must be printed and presented at the tour start location.
How to Get to Park Guell
Shuttle (April 2019)
Starting on April 1st 2019 the city of Barcelona will be offering a free return shuttle for Monumental Zone ticket holders.
The shuttle runs from Alfons X (L4) metro station during Park Guell opening hours.
The trip will last 10-15 minutes and run every 7 minutes.
Taxi
Since Park Guell is both out of the way and uphill this is a great chance to take advantage of a €5.00 discount on Spain’s taxi app program: Free Now (formerly MyTaxi).
You’ll save so much time and end up paying only about €5.00 or €6.00 from anywhere central, a great option if you’re traveling in large groups or with kids.
For more information see how to sign up with Free Now.
Bus and Metro
- Bus 24 from Passeig de Gracia or Placa Catalunya will get to you right to the gates.
- Bus 92 connects Park Guell to the sea and Sagrada Familia but expect a ten minute walk.
- Metro stops Lesseps or Vallcarca on the green line L3 (15 minute uphill walk).
- With the Bus Turistic. The bus leaves you a short walk from the park.
- Taking a regular taxi should be between €10.00-15.00 from anywhere central.
If you’re still a bit confused on directions drop me a line below with a departure point for some custom advice.
How to Get to Park Guell from other Barcelona Attractions
- Sagrada Familia: Walk to the Pg. de Sant Joan – Còrsega bus stop and grab bus V19.
From here it’s about 20 minutes on the bus and you’ll get off at the Ramiro de Maeztu – C N Catalunya stop. It’s about 170 meters from the park entrance. - Casa Batlló: Exit the house and cross the street to take bus 24 (right outside the Mcdonald’s) and it’ll drop you off right at the park entrance. It’ll take about 35 minutes.
- La Pedrera: Take a right on Passeig de Gracia when exiting the house and grab bus 24 right in front of the Gucci shop. The trip right to the entrance takes 30 minutes.
- Camp Nou: Take the blue metro line from Badal to Diagonal and then take bus 24 at Passeig de Gracia. It’ll take about 50 minutes.
Park Guell Hours
As a rule you should leave an hour for the monumental part and another hour to see the free part.
- 1 Jan to 15 Feb 2019: from 8:30 to 18:15 (last entry at 17:30).
- 16 Feb to 30 Mar 2019: from 8:00 to 19:00 (last entry at 18:00).
- 31 Mar to 28 Apr 2019: from 8:00 to 20:30 (last entry at 19:30).
- 29 Apr to 25 Aug 2019: from 8:00 to 21:30 (last entry at 20:30).
- 26 Aug to 26 Oct 2019: from 8:30 to 20:30 (last entry at 19:30).
- 27 Oct to 31 Dec 2019: from 8:30 to 18:15 (last entry at 17:30).
What’s the Best Time to Visit Park Guell?
Park Guell can’t be beat with the morning light so I advise the earlier the better.
Your best bet is getting Monumental Zone entry before 9:00 am and showing up about 30 minutes before to walk the free zone. The crowds won’t be any thinner during the day.
After I suggest walking back into the city. It’s downhill. Get a feel for the way locals live by having a carajillo (a shot of espresso with chosen liquor) in a random cafe. Then head to the Gracia district for brunch. You’ll have the whole day ahead of you.
If you just can’t get up then I recommend the later time slots toward closing time.
In summer I would strongly advise against going between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm as the sun (and crowds) could take you out!
Park Guell Map
The city has outlined 3 different routes to explore the park depending on which entrance you use.
It’s recommended to download or print the park map from the official Park Guell website to avoid getting lost and maximise time. Here you’ll also be able to download a free app with audio, photos, and an interactive map to really enhance the experience.
The app is available in 7 languages including English and is available for Android and iPhone.
Park Guell Hacks
- Book Park Guell tickets online or you may be waiting hours.
- Leave at least 50 minutes to travel there from the city centre.
- Remember: there’s a 30 minute grace period for entry times (e.g 9:00 tickets admitted till 9:30).
- With pre-booked tickets try and avoid entering at the main entrance (the west is less crowded).
- Bring appropriate ID if you’ll be taking advantage of any discounts (senior, children etc.).
- Bring comfortable shoes if you’re looking to go all the way to the top.
- Visit in the evening for more comfortable temperatures and great sunset photos.
- Amenities are overpriced and scarce: take your own food and water for a picnic.
- Shade is at a premium so bring sunscreen in summer.
- Those with limited mobility should arrive via taxi or Bus 24 to avoid uphill walks.
Park Guell FAQ
What time slots are available for the Monumental Zone?
You can select to enter at :00 or :30 every hour of the park’s opening hours (last entry 1 hour before close).
What happens if I’m late for my time slot?
You have 30 minutes courtesy to be admitted otherwise your tickets won’t be accepted – plan ahead!
Can I cancel or change my ticket booking?
No changes or refunds can be made with tickets bought at the official Park Guell website.
For guided tour tickets you may be able to contacting customerservice@ticketbar.nl.
How will I receive my tickets?
For both general admission and guided tours you’ll receive your tickets via email.
I didn’t receive my tickets, what now?
First of all make sure your tickets haven’t been caught in any spam filters. If you still can’t locate the tickets then you can email parkguell@bsmsa.cat.
Can I show my ticket on my smart phone or tablet?
Yes.
I can’t print my ticket and I don’t have a smart phone, what now?
Bring a piece of ID (and preferably your reservation #) to the ticket windows to be given your passes.
How long should I leave for the visit?
Including 30-45 minutes return travel time plus an hour each for the Monumental Zone and free zone I would leave 3.5 hours minimum.
I heard there was free entry to the Monumental Zone, is this true?
The workers don’t arrive to set up ticket barriers at the Calle d’Olot entrance until about 7:45 am. I’ve heard this means people can go right through into the Monumental Zone without paying, but please don’t quote me on it.
If you really can’t handle paying I would risk trying to get the free entry at this time. Even if you’re turned away you can still have a great excursion to the free zone.
If I haven’t booked my tickets online will I get in?
Yes and no. After waiting in potentially long lines you may be assigned a much later time slot or in busy cases be told to come back the next day.
Your best bet for tickets in this case is to buy your Park Guell entrance at the machines at Lesseps or Vallcarca metro stations. Here there are shorter lines and you won’t risk walking uphill for nothing.
Is Park Guell OK for disabled visitors or those with limited mobility?
Disabled visitors may have problems navigating the Monumental Zone due to its many steps and uneven paths. Any special access requirements should be sent to parkguell@bsmsa.cat
Get at Me in the Comments Below
Yes, I’m going to (desperately) ask you to consider me your friend in Barcelona.
That means you can ask me any question, no matter how ridiculous, about your upcoming holiday and I’m going to answer it! So whether it’s Park Guell guided tour tickets or just a place to get a good cup of tea know because I’m here for you.
Also don’t be afraid to join the Park Guell discussion by first giving me a like on Facebook and then joining my group I’m Off to Barcelona – here you can ask any questions, air out grievances, and chat with thousands of Barcelona travelers.
Anything goes!
San Cho
Hi,
I am travelling to Barcelona coming weekend. Is it safe to travel during ongoing protest?
Ash
Hi San,
Things have been quite quiet this week with nothing major planned for the near future.
You’ll get up to date info from myself and tourists on the ground in my Facebook group I’m Off to Barcelona.
Hope to see you there!
Ash
RU
Hello Ash,
Do you recommend purchasing the Guided Tour? We plan to do the park after a Montserrat tour that ends @3PM on a Monday. Definitely prefer a guide. Any other options?
Ash
Hi RU,
Honestly I’ve heard that people find the guided tour of Park Guell just ‘OK’ but nothing special. Since a lot of the park is simply the view and the fresh air I would say it’s not mandatory (unlike Sagrada Familia)… if you’re a huge fan of Gaudi and architecture in general I would go for it. If not just a regular ticket will suffice.
Cheers,
Ash
RU
Thanks Ash,
The tour ends at Placa de Espanya and will need to make our way to the park after. I figure around 4:30 arrival at the park. Is the time of day good? Is there an audio guide and is it helpful?
Ash
Hola, yes 4:30 is fine for visiting, not to worry 🙂
As for audio guides, there is one available for purchase/download on the official site here.
Cheers,
Ash
RU
Hello Ash,
How far in advance should we purchase online tickets? We are shooting for 2-4pm on Monday.
Ash
Hola! I would say to book them ASAP just to guarantee the spot… for 2-4 this is prime time so better safe than sorry.
RU
Hi Ash,
We had to switch our plans and now planning to go to Park Güell tomorrow, I don’t see tix available online, can we still go to the park to purchase tickets? Can we go to the free area without tickets? We won’t be back after a tour until 1pm. So I’ll likely be around 3-6pm
Ash
Hi RU,
I imagine that if you can’t find them on the official site that they’re sold out. You probably won’t be able to get them at the park either. This is the unfortunate reality of booking last minute 🙁
The good news? You can go into the Free Zone without a ticket and still see a lot of the pay area… but at a distance.
Cheers,
Ash
Cynthia McDonald
Hey,
Thanks for the great website! What are the lines like for Park Guell in November? Usually I travel in off season to avoid the crowds. I am only in town for about 2 days, and I plan on going in the afternoon after my free GAUDI walking tour ends in the afternoon (starts about 11am – 2.5 hour tour). Should I plan ahead and get tickets or wing it since it is off season? Also, are there are spots in the free zone where you are able to see the monumental portion? Thanks!
Ash
Hi Cynthia,
Thanks for the kind words 🙂
Honestly there won’t be summer-like lines in November but keep in mind the tickets are still capped and will probably be sold out for peak hours. There’s really nothing to lose by booking in advance so I would do it anyway. Just in case.
You can look down in on the Monumental Zone from the Free Zone but you’ll be about 200 meters away or so from the famous benches.
Cheers,
Ash
Anj
Hi Dave! Thanks for this super helpful site! Travelling with my husband to Barcelona from Sept 1 to 5. Wondering if the following would be worth it:
– getting a Barcelona card
– getting guided tours of Park Güell and Sagrada Familia. It’s €66 each for both. Is this worth it or should we just download the app?
– renting a car to go to Montserrat
We are staying in Hotel Balmora at Via Augusta 5, Sant Gervasi. Is this far from Park Güell?
Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!
Cheers,
Anj
Ash
Hi Anj,
Thanks a lot for your kind words!
I can’t comment on the Barcelona Card without knowing what attractions you plan on visiting. Please let me know and I can advise you further. This is a museum-heavy pass that is great if you’re seeing a lot of the museums.
As for the guided tours… the Sagrada one for me should be mandatory while Park Guell is fine with just an audio guide, or maybe a good bit of research beforehand 🙂
I never recommend renting a car unless it’s a big trip up the coast to places that aren’t accesible by transport. Montserrat however isn’t on this list as it’s very accessible… and I’d prefer not worrying about the responsibility of a car etc. It’ll be a bit quicker but for me it’s not necessary.
Your hotel is about 1.3 km (uphill) to Park Guell… not too close but not far 🙂
Ash
Dave Polys
Thank you for mainlining such a helpful website ! Where does the new [2019] park shuttle bus from Alfons X metro station let you off once near the park ? I have seen 2 different answers, hope you know Exactly where it disembarks. Thanks !
Dave Polys
oooops ! I meant maintaining !
Dave
Ash
No worries! I’d hope that readers were mainlining my information 😉
Ash
Hi Dave,
Thanks for your very kind words!
I haven’t taken it yet but I’ve heard from people (and confirmed with the map) that it leaves you about 30-40 meters from the main entrance.
Cheers,
Ash
Lori
I can’t imagine planning our time in Barcelona without your site! Thank you. Question… I’ve bought the Sagrada and Park Guell combo but can only get into Sagrada in the evenings – after 6. Should we go to the Park first thing in the morning to avoid the heat (July 30/31/ or August 1) and to Sagrada in the evening? Or does it make more sense to combine them and hit the park in the afternoon? 5 adults with lots of varied interests so I’m sure we can fill the time in between if need be!
Ash
Hi Lori,
I always recommend doing the park as early as possible in the summer due to heat and crowds… not to mention photos come out way better with the early morning light! This is how I would do it yes, especially if you’re not short on time and can fill in the afternoon with some interesting stuff. I’d recommend walking down into the Gracia neighbourhood and exploring as it’s a very authentic piece of Barcelona.
Ash
Vanessa D
Hi Ash.
I love your site. It has been so helpful!!
We will be in Barcelona for 2.5 days. I’ve made a basic plan but want to know if you think I’m missing anything big. I’m traveling with two teenage boys and am trying to leave some free time each day.
Half day:
Arrive from Santa Pau on Friday around 2pm
Head to Montjuic castle and area then the magic fountain at 9:30. Do you have a restaurant recommendation close by to the fountain for after?
Day two:
Picasso museum 12
Lunch at La Paradeta
Park Guell around 4:30
Dinner at Tickets at 8:30 (I’m not sure if this is the right place to take the boys to and it’s so early. What do you think?). I also have a 10:15 at Bar Mut.
Day three:
First Sunday of the month and most places that are free are booked.
Walk around La Boqueria, Las Ramblas, Gothic Quarter
Lunch in Barceloneta – do you have a recommendation? Were coming from two days in Costa Brava so we don’t need to spend much time there.
Sagrada Familia with tower 5:15
Looking for a really good, yet casual restaurant for a Paella dinner.
We were going to try for the Pedrera at night but I do not want to book in right now since I’m not sure if it will be too much. We are going the first week of August. When is the latest that you think I can book the nighttime experience?
I am also confused about the cable car to the castle. When I look at the site it lists three stops (park, castle, mirador), yet when I look at the map it seems to start on the beach. Are their options for the cable car, or does it just leave from one place? Also, should I be worried about the May strike you detailed?
Have you been to Girona? I’m looking for a good lunch recommendation, do you know of any? I’m going to try Can Roca for lunch, but since they don’t take reservations, I think everyone else in Girona will be trying the same. 🙂
Thank you for having this site. It is so helpful to first time visitors.
Regards,
Vanessa
Zaynab
Hello!
Your article is a life saver, I have only started planning my trip and I leave in two days
I booked tickets for the Sagrada Familia before realising there was a city pass card. So unfortunately I have to book it all separately. The tickets have been booked for 12pm with tower admission for 1pm. Do you think that we could do Park Guell in the morning?
Also, what would you recommend the best way is from Park Guell to Sagrada Familia? And could we visit Casa Batilo after the Park do you think?
We are staying near Urgell station, any other recommendations for us to visit? (We’re visiting Tuesday eve – Friday morning)
One last thing, do you know of any fresh food markets near Urgell station etc that are open during our visit?
Thank you so much!
Ash
Hi Zaynab,
Doing Park Guell in the morning is always recommended in summer because it’s the best time of the day (not so hot) and the lighting is best for pictures. I would visit at 9 am and then you’ll have plenty of time to get to Sagrada.
To get from Park Guell to Sagrada Familia ake bus V19 from 170 meters outside the park exit (Ramiro de Maeztu – C N Catalunya) and get off at the Pg. de Sant Joan – Còrsega stop, then from there it’s a 13 minute walk.
I would not try to fit in Casa Batllo between Park Guell and Sagrada… it would put way too much pressure on you and result in unnecessary travel.
Around Urgell you’ll find my favourite museum the CCCB as well as the MACBA contemporary art museum… one or both may warrant a visit depending on your tastes. There’s also a fresh food market just a 10 minute walk away. It’s called Sant Antoni market… though you could walk an additional 15-20 minutes and get to the world famous Boqueria Market which is superior in my opinion, at least from a tourist standpoint 🙂
As for other stuff to do… Casa Mila, the Picasso Museum, and Camp Nou would be the other attractions.
I’ve got a list of all of the top ideas here:
https://www.barcelonahacks.com/things-to-do-in-barcelona/
Cheers,
Ash
Irina
Hello Ash,
We are going to Park Guell at 9 am, and then to Tibidado Park. I am not sure how much time we will spend on Park Guell but if we are there until around lunch time can you please recommend a good places for lunch in the area. And just in case also places to eat lunch near Tibidado Park.
Thank you.
Irina
Ash
Hi Irina,
Honestly, immediately around Park Guell I’ve only heard of tourist traps… but if you’re willing to walk about 10-15 minutes there are a couple places I’ve always enjoyed (I used to live about 5 minutes from the park) and those would be Gata Mala and Comida de Olla.
Another one that I used to walk by and was always impressed by the garden-like terrace is Restaurant El Jardí de l’Àpat – I haven’t eaten there and the reviews are mixed but you may want to take a look.
Cheers,
Ash
Irina
Thanks again! 🙂
Ash
No problem 🙂
naomi
You mention the quickest entrance is the east entrance – where is that / how do you get there?
Also, is this to the monumental or free zone? And if going at about 445pm, do you suggest the free area or monumental zone first, and how much time to leave for the free zone if doing that first so we book the right time slot for the monumental. (And same question re- the gaudi house musuem since that has to be booked for a time as well)
Ash
Hi Naomi,
The east entrance is right by the coach parking lot and you can get there using bus 24 from Plaça Catalunya.
It is an entrance to the Free Zone… once you there get at 445 you can wander around for 45 minutes or so, it should be more than enough. I would do the free area first and let the weather cool down a bit and enter later… you could do one of the last entrances at the Gaudi House Museum at 530… leave there at 6… and have your Monumental Zone entrance scheduled for around 6/630.
That’s how I would do it 🙂
Ash
Jo-Ann
Hi – The link to the site for PARK GUELL GUIDED TOURS IN ENGLISH was working last night but, today, the link is not working. Would you know if those guided tours have been discontinued?
Thanks and best regards,
Jo-Ann
Ash
Hi Jo-Ann!
It could be simply a temporary server issue? Today the link: https://visitenglish.barna.ticketbar.eu/en/guided-walking-tours/the-parc-guell-guided-tour-/ seems to be working fine for me.
Was it a specific date that wasn’t working?
Ash
Michele
Your website is so informative! We are lucky to be having a combination of an organized tour and some days alone in Barcelona. I would like some suggestions for our free days. I have poured over your suggestions but would like to refine my own schedule. Our organized tour will include: Las Ramblas through the Gothic Quarters.
– Placa de la Cathedral
– City tour drive through hilltop Montjuic to see panorama and Olympic Stadium
– La Sagrada Familia
We arrive on a Wed. morning and don’t join our tour till Friday night so we have a chunk of time. Given those parameters I would love other suggestions if you can!
Wed: early arrival and no plans(Staying near Las Ramblas)
Thurs: I’m thinking we could go to El Born – peoples cathedral, old market and Picasso Museum at night.
Fri: Free time till about 4.
Ash
Hi Michele,
Thanks so much for the kind words 🙂
In looking at your itinerary the first thing that pops out to me is that it’s missing Park Guell. I would try and fit this in as it’s definitely one of the top 3 sights in the city. You could schedule this for your first day in the early afternoon after you’ve check in and had something to eat etc. Wednesday would be the perfect time to visit as it’s one of the least busy days.
For Friday morning if you’re near La Rambla I’d go have breakfast at the Boqueria Market – I’ve got instructions on how to go about that in my dedicated article. You could then go check out one of the nearby museums like MACBA, the CCCB, or Palau Guell depending on your tastes. Would fill up the first part of the day nicely.
For Thursday that sounds like a very good plan what you have… I would just make sure to try and incorporate a swing down to the old fisherman’s village of Barceloneta for some seafood and a stroll along the beach. It’s right below El Born so not too hard… that would really round out the trip and a holiday in Barcelona without inhaling that fresh sea air ain’t a holiday in my mind! 😛
Cheers,
Ash
Thursday
Michele
Thank you! It is so good to have a plan!
What is the best way to get to the Parc from the city centre- (Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes). I know you listed many options but just not sure which is the most expedient.
Also you mentioned that the crowds are lighter on Wed but would you still recommend buying tickets in advance? We will be there this month. If it rains… I guess you just have a rainy walk!
The best, michele
Ash
Michele,
Gran Via is one of the longest streets in the city so it’s hard for me to say… can you give me a specific address? My answer depends on this.
As for the tickets it is not only recommended but I would say absolutely necessary to book in advance otherwise the risk is too high of being told to come back later… even another day! They have a capped hourly visitor count and in high season this is met constantly.
Regards,
Ash
Michele
Thanks Ash
We will be at the Avenida Palace.
Best!
Michele
Ash
Hi Michele,
Great… just walk up to the Passeig de Gracia metro station take the yellow line up to Alfons X. From here there’s the free shuttle included if you have tickets, so you won’t have to do the uphill walk 🙂
Ash
Michele
Got my tickets to the Park! Can’t wait!
Now I just want to fit in a visit to the Palau de Musica..
All the best! Michele
Ash
Great to hear Michele! I’d schedule in the Palau for when you plan to be in the Born area as it’s right above there, easy walk 🙂
Michele
Thanks for the great information! I’m packed and ready!
Ash
Great! Please let me know how you get on 🙂
Karen
Hi!
We are traveling to BCN (family of 4 – two kids 9,11) at the end of June. We have Sagrada Familia booked at 9:45 am with your at 10 am and I was thinking about doing Park Güell the same day. Reading your section on Parc Güell has me a bit confused- you mention heat and crowds but advise going between 1 and 4. Is that a typo? When would you suggest we go? I’m not sure the kids can do Sagrada, Batllo and Güell in one day. If you suggest going to Güell later in the day do you have any suggestions how to fill the time in between? Thanks again- your website has been invaluable in our planning
Ash
Hi Karen,
Wow, you’re certainly right about my mistake! I neglected to put the word ‘against’ after ‘advise’ and so the meaning of the sentence is the complete opposite… I have corrected it 🙂
I only recommend not going between 1-4 if you don’t have other options… is this is your only time to visit it’s certainly preferable to not seeing it at all. I always suggest either seeing it first thing in the morning or around sunset for milder temperatures, less crowds, and better lighting for photography.
Are you around for another day? You could always see Casa Batllo after Sagrada and save the park for the next day. Doing all three (if you’re visiting inside) is doable but with kids and trying to fit in meals, snacks, coffee, and the usual transport hiccups it’ll be a bit heavy.
Please let me know,
Ash
Karen
Thanks Ash, I am trying to loosely follow your suggested itinerary and was going to make it a Gaudi “day” – I’m thinking we will do Parc Güell vs Casa Batllo on that day but I’m having some FOMO. We are in Barcelona for 5 days but have a trip to Girona and Montserrat to fit in as well. I figure our first day is a bit of a write off after a night flight with the two kids and checking in, getting sorted.
Roberta
Ash,
I keep seeing combo tickets to Sagrada Familia and gaudi museum. Does that mean it gets you into the monumental zone or just the gaudi museum?
And can they book your time this far in advance for the times you want? we will be there August 27 & 28
Thank you
Roberta
Ash
Hi Roberta,
Unfortunately there are so many combo tickets and things promoting these sites that it’s impossible for me to comment without seeing the exact thing you are referring to… can you send me a link?
Ash
Ash
Oh! and as for the dates with Ticketbar (link above) you can book way in advance so not to worry for your August 27th and 28th dates 🙂
charise
hi is there free entry before 8 am
Ash
Hello Charise,
Yes indeed… if you get there around 7:30 you’ll have the park almost to yourself before they set everything up 🙂
Ash
Charise Francis
thank you. Is this including the monumental zone?
Ash
Yes that’s what I mean… the Monumental Zone is free
Carol Oakley
Hello Ash
I will be Barcelona for Easter. Can you recommend any reasonable priced eateries near Parc Guell?
Thank you
Carol
Ash
Hi Carol,
Unfortunately being in a mostly residential neighbourhood you won’t find many restaurants around… and if they are they are total tourist traps. I would stay clear of most but if you had to I would go for Bar Delicias or El Jardi de l’Apat.
Ash
Emily
Hi there!
I’m going to Barcelona for my first time ever this June! We just bought Park Guell tickets online from their website.
Our ticket slot is from 11:00 – 11:30 on a Wednesday. Knowing that it takes about 35-40 minutes by bus from our hotel to the park, when do you think we should depart for the park? Do you think we’ll make our slot if we get there around 10:30 or 10:40? It sounds like the wait times are really long!
Thanks so much,
Emily
Ash
Hi Emily,
When I refer to long lines and wait times I’m referring to the unfortunate souls who arrive WITHOUT tickets… for the people who have tickets you can pretty much go right in. As such I wouldn’t worry about this one bit.
Shooting to get there at 10:30/10:40 is recommended though because it’ll leave you a small amount of time to make up for any hiccups on the way… and if you’re there early you can still go explore the Free Zone. Leaving between 9:45 and 10:00 sounds the best course of action to me.
Ash
Emily
Thank you!!
– Emily
Ash
No problem! 🙂
John Heth
My wife and I are just now beginning to make our Barcelona plans for the three days we are there prior to a cruise on May 18, and we are thankful for your site. We booked the City Pass today and reserved the Parc for 9 am on the 16th and the Familia for 5 pm that day (earliest time offered). We are staying at the Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona. Would you recommend the BCN card also for getting around? We are in the mid-to-late 60’s and both have a few orthopedic problems, so extensive hiking won’t be able to happen! I may besiege you with questions in the coming weeks!
Ash
Hi John,
No worries about besieging me, that’s what I’m here for 😉
If you’ve got the two day Bus Turistic package with the City Pass keep in mind this can be used for your main transport… so I wouldn’t recommend getting the Hola BCn transport card in this case. If you’ve got the 1 day Bus Turistic option then it wouldn’t hurt to get the 48 hour Hola BCN card because you’re a bit far out and will be requiring a lot of transport.
My two cents 🙂
Ash
Ash
Also keep in mind with scenario one… you can simply just get a T-10 card which is interpersonal and gives you 10 rides for about €10.00 for your extra day or transport.
John
Thank you very much for your suggestion. We do have the two-day pass. How does one procure the T-10 you mentioned?
Ash
You can get them at any metro or train station at the machines – both cash and card are accepted. The option will be right on the welcome screen, impossible to miss 🙂
Laurie
HI Ash
If I am planning to get to the Park at 8:00am for opening do you think it’s necessary to buy tickets in advance? I notice the earliest ticket I can buy online is for 9:00am. We are travelling in July. At 8:00am would we be able to just walk up to the counter and pay entrance fee and gain access straight away? Is there much of a difference in the ticket price to do it this way?
Thanks so much – Laurie
Ash
Hi Laurie,
If you’re going to go there for 8:00 you might as well go there for 7:00 because it’s actually free at this time… there are less crowds… none of the barriers are set up etc.
That said, if you want to go at 8 the link I provided only sells from 9:00 onwards but you can get the 8:00 slots here.
I would strongly advise against just walking up… it seems an unnecessary risk… it could be that you’re told to come back for a later time slot which is never good. Also, in summer it’s not unheard of to have entire days sold out.
Ash
Laurie Rands
Fantastic Ash – thanks. I have just booked through ticketbar – seems easier that way. We are staying in El Born (Another fantastic recommendation of yours) and are planning to just uber or taxi to Park Guell for a 8:30 am opening. We are also booked at the Familia on the same day at 12:00 pm and thought that we would walk between. What sites, cafes etc would you recommend we stop off at on the way? – thank you so much. Laurie
Ash
Hi Laurie,
That’s great!
Keep in mind Uber no longer operates in the city so you’ll have to take the normal city taxis 🙁 That said, if you download the app used with these taxis you can get a €5.00 credit on your first ride… you can find out how in my taking a taxi in Barcelona article.
You’ve left a decent buffer between the two big attractions which is good… honestly I would wander down into the Gracia neighbourhood and check out some of the big squares like Plaça del Sol… having a drink or coffee at Sol Soler there is one of my favourite pasttimes 🙂
Ash
Steve
Hi Ash,
I was planning on taking Bus 24 from Placa Catalunya to Park Guell. Would you recommend getting off at the Trav de Dalt – Torrent de les Flors stop and walk up to the main entrance, or would it be better to get off at the Carretera del Carmel stop and walk to the East Side? I was hoping to explore the monumental zone first.
thanks in advance for your advice!
Ash
Hi Steve,
I’ve done both approaches and can tell you only that the Trav de Dalt stop involves a bit of an uphill climb through some very ordinary residential area with some touristy shops. That’s to say, there isn’t much to see on the walk so I don’t see why anybody would do it unless they had some specific business there.
With the Carretera del Carmel stop you’ll be forced to walk through the Free Zone to get across to the Monumental Zone… there’s a path that will take you directly there but it would involve ‘showing’ you much of the Free Zone. If you wanted to leave it completely unexplored and see the Monumental Zone first there’s no shame getting off at Trav de Dalt… it’s just that on its own it’s a bit of an unnecessary hike, in my opinion… your choice!
Ash