Visiting The Park Guell and Sagrada Familia
seeing Antoni Gaudí’s art
Does one really go to Spain without seeing the Park Guell or Sagrada Familia? While these might be the most touristy destinations in the whole city, they rep there popularity for a good reason. Both destinations feature some of the most beautiful architecture in Spain. From the colorful mosaics of the Guell, to the insane chiseled detail of the Familia, it is truly hard to pick a favorite place between the two.
why should I visit the park guell?
Like I mentioned above the Park Guell is truly just a staple of the city. It would be like visiting Paris and not seeing the Effile Tower - you just wouldn’t do it!! I had seen so many images across Social Media of this beautiful park and could not wait to check it out my self. It is an absolutely stunning park filled with SO much detail. Rashawn and I couldn’t get over every little mosaic piece and attention to color detail all throughout.
The Park is huge, in fact there are paid and unpaid sections! I’ll talk more about that below. You can walk, sit, shop, or walk through the house museum! Hanging out here is the perfect activity for families, couples, friends, or even alone. There are designated picnic areas around the park for you to enjoy your own food and drink! You can bring these items in, just don’t consume them outside the picnic areas.
how much does it cost?
Like I mentioned above there are paid and non paid areas of this park, for full details you can see the map and descriptions here. However, to enter the park and have free access about all areas, it is just €8.5 for the basic ticket. You have a 30 minute time stamp to come visit [ie an 8 o’clock ticket means you have from 8 am to 8:30 am]. However, the lines get very long so they also offer a more expensive ticket for €20 a person to skip the line and take a guided tour. More info here.
where is it?
The Park Guell is located in the heart of Barcelona. You can take the L3 line on the metro and get off at either Lesseps or Vallcarca station. However - I will warn you the trek from the station is not the easiest!! It might take 15-30 min depending on your speed because it is up a massive hill. Rashawn and I were laughing the whole time at how out of shape we were!! But one thing that blew my mind is this massive hill had stairs, and an escalator! If you do not think you can walk, just take a taxi or ride share.
Address: 08024 Barcelona, Spain
Hours of Operation: 8:00 am - 8:30 pm*
*some dates may have different opening times check here for details
savs final tips
No one likes to be unprepared for an adventure! The biggest thing to keep in mind is that you will be walking throughout the park. Make sure you bring plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes! Depending on the time of year (like summer) it can be VERY hot in the afternoon, so try an plan your visit in the morning. Another reason to come in the morning is because this is a tourist spot! Obviously if you come to Barcelona you want to come here so it gets very crowded so keep that in mind.
the sagrada familia
what is the sagrada familia?
The Sagrada Familia is an Historic Roman Catholic Church, that is still unfinished! The construction started way back in 1882, and is still not set to be done until 2026! Nearly 100 years after the creator, Antoni Gaudí’s passing. Gaudí has had a huge influence on Barcelona being the main mastermind behind both these incredible destinations. You can go inside the church, walk around, and even though-out parts of the structure. Every Sunday and holy days at 9 am there is a Catholic Mass Service. More info on that here.
how much does it cost?
To simply walk around the Sagrada and see it from the outside is completely free! If you do however care to go inside or around the Church Structure, you will have to pay for entry. Tickets start at €15 per person but can rise up to about €24 if you would like a guided tour. More information on price breakdown can be found here.
where is it?
The Park Guell is located in the heart of Barcelona. You can take the L3 line on the metro and get off at either Lesseps or Vallcarca station. However - I will warn you the trek from the station is not the easiest!! It might take 15-30 min depending on your speed because it is up a massive hill. Rashawn and I were laughing the whole time at how out of shape we were!! But one thing that blew my mind is this massive hill had stairs, and an escalator! If you do not think you can walk, just take a taxi or ride share.
Address: Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain
Hours of Operation: 9:00 am - 6:30 pm*
*some dates may have different opening times check here for details
savs final tips
It is completely up to you wether you want to pay to see inside, Rashawn and I did not go inside this time because we like to be as frugal as possible while traveling :) so next time! If you just come to see the Sagrada then make sure you walk all the way around it! The views from every angel are spectacular and worth it. Not to mention the experience is very different each angle! One side may have a street bubble blower, and the other two street dancers! The vibe and feeling of being here just feels so Barcelona. You can bring in bottled water - but I am not 100% sure on the snacks! Also do not forget that camera!
pin gallery
Welcome to one of the most vibrant cities in Spain! From detailed architecture on every corner to the miles of sandy beaches - it is no reason this one of the top vacation spots in Europe. The culture here is so rich, and with so many amazing things to do, I can guarantee you will fall in love with the city just like I did! Check out these five experiences you MUST have in Barcelona!