Park Güell is one of the most popular local attractions in Barcelona. Nearly one million people visited this site in 2016, so it’s easy to see why. But did you know there was once a time when the Park Güell was considered an architectural masterpiece? In 1893, Antoni Gaudí began the construction of this masterpiece. The Park Güell had to be abandoned in 1914 due to political turmoil and didn’t reopen until 2004. It is now open for visitors with tickets which start at about €22.
Even if you aren’t into architecture or history, the experience of taking the Park Güell Tour is worth experiencing first-hand. It’s one of the most incredible places you can find in Barcelona. If you are planning a trip to Barcelona, there are 8 things you should know about Park Güell:
1) It’s a Park for Everyone
There isn’t an entrance fee for this park, but there is a parking fee. Park Güell also has a beautiful botanical garden that is free and open from 8am-to dusk. The admission for the Park Güell is €10.60 for adults and €2.30 for children.
2) It’s a Public Park
During the day, it is open to everyone. You can take a stroll or lie on the grass and enjoy its beauty like everyone else. If you would like to use its facilities, there is a fee that depends upon what you are interested in doing (see #4).
3) It’s Part of the Barcelona Park System
The Park Güell is within the municipal park system (Sistema de Parques de la Ciutat de Barcelona). Like other parks in the system, there are a number of free activities to do in addition to visiting.
4) There are Fees for the Museum and the Botanical Garden
If you’re interested in seeing exhibits, you can purchase tickets at various price points. Admission for individuals without Barcelona Card starts at €8, but with a Barcelona Card, you can get in for €4. If you’re interested in the museum, there are different admission categories ranging from €6 to €11. The different categories of the museum are:
- a) Interpretation Center – This is where you’ll learn about the history and background of Park Güell. It took many years to complete because of political problems and financial restraints. It also features an exhibit that shows the difficulties of Gaudi’s work.
- b) Tower of Homage – The tower is open for special events. When it’s open, you can climb to the top and see a panoramic view of Barcelona. Admission is free with a Barcelona Card. Otherwise, you must pay €3.50 to enter the tower.
- c) Green House – This part of the museum is closed to the public, but you can visit and see the greenhouses designed to help endangered species. It costs €6 with a Barcelona Card or €7 without one.
5) It’s Still Part of the Landscape
Unlike other attractions in Barcelona, people still live and work in Park Güell. Numerous restaurants, art galleries, and shops around Park Güell provide a unique experience for visitors.
6) It’s Not Too Crowded
Park Güell isn’t nearly as crowded as most other places in Barcelona. I had the chance to explore this park both during the day and at night, and it was utterly empty between 7pm-9pm. So if you want to visit at night, this is one of the best spots to do that in Barcelona.
7 There Are Many Advantages to Visiting Park Güell
If you’re visiting Barcelona, you should try to visit Park Güell. Aside from its incredible beauty and tranquillity, it offers the following advantages:
- a) It Has Amazing Views of the City
Park Güell is located on top of Montjuïc, one of Barcelona’s hills. From this park, you can see all of Barcelona. The view from the Parliament and the Sagrada Familia are incredible. Still, suppose you’re interested in a different view. In that case, a terrace on top of the bulbous sculpture gives you an even better outlook on Barcelona.
- b) There Are Different Activities to Explore Which Leave You Alone
Barcelona has many amazing things to enjoy, and Park Güell is no exception. You can pay €34 for a Seine River Tour that takes you around the park and shows you the history of this place. You can also take a photography class that shows you the aesthetic beauties of Park Güell. Finally, if you’re looking for something more adventurous, try walking up to the top of the sculpture and spend some time really enjoying the sights.
8) It Has a Site Specific Time Travel Experience
The Park Güell offers visitors the chance to experience time travel as if they were in 1920s Barcelona. While the park is open during the day, it changes into a 1920s Paris at night. For about 10 days in April and May, this is the only place where you can experience time travel. This event’s ticket starts at €34 and includes transportation from one of Barcelona’s metro stations.
The Park Güell is one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions. If you have never experienced it before, I encourage you to visit it soon with your family.
Park Güell is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Barcelona. It’s not difficult to get to via public transportation and walking, but it’s best if you take a taxi. Although the parking is free, it’s best to ask the driver for directions because sometimes you need to park very close to the park entrance.