The site of Park Güell in the north of Barcelona was originally earmarked for an up-market residential development by Count Eusebi Güell, Gaudí’s patron. The hillside location was chosen for its fresh air and beautiful views, but in the end only two houses were built and Gaudí moved into one of them. His designs for the 15-hectare park reflect his quirky sense of humour and aversion to straight lines. Construction took place between 1900 and 1914 and the park is now an essential stop-off on the Gaudí trail and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The entrance at the bottom of the hill is flanked by two gingerbread-style gatehouses, from where you can take several different routes through the parkland to the top of the steep hill. Before you start the climb, pause to take a photograph by the famous lizard fountain, known locally as “el drac” (the dragon), a multi-coloured mosaic extravaganza. The mosaic theme is reflected throughout the park, notably on the main terrace which is the park’s focal point. Take a breather on the bench which curves sinuously around the terrace in the shape of a giant sea serpent, and enjoy fabulous views over the city, dominated by the iconic spires of the Sagrada Familia. Then carry on to the park’s highest point, marked with a huge cross, for more panoramas of the bay with Montjuïc in the distance.
Once you’ve thoroughly explored the park, pay your respects to its creator at the Gaudí House Museum, Gaudí’s former home. The house itself was not designed by Gaudí but it contains items of furniture and other examples of his work, as well as souvenirs to buy.
Park Güell is open from 10 a.m. daily and closing times vary seasonally. Entry is free but the Gaudí House Museum has a modest charge. The 20-minute uphill walk from the nearest metro station can be tiring, especially on a hot day, so catch the bus for an easier journey and save your energy for the park itself.
Park Güell
Visit Park Güell
Reviews of Park Güell
3/5 - Okay
Steep hill to climb to reach park
4/5 - Good
Take the metro!
4/5 - Good
Worth booking in advance as tickets sell out.
5/5 - Excellent
Much to see without paying.
4/5 - Good
Really need to book on line in advance we. Pulsating get in to the main park and they were not taking more bookings
3/5 - Okay
Book before you go, we just turned up & couldn't get in.
Popular places to visit
Gaudi House Museum
Gaudi lived the last 20 years of his life here, in a pink castle where his presence is still felt in the architecture and furniture.
Gaudi Experiencia
Rich with history, Gaudi Experiencia is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Barcelona. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Bunker del Carmel
Learn about the local history of Barcelona when you take a trip to Bunker del Carmel. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Turo de la Rovira
Learn about the local history of Barcelona when you take a trip to Turo de la Rovira. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Casa Vicens
See the early influences of Gaudí’s iconic style in this private home close to his famous Parc Güell.
Centre d'Interpretació
You can learn about the history of Barcelona when you stop by Centre d'Interpretació. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and shops in this vibrant area.
Top Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Park Güell
- Holidays and getaways similar to Park Güell
- Hotels Near Park Güell, Gràcia
- Hotels near popular Barcelona Attractions
- Choose Your Park Güell Hotel Style
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Gaudi House Museum
- Hotels near Sagrada Familia
- Hotels near La Rambla
- Hotels near Plaça de Catalunya
- Hotels near Barcelona Cathedral
- Hotels near Camp Nou
- Hotels near Casa Mila
- Hotels near Fira Barcelona
- Hotels near Plaça d'Espanya
- Hotels near Picasso Museum
- Hotels near Boqueria Market
- Hotels near Palau Sant Jordi
- Hotels near Barcelona International Convention Centre
- Hotels near Rambla de Catalunya
- Hotels near Arc de Triomf