There’s a lot to see when you’re on vacation to Barcelona, Spain, and not necessarily a whole lot of time to see it all. So you want your trip to be filled with highlights instead of hyped-up attractions that turn out to be a disappointment.
Luckily, Park Güell is the perfect space for people of ages, and there is plenty to see. History buffs and fans of architecture may enjoy the house of Antoni Gaudí, a revered Catalan architect. Others can enjoy the green spaces as a breath of fresh air from the bustling city.
Keep reading to learn more about what there is to do in Park Güell, the best time to visit, and more.
What is There to See in Park Guell?
Ninety percent of Park Güell is free to the public and features an array of gardens and greenery to enjoy, while the Monumental Zone contains many historical artifacts and architecture.
Even the entrance to this United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site is a delight, with scenic pavilions standing tall on either side. This is also where you can get some of the better souvenirs of this well-loved park.
Other points of interest within Park Güell include:
- The Laundry Room Portico
- The Austria Gardens
- The Hypostyle Room
- Musicians along the paths and viaducts
What is the Size of Park Guell?
Park Güell started as a failing housing development after the idea crossed Count Eusebi Güell’s mind. Today, the park is named after the Count but has since been converted into a municipal garden of great repute.
The park covers about 12 hectares of space with a variety of attractions housed within the public and private spaces.
Some buildings and features are particularly historical and monumental thanks to the influential work of Antoni Gaudí, while other spaces are simply a great way to view the city of Barcelona.
For How Long Should You Stay at Park Guell?
This question largely depends on what you are interested in doing at Park Güell because the area can be split up into multiple sections. If you are looking to make the most out of spaces freely open to the public, an hour and a half might be enough.
Tickets for the Monumental Zone and Gaudí’s house within Park Güell are separate and will have an entrance fee associated with them. The famous architect’s house tour takes only about 30 minutes, while the average Monumental Zone visit runs about 60 minutes long.
You can mix and match the areas you want to see and the speed at which you race through each attraction to suit your preferences, but about 2 hours is a good guideline.
What Are the Most Popular Things to See at Park Guell?
Although there are many things to see and do at Park Güell, some things consistently top the list as the most popular aspects of the space.
El Drac, or the Dragon Stairway, right at the entrance to the Monumental Zone, is a classic photo opportunity for the kids. The sculpture resembles more of a salamander, so it isn’t intimidating, and its brilliant mosaic colors complement the surroundings.
Perhaps the best place to get a panoramic view of the city is at Placa De La Natura or Nature Square within the Monumental Zone.
Known for the Greek theater that used to be performed here, the space is now widely recognized for the mosaics inlaid on the serpentine bench.
When is the Best Time to visit Park Guell?
Because Spain has a lovely, Mediterranean climate all year round, the best time to visit Park Güell is much more subjective, based on what you want from your trip.
The most pleasant weather for walking around the green space would be between March to April or from September to October. This way, you can avoid the worst of the seasonal heat or relatively cool temperatures in the winter.
If you want to avoid the tourist crowd, however, you should aim to visit during the off-peak season in the winter. Plan to visit the park on a weekday between 9:30 AM and 11 AM for a peaceful visit and little to no crowds.
Final Thoughts on What to See in Park Guell
Park Güell is a must-visit attraction that Barcelona is lucky to have. With the perfect combination of history, scenic vistas, as well as time and space to relax, it’s hard not to enjoy your time at this park.
It may not be the exciting adventure that some tourists are looking for, but it is always good to slow down a bit on a whirlwind tour of the world and enjoy cultivated nature or look back on the roots of humanity.