Park Güell Review – Park Güell is a must-visit landmark for first-time visitors to Barcelona, Spain. This park combines Antoni Gaudí’s architectural genius with natural elements and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This article provides an overview of the history, must-see highlights, best visiting times, ticket information, and transportation guide, helping you plan your trip to Barcelona with ease.
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Contents
- Why Should You Visit Park Güell? (History and Features)
- How to Get to Park Güell? (With Maps Link)
- Park Güell Opening Hours and Tickets
- Best Time to Visit Park Güell
- Highlights of Park Güell (Multiple Images)
- Frequently Asked Questions about Park Güell
- Other Attractions Near Park Güell
Why Should You Visit Park Güell? (History and Features)
Park Güell is a masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, combining unique designs of nature and art, located on a hillside in Barcelona. Originally intended as a residential area for the wealthy, it was eventually transformed into the public park we see today due to difficulties in selling the properties. It serves as an oasis for local residents to relax and attracts countless visitors from all over the world.
Rating：🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎｜A Must-Visit for First-Time Visitors to Barcelona
The lizard and the colonnade seen from the main entrance
Historic Background
The creation of Park Güell dates back to 1900 when the renowned Spanish industrialist, Eusebi Güell, commissioned Antoni Gaudí to design an upscale residential area inspired by English garden cities. The goal was to provide a healthy and beautiful living environment for wealthy families. The park is located on a hillside in Barcelona, known as the “Bare Mountain” by locals, offering a prime location with stunning views of the city plains and the Mediterranean Sea.
Original Plan for 60 Luxury Homes
According to the original plan, the area was to be divided into approximately 60 triangular plots, with each plot limited to only one-sixth of its area for construction. Strict guidelines were put in place to control the height and positioning of the buildings, ensuring that each house would have a sea view and ample sunlight. To adapt to the mountainous terrain, Gaudí designed winding roads, arch bridges, and staircases, while preserving the area’s Mediterranean vegetation, including olive trees and carob trees, and introducing drought-resistant plants to maintain the natural ecosystem. Additionally, he created a rainwater collection and storage system, inspired by irrigation techniques from his rural childhood, which not only prevented soil erosion caused by heavy rains but also provided water for the residents of the park.
The view from the main entrance
Only two buildings were completed before abandonment
The construction of Park Güell officially began in October 1900, and the initial stages of the project progressed smoothly. By 1903, the park had completed several key features, including the two distinctive pavilions at the entrance, the main staircase, the waiting pavilion, part of the large platform, and a fully functional drainage system. By 1907, the large square in the park had become a venue for civic activities, and the structure of the Hypostyle Room was completed. The mosaic benches surrounding the square were finished in 1914.
In 1906, Gaudí moved into a show house designed by his assistant, where he lived with his father and niece. That same year, Quell’s friend Martí Trias i Domènech purchased a plot of land and built the first private residence. In 1907, Quell converted an existing building in the park, Casa Larrard, into his own residence and used the park as his private garden. During this time, many public events were held in the park.
However, due to strict sales conditions, poor transport links, and an overly exclusive target market, there were very few buyers. As a result, the development project was cancelled in 1914, with only two of the planned 60 houses completed.
Mr. Güell’s residence (on the right), now converted into a primary school
Converted into a public park and a primary school
With the passing of Mr. Güell in 1918, his family decided to sell the land to the Barcelona city government. In 1922, the park was purchased by the city, and officially opened to the public in 1926. The Güell family residence was later converted into the Baldiri Reixac School (Escola Baldiri Reixac), while the area on the left side of the entrance became a municipal flower nursery. The house where Gaudí had lived was opened as the Gaudí Museum in 1963.
Today, Park Güell is not only a public space integrated with nature, but also an artistic temple showcasing Gaudí’s genius design. It is beloved by the people of Barcelona and remains a must-visit landmark for tourists from around the world.
The gingerbread house at the main entrance of Park Güell
How to Get to Park Güell? (With Maps Link)
- Metro：Line L3, Lesseps or Vallcarca stations, a 20-minute walk to the park entrance.
- Buses：Take H6 or D40 to the nearest stop, then walk to the park.
Google Maps Link
Park Güell Opening Hours and Tickets
Opening Hours
- Tourists hours: 09:30 - 17:30
Tickets / Tours
- Official Adult Price：Starting from 2025 – €18 (self-guided tour) | €22 (guided tour)
- Go City Barcelona Pass: Free（Guided Tour）｜Pass Purchase Link
- Entry Ticket：Get Your Guide
Best Time to Visit Park Güell
- Morning or evening: The light is softer, perfect for photos, and there are fewer people.
- Avoid weekends and public holidays: Weekdays tend to be much quieter.
Highlights of Park Güell (Multiple Images)
1. Entrance Pavilions
The two colourful entrance pavilions, resembling gingerbread houses from a fairytale, feature a unique and distinctive decorative style.
The gingerbread house at the main entrance of Park Güell
The gingerbread house at the main entrance of Park Güell
2. El Drac
The colourful mosaic lizard located at the main staircase is the iconic landmark of Park Güell.
The iconic mosaic lizard of Park Güell
Ergonomically designed seating behind the mosaic lizard
3. Hypostyle Room
The space, supported by 86 massive columns, is inspired by natural caves, with a stunning colourful mosaic ceiling at the top.
Ceiling of the Hypostyle Room
Hypostyle Room
4. The Grand Plaza (Plaça de la Natura)
Enjoy panoramic views and take in the stunning cityscape of Barcelona.
The Grand Plaza offers a panoramic view of the city and coastline, with the still-under-construction Sagrada Família in the distance
Ergonomically designed seating that facilitates communication and has drainage functionality
Intricate mosaic details on the seating
Rainwater collection feature
5. Viaducts
The unique arched walkway blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment.
Viaducts
Viaducts
Viaducts
6. Gaudí House Museum
Located within the park, it displays some of Gaudí’s works and personal life exhibits (additional ticket required).
Gaudí House Museum
Frequently Asked Questions about Park Güell
1. How long should I spend at Park Güell?
About 2 hours to fully explore the main attractions, but if you plan to visit the museum, it’s recommended to allow an extra hour.
2. Can I bring a backpack into Park Güell?
Yes, but it’s advised to avoid carrying large luggage as some areas require passing through narrow passages and stairways.
3. Is Park Güell suitable for children, pregnant women, or the elderly?
Some areas of the park have steep slopes and stairs, but the main areas are family, pregnant, and elderly friendly. It’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Other Attractions Near Park Güell
Casa Vicens
This house is one of Gaudí’s early significant works, showcasing his innovative use of colour and materials.
It can be combined with a half-day or full-day itinerary along with Park Güell.
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