Experiences
Sagrada Família and Gaudí's Barcelona: tickets, tips and hotels
A church still under construction, a park of mosaic benches and houses that seem to ripple. How to experience the Sagrada Família and Gaudí's Barcelona, and where to stay in the city.
Inside the church the columns rise like trees, branching high up beneath the roof. Sunlight streams through the stained glass and colours the floor green, blue and orange. It is quiet, even though the place is full.
The Sagrada Família is Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece, and construction has been under way since the 1880s. The church and several other Gaudí buildings in Barcelona are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here is how to see them, and where to stay.
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How to visit the Sagrada Família
Every ticket has a fixed entry time, and they sell out quickly. Buy in advance.
The towers: a separate ticket with a lift up and stairs down. Choose the Nativity or the Passion façade.
Audio guide: explains the symbolism of the façades and the interior.
Light: mornings and afternoons bring different colours through the stained glass.
Book the experience: See tickets and tours in Barcelona
More Gaudí in Barcelona
Gaudí left his mark all over the city, and several of his houses are open to visitors.
Park Güell
Gaudí's park above the city.
Park Güell
The park on the hill above the city has mosaic benches, snaking walls and views over Barcelona. The monumental area requires a timed ticket.
Casa Batlló
The house on Passeig de Gràcia has a façade that recalls shells and waves. Inside there are almost no straight lines.
La Pedrera
Casa Milà, known as La Pedrera, is famous for its roof terrace of sculptural chimneys. Visit in the evening for a different experience.
Where to stay in Barcelona
Eixample is handy for Gaudí, and the beach is a short taxi ride away.
Hotel Casa Fuster
A Modernista building in Barcelona.
Hotel Casa Fuster
Casa Fuster is in a Modernista building at the top of Passeig de Gràcia. You stay in a building from the same era as Gaudí's work, with a roof terrace and views.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Casa Fuster
Cotton House Hotel, Autograph Collection
Cotton House is in the former headquarters of the cotton guild in Eixample, with elegant interiors and a rooftop pool.
Book your stay: See rooms at Cotton House Hotel, Autograph Collection
Hotel Arts Barcelona
On the beach in Barcelona.
Hotel Arts Barcelona
Hotel Arts is on the beach by Port Olímpic, with views over the sea and the city. Combine Gaudí with sun and sea.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Arts Barcelona
When is the best time to visit the Sagrada Família?
Spring and autumn: comfortable temperatures. Book tickets well ahead.
Summer: hot and busy. Go early.
Winter: fewer people and low light through the stained glass.
Sagrada Família FAQ
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, timed tickets sell out quickly.
Is it worth going up the towers?
Yes, for the views and the close-up details. Tower tickets are sold separately.
When will the Sagrada Família be finished?
Construction is still under way.
What other Gaudí buildings should I see?
Park Güell, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera.
Where should I stay?
In Eixample for easy access to Gaudí, or by the beach.