When you are in Barcelona, you can’t escape Antonio Gaudi. His unique architectural style has become an integral part of Barcelona City and attracts tourists from all over the world.
The Catalan architect didn’t like straight lines much, so he used naturally flowing lines in all his buildings. His buildings are known for their organic shapes and colorful mosaics, which greatly increase the city’s aesthetic allure.
This guide will help you explore the best of Gaudí’s creations in Barcelona, from famous buildings to lesser-known gems.
Understanding Gaudí’s Vision
Antoni Gaudí was a Catalan architect whose style blended Modernisme (Catalan Art Nouveau), neo-Gothic, cubism, and surrealism. He drew inspiration from nature and religion, and his innovative use of ceramics, stained glass, and carpentry resulted in a distinct artistic identity.
Though not universally praised during his time, Gaudí’s works are now celebrated as masterpieces, with several declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Must-see buildings during your Gaudi tour
Here are some of Gaudí’s most iconic works in Barcelona that you should not miss during your vacation in Spain.
La Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia is Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece that has been under construction for over 100 years (yes, you read that right!). The basilica, which will be completed by 2026, blends Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Visitors love its intricate facades, towering spires, and interior features like tree-like columns and stained glass windows. You can also visit the museum to see Gaudi’s drawings, models, calculations, and tomb.
More than 3 million visitors enter the basilica annually, so it gets really crowded.
Where to buy tickets: Buying tickets online in advance is better to avoid long queues. You can get tickets with an audio guide or upgrade to include tower access. Guided tours offer deeper insights into the basilica’s design and history. Explore Tickets
Park Güell
Park Guell was supposed to be a residential complex, but when none of the locals signed up, the project was abandoned. Park Güell is now a public park with two parts – the free public park and the paid Monumental Zone, which has all of Gaudi’s unique landscaping and colorful mosaics. It features the famous “El Drac” lizard statue, the Hypostyle Hall, Nature Square, and the Gardens of Austria. The park also provides panoramic views of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea.
The park is a popular attraction and tends to be crowded. It’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid peak crowds.
Where to buy tickets: Tickets are only available online and are not sold at the venue. Besides the regular entry ticket, you can also book a guided walking tour or an electric bike tour to explore the park. Explore Tickets
Recommended
Casa Batlló
Casa Batllo is a remodeled house and one of Gaudí’s most imaginative creations, with a dragon-crest roof and skeletal balconies. It’s a masterpiece of Modernisme (Catalan Art Nouveau) and uses elements like ceramics, stone, and forged iron.
The locals also call it Casa dels Ossos or House of Bones. More than a million tourists visit this beautiful residential building annually.
Tickets: Casa Batlló offers many experiences, including a night visit. The most popular is the self-guided tour with a multimedia guide. Explore Tickets
Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
Also known as “The Stone Quarry” due to its unconventional appearance, Casa Milà is Gaudí’s last private residence. The building features a unique undulating façade, elaborate metalwork, and a rooftop with unique chimneys.
More than 3000 tourists visit the attraction daily, meaning 250 eager tourists enter the Gaudi masterpiece every hour.
Tickets: Entry tickets include an audio guide. This tourist attraction also offers night tours, featuring an audiovisual show on the rooftop. Explore Tickets
Palau Güell
Gaudi created this mansion for the Güell family, who were known to be one of his biggest patrons. Also known as the Guell Palace, it features a stunning central hall, a basement with stables, and a whimsical rooftop. Visitors love this massive building’s sophisticated design and intricate details.
Tickets: Entry tickets include an audio guide. Explore Tickets
Short on time? Check out our guide on whether to visit Park Guell or Palau Guell?
Casa Vicens
Gaudí’s first major project, Casa Vicens, is a private house with Moorish and Mudéjar influences. It showcases a blend of Art Nouveau and oriental ceramics and has inspired Modernist design throughout Europe.
At Casa Vicens, you can invoke the Gaudi in you by participating in the Manel Diestre workshop. The renowned ceramicist in charge of House Vicens’ ceramic restoration will show you how the building’s distinctive tiles were made, and you get to create your own.
Tickets: Entry tickets include an audio guide. Explore Tickets
Other Notable Gaudí Works
Besides the main attractions, several other works by Gaudí are worth exploring:
Cascada Fountain at Parc de la Ciutadella: Though designed by Josep Fontseré, Gaudí contributed to this fountain, one of his earliest projects.
El Drac de Gaudí at Güell Pavilions: The wrought-iron gate at the entrance of Finca Güell, representing a dragon, is a remarkable sight.
Casa Calvet: Considered Gaudí’s most conventional work, this building reflects Baroque influences.
Cripta de la Colonia Güell: This crypt outside of Barcelona is a precursor to the Sagrada Familia.
Torre Bellesguard: One of Gaudí’s only buildings incorporating straight lines, this edifice provides beautiful views.
Street Lamps: Gaudí designed the lampposts for Plaça Reial, which feature a dragon and winged helmet.
Street Tiles: The hexagonal starfish and sea snail tiles on Passeig de Gracia were designed by Gaudí.
Finca Miralles Gate: This gate in the Sarrià district is an example of Gaudi’s unique style, with an undulating form and reptilian-like appearance.
Planning your Gaudí tour
To make the most of your Gaudí tour, consider these tips:
- Book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines and potential price increases.
- Choose guided tours for a deeper understanding of Gaudí’s works.
- Utilize public transportation such as the metro and buses to travel between sites.
- Visit popular sites such as Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Batllo and Casa Mila early in the morning to avoid large crowds.
- Consider a walking tour to see multiple sites within the city center.
- Utilize a Tourist Card: The Barcelona Pass or the Go City All-Inclusive Pass can save you time and money with access to multiple attractions.
- Take advantage of combined tickets, such as the Gaudi Bundle for Park Guell and La Sagrada Familia, or a combined ticket for Casa Batllo, La Pedrera, and Casa Vicens, to save money.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if planning an outdoor walking tour.
- Check opening hours for each location, as they may vary based on the season.
Gaudi Museums
To learn more about Gaudí, you can visit these museums:
- Gaudi House Museum: Located in Park Güell, this museum showcases Gaudí’s furniture design and provides a glimpse into his life.
- Gaudi Experience: This museum features interactive exhibits and a 4D film that explores Gaudi’s legacy.
- National Museum of Catalan Art (MNAC): You can find several furniture pieces by Gaudí here and other Catalan artists’ works.
Complete Gaudi Tour tickets
The Complete Gaudi Tour ticket includes a pre-reserved entrance for Casa Batlo during the morning and Casa Vicens during the evening.
You will be assisted by a local guide during this tour, which includes two transfers by public and private transport.
With this skip-the-line ticket, you can also visit Park Guell and La Sagrada Familia.
The operators will also provide you with headsets to enhance your experience.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (11+ years): €239
Child Ticket (2 to 10 years): €227
