Both Park Güell and Palau Güell (also known as Guell Palace) are incredible examples of Antoni Gaudí’s genius, but they offer different experiences.
Park Guell is an outdoor masterpiece with colorful mosaics, unique architecture, and beautiful gardens. It’s perfect for those who love open spaces, nature, and panoramic city views. On the other hand, Palau Güell is a stunning mansion showcasing Gaudí’s early architectural brilliance. It showcases the modernist design and lifestyle of the elite families of the 20th century.
If you’re short on time, choosing between the two depends on preference—do you prefer vibrant outdoor landscapes or elegant interiors? If time allows, you can visit both in one day, as they are about 5 km apart and easily connected by metro.
In this guide, we’ll compare Park Güell and Palau Güell and help you decide which is the better choice for you!
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Table of Contents
What is Park Güell?
Park Güell is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous works. It was originally designed as a residential complex, but when the project didn’t succeed, the city transformed it into a public park in 1926. The park features colorful mosaics, organic shapes, and stunning viewpoints, making it a perfect blend of nature and architecture.
Related: Discover how to go to Sagrada Familia from Park Guell
What visitors can expect at Park Güell
Park Güell is ideal for those who love outdoor spaces and is known for its unique landscaping and colorful mosaics. Some of its highlights include:
- El Drac (The Dragon) – Don’t miss this famous colorful mosaic lizard at the entrance.
- Hypostyle Hall – A grand space with 86 towering stone columns.
- Nature Square – A large open area featuring Gaudí’s intricate carvings.
- Gardens of Austria – A beautiful green space with various tree species.
- Gaudi House Museum – The former home of Antoni Gaudí, displaying his personal furnishings and designs.
With its stunning city views and creative architecture, Park Güell is a great place for families, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts.
Related: Your Guide to Getting from Sagrada Familia to Park Guell
Things to know before visiting
- Tickets & Cost: Entry costs €13 per person and should be booked in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited.
- Opening Hours: The park is open daily from 9.30 am to 6 pm, with the last entry at 5.30 pm.
- Crowds: Expect large crowds, as it attracts over 9 million visitors annually. Visiting early in the morning can help you avoid peak crowds.
- Accessibility: You can reach the park by buses H6, D40, 24, and 92 or take the Green Line (L3) metro. Be prepared for some uphill walking from the nearest stops.
Park Guell is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Gaudí’s creative genius in an open, natural setting!
Did you know that Park Guell was never intended to be a park? Know many more interesting Park Guell facts.
What is Palau Güell?
Palau Guell is a stunning mansion designed by Antoni Gaudi between 1886 and 1888 for Eusebi Güell, a wealthy industrialist. Located in El Raval, near La Rambla, this masterpiece is an early example of Gaudí’s modernist style. Unlike Park Güell, which is an open park, Palau Güell is an elegant indoor space, showcasing intricate details and a grand design. The UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts visitors interested in Gaudí’s early architectural experiments.
What visitors can expect at Palau Güell
A visit to Palau Güell takes you through ornate halls, decorative ceilings, and beautifully designed spaces. Some of its key highlights include:
- Grand Reception Room – A spectacular hall with a ceiling designed to resemble a starlit sky.
- Basement Stables – A unique underground space once used for housing horses.
- Piano Nobile – The main living space featuring a parabolic dome and elegant furnishings.
- Roof Terrace – A standout feature with 20 colorful chimneys and a spire, offering stunning city views.
Palau Güell provides an intimate look into Gaudí’s early work, combining Gothic, Moorish, and modernist influences in one breathtaking structure.
Things to know before visiting
- Tickets & Cost: Entry tickets cost €12 per person.
- Opening Hours: The mansion is open from 10 am to 8 pm between 1 April and 30 September. From 1 October to 31 March, the opening hours are 10 am to 5:30 pm. It is closed on Mondays.
- Crowds: It is less crowded than Park Güell, making it a great option for a quieter, more immersive experience.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable by buses V13, 59, 91, and 120, or take the Metro Liceu (Line 3).
If you’re interested in Gaudi’s architectural evolution and a glimpse into Barcelona’s aristocratic past, Palau Güell is a must-visit!
Which attraction is best for you
Choosing between Park Güell and Palau Güell depends on your interests and travel style.
- Park Güell is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor spaces, colorful mosaics, and panoramic views. Its playful atmosphere makes it ideal for families and anyone who wants to experience Gaudí’s creativity in nature.
- Palau Güell is best for visitors interested in Gaudí’s early work and architectural details. It offers a grand, intimate interior and a glimpse into Barcelona’s aristocratic past.
If you have a full day, you can visit both attractions. The two sites are 5 km apart and accessible via Metro Line 3 (Green Line), with a 25-minute travel time. To avoid crowds, start with Park Güell in the morning, then head to Palau Güell in the afternoon for a more relaxed experience.
