Where to see the best views of Barcelona for free
For a great view you don’t necessarily need to buy a ticket to go to the top of the Christopher Columbus statue! Barcelona is bursting with high panoramic viewpoints from where you can stop and admire the view of the city from above.
1. The most panoramic: Les 3 creus
When you think of Parc Güell, you immediately imagine the mosaic salamander and the curved and colourful benches. However Gaudí’s works only occupy a small part of this big park.
Far from the ticketed exhibition, via paths lined with lush vegetation, you arrive at the mirador de les 3 creus (the three-crosses viewpoint). The clear view offers a superb panorama over Barcelona.
Why? To discover a hidden side to Park Güell
When? 30th October to 26th March 8:30am to 6:15pm, 27th March to 1st May 8am to 8:30pm, 1st May to 28th August 8am to 9:30pm and 29th August to 29th October 8am to 8:30pm
Where? Olot 13 (Gràcia), metro Vallcarca (L3)
2. The most versatile: Montjuïc
From the top of Montjuïc hill you can admire Barcelona from every angle. The Miró Foundation terrace, the Montjuïc castle, the Olympic swimming pool, MNAC (National Museum of Catalan Art) and the many parks all offer splendid views of the city, hotel W or the industrial port. Don’t forget your camera!
Why? For a rural and cultural walk
When? Every day of the year
Where? Montjuïc hill
3. The most central: El Corte Inglès
A view of the most central square in Barcelona can be had from the 9th floor of the Corte Inglès shopping centre, on the Plaça Catalunya. Perfect for watching the city swarm at your feet!
Note: the observation point is the “Plaça Gastro Market” restaurant and you may not be able to access it without buying something. Try outside of meal times to have a better chance, and if it’s at sunset it’s even better.
Why? To see another side of the Plaça Catalunya
When? Monday to Saturday 10am to 8:30pm
Where? Plaça Catalunya 14 (Gothic), metro Catalunya (L1, L3, L6, L7)
4. The most secret: Mirador baterías antiaéreas
One thing is sure, if you don’t know the Mirador baterías antiaéreas you’re unlikely to find it by accident! This viewpoint is off the tourist trail, and is a well kept Barcelona secret. Great for a picnic!
Why? To get off the beaten track
When? Every day of the year
Where? Carrer de Marià Labèrnia (Hortà-Guinardo), bus nº24, 28, 92, 86, 119
5. The most lively: Las Arenas panoramic terrace
On the top floor of the Las Arenas shopping centre, in the old arenas, this large circular terrace surrounded by cafés and restaurants goes all around the building and offers a special view of the Plaça Espanya, the MNAC and Montjuïc.
Why? To stretch your legs after a shopping break
When? Monday to Saturday 10am to 10pm
Where? Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 373-385 (Eixample Esquerra), metro Espanya (L1, L3)
6. The highest: Tibidabo esplanade
The Tibidabo esplanade is located at Barcelona’s highest peak, so logically it offers a spectacular view of the Catalan capital!
It’s not the easiest place to get to but it is worth it…particularly if you also take the opportunity to stop at Tibidabo amusement park.
Why? To escape!
When? Every day of the year
Where? Plaça Tibidabo (special bus T2A or funicular)
And if you want to prolong the experience, we invite you to stroll along the Carretera de les Aigües: a walk above Barcelona with beautiful panoramic views.
