Tips on Visiting Park Gϋell: A Gaudi Masterpiece in Barcelona

If you’re looking for a place to truly see the masterpieces of Antoni Gaudi, a Spanish architect and an overall hero in Barcelona, Park Gϋell is the place you’ll want to be.  I’m sure Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s famous church, is on your itinerary, and if it’s not then you’ll definitely be missing out. (Click here for tips on a perfect visit to Sagrada Familia.) But today is all about the outrageous architecture of Park Gϋell!  First, I’ll fill you in on ten tips to make the most of your visit, and then I’ll take you on a little tour of my favorite areas of the park.

FIRST OFF…WHAT IN THE WORLD IS PARK GϋELL?

Park Gϋell (pronounced Gwell, as my cab driver corrected me) was intended to be a housing development for the wealthy citizens of Barcelona.  Eusebi Gϋell contracted Gaudi to design it, but the plans fell through because of lack of interest and funds and only two out of the 60 planned houses were actually constructed there.  The city, who has a love…and I mean LOVE for Gaudi, turned it into a public park. It is now one of the most visited places in Barcelona.

READY FOR SOME TIPS?

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Tips on Visiting Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s Must-See Creation in Barcelona

One name you will hear repeated throughout your visit in Barcelona, is of the Catalonian architect, Antoni Gaudi.  He is a hero in these parts and after taking one look at his creations, you’ll see why.  Sagrada Familia, a Roman Catholic church, is one of Gaudi’s most famous creations.  Construction began in 1883 and he worked on it until his death in 1926.  Construction continued throughout the years and as of now it is about 70% complete.  But don’t let the fact that it’s not finished stop you from visiting because it is hands-down the most beautiful church I’ve ever seen.  It is my #1 recommendation for Barcelona, but trust me…lots of people will have it on their agenda too, so here are…

10 Tips for a Perfect Visit to Sagrada Familia

BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE…SERIOUSLY!  This is the one tip that I would stress the most.  I felt so bad seeing the look on people’s faces when they showed up at the gates and saw the sign that read, “No tickets left for purchase today.” The best way to purchase tickets is through the website.  You can keep your tickets right on your phone, or print them out. (FYI…I always print out my tickets and keep them on me as a backup.) I would recommend buying tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance.  (I’m pretty sure they are available 2 months ahead of time.)

GET THERE ON TIME: Tickets are allocated in 15-minute time slots and they are not joking when they say you MUST be there at your assigned time.  They do this so it keeps the entrance to the church running smoothly, so don’t expect them to make an exception for you.  I’ve heard they will turn you away if you miss your time slot and that would be a waste of money.  Once you get inside you can stay for as long as you want.

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