When you think of Barcelona, the color blue may come to mind, but once acquainted, you find that it’s also a place of pleasant greenery, giving a breath of fresh air to this urban city.
So whether you live in Barcelona or are planning to visit, take a step away from the sea and enjoy some afternoon strolls in Barcelona’s best parks and gardens.
Parc del Laberint d’Horta
Step into Alice in Wonderland as this park features Barcelona’s oldest garden and has an impressive labyrinth with several beautiful fountains and sculptures. Wandering through this unusual and pretty place is certainly a unique way of spending a couple of hours off the beaten path.
Bonus: You can spot nice views of the city and even the sea from certain angles at this park. It’s in the Horta and Guinardò district, so a bit out of the center, but completely worth the metro ride.
Note: This park has an entrance fee of a just a couple of euros.
- Metro Mundet (L3)
Jardines de Mossen Costa i Llobera
Cactus lovers everywhere will adore wandering around this garden park as it’s filled with a variety of different cacti plants, big and small. Located in Montjuïc, this is a great park to stop by when exploring about the city, especially when around Plaça Espanya.
- Metro Paral-lel (L3/L2)
Jardines de Laribal
Once an old estate, Jardines de Laribal is a big, yet peaceful garden in Montjuïc. You’ll see enchanting little fountains and cozy terraces surrounded by a variety of flowers, trees and water features. There’s even a lovely café restaurant nestled nicely into this public garden. I would say it’s the most under-rated park/garden in Barcelona, but for that I am grateful as it remains a serene and relaxing getaway unlike many other parks in the city.
- Metro Paral-lel (L3/L2)
Park Güell
I suppose no article about Barcelona parks would be complete without mentioning the famous Park Güell located in Gracia. This park features works of Antoni Gaudí such as his gingerbread house buildings and his ceramic benches. With great views of the city, this park is a must for Gaudí and cityscape lovers alike.
Note: Parts of this park are free, but there is an entrance fee to several parts including the famous benches. Purchase tickets online to avoid disappointment as availability tends to fill up quickly.
- Metro Lesseps (L3)
Parc de la Ciutadella
A busy and central place to relax with friends or a book, among many other park-goers. You’ll see all sorts of things in this park: circus acts, bubble blowers, picnics, runners, yoga classes, views of Arc de Trimof, and so much more. One of the best things to do here is just people watch; you’d never get bored.
Also in Parc de la Ciutadella, there is a pond where you can take canoe rides, see lovely architectural buildings, and visit the Barcelona Zoo (if you’re into animal prisoners — sorry). It’s the perfect park to visit if you’re short on time in Barcelona as it’s located just between El Born and Barceloneta neighborhoods.
- Metro Jaume I (L4) or Arc de Trimof (L1)
What are your thoughts? Would you add any parks to this list? Share your ideas in the comments below!
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