Ciutadella Park (Parc de la Ciutadella)

The basics

Barcelona’s version of Central Park in New York ranks among the most frequented attractions in the old city. Located just northeast of the city center, not far from Barceloneta beach, the park is included in just about every small-group and private city tour. Options for tours that stop at Ciutadella Park include walking, Segway, and cycling tours through the park and other points of interest, such as Las Ramblas, La Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and Port Olímpic.

Things to know before you go

• The park is a must-see for first-time visitors.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a variety of surfaces.

• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as many areas of the park lack shade.

• See the park on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour.

How to get there

Ciutadella Park is accessible on foot from just about anywhere in the old city or Barceloneta. You can also take the metro (Line 1) to Arc de Triomf station and head toward the park along the car-free Passeig de Lluís Companys.

When to get there

The park bustles with visitors and locals throughout the day, so there’s never a bad time to visit. Weekends offer the best people-watching, as Barcelona residents often come here for picnics and recreation.

Gaudí at the park

When architect Josep Fontserè i Mestre was commissioned to update the park in advance of the 1888 International Exhibition, a young Antoni Gaudí (an architecture student at the time) caught his eye. Gaudí, whose work you can admire on many tours of Barcelona, is said to have designed some of the pipework and decorative medallions of the park’s monumental fountain.

Ways to explore

Barcelona’s version of Central Park in New York ranks among the most frequented attractions in the city. Thanks to its high concentration of attractions, Ciutadella Park is included on the itinerary of just about every Barcelona sightseeing tour. Options for tours include walking tours, Segway excursions, and guided cycling rides through the park; most include other points of interest, such as the bustling Las Ramblas boulevard, the modernist masterpiece of Sagrada Familia, and the atmospheric Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotìc).

Accessibility

Ciutadella Park and many of its attractions are wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None; kids will love the boating lake.

What to pack

A blanket to spread out on the grass, along with a Spanish tortilla to enjoy cold.

What to wear

While the paths are flat and even, comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the park and its attractions.

Not allowed

Drinking alcohol in glass bottles

Amenities

Restrooms, picnic areas, water fountains, museums, cafés

Address

Ciutadella Park is just northeast of the city center, not far from Barceloneta Beach. If you’re visiting to see the whimsical Castell dels Tres Dragons (Castle of the Three Dragons), enter through an entrance on the west side.

Driving

Leave the car if you can, as driving in Barcelona can be hectic, and the park doesn’t have its own dedicated parking lot. Make the most of public transportation, taxis, or rideshare services instead.

Public transportation

You can take the metro (Line 1) to Arc de Triomf station and head toward the park along the car-free Passeig de Lluís Companys.

Best times to visit

Ciutadella Park is a lovely place to visit in the late afternoon, after the sun has reached its zenith and temperatures begin to cool.

Best days to visit

Weekends offer the best people-watching in Ciutadella Park, when Barcelona residents often come here for picnics and recreation.

Best months to visit

The shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October offer great weather and far fewer crowds.

Special events

The park hosts a wide range of events, particularly during summer, ranging from concerts and theater to dance meet-ups.