Magic Fountain (Font Màgica)

The Basics

Designed by Carles Buigas, the Magic Fountain is one of Barcelona’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing almost 2.5 million annual visitors. Stop by the fountain after dark to enjoy a range of uniquely choreographed spectacles—soundtracks range from classical scores to a remix of Barcelona by Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé, while the fountain’s water acrobatics are performed by 3,620 jets and reach heights of 177 feet (54 meters). Guided tours of the Montjuic neighborhood often include a stop at the fountain during the day, and night tours—evening bike tours, bus tours, and nightlife tours—often feature the free fountain show.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Magic Fountain of Montjuic is a must-see for families with kids and first-time visitors.

• Each fountain show lasts about 20 minutes.

• Stand upwind of the fountain to avoid getting wet.

How to Get There

The Magic Fountain is located at the foot of Montjuic Mountain, a hilltop Barcelona neighborhood, near the famous Placa Espanya square. The easiest way to get there is via the metro, getting off at Espanya station. Bus 55 also stops near the fountain, as do most hop-on, hop-off bus tours.

When to Get There

To experience the fountain in its full glory, it’s best to visit during one of the synchronized light and sounds shows. The light show schedule varies by season, with nightly shows on weekend evenings and an extended summer schedule. It’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early to get a good spot during summer.

Where to Find Great Views of the Magic Fountain

The former bullring in Placa Espanya, now a shopping center, offers excellent panoramic views of the Magic Fountain, Montjuic Palace, and the entire city of Barcelona. Ride the escalators to the top floor, where restaurants circle the rooftop and the spectacular views are completely free.

Ways to explore

Stop by the fountain after dark to enjoy a range of uniquely choreographed spectacles—soundtracks range from classical scores to a remix of Barcelona by Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé—while the fountain’s water acrobatics are performed by hundreds of jets set to flashing lights. Tours of the Montjuic neighborhood often include a stop at the fountain during the day, while many night tours attend the free fountain show, such as evening bike tours, bus tours, and nightlife tours.

Accessibility

The fountain viewing area is flat and even, with spaces for wheelchairs.

Age limits

None; kids are sure to love the show.

What to pack

Bring a picnic to enjoy in Montjuic Park before the evening show.

What to wear

You might get splashed by the fountain during the performance (welcome during hot days), so bring a poncho in case.

Not allowed

Littering, BBQs, overnight camping in the park

Amenities

Benches, free shows

Address

The Magic Fountain is located on Plaça de Carles Buigas in the Montjuic part of the city. Plan to be here for a few hours to visit the area’s many attractions.

Driving

If you can, it’s best to avoid driving in central Barcelona, as traffic can be congested and parking limited. Opt for public transportation or a tour with included travel instead.

Public transportation

The closest metro station is Plaça d'Espanya on lines 1 and 3, which is around a 7-minute walk. Buses 23, 37, H12, and H16 also stop nearby.

Best times to visit

Magic Fountain shows typically start at 8pm, 9pm, or 10pm, depending on the season.

Best days to visit

Shows run from Wednesday to Sunday in summer and from Thursday to Sunday during the rest of the year, except in January and February when fountain shows don’t take place.

Best months to visit

The fountain often closes in the summer months to conserve water during droughts, so check the schedule for updates before your visit.

Special events

The light show schedule varies by season, with nightly shows on weekend evenings and an extended summer schedule.