Insider’s Guide to Visiting the Sagrada Familia

A trip to Barcelona is incomplete without visiting its most iconic (though unfinished) masterpiece!

The Sagrada Familia tops every list of things to do in Barcelona, and for good reason. The glittering stained glass windows, towering columns and arches, and intricate architectural details will take your breath away. However, even the most impressive sites can overwhelm you if you do not plan ahead! This guide to visiting the Sagrada Familia helps you make the most of your time at one of Barcelona’s top monuments.

Buying Tickets

First things first: before visiting the Sagrada Familia, you need tickets! Fortunately, you have several options when it comes to securing your spot.

• Buy tickets online in advance to guarantee entry, avoid long lines, and save money.

• Choose your preferred entry time and skip the line if you purchase ahead.

• Consider same-day tickets if your plans are flexible, but remember that long lines and limited capacity may leave you without a spot.

How to Get There

Next, you need to navigate your way through Barcelona to reach the Sagrada Familia. The famous church sits tucked away in a corner of the Eixample district, not far from Gracia. Public transportation makes the journey easy. Metro lines 2 and 5 both stop at Sagrada Familia station. Several local buses pass by on their routes.

Once you arrive, you can access the general entrance along Carrer de la Marina. If you still need to buy tickets, you can do so at the ticket office on the opposite side of the building (along Carrer de Sardenya). Always check the opening hours before you go, as they can change throughout the year or during special events.

Important Highlights When Visiting the Sagrada Familia

Almost everywhere you look inside the Sagrada Familia impresses! Nevertheless, you will enjoy your visit more if you know what you are seeing. Pick up an audio guide at the entrance or download the official app before your visit. The guide explains Gaudí’s creative vision and the church’s fascinating history as you explore.

Notably, the church is still under construction and has been for more than 130 years! This process creates obvious differences in colors and styles throughout the building. You can spot the contrasted coloring of the stone in the front and back of the church. Try to notice the differences in the architecture between the old and new parts, too!

If you want breathtaking views of the city, climb up one of the four towers. Elevators and winding staircases take you almost to the top. The hike is steep and narrow, but the spectacular postcard views reward your effort. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when crowds are thinner and the stained glass glows with magical light.

Additionally, you should go below ground and check out the Gaudi Museum in the basement. This unique museum gives you more context and a closer look at the iconic architect’s life and work.

Before your visit, remember to respect the dress code. Modest attire is required due to the basilica’s religious significance.

• Cover your shoulders.

• Wear shorts or skirts of an appropriate length.

Update notice: This post was updated on May 14, 2023.

FAQ Visiting Sagrada Familia

How can I skip the line at the Sagrada Familia?
A: You can easily skip the line by purchasing your tickets online in advance. This option lets you select your entry time and walk straight inside. As a result, you avoid waiting in long queues, especially during peak hours.

Is there a dress code at the Sagrada Familia?
Yes, there is a dress code. Since the Sagrada Familia is a place of worship, visitors must dress modestly. This means covering shoulders and avoiding shorts or skirts that are too short. Wearing proper attire shows respect for the basilica’s religious importance.

Are audio guides available at the Sagrada Familia?
Absolutely! You can get audio guides at the entrance. The guides offer a fascinating way to discover the history, architecture, and secrets of Gaudí’s masterpiece. Also, you can download the official app for a self-guided audio experience.

When is the best time to visit the Sagrada Familia?
The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These times usually have smaller crowds and allow you to enjoy soft, colorful light streaming through the stained glass.

Shine a light on the mysteries and legendary stories of Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia and toast it with a glass of cava from an unforgettable viewpoint. Join our Sagrada Familia Closing Time Experience: Evening Light & Rooftop Views to do just that!