Barcelona is a city to savor and experience in the summer! You’ll find hundreds of activities, and it’s not just known for its stunning architecture and beaches, but also for its numerous green spaces. Want to discover them?
Barcelona’s parks and gardens not only offer a break from the urban hustle and bustle, but they are also perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean climate, especially during the hot summer months. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax, an area to exercise outdoors, or simply a space to have a picnic with friends, Barcelona’s parks and gardens have everything you need to enjoy the season.
Here’s a guide to the best parks and gardens in the city, perfect for cooling off this summer. Discover them!
Parc de la Ciutadella
Located near the city center, in one of the best neighborhoods in Barcelona, between the Born district and the Olympic Village, Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the largest and most popular green spaces in Barcelona. With its stunning lake, where you can rent rowboats, and its spectacular Grand Cascade designed by Gaudí, this park is perfect for a summer afternoon. Its wide, shaded green areas are ideal for a picnic, while its tree-lined paths offer a cool place to walk or exercise.
Jardins de Montjuïc
On Montjuïc hill, accessible from Plaça d’Espanya or via the Montjuïc cable car, the Montjuïc Gardens offer a unique combination of nature and culture. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the sea, explore various themed gardens like the Botanical Garden and the Mossèn Costa i Llobera Garden, known for its collection of cacti and succulents. The gardens are filled with fountains and shaded areas, perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
In addition, Montjuïc is home to several museums, such as the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC), the Joan Miró Foundation, and the Barcelona Ethnological Museum, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. You can also visit the iconic Montjuïc Castle and enjoy the cultural and historical richness this hill has to offer.
Parc del Laberint d’Horta
In the Horta-Guinardó neighborhood, north of the city, Parc del Laberint d’Horta is Barcelona’s oldest garden and a hidden gem offering a unique experience. Famous for its cypress maze, it’s an ideal place to get lost and enjoy a peaceful and cool environment. In addition to the maze, the park features neoclassical and romantic gardens, ponds, fountains, and mythological sculptures. Its lush surroundings and numerous shaded corners make it the perfect place to escape the heat and enjoy nature.
Jardins de la Tamarita
In the Sarrià-Sant Gervasi neighborhood, near the foot of Tibidabo mountain, Jardins de la Tamarita, though less known, are a tranquil oasis in the city. Originally part of a private estate, these gardens offer an intimate and serene atmosphere with winding paths, ornamental fountains, and a wide variety of exotic and native plants. Their cool, shaded areas are perfect for relaxing with a good book or simply enjoying the sound of the birds.
Park Güell
In the Gràcia neighborhood, accessible on foot or by public transport, Park Güell is one of the most iconic spots in Barcelona, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. This park, with its iconic terrace adorned with vibrant mosaic tiles and its stunning views of the city, is a must-see for all visitors to Barcelona. Besides its architectural beauty, the park offers numerous green and shaded areas where you can relax and enjoy the coolness of the natural surroundings.
Parc de la Creueta del Coll
In the Gràcia neighborhood, near Park Güell, Parc de la Creueta del Coll is known for its pond that turns into a swimming pool (although not very deep) in the summer, providing a perfect spot to cool off. In addition to the pond, the park features vast green areas, picnic zones, children’s playgrounds, and a monumental sculpture by Eduardo Chillida. Its panoramic views and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal place to spend a summer day.
As you can see, Barcelona is a city that offers numerous green spaces where locals and tourists alike can enjoy the outdoors and cool off during the summer. Each of these parks and gardens has its own charm and offers something unique. Want to explore them all? This summer, don’t hesitate to discover these green oases and enjoy everything Barcelona has to offer!
