The Sagrada Família is one of Barcelona’s most striking landmarks. Designed by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudí, this extraordinary basilica has been under construction for more than a century. Blending neo-Gothic architecture with Catalan Modernism, it’s one of those sights that simply has to be on your Barcelona wish list.
Building work first began in 1882, with Gaudí taking over the project a year later. He devoted more than 40 years of his life to shaping the basilica, constantly refining and developing his designs. After his death in 1926, work continued under the guidance of his assistant, Domènec Sugrañes, and construction has carried on ever since. Today, every ticket purchased helps bring Gaudí’s vision closer to completion.
Gaudí’s connection to the basilica remains strong. In fact, he is buried in the crypt beneath the church. Mass is still celebrated here every Sunday, and the crypt itself has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sagrada Família is widely considered Gaudí’s masterpiece and remains one of Barcelona’s most visited attractions, with options including fast-track entry, audio guides, guided tours and tower access.
The story of the Sagrada Família is still being written. As construction continues, new sections and details are constantly taking shape. In 2026, a major milestone was reached with the completion of the Christ Tower, which rises 172.5 metres above the city, making this already spectacular landmark even more impressive.
Tip: Tickets for the Sagrada Família are compulsory and booking in advance is strongly recommended.
Why visit the Sagrada Família?
The Sagrada Família is unique due to its combination of architecture, symbolism and light. Inside, the stained-glass windows create a colourful spectacle that changes with the shifting sun throughout the day.
You will also discover:
Gaudí’s innovative building techniques up close
The symbolism behind the façades (with an audio guide or guided tour)
One of Barcelona’s most spectacular viewpoints
Practical information about your visit to the Sagrada Família
Accessible to visitors with reduced mobility (except the towers)
The entrance for wheelchair users is on Carrer de la Marina
Animals are not permitted, with the exception of guide dogs
Photography is permitted (without flash or a tripod)
Sagrada Família dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered; no beachwear or see-through clothing, no swimwear; shorts and skirts/dresses must be at least mid-thigh length
There is a quiet hour daily between 9.00 am and 10.00 am. During this hour, visitors are asked to remain quiet and to use headphones for audio guides.
Opening hours of the Sagrada Família
November to February: Monday to Saturday from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm, Sunday from 10.30 am to 6.00 pm
March and October: Monday to Saturday from 9.00 am to 7.00 pm, Sunday from 10.30 am to 7.00 pm
April to September: Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to 8.00 pm, Saturday from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm and Sunday from 10.30 am to 8.00 pm
25 and 26 December and 1 and 6 January: from 9.00 am to 2.00 pm
How to get to the Sagrada Família
The easiest ways to reach the Sagrada Família include by metro, by bus and on foot:
Metro: L2 (purple line) and L5 (blue line), ‘Sagrada Família’ stop
Bus: routes 19, 33, 34, D50, H10 and B24
On foot: from Plaça de Catalunya, via Passeig de Gràcia, you can take a walk of just over 30 minutes that also takes you past Casa Milà and Casa Batlló.
By car, the nearest car parks are:
Onepark - Parking Barcelona - Sagrada Familia, Plaça Sagrada Família, 9 (170 metres away)
Bond Krup - Sagrada Família, Carrer de Mallorca, 423 (240 metres away)
Want to know more about the Sagrada Família?
Would you like more background and facts about Gaudí’s masterpiece? Then read our blog article with facts and figures about the Sagrada Família and discover details that will make your visit even more interesting.
