Fast Track Ticket
Guaranteed priority access
Mobile E-Ticket
Contactless tickets on phone
Ticket Cancellation
Refund up to 24h before
Tickets and Prices for Sagrada Família
Buying a Sagrada Família ticket online is the only guaranteed way to enter this must-see monument in Barcelona. Tickets for Sagrada Família sell out very quickly, especially during high season. If you're looking for a cheap Sagrada Família ticket, booking in advance will give you access to the best rates from €33.80.
We offer several types of Sagrada Família tickets with guaranteed fast-track access. Whether you want a simple entry ticket to the basilica, a ticket with tower access to climb the Nativity or Passion towers, or even a guided tour in English, you'll find the Sagrada Família ticket that suits your preferences and budget.
| Ticket Type | What's Included | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Entry Ticket | Access to the basilica + audio guide included | 1h - 1.5h | 33,80€ |
| Ticket with Towers | Access to the basilica + audio guide + access to one tower (Nativity or Passion) | 1.5h - 2h | 46,80€ |
| English Guided Tour | Access to the basilica + expert English-speaking guide + fast track | 1.5h | 49€ |
| Guided Tour + Tower | Access to the basilica + English guide + tower access | 2h | 89€ |
| Combo Pack Sagrada + Park Güell | Sagrada Família + Park Güell with fast track | Half-day | 55€ |
- Free for children under 11 years old (booking required)
- Reduced rate for students (international student card required)
- Reduced rate for seniors over 65 years old
- Reduced rate for people with disabilities and their companion
- Free for unemployed persons (proof required)
Good to Know
Tickets are name-based and linked to a specific time slot. It is essential to book in advance, especially during high season (April to October). The on-site ticket office is often sold out several days in advance.
Price Comparison Across Platforms
Honest and transparent comparison (see our methodology)
We compared the actual ticket prices available on major booking platforms. This comparison is updated regularly to guarantee you the most reliable information. All prices include the audio guide and fast-track access when available.
| Ticket Type / Tour | Tiqets Recommended |
GetYourGuide | Viator |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entry Ticket + Audio Guide
Basilica + Audio Guide + Fast Track
|
33,80€
|
33,80€
|
42,00€
|
|
Ticket with Tower Access
Basilica + Audio Guide + Tower (Nativity or Passion)
|
46,80€
|
46,80€
|
79,00€
|
|
English Guided Tour
Basilica + English-speaking Guide (1.5h)
|
46,88€
|
47,00€
|
55,00€
|
|
Combo Pack Sagrada + Park Güell
2 monuments with fast track
|
55,70€
|
61,00€
|
82,00€
|
|
Book Now
|
Book Now → | Book Now → | Book Now → |
- Free cancellation up to 24h
- Simple English interface
- Advantageous combo packs
- Instant confirmation
- Responsive customer service 24/7
Tiqets offers the best value for money with maximum flexibility and impeccable customer service. Combo packs allow you to save up to €15 compared to separate purchases.
Disclaimer: The prices shown in this comparison are indicative and may vary depending on availability, season, and current promotions. We regularly update this information, but we cannot guarantee 100% accuracy. We recommend checking prices directly on the platforms before making your purchase.
Transparency: When you book your tickets through this site's partner links (notably Tiqets), we receive a small commission that allows us to keep this guide free and up-to-date. This does not affect the price you pay - you get the same rates as if you were booking directly.
How We Selected the Best Prices ✓ Updated - Dec. 2025
Our mission: To help you save money on your tickets without compromising on quality! We don't want you to spend more than necessary. That's why we've meticulously analyzed the market to present you with the most advantageous options.
The 3 selected platforms: We chose Tiqets, GetYourGuide, and Viator - the 3 most popular and reliable services for booking official Sagrada Família tickets. It's crucial to understand that all these platforms sell 100% authentic and valid tickets, recognized by the Sagrada Família.
Standardized Comparison Parameters:
- 1 adult traveler aged 30 to 64 years (standard rate)
- Visit date: weekday in mid-season
- Booking made 2 weeks in advance
- Prices observed in December 2025 (updated)
Why these parameters? Prices vary considerably depending on the visitor's age. For example, discounts exist for youth (12-29 years), seniors (65+ years), students, and people with disabilities. To be transparent and honest, we chose the standard adult rate, as it applies to the majority of visitors.
What is NOT compared: We have not included private tours, complex multi-attraction passes, or special packages because their great diversity would make the comparison confusing and less useful. Our goal is to compare the most popular and in-demand tickets.
Result: A Clear and Honest View
This methodology gives you an accurate picture of the current market. Even if exact prices may vary slightly depending on your personal situation, you can now instantly know which platform offers the best rate for the type of ticket you're looking for.
Best Prices for Sagrada Família Tickets
Instantly compare prices and book your official tickets on the most reliable platforms. Choose the option that suits you best between Tiqets and GetYourGuide
Sagrada Família: Fast-Track Ticket + Optional Towers
Free cancellation • Best prices • Customer service 24/7
Popular
Included
- ✓ Fast-track ticket
- ✓ Audio guide app
Available Options
- • Passion Tower Access
- • Nativity Tower Access
- • Hop-on Hop-off
Sagrada Família Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
Wide selection • Verified reviews • Secure payment
Recommended
Included
- ✓ Fast-track
- ✓ Audio guide app
- ✓ Booking fees
Available Options
- • Passion/Nativity tower access
Not Included
- ✗ Guide
- ✗ Smartphone or headphones
Sagrada Família: Guided Local Tour
Max group of 30 people • Local guide
Popular
Included
- ✓ Entry ticket
- ✓ Local guide
- ✓ Guided tour
Options
- • English
- • Spanish
- • French +
Barcelona: Sagrada Família Fast-Track Ticket & Guided Tour
Expert guide • Small group or private • Duration 1.5h
Recommended
Included
- ✓ Fast-track access
- ✓ Expert guide
- ✓ Small group
- ✓ Wheelchair accessible
Details
- • Free cancellation
- • EN, ES, FR
Sagrada Família + Park Güell: Entry + Audio Guide
2 iconic sites • Audio guide • Fast access
Recommended
Included
- ✓ Sagrada fast-track
- ✓ Park Güell entry
- ✓ Audio guide app
Benefits
- • Self-guided
- • Save €10
Guided Combo Tour: Sagrada Família & Park Güell
Full guided tour • Audio headsets provided • No transport
Popular
Included
- ✓ Guided tour
- ✓ Sagrada fast-track
- ✓ Park Güell fast-track
- ✓ Audio headsets
Not Included
- ✗ Transport between sites
- ✗ Hotel pickup
- ✗ Gratuities
Barcelona Pass
All-in-one • Sagrada + Park Güell + Bus + Audio guide + 10% discount
Best Value
Included
- ✓ Sagrada Família
- ✓ Park Güell
- ✓ Hop-on Hop-off Bus
- ✓ City audio guide
Bonus
- • 10% discount
- • Casa Batlló option
- • La Pedrera option
Hola Barcelona Travel Card
Unlimited access • 48-120h • Metro, bus, tram • Airport included
Budget-Friendly
Included
- ✓ Metro and bus (TMB)
- ✓ Urban trains
- ✓ Tram and Renfe
- ✓ Airport included
Not Included
- ✗ Night transport
- ✗ Montjuïc cable car
All tickets are 100% official and recognized by Sagrada Família
Secure payment • Free cancellation • Instant e-tickets
How to Buy Your Sagrada Família Tickets
Booking your Sagrada Família tickets is an essential step for your visit to Barcelona. Here's everything you need to know to buy Sagrada Família tickets with ease.
How and Where to Buy Your Tickets?
You have several options for buying your Sagrada Família tickets. Online ticket purchasing has become the standard and represents the best guarantee of securing your spot.
Official Sagrada Família Website
The official website offers direct ticket purchases. The interface can seem complex at first, and the booking process is less intuitive. The site is regularly overloaded during high season. Tickets purchased directly are non-refundable and non-modifiable.
Price: From €26 | Cancellation: Non-refundable
Booking Platforms
RecommendedSpecialized platforms offer an optimal experience: intuitive English interface, simple and fast booking process, responsive customer service available 24/7, free cancellation up to 24h before, and combined Sagrada Família and Park Güell tickets. All tickets are guaranteed fast-track with instant confirmation.
Price: From €33.80 | Cancellation: Free up to 24h before
View Available Tickets →Important
Buying Sagrada Família tickets on-site is possible but strongly discouraged. The ticket office shows sold out several days, even weeks in advance during summer. Don't take this risk!
Receiving and Format of Your Tickets
Once your Sagrada Família ticket reservation is confirmed, you'll receive your tickets by email within minutes. Here's what you need to know:
-
Mobile E-ticket: The Sagrada Família electronic ticket can be presented directly on your smartphone. No need to print! Just show the QR code at the entrance.
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Printing possible: If you prefer, you can print your tickets. Some visitors feel more reassured with a paper ticket.
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Instant confirmation: With platforms like Tiqets, your tickets arrive within 5 minutes of purchase. Check your spam folder if you don't see them.
Tip
Download your Sagrada Família tickets to your phone and take a screenshot in case you don't have an internet connection at the entrance. It's wise!
Choose Your Visit Date and Time
Sagrada Família tickets are linked to a specific time slot. It's crucial to carefully choose your visit date and time when purchasing tickets.
Best Time of Day
- • Morning (9am-11am): Fewer crowds
- • Midday (11am-2pm): Optimal light
- • Late afternoon: Golden ambiance
- • To avoid: 10am-12pm (tour groups)
Best Time of Year
- • Ideal: Oct-March (fewer tourists)
- • Busy: April-Sept (high season)
- • Book: 3-4 weeks in advance
- • Last minute: Very difficult
Important: You must arrive 15 minutes before the time indicated on your ticket. If you're late, entry may be refused without any refund possible.
Ticket Cancellation and Modification
The cancellation policy for Sagrada Família tickets varies depending on where you purchased your tickets.
| Platform | Ticket Cancellation | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| Official website | Non-refundable | None |
| Tiqets / GetYourGuide | Up to 24h before | 100% refunded |
| Viator | Up to 24h before | 100% refunded |
To cancel your Sagrada Familia tickets purchased on Tiqets or other third-party platforms, simply log into your account and follow the cancellation procedure. Refunds are generally processed within 5-7 business days.
How to Use Your Tickets on the Day
Here's the step-by-step process for using your Sagrada Familia fast-track tickets during your visit.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Locate the entrance corresponding to your ticket (Nativity or Passion facade depending on your reservation).
Present Your E-ticket
Show your smartphone QR code or printed ticket to security staff. Fast-track tickets allow you to skip the main queue.
Security Check
Pass through security like at an airport. Dress code and bag checks.
Get Your Audio Guide
If included in your ticket, the English audio guide is available just after entry. Or use the official mobile app.
Enjoy Your Visit!
Once inside, you can stay as long as you wish. No time limit after entry.
Tips for Buying Cheaper Tickets
Looking for cheap Sagrada Familia tickets? Here are our tips to save money on your Sagrada Familia tickets.
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1.
Book in advance: Prices can increase for last-minute Sagrada Familia tickets. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead guarantees the best rates.
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2.
Combo tickets: A combined Sagrada Familia and Park Güell ticket costs about €55 versus €65 separately. Save €10!
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3.
Reduced rates: Students, seniors, and people with disabilities get discounts. Don't forget your proof!
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4.
Multi-attraction passes: Passes like the Barcelona City Pass include Sagrada Familia and other monuments at a reduced price if you plan to visit multiple sites.
Beware of Scams!
Beware of ticket resellers around Sagrada Familia and fake booking sites. Always buy on recognized platforms. Reselling Sagrada Familia tickets is prohibited and tickets can be invalidated.
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Why Visit Sagrada Família?
The Sagrada Família basilica is undoubtedly Barcelona's most iconic monument. This architectural masterpiece imagined by Antoni Gaudí attracts over 4.5 million visitors from around the world each year. And for good reason, this extraordinary cathedral fascinates as much through its history as through its unique architectural beauty.
Begun in 1882, the construction of this expiatory temple continues today, making it one of the longest construction projects in human history. Gaudí dedicated the last 40 years of his life to it, and even though he knew he would never see the completion of his work, he left detailed plans for future generations. The expected completion date? 2026, exactly 100 years after the brilliant architect's death.
But what truly makes Sagrada Família exceptional is its avant-garde architecture that blends Gothic and Art Nouveau in a typically Gaudí style. The facades tell biblical stories through their sculptures, the interior columns imitate trees forming a true stone forest, and the stained glass creates an almost mystical luminous atmosphere. It's a total sensory experience.
Visiting Sagrada Família isn't just seeing a monument. It's understanding Gaudí's genius, touching Catalan history, and experiencing a unique moment in one of the most extraordinary religious buildings ever constructed.
360° Interior View - Sagrada Família
Admire the spectacular interior of the basilica with this 360-degree panoramic view. Observe the columns, stained glass, and Gaudí's unique architecture.
Sagrada Familia Opening Hours
Opening hours vary by season. Here's the complete detail to plan your visit optimally.
April - September
Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Last entry: 7:00 PM
October - March
Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Last entry: 5:00 PM
Holidays - Special Hours
- December 25-26: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- January 1 & 6: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Good Friday: Closed to the public
Best Time to Visit
If you want to avoid massive crowds and fully enjoy your visit, here are my recommendations based on the experience of thousands of visitors:
How to Get to Sagrada Familia
The basilica is located in the heart of Barcelona, in the Eixample district. The exact address is Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona. It's very easy to access by public transport.
By Metro (recommended)
The metro is the fastest and most economical way:
- Line L2 (purple) - Sagrada Família Station
- Line L5 (blue) - Sagrada Família Station
Both lines have a station with the same name. Once you exit, you're 2 minutes walk away. Price: about €2.40 for a single ticket.
By Bus
Several bus lines serve Sagrada Familia:
- Lines 19, 33, 34, 43, 44, 50, 51 - Sagrada Família Stop
- Lines B20, B24 - Nearby stop
By Taxi or Ride-share
Convenient if traveling in a group or with luggage. Expect about €15-20 from downtown (Plaça Catalunya), and €35-40 from Barcelona-El Prat airport.
By Car (not recommended)
Parking in Barcelona is complicated and expensive. If you really must come by car, here are the nearest parking lots:
- BSM La Sagrada Família Parking - Carrer de Sardenya (rate: about €3/hour)
- NN Mallorca - Carrer de Mallorca, 410
From Barcelona Airport
Option 1: Aerobus + Metro (45 min - €7)
Take the Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya (€5.90), then metro L2 towards Badalona Pompeu Fabra, get off at Sagrada Família (€2.40).
Option 2: Train + Metro (55 min - €5)
R2 Nord train to Passeig de Gràcia, then metro L2. More economical but longer.
Option 3: Direct Taxi (25 min - €35-40)
Most comfortable, especially if you're several people or with luggage. Fixed price from the airport.
Map and Location
Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain
What to See During Your Visit?
Sagrada Familia is a true open book on Gaudí architecture and Christian symbolism. Every detail has meaning. Here's what you absolutely must not miss.
360° Virtual Tour of Sagrada Familia
Discover the majestic exterior of the basilica with this 360-degree panoramic view. Admire the facades and iconic exterior architecture.
Tip: Use your mouse or finger to rotate the 360° view and admire the basilica's facades from all angles. Perfect for preparing your visit!
The Three Facades
Nativity Facade (East)
The only facade completed during Gaudí's lifetime. It represents Jesus's birth and celebrates life. The sculptures are exuberant, organic, full of naturalistic details, animals, plants, angels. It's Gaudí's most personal work and the one that best reflects his style. Absolutely must see in the morning when the sun illuminates it.
Passion Facade (West)
Much more austere and angular, this facade tells the story of Christ's crucifixion and death. Josep Maria Subirachs' sculptures are deliberately stripped down, almost brutal, to represent suffering. Some visitors don't like this modern style, but it's intentional: the contrast between the two facades symbolizes the life/death duality. The setting sun creates dramatic shadows here.
Glory Facade (South) - Under Construction
This will be the main and largest facade. It will represent divine Glory and the path to God. Still under construction, its completion is planned for the coming years. Four massive towers are already visible.
Sagrada Familia Photo Gallery
Use the arrows or scroll to see all photos
The Basilica Interior
The interior is where Gaudí truly reaches genius. He wanted to recreate a sacred forest, and frankly, he succeeded.
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The tree-like columns: Gaudí was inspired by trees. The columns branch out toward the ceiling like branches, creating a vault that resembles a canopy. Some columns are basalt, others granite or porphyry, each with a different color and texture.
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The stained glass: Absolutely magnificent. On the east side (nativity), the stained glass is in warm tones, reds, oranges, yellows. On the west side (passion), they're cool, blues, greens. This chromatic duality creates an almost magical atmosphere when light filters through.
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The main altar: Located in the center, under a suspended canopy. Christ on the cross dominates the space. Masses are still held here (Sunday mornings).
The Towers
Two towers are accessible to the public: the Nativity facade tower and the Passion facade tower. Access going up is by elevator, but be warned, the descent is mandatory via a spiral staircase of 400 steps!
Which Tower to Choose?
🌅 Nativity Tower (northeast side): This is the most visited and most popular tower with tourists. It offers a magnificent view of the park and Eixample district. The descent staircase is slightly wider and less claustrophobic than the Passion tower. The sculptures on this facade are more detailed and colorful, making the experience particularly photogenic.
⛪ Passion Tower (southwest side): Less crowded, it allows you to avoid the crowds. The panoramic view of Barcelona is spectacular, especially towards the port and Montjuïc. The more austere and geometric architecture of this facade offers a striking contrast. The descent staircase is narrower and in a tight spiral.
Good to Know
If you're hesitating, opt for the Nativity tower which is generally considered more impressive and easier to access. About 70% of visitors choose this option. For a complete experience with tower access, check our tickets with towers available.
Important
The towers are not recommended for people with vertigo, claustrophobia, or mobility problems. Children under 6 are not admitted. Once at the top, the view of Barcelona is breathtaking and you'll see the sculpture details very closely. Tower access requires a special ticket - you can view all tickets with tower access here.
The Museum
Located in the basement, the museum presents the construction history, Gaudí's original models, archival documents, and explains construction techniques. It's fascinating to understand how such an ambitious project is realized. You'll also see the workshop where current sculptures are created.
The Sagrada Familia School
In the adjacent park, Gaudí built a small school for the children of workers on the construction site. The building has a characteristic undulating roof. Today, it's an exhibition space showing how the school functioned.
History of Sagrada Familia
The history of Sagrada Familia begins in 1866 when a devout bookseller, Josep Maria Bocabella, founded the Spiritual Association of Devotees of Saint Joseph. His goal was to build an expiatory temple dedicated to the Holy Family. But it wasn't until 1882 that the first architect, Francisco de Paula del Villar, began the work.
However, Villar and Bocabella quickly disagreed on the architectural style. Villar resigned in 1883, and that's when Antoni Gaudí arrived, then a young 31-year-old architect. No one suspected he would transform this project into his life's work and dedicate 43 years of his life to it.
Initially, Gaudí respected the initial neo-Gothic plans. But quickly, he imposed his personal vision. He completely rethought the project, making it much more ambitious. He envisioned 18 towers (12 for the apostles, 4 for the evangelists, one for the Virgin Mary and the highest for Jesus Christ), three monumental facades, and a revolutionary interior.
From 1914 onwards, Gaudí abandoned all his other projects to focus exclusively on Sagrada Familia. He even moved into his workshop on the construction site. He knew he would never see his work completed, the construction was supposed to take centuries according to him, but he wanted to leave detailed plans so his successors could continue.
Gaudí's Tragic Death
On June 7, 1926, Gaudí was struck by a tram while going to church to pray. Dressed modestly and without papers, he wasn't recognized and was taken to a hospital for the poor. When they realized who he was, it was too late. He died three days later. All of Barcelona attended his funeral, and he is buried in the crypt of Sagrada Familia, his life's work.
After his death, work continued slowly under the direction of his assistants. But in 1936, the Spanish Civil War broke out. Anarchists set fire to the crypt and destroyed much of Gaudí's workshop, burning irreplaceable models and plans. It was a catastrophe.
Work resumed in the 1950s, but without the complete original plans, architects had to interpret Gaudí's intentions from photos, fragmentary drawings, and testimonies. Some purists criticize the modern additions, believing they betray Gaudí's vision.
Today, construction is progressing rapidly thanks to modern technologies, 3D modeling, laser cutting, reinforced concrete. In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI consecrated the basilica, officially giving it church status. Complete completion is planned for 2026, exactly one hundred years after Gaudí's death. Perfect symbolic timing.
Sagrada Familia is probably the most extreme example in the world of a monument whose construction itself is part of its history and legend. More than just a building, it's a living testament to architectural genius, faith, and human perseverance.
Key Timeline
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Dress Code
Sagrada Familia is an active place of worship. A strict dress code is enforced at the entrance:
- No bare shoulders (no tank tops, thin straps)
- No plunging necklines
- No short shorts or mini-skirts (above the knee)
- No transparent clothing
- No hats inside
If you don't respect the dress code, entry will be refused without refund!
Prohibited Items and Storage
- Large backpacks (max dimensions: 40x30x20 cm)
- Suitcases and luggage
- Photo tripods and selfie sticks
- Sharp or dangerous objects
- Food and beverages (except water in small quantities)
There's no storage on site, so plan to travel light.
Photos and Videos
Photos are allowed for personal use, but without flash or tripod. Commercial or publication photos require special permission. Respect other visitors' moments of contemplation.
Accessibility
The basilica is accessible to people with reduced mobility:
- Adapted entrance with access ramp
- Elevators available
- Adapted toilets
- Wheelchairs available free of charge (on request)
- Guide dogs allowed
Note: The towers are NOT wheelchair accessible.
Audio Guides
Audio guides are included in all tickets (unless otherwise stated). Available in 16 languages including English. Duration: about 45 minutes. You can also download the official app on your smartphone.
Recommended Visit Duration
- Basic visit: 1h to 1h30
- Visit with towers: 2h to 2h30
- Complete in-depth visit: 3h
Pro Tip
Download the official mobile app before your visit to have the audio guide on your phone. Make sure to fully charge your phone before the visit, as you'll certainly want to take many photos to immortalize this architectural masterpiece!
Visitor Reviews
Based on over 12,000 verified reviews
"Absolutely magical experience! The play of light through the stained glass is breathtaking. Online booking allowed me to avoid over an hour of queuing. I highly recommend taking the audio guide, it really enhances the visit."
"An unmissable architectural masterpiece! Even though the basilica isn't finished yet, the scope of work completed is impressive. The priority access I booked saved me precious time. Not to be missed during a stay in Barcelona!"
"The English guided tour was fascinating! Our guide explained all the hidden symbols in Gaudí's architecture. The towers offer exceptional panoramic views of Barcelona. Plan at least 2h30 to fully enjoy your visit."
"Fantastic! My advice: go late morning when the sun illuminates the stained glass. It's really the best time. The fast-track ticket is essential, especially in high season. Gaudí's architecture is simply genius!"
"An exceptional monument that fully deserves its world reputation. The architectural details are fascinating at every corner. I loved the crypt where Gaudí rests. Online booking was simple and fast. An unforgettable experience!"
"Magnificent basilica, the interior is spectacular with its tree-like columns. Only downside: lots of people even with priority ticket, but it's really worth the visit. I recommend arriving at opening time to enjoy a calmer atmosphere."
"An architectural marvel! Every angle offers a fascinating new perspective. The audio guide is very well done and helps understand all the symbolism behind Gaudí's work. Don't forget to look up to admire the ceilings, it's sublime!"
"Breathtakingly beautiful! The combination of nature and spirituality is perfectly achieved. The exterior facades tell the entire biblical story. I came twice and it wasn't enough to see everything. An absolute must-see in Barcelona!"
"An extraordinary visit! The harmony of colors created by the stained glass changes throughout the day. The basement museum helps you better understand the construction history. Remember to book your tickets several days in advance, especially in summer!"
"Absolute masterpiece of modern architecture! Gaudí created something unique in the world. The spiral staircase in the towers is an experience in itself. The visit is worth every euro spent. A monument that makes you want to come back again and again!"
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I really need to book in advance?
Yes, absolutely! Sagrada Familia is Spain's most visited monument. Tickets are limited by time slot and sell out very quickly, especially in high season (April-October). Without a reservation, you risk not being able to enter at all. We recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance, even more in summer.
2. What's the difference between the Nativity tower and the Passion tower?
Both offer magnificent but different views. The Nativity tower (east side) offers views of the Eixample district and the sea. The Passion tower (west side) looks onto Barcelona's historic center. Architecturally, the Nativity is more organic and detailed (authentic Gaudí style), while the Passion is more modern and geometric. Many prefer the Nativity for its more "Gaudí-esque" character.
3. Can you visit Sagrada Familia for free?
The basilica interior is paid, but you can admire the exterior facades for free from the surrounding parks. There's also a free mass on Sunday mornings (registration required on the official website, limited places). For children under 11, entry is free but reservation is still mandatory.
4. How long does it take to visit Sagrada Familia?
Allow a minimum of 1h30 for a basic visit. If you go up a tower, plan for 2h30 minimum. To really see and enjoy everything (museum included), 3h is ideal. Remember there's an entry time slot, but once inside you can stay as long as you want.
5. Are there toilets on site?
Yes, free toilets are available in the basement, near the museum. They're clean and well-maintained. There are also adapted toilets for people with reduced mobility.
6. Can you buy tickets on-site the same day?
In theory yes, but in practice it's nearly impossible. The on-site ticket office shows sold out several days, even weeks in advance during summer. Even in low season, it's risky. Don't take this risk, book online!
7. Is the guided tour worth it?
It depends on your interest in architecture and history. If you really want to understand the symbolism, construction techniques and details, yes it's a real plus. The guides are passionate and provide enormous context. But the audio guide alone is already very complete. For a first visit, I'd say the basic ticket with audio guide is more than enough.
8. When will Sagrada Familia be finished?
Completion is planned for 2026, 144 years after construction began and 100 years after Gaudí's death. But well, this kind of project often has delays. The COVID-19 pandemic has already slowed the work. That said, progress has been impressive in recent years thanks to new technologies.
9. Can I cancel or modify my reservation?
It depends on the type of ticket purchased. Most tickets booked via platforms like Tiqets offer free cancellation up to 24h before the visit. Tickets purchased directly on the official Sagrada Familia website are generally non-refundable. Read the conditions carefully before booking.
10. Is there a gift shop?
Yes, an official shop is located at the exit. You'll find books about Gaudí, reproductions, souvenirs, posters, etc. Prices are fair for a major tourist site. There's also a small bookstore specializing in the basilica's architecture and history.
11. Can you eat or drink inside?
No, it's strictly forbidden. There's also no café or restaurant on site. You'll find plenty of options in the surrounding neighborhood, but ideally eat before or after your visit. A small water bottle is tolerated but should be consumed discreetly.
12. Is Sagrada Familia suitable for children?
Yes and no. Children under 6 cannot go up the towers for safety reasons. For others, it depends on their age and interest. Very young children may get bored quickly. Teens interested in architecture or history will love it. There are audio guides specially adapted for children.
13. What's the best time of day for photos?
For the interior: late morning or early afternoon when the sun is high and shines through the stained glass. For exterior facades: early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh shadows. The Nativity facade is magnificent at sunrise, the Passion at sunset. For the towers: choose a clear day, obviously.
14. What to do after the visit in the area?
The Eixample district is full of other Gaudí works! A 10-minute walk away, you have Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera). You can also stroll along Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona's most beautiful avenues with its luxury shops and modernist architecture. The Hospital de Sant Pau, right next door, is also worth a visit (UNESCO heritage).
15. Do students get discounts?
Yes, with a valid international student card (ISIC), you can get a reduced rate. Remember to bring it on the day of the visit, they'll check it at the entrance.
16. Can you visit the crypt where Gaudí is buried?
The crypt is visible through a glass window at the basement museum level. You cannot enter it directly, except during masses (Sunday morning). Gaudí's tomb is in the Chapel del Carmen, in the crypt.
17. Is the site accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Yes, the basilica is accessible to people with reduced mobility: adapted entrance with access ramp, elevators available, adapted toilets, wheelchairs available free of charge (on request), guide dogs allowed. Note: The towers are NOT wheelchair accessible.
18. What dress code is required?
Sagrada Familia is an active place of worship. A strict dress code is enforced: no bare shoulders (no tank tops), plunging necklines, short shorts and mini-skirts (above the knee), transparent clothing, hats inside. If you don't respect the code, entry will be refused without refund!
19. How much does entry to Sagrada Familia cost?
The basic entry ticket (basilica + audio guide) costs €33.80. The ticket with tower access costs €46.80. Guided tours with an English guide range between €46.30 and €49.50 depending on the type. Reduced rates exist for students, seniors and people with disabilities. Free for children under 11.
20. Why is construction taking so long?
Several reasons: first, it's a project funded solely by donations and visitor entrance fees, without public subsidies. Then, the architectural complexity is enormous, each detail requires considerable artisan work. The Spanish Civil War also destroyed many original plans, slowing the work. And finally, modern technologies (3D modeling, laser cutting) had to be developed to accelerate construction while respecting Gaudí's vision.