On your next trip to Spain, you want to do a lot more. Something you don’t want to miss is a trip to the Sagrada Familia Basilica.
Whether you are religious or not, it is a masterpiece of architecture in the heart of Barcelona and the famous landmark that is visited by around 5 million tourists every year.
But the possibility of large rows will not keep you away from the visit! If you are not convinced before, here is why you should go to Sagrada Familia on your next vacation in Spain.
See also: Barcelona’s Best Tourist Attractions
History of the Sagrada Family
Although Gaudডি is the most famous name behind the Sagrada Family Towers, nine architects have taken up the project since his death, and it is still incomplete.
If you didn’t know, Gaud was a devoted Catholic, and he was obsessed with both nature and religion. His plans for the Sagrada Family Towers fully represent Catholic history. This project will become his greatest legacy.
Despite the change of hands, every architect involved has remained true to Gaud’s original plan since 1883. The original completion date was set for 2026. However, it has been delayed by the 2020 coronavirus epidemic – no new deadline is in sight.
Currently, all ticket sales are financing the completion of the project – neither the church nor the government supports it. So, when you visit the Sagrada Family, you will be financing the completion of Gaud’s famous landmark.
Private grants were also accepted for further construction of the Sagrada Family Tower. When it is finally completed, it will become the tallest church in the world.
Another fantastic Sagrada Familia Tips is that Gaud was buried there in 1926, located in the El Carmen Virgin Chapel. Despite being incomplete, this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – another amazing piece of information to tick off your bucket list!
Is it worth visiting Sagrada Family Tower?
If you are wondering if it is worth visiting the Sagrada Family Towers on your next trip, the answer is a resounding yes!
This is because the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia was built in 1882. It is a memorial church dedicated to the Holy Family and was consecrated in 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI.
What’s even more amazing about the Sagrada Familia is the breathtaking architecture of one of the world’s most famous architects, Anthony Gaud. He pioneered a new era of architecture called Catalan modernity, featuring free-flowing curves and organic forms.
You can find nine of the 18 complete spiers in the original design with plans to complete more in the coming years.
See also: Things to do in Barcelona: Our Barcelona Activity Guide
Tips for Visiting Sagrada Family
Since this monument is one of the most popular in Spain, and it is located in the heart of Barcelona, you can expect the rows to be very long. The best time to visit Sagrada Family is early in the morning.
The Sagrada Family opens at 9 a.m. when the rows are at their lowest. The time from 9 to 11 in the morning is usually less crowded.
However, you may want to go inside the monument for the best photographic opportunity later in the day. For amazing photos, the best time to visit Sagrada Familia is between 5-6 pm, when the sun goes down.
Sunlight is shining through the stained glass at this time, creating dreamlike sights and images. It is also possible to join in at 6pm, which comes at no charge. Here, visitors must dress and act appropriately.
Some other things to consider include:
- Length of inspection. Most tourists want to know how long it takes to visit Sagrada Family Tower to get the most out of their trip. The recommended time is about 2 hours, but you can stay as long as you want.
- Price. Tickets for the Sagrada Familia range from € 33 to € 99 for an 8-hour guided tour that includes Montserrat.
- Best time to visit Sagrada Family. During the Sagrada Family operation every day from 9 am to 6 pm. Operation time for Sagrada family members is 6 p.m.
- Different types of tickets. You will need a special ticket to visit the Sagrada Family Tower, which includes tower access; It is not offered with a basic ticket.
- Ticket availability. Make sure you get your tickets in advance, as tickets can sometimes be sold out by 5 p.m. It is also an option to buy tickets online to facilitate the process. Check availability and book your tickets below:
- Extra package. You can get a higher Sagrada Familia ticket price for the inclusive package, such as Sagrada Familia and Park Guel combination travel.
- Guided tours for foreign visitors. Different guided group tours are available in different languages. When you visit the Sagrada Family, the options currently available include English, German, Italian, French and of course, Spanish.
- Can I get a free Sagrada Family Audio Guide? You can find free audio guides online, but they can’t compete with guided tours.
- Plan your arrival. You can find public transport links that will take you via the Sagrada Familia – L2 or L5 metro or on one of the many dedicated buses including 19, 33 and 34.
- What to wear. Remember that when you visit the Sagrada Familia, it is a sacred place. Visitors should dress appropriately, which means tops should cover their shoulders and shorts / skirts should come in the middle of the thighs. Hats are not allowed in Sagrada Familia.
- Navigating the Sagrada Family. You need to download the official app to manage tickets, find audiobooks and much more. The app costs € 26 from the official website. However, it is possible to visit without downloading the app.
Summary
We hope we have answered the question ‘Is it worth visiting the Sagrada Family Tower?’ The answer is yes – it’s great to be around all year round!
The next time you visit Barcelona, you should add Sagrada Familia to your itinerary.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Sagrada Family and its huge cultural and historical significance. No matter how long you have to go to Sagrada Family or find out the price of Sagrada Family ticket, we hope our Sagrada Family Tips make planning a lot easier for you!
Looking for more to do in Barcelona? Check out the posts below:
Travel friends
I’m sure you’ve had a similar experience while traveling. You’re at a specific place and a companion, or a local, tip you off at a little-known beach, bar, or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. It was an inspiration to travel friends.