12 Best Viewpoints in Barcelona You Really Shouldn’t Miss

Best Viewpoints in Barcelona
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Looking for the best views in Barcelona? This city has no shortage of scenic spots, whether you’re into rooftop bars, hilltop lookouts, or towers with sweeping panoramic views. 

As someone who lives in Barcelona, I’ve found some amazing places to take it all in, from famous landmarks to lesser-known gems. 

In this post, I’m sharing 12 of the best viewpoints in Barcelona that you really shouldn’t miss. Let’s get started!

Best Viewpoints in Barcelona Spain

These are the best Barcelona viewpoints:

1. Tibidabo

The views from the top of the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus church on Mount Tibidabo
The views of Barcelona city from Mount Tibidabo
The views of Barcelona and Tibidabo amusement park from Mount Tibidabo

📍 Location: Google Maps

Mount Tibidabo hands down has the best view in Barcelona because it’s the highest spot in the city!

For the most impressive views, head to the top of the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (one of the most famous churches in Barcelona), where you can take an elevator (for a small fee) and walk around just below the statue of Jesus. 

From up there, you’ll see everything: the city skyline, the sea, the amusement park below, and even the Pyrenees on a clear day. 

And if you don’t want to go all the way up, there are still some amazing views and lookout points from the amusement park level too.

You can read my full guide on how to get to Tibidabo for all the details!

2. Bunkers del Carmel

The views of Barcelona city from Bunkers del Carmel

📍 Location: Google Maps

Bunkers del Carmel is a former anti-aircraft bunker from the Spanish Civil War that now doubles as one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Barcelona. 

It’s a bit of a trek to reach, but the wide-open views of the city make it well worth the climb. 

You’ll get a clear look at everything from the Sagrada Familia to the sea, all from a relaxed, open-air setting. 

It’s especially popular at sunset, so bring some drinks and snacks and plan to hang out for a while.

3. Park Güell

One of the Three Crosses monuments on the top of Park Guell with the city in the background
The view of Barcelona from the mosaic benches at Park Guell

📍 Location: Google Maps

Park Güell is one of the most iconic places in Barcelona, and it also happens to have some incredible viewpoints. 

The highest spot in the park is the hill with the Three Crosses, where you’ll get sweeping views over the city and sea. 

Another must-see is the mosaic bench area at the Greek Theater (also called Nature Square), which is one of the most photographed spots in all of Barcelona. 

From there, you can admire the colorful Gaudí designs with the city stretched out behind them. 

You can read my full guide on how to visit Park Güell for all the details!

4. Montjuïc Castle

The view of Barcelona from the Montjuic cable car

📍 Location: Google Maps

Montjuïc Castle (one of the best castles in Barcelona) sits high above the city on Montjuïc hill and offers some of the best views in Barcelona. 

You can reach it by hiking the trails or, for a more scenic option, taking the cable car. I’d highly recommend taking the cable car as it gives you incredible views even before you arrive!

Once you’re at the top of the Montjuïc viewpoint, you’ll be able to see the city, the sea, and the port all from one spot. 

You can pay to go inside the castle, but it’s also nice just to walk around the outside and take in the views. 

Don’t miss the old cannon near the entrance, aimed out over the city rooftops below.

5. Salts Bar

The view of Barcelona from Salts Bar behind the Olympic swimming pools

📍 Location: Google Maps

Salts Bar is one of the best rooftops in Barcelona and a bit of a hidden gem tucked above the Olympic swimming pools on Montjuïc hill. 

It’s just a short walk away from the Montjuïc cable car station, so it’s a great spot to hit after visiting the castle. 

From the bar, you’ll get a wide view of the city along with a cool look at the historic pools below. 

The vibe is super casual, with classic cocktails, snacks like sandwiches and pizza, and even chicken fingers. 

I had a sangria there that totally hit the spot–it was refreshing and just right for a sunny afternoon!

6. Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

The view of Barcelona from the top of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

📍 Location: Google Maps

The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is not only one of the best art museums in Barcelona–it also has one of the most impressive viewpoints in the city. 

You’ll need to climb a good number of stairs to reach the top, but there are outdoor escalators that make it a lot easier. 

From the terrace, you’ll get a clear view over the grand columns, Plaza Espanya, and even the old bullring-turned-shopping center known as Arenas de Barcelona. 

It’s a popular spot for photos, especially at sunset. It’s also home to the famous Magic Fountain, but unfortunately it’s been closed for the past few years due to the ongoing drought.

7. Torre Glories

Torre Glories tower with colorful light displays

📍 Location: Google Maps

Torre Glòries is one of the most famous buildings in Barcelona, known for its unique shape and colorful light displays at night. 

While most of the tower is used for office space, visitors can buy tickets to the observation deck, which is located on the 30th floor. 

From there, you’ll get a full 360-degree view of the city, including landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and the coastline. 

It’s a sleek, modern alternative to the more traditional viewpoints around the city.

8. Port Cable Car

A view of the cable car towers at Barceloneta beach

📍 Location: Google Maps

The Port Cable Car is one of the most unique ways to see Barcelona from above. 

It runs from Barceloneta Beach to Montjuïc, giving you sweeping views of the coastline, the harbor, and the city skyline as you glide through the air. 

The ride itself is short but packed with amazing scenery, especially if you’re not afraid of heights. 

It’s a fun and memorable way to get up to Montjuïc while taking in a whole new perspective. 

Try to go on a clear day for the best Barcelona views across the water!

9. W Hotel

The exterior of the W Hotel in Barcelona with modern architecture

📍 Location: Google Maps

The W Barcelona Hotel is home to one of the most stylish viewpoints in Barcelona, found at Noxe on the 26th floor. 

This sleek cocktail lounge and Japanese restaurant is fully enclosed with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering incredible views of the coastline and city. 

It’s a great spot to watch the sky change colors as the sun sets over the city. 

The atmosphere is upscale but welcoming, making it a solid choice for drinks before heading out for the night. 

If you’re into sushi or creative cocktails with a view, this place is a win!

10. The Towers at La Sagrada Familia

The exterior of La Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona Spain

📍 Location: Google Maps

The towers at La Sagrada Familia offer a unique way to see Barcelona–from inside one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. 

Tower access is optional and only available with a special ticket, so make sure to book the ticket with tower access if you want to include it. 

You’ll choose between the Nativity Facade, which has an enclosed bridge and views facing east, or the Passion Facade, which is higher and looks out toward the city center. 

An elevator takes you up, but you’ll need to walk down a narrow spiral staircase to exit, which can be a bit nerve-wracking if you don’t love heights! 

Still, the views and the experience of being inside an exclusive part of Gaudí’s masterpiece make it totally worth it.

11. Rooftop at La Pedrera

Statues on the rooftop of La Pedrera with the city in the background

📍 Location: Google Maps

The rooftop at La Pedrera (Casa Milà) isn’t the tallest in Barcelona, but the view is unlike any other thanks to Gaudí’s surreal architecture. 

Winding chimneys, curved staircases, and sculptural shapes make it feel like you’re walking through a piece of art. 

From the rooftop of this famous house, you can see parts of the city framed by the rooftop’s unusual design elements. 

It’s a great mix of architecture and scenery, especially if you visit around sunset. 

You can read my full guide to visiting La Pedrera for all the details!

12. Torre Bellesguard

Panoramic views of Barcelona from Torre Bellesguard

📍 Location: Google Maps

Torre Bellesguard is one of Gaudí’s lesser-known works and a peaceful spot to enjoy views without the crowds. 

The name “Bellesguard” literally means “beautiful view” in Catalan, and the rooftop definitely lives up to it. 

From the top, you’ll get wide Barcelona panoramic views with Tibidabo just behind you and the sea in the distance. 

It’s located outside the city center, so it feels more relaxed and off the beaten path. 

You can read my full guide to visiting Torre Bellesguard for all the details!

Final Thoughts: Best Views in Barcelona

I hope this list helps you find the perfect spot to take in the best views of Barcelona during your trip! 

Whether you’re climbing to the top of a church tower, riding a cable car over the port, or enjoying a drink on a rooftop, there are so many ways to see the city from above. 

I personally think Tibidabo has the best view because it’s the highest point in Barcelona but each viewpoint offers something a little different, so try to fit in a few if you can. 

And don’t forget to check the weather–clear skies make all the difference!

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