Everyday thousands of people from around the world visit La Sagrada Familia, a magnificent example of Catalan modernism, colored with the brilliance of Gaudi. Getting there is usually a simple task but some visitors may struggle to find their way. This article offers a comprehensive guide on how to get to La Sagrada Familia.
Getting Around by Car
If you opt to drive, La Sagrada Familia is easily accessible, as it’s located in the center of Barcelona. The popular Eixample neighborhood is home to the iconic basilica, and the streets surrounding the site are well connected by the city’s main roads. Visitors can enter the area from either the Meridiana Avenue or the Avenida Diagonal. It is important to follow the traffic regulations, as it can be congested during peak times. Drivers should expect to pay for parking either in spaces near to the site or in nearby car parks.
Using Public Transport
Barcelona has an efficient public transport system and it is doubtless the best way of getting around the city. The most economical way to reach La Sagrada Familia is to take the metro. From Plaça Catalunya and Passeig de Gracia there are several lines that will take you to the closest stations. The blue line L5 and the purple line L2 both have stops right at the outskirts of the basilica, and the yellow line L4 or the green L3 can take you to the nearest stations, which are a 5 minute walk away.
Alternatively, visitors can opt for one of the many buses operating in Barcelona. Line 19, 33, 34 and 50 can take you directly to La Sagrada Familia. Additionally, the iconic bus ‘aerobus’ stops at Plaça de Santa Maria, a 7 minute walk from the site. Tourists should be wary that the latter only runs from 5am to 12am. Additionally, visitors can also take a taxi directly to and from the site.
Bikes
Another convenient and economical way to get to La Sagrada Familia is by bicycle. There are several bike hire companies offering day-long and multi-day bike rental packages. You will find bike rental points around the city and many of them are conveniently close to the tourist attractions. A great advantage of bike hire is that the city of Barcelona has recently introduced a new regulation, allowing cyclists to ride through the restricted areas. Cycling to La Sagrada Familia is therefore a safe and easy experience.
Walking
La Sagrada Familia is located in the heart of Barcelona and it can easily be reached by foot. The area is well connected and you will find a great many of Barcelona’s iconic points of interest, including Sagrada Familia Park, El Guell Park, The Arc de Triomf, Las Ramblas and plenty of other tourist attractions. Depending on where you start from, the walking distance should take from anywhere between 25 and 45 minutes. During the walk you can appreciate numerous architectural sites and gigantic tree-lined avenues.
Tours
If you don’t feel like exploring on your own, you can always join an organized tour. There are several companies that offer guided tours, allowing you to visit La Sagrada Familia while accompanied by a professional guide. You can join a walking tour, bike tour or combine different transport options such as buses and boats. Additionally, most tours also include an entrance ticket to the basilica, as well as a panoramic view of the city from the top of the towers. Furthermore, these companies can help you book skip-the-line tickets, which can be a great time-saver.
Sightseeing Cruise
Finally, if you feel like admiring the basilica from a different perspective, you can opt for a sightseeing cruise. There are numerous companies operating in Barcelona, offering 45 minute sightseeing cruises around the city. This is a great opportunity to admire the skyline, capture some beautiful pictures and appreciate the city from a different angle.
Conclusion
All in all, it is clear that there are many ways to get to La Sagrada Familia. Whether you opt for public transport, driving, walking or sightseeing cruises, the iconic basilica is easily accessible and can be admired in a safe and efficient way.
