Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona Overview

Located in the heart of the city, the Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the city's most beautiful attractions. Most likely to be the city's greenest oasis, it houses the Catalonian Parliament, the city zoo, museums, a small lake, and a grand fountain.

At one point of time, the Park was the only green space within the entire city. One can walk around the park, picnic there or even row on the lake. Designed by Josep Fontsère, the park manages to combine many styles in one. The large fountain in the middle of the park immortalises the prodigal architect, Gaudi, drawing heavily from his work.

The park has a fascinating history, involving many sieges and battles. At one point it even acted as a prison for political prisoners of Catalonia, under the Bourbon King. In 1998 the Parc de la Ciutadella hosted the World Exhibition, exhibiting the work of some of the greatest artists in the country.

Sightseeing in Parc de la Ciutadella

1. Parc De La Ciutadella Fountain

fountain, parc de la ciutadella, stone statues — Source

Based on Rome’s Trevi Fountain, the large fountain was created by Josep Fontsére under the guidance of Antonio Gaudi. You can climb the ornate staircases winding up on either side of the fountain to enjoy a view of the park.

2. Parc De La Ciutadella Zoo

Also known as the Barcelona Zoo, this is a major attraction within the park. Housing over 4000 animals of 400 different species, the zoo is a delight for kids. The zoo itself has a miniature railway, electric cars and offers pony rides.

3. The Museum Of Natural Science

red brick building, museum of natural science, parc de la ciutadella — Source

The museum has some of the most curious exhibits relating to geology and zoology. The most popular exhibit here is the whale skeleton. The Castle of Three Dragons is a red-brick structure which appears at the entrance of the museum. Designed to be an exclusive exhibit, the castle was constructed for the Exposición Universal de Barcelona in 1888.

Tips

Try and reach before 10 AM to avoid crowds
Stock up on food/snacks beforehand as the kiosks selling food are overpriced
You will find lesser tourists on weekdays

Things to Do in Parc De La Ciutadella

1. Take a Stroll

Pathways in Parc De La Ciutadella — Source

With plenty of green spaces and gravel paths, the Parc de la Ciutadella is a perfect place to walk about simply. The park houses over a 100 species of plants and several century-old trees. You may even run into small musicians and bands playing in different corners of the park.

2. Row a Boat

boats, lake, parc de la ciutedella — Source

You can row one of the boats for hire on the charming little lake located at the heart of the Parc de la Ciutadella. Watch as ducks, moorhens and fish pass you by.

Charges: for 30 minutes' rowing boat hire – EUR 6 for two people, EUR 9 for three people, EUR 10 for four/five, Groups from 20 persons: EUR 2

Timings: 10am - Dusk

3. Visit the Winter Garden

glass garden, parc de la ciutadella — Source

Right next to the Castell dels Tres Dragons the winter garden "L'Hivernacle" is located. The winter garden is a pavilion made of cast iron and glass. It was designed initially by Josep Fontsere but its construction was completed by Josep Amargós.

4. Have Picnics

Picnics in Parc De La Ciutadella — Source

The park is a perfect place to have a picnic. You can choose to sit in the shade of the large picnic umbrellas provided in the park or near the water and enjoy your food. There are all sorts of activities taking place throughout the park, including but not limited to, music, games and shows.

How To Reach Parc de la Ciutadella

Located at Passeig de Picasso, 21, 08003 Barcelona, España; you can reach the park in the following ways -

Metro — Jaume I (Yellow Line, L4)
Bus: Get off at "El Born - Ciutadella - Zoo" with the "hop on hop off" sightseeing bus;

Take a public bus— Passeig Pujades / Parc de la Ciutadella: 40, 42, H14, H16; Parc de la Ciutadella / Princesa: 39, 51, H14