How to skip the lines at the main Barcelona attractions

One of the things I take for granted about living in Barcelona is that the most amazing architecture and monuments are right on my doorstep. I can go and visit them whenever I want, tactically choosing the quietest times of the year and avoiding all the long lines. When you are on your holidays, this isn’t really an option. One way to save yourself the time and frustration of waiting in a queue is to buy your tickets online.

Where to buy skip the line tickets in Barcelona

Travel agencies will be happy to reserve ticket entrances and tours on your behalf but there is usually an administration fee involved. However, you can save that extra cost by easily booking directly at an official site. The good news is that most of the websites of the main attractions are available in English. These are the links to buy skip the line tickets without paying extra fees at the most popular sites that easily attract large crowds:

• Skip the line tickets to Sagrada Familia
• Skip the line tickets to Park Güell
• Skip the line tickets to Casa Milà/La Pedrera
• Skip the line tickets to Casa Batlló
• Skip the line tickets to Palau de la Musica Catalana
• Skip the line tickets to Picasso Museum

A nice plus is that by pre-booking the tickets you can save money too. Nowadays, some of the attractions charge an extra fee if you pay at their ticket office. It is €4 extra at Casa Batlló or €3 extra at La Pedrera so it is definitely worth it to plan ahead.

Don’t worry about having to print off the tickets because you can use your smartphone or, in the case of La Pedrera, identify yourself with your name and booking number at the ticket office. If you prefer to print them, however, look out for the closest locutorio (a call shop for long-distance calls) which should provide this service.

Special cards to skip the queues in Barcelona

There are other cards and offers that will give you the opportunity to skip past other waiting visitors. For example, the ArtTicket is highly recommended and it allows you fast entry to six museums in Barcelona for €35: MACBA, MNAC, Picasso, Miró, Antoni Tapies and CCCB. The Barcelona Card also offers you discounts and skip-the-queues for many highlights in the city as well as free travel on public transport.

• Pre-book The ArtTicket
• Pre-book The Barcelona Card

With a little bit of planning, you can make your trip last longer. It is the small things that make a difference and the more time you cut on standing in line means more time you could be enjoying some delicious tapas or exploring Barcelona.

Planning to visit some of the Gaudí buildings, like Casa Batlló, Casa Milà or Sagrada Familia? We do offer skip-the-line private tours to all these attractions. If you prefer to visit the sites on your own, our Gaudí Free Tour provides a great introduction to the architect’s world before visiting his masterpieces. And, if you travelling with children, don’t miss our special post on Things to do with Kids in Barcelona, the best way of enjoying the city as a family while having fun all the way. Finally, don’t forget to check our very complete article on things to do in Barcelona. 

(This post might include affiliated links. If you make a purchase by following an affiliated link, we might make a small commission to help to maintain this site. At no point, this will incur any extra costs to you. Thank you)

This post was updated on June 2020

Main photograph by Marcus Linder