Discover the Hidden Gardens of Barcelona
Barcelona, a city renowned for its stunning beaches, delectable tapas, and iconic monuments designed by the famous architect Gaudí, also boasts numerous green spaces waiting to be explored. Beyond the bustling streets and famous landmarks, the city is home to secret gardens rich in history and nature, perfect for strolling and relaxation with family, friends, or that special someone.
If you’re a visitor seeking to escape the hustle and bustle or a local looking to uncover new gems, this guide to Barcelona’s hidden gardens will lead you to the city’s most charming spots. These gardens offer a unique perspective on the city, allowing you to enjoy it from a different angle.
1. Jardins de Can Sentmenat
The Can Sentmenat Gardens, with roots dating back to the 14th century and linked to the Sentmenat family since the 17th century, preserve their historic beauty. In 1992, the palace was acquired by the Escola Eina de Disseny i Art, ensuring this space remains alive in Barcelona. Located on the seaside of the Collserola mountain, these gardens are a true oasis in the city, featuring trails surrounded by vegetation and peaceful areas, making them perfect for escaping the city’s frenetic pace.
What makes these gardens truly special is their unique blend of history, serenity, and unforgettable views. You’ll find centuries-old trees, including an imposing Himalayan cedar, fragrant lime trees, elegant acacias, and cypresses lining the paths. Opposite the former palace of the Marquises of Sentmenat, seven enigmatic female sculptures add an air of mystery to the surroundings, each symbolizing ancient noble families associated with the Sentmenat.
Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Ticket: Free
Address: Carrer de Can Caralleu 14-16, 08017 Barcelona
2. Jardí dels Tarongers
Reborn after 50 years of silence, the Jardí dels Tarongers, also known as Torre Bartomeu, is reclaiming its place as a cultural landmark in Barcelona. This historic venue, located in the exclusive neighborhood of Pedralbes, has been transformed into an open-air cultural venue, hosting concerts and shows that support performers, composers, and young talent.
The atmosphere here is distinctly different from central Barcelona, with no crowds, just nature, architecture, and a serene ambiance. During the summer, you can enjoy the warm light of the sunset illuminating the city and the gardens, accompanied by background music that makes the experience even more memorable.
Opening hours: Depends on the day
Ticket: Voluntary contribution of €12 (reservations must be made directly by email or phone)
Address: Carrer de la Ràbida 5, 08034 Barcelona
3. Jardins de Laribal
The Laribal Gardens, located in Montjuïc, are a hidden gem with a unique story. They were the city’s first rose garden and, in the early 20th century, a meeting place for Barcelona’s intellectuals and artists. The gardens feature monumental staircases, fountains, terraces, and lush Mediterranean vegetation, inviting you to stroll at your pace.
Don’t miss the Font del Gat, a small but emblematic fountain that inspired the famous Catalan song ‘Baixant de la Font del Gat’. Once you’re here, you can continue exploring the surroundings of Montjuïc, including the Teatre Grec with its gardens, the impressive views from the Mirador del Alcalde, or a visit to the MNAC, just a few steps away.
Opening hours: Every day, from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in winter and from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. in summer
Ticket: Free
Address: Passeig de Santa Madrona 2, 08038 Barcelona
4. Jardins de Joan Maragall
The elegant gardens of Joan Maragall were created for the 1929 Barcelona International Exhibition and designed to accommodate the Alfonso XIII Royal Family. With a classic and stately design, these gardens are one of the most elegant spaces in Montjuïc, featuring tree-lined avenues, fountains, and sculptures that convey a special calm, making them the ideal place to disconnect from the urban rhythm.
These gardens are only open on weekends and public holidays, which adds to their allure. The combination of vegetation and classical architecture creates the perfect atmosphere for a leisurely stroll, taking photos, or simply sitting and enjoying the silence. At the end of your visit, you’ll find the Anella Olímpica, one of the great emblems of the 1992 Olympic Games, just a few steps away.
Opening hours: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from 10:00 to 15:00
Ticket: Free
Address: Av. de l’Estadi 69, 08038 Barcelona
5. Jardins de Mercè Rodoreda
The Mercè Rodoreda Gardens, located in the Gràcia neighborhood, were inaugurated in 2008 as a tribute to Mercè Rodoreda, the most renowned Catalan writer of the 20th century. The highlight of these gardens is their imposing metal pergola adorned with bougainvillea, which in spring and summer is filled with shades of fuchsia and violet, creating an intimate space.
Today, the Jardins de Mercè Rodoreda are an ideal place to relax, read, or simply soak up the serenity of the neighborhood. Their peaceful atmosphere makes them an occasional venue for cultural and literary activities, paying tribute to the Catalan writer after whom they are named.
Opening hours: Every day. It is an open space that remains open.
Ticket: Free
Address: Av. de la República Argentina 131X, 08023 Barcelona
6. Jardines de la Fundación Julio Muñoz Ramonet
Designed by the world-renowned landscape architect Jean-Claude-Nicolas Forestier, this Mediterranean-style garden is a serene escape filled with charm and elegance. Stroll beneath rose-covered pergolas that offer shade and beauty, creating the perfect setting for a peaceful break, stunning photos, or a romantic walk.
Beyond its aristocratic origins, visiting these gardens today is also an opportunity to discover the residential neighborhood of Sant Gervasi. After your stroll, you can take a break and have a coffee at Raw Studio or try the Baixas patisserie. If you prefer something more gastronomic, restaurants such as Antúnez or Feroz offer local cuisine and a modern atmosphere, perfect for rounding off the experience with a taste of Barcelona.
Opening hours: Every day from 10:00 to 20:00
Ticket: Free
Address: Carrer de Muntaner 282, 08021 Barcelona
