The Best of Tibidabo in Barcelona
One of the best things about Barcelona as a holiday destination is the fact that it has something for everyone, from the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, to its bustling city life to the most spectacular views from the Collserola mountains. Tibidabo, the highest peak of this vast range, is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona, as it also offers different adventures to suit every taste. Those travelling with kids can let their hair down at Spain’s oldest amusement park, while tourists looking for an unforgettable night can take in the city’s incredible skyline from some of the most exclusive dining spots in the city. Plus, there are hiking opportunities, a fascinating museum, and so much more. Read on for all you need to know about the best of Tibidabo in Barcelona.
The Tibidabo Amusement Park
As one of the oldest adventure parks in the world, the Tibidabo Amusement Park is not to be missed on your trip to Barcelona. With most of the original rides dating back to the turn of the 20th century, there is plenty to enjoy no matter your age. Head to the Sky Walk area and take a ride on the little red plane as you zip through the clouds, while marvelling at the breathtaking views of Barcelona from above, or opt to munch on some candy-floss on the traditional Tibidabo Ferris wheel! You can even visit the site where part of Woody Allen’s hit film ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’ was shot! For more information on pricing, tickets and opening times, visit the Tibidabo official website.
The park, Funicular, and Tramvia Blau all now accept contactless payment for tickets, meaning you can tap your card or mobile to enter, with no need for printed tickets.
Make sure to download the Tibidabo Live app before you go. It shows real-time ride wait times, event schedules, weather updates, and even allows you to purchase tickets directly on your phone.
How to get there:
By train: Take L7 (Brown Line) from Plaça Catalunya to Av Tibidabo. Please take note; this is a Renfe (FGC) operated train, so follow the signs. From there, you can opt for the historic Tramvia Blau, all the way to the last stop, Plaça del Doctor Andreu. At this point, you are halfway up the mountain, and to get to the Amusement Park, you have to take the Funicular.
By bus: Catch the T2 Tibibus from Plaça Catalunya. (Approx. 2.60€, which is reimbursed when you buy a ticket to enter the park)
The Sagrat Cor Tibidabo Church
On a clear Barcelona night, you will be sure to spot the glowing Tibidabo church from any point in the city. Situated at the very top of the mountain, over 500m above sea level, the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor (Church of the Sacred Heart) took over 60 years to construct and is one of the most revered neo-Gothic structures in Barcelona. You can reach it by taking the Tramvia Blau and the Funicular railway to the summit of Tibidabo, which is a historical journey in itself, as both the tram and train were built in 1901!
The CosmoCaixa Museum
If you are visiting Barcelona with kids and wish to gain some educational wealth from the foothills of Tibidabo, make your way to the CosmoCaixa Museu de la Ciència (Science Museum). Home to fantastic exhibits and activities, as well as a Planetarium, this museum is ideal for those who like to get hands-on. You’ll find it near the base of the mountain, just before Avinguda del Tibidabo. For more info on the CosmoCaixa Museum and a list of exhibits, visit the Barcelona Turisme website.
How to Get There: Take the L7 (FGC) train from Plaça Catalunya to Avenguda Tibidabo, and then switch to the 196 Bus.
Walking and Hiking at Tibidabo
If you’re looking to get out of the city for a day and really fill your lungs with some fresh air, then a Tibidabo walking trip is definitely for you. The Collserola Mountain range is ideal for a green escape, and there are plenty of walking and hiking tours available that help you to get the most out of your Tibidabo experience. We suggest the 4.2km hiking trail from the Museu de la Ciència to the peak of Tibidabo, offering spectacular views along the way!
Dining and Nightlife
If you find yourself hungry after a day of gallivanting across this magical mountain, rest assured, many restaurants are catering to even the most selective eater. We recommend El Mirador de la Venta for some great food and spectacular views. Alternatively, head to the Fabra Observatory for a romantic dinner on a secluded terrace, a tour of the golden-domed building and the chance to stargaze through one of Europe’s oldest telescopes! But for those who simply wish to enjoy a cool cocktail amongst Barcelona’s elite, head to Plaça del Doctor Andreu, where you will find the exclusive Mirablau and Mirabé bar/nightclubs.
How to get to the Fabra Observatory: By train: From Plaça Catalunya, take the FGC Line S1 or S2 to Peu de la Funicular. Switch to the Funicular railway from Vallvidrera Inferior to Vallvidrera Superior, and then catch the 111 Bus.
Torre de Collserola
The Torre de Collserola is open again! This impressive Telecommunications Tower is an engineering feat without precedent in Spain. Built for the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, it rises 288 meters high and sits 560 meters above sea level, serving as the main communications hub for Catalonia.
From August 13 to 31, it welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. It’s the perfect time to enjoy one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Barcelona, with sweeping panoramic views including the Tibidabo amusement park and church. Watching the sunset from here is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
How to get there: For a scenic route, start your journey just like you would to visit Tibidabo. From Plaça Catalunya, take the FGC Line S1 or S2 to Peu del Funicular. Board the Tibidabo Funicular, which takes you partway up the mountain. From there, connect to the 111 Bus, which stops close to the Torre de Collserola.
A visit to Tibidabo is more than just a day out; it provides visitors with a sense of adventure, nostalgia, and breathtaking scenery. With thrilling rides, city views, and restaurants to indulge in authentic Catalan cuisine, it’s a place that will no doubt leave you with memories that last well beyond your time in Barcelona.
