Montjuïc Castle (Castell de Montjuïc)

The Basics

Standing more than 558 feet (170 meters) above the city, Montjuïc Castle and the hill on which it sits feature some of the best panoramic views of Barcelona, distant mountains, and Mediterranean Sea. Castle visitors learn about the turbulent history of the edifice and the city, from the Catalan Revolt in the 1600s through the Napoleonic Wars and into the 19th and 20th centuries, when it was used as a place to execute political prisoners. You can also walk around the surrounding gardens and see a number of renowned sculptures and the castle’s ancient drawbridge.

Barcelona tours that stop at the castle typically also include neighboring sights, such as Olympic Park (Anella Olímpica), Plaza España (Plaça Espanya), and nearby museums. Guided city tours—on foot, via bus, by cable car—are also available to get a deeper understanding of Catalonia, its history, and its tensions with Spain.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Montjuïc Castle is a must-visit for fortress fans and those keen on Catalonian history.

• Admission is free on Sunday after 3pm and all day on the first Sunday of the month.

• There is little shade atop the mountain so bring a hat and some sunscreen.

• The castle is not recommended for those with reduced mobility.

How to Get There

The castle sits in eastern Barcelona, between the botanical garden (Jardí Botànic de Barcelona) and the sea. Take the metro to Paral·lel station and then bus 150 to the top of Montjuïc Mountain. Alternatively, from Barceloneta Beach you can board the Montjuïc Cable Car, which drops you in front of the castle.

When to Get There

Montjuïc Castle is open from 10am to 6pm daily, and to 8pm March through October; it is closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Crowds gather at the castle during the summer months so arrive early for the best views.

The Mountain of the Jews

Since prehistoric times, the mountain of Montjuïc has played an important role in Barcelona life and lore. Most notably, it is believed that the southern slope of the mountain was the site of an ancient Jewish cemetery, granting it the Catalan name Montjuïc, or Mountain of the Jews.

Ways to explore

Expect to spend a couple of hours visiting Montjuïc Castle. It’s a good idea to purchase tickets online, since that can save you a potentially long wait at the entrance. There’s free admission on the first Sunday of each month, as well as free admission starting at 3pm on other Sundays. Another option is to visit Montjuïc Castle as part of a Barcelona tour, with options that range from independent hop-on, hop-off itineraries to guided Segway excursions.

Accessibility

Most of Montjuïc Castle is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

Children 13 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

What to pack

Binoculars, camera

What to wear

Layered clothing, brimmed hat, sunglasses

Not allowed

Large bags, pets, scooters

Amenities

Restrooms, lockers

Address

Montjuïc Castle is located on Carretera de Monjuïc, south of downtown Barcelona, and is part of the park-like complex covering Montjuïc Mountain.

Driving

Parking within Montjuïc can be limited. If you do drive, you’ll find paid parking on nearby Carrer dels Tarongers.

Public transportation

Getting to Montjuïc Castle is part of the fun, especially if you take the Montjuïc cable car from Avinguda Miramar—it goes all the way to the castle. Some admission tickets include cable car access.

Best times to visit

Early morning and late afternoon tend to be the quietest times at Montjuïc Castle, and the view over Barcelona is especially beautiful during sunset.

Best days to visit

Unless you’re taking advantage of free, first-Sunday admission, come on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. Monday through Thursday are generally less busy.

Best months to visit

The off-peak months of January, February, and March are a wonderful time to visit Barcelona, when you’ll have plenty of room to roam at Montjuïc Castle and other attractions.

Special events

Festivals and special events: Montjuïc Castle hosts special events throughout the year, including the May Night of the Museums (La Nit del Museus), in which cultural institutions across the city offer free entry and late hours.