Intrepid travelers - if you a-had to pick one of these two, which would you prefer? I am going to see Sagrada Familia (that was my #1 Gaudi site) but may like to do another. My time in Barcelona is somewhat short, so no time for both. Gracias!
Posted by
Washington DC
30355 posts
I'd choose Casa Batllo. Actually, my preference would be Casa Mila/La Pedrera rather than Casa Batllo. Based on my 2016 experience, I think there's a possibility Casa Mila will be 5% less crowded (though both will be unbelievably packed), and I just found it that much more interesting. There's nothing wrong with Casa Batllo except the crowds (and the price is steep), though, so I'm not discouraging it.
Parc Guell is definitely worth seeing, but it takes longer to get up there, and there's a possibility (however slight) the day of your prebooked visit might be less than ideal, weather-wise. Anyone who has a significant problem with severely crowded conditions should definitely choose Parc Guell. It, too, will probably be mobbed, but it's outdoors.
If you're a bit nervous about needing to prebook multiple sights during a short visit to the city (and it is tricky): There's a lovely former-hospital complex designed by a different architect, Lluis Domenech i Montaner, that can be visited without the hassle of prebooking an entry time. You can walk right up to the ticket counter and buy a ticket. It's Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau, and it's not terribly far from La Sagrada Familia. No preplanning required, but it is a multi-building complex that takes time to see (multiple hours, ideally, even if you don't stop to read the extensive posted explanatory information about the hospital years. https://santpaubarcelona.org/en/
Posted by
London
1211 posts
My pick would be Casa Batllo, mostly for the reason there's just so much more to see if you like Gaudi. The park has some interesting architectural features but most of it is just a park (a very nice one, with great views, of course). With Casa Batllo each room is interesting in a different way. I also really enjoyed Palau Guell. But really you are spoiled for choice in Barcelona with modernist architecture.
Posted by
1554 posts
Casa Battlo's rooftop is reason enough to visit. Then, there are the immersive experiences and, of course, the rooms. That this was someone's home makes it even more enjoyable. Make sure, if you go, that you have your photo taken where a photographer is stationed. It is more expensive than Parc Guell if cost is a concern. I have been to PG three times and enjoyed it very much, but weather is a factor--last time in December 2025, it was raining and had been raining for days before. On the other hand, CB was cheek to jowl with people, but that may have been because it was just after Christmas with many off from school and work. You are spoiled for choice in Barcelona. Enjoy!