Visiting Sagrada Familia

There may be someone who has guidance about the best time to see the stained-glass windows. I can only say that I opted for the first time slot of the day in August and really appreciated the relatively small number of other people in the church in the minutes before the second group was admitted. I don't remember whether that was 15 minutes later or longer. At any other time of day, there will already be a lot of other folks in the church. That said, a great deal of what you're looking at in the church is well above eye-level, so the crowds at La Sagrada Familia are not as bothersome as they are in some other places (e.g., the Picasso Museum).

If you want to ascend a tower, the first time slot may not mean much of anything to you, because you'll probably need to line up for that not long after you get in.

I signed up for the first tour of the day at 09:00 in Sept. and was glad I did. The sun streaming through the windows was magnificent and there were colors and reflections oozing all over the pillars and floors. Because there weren't many people inside yet, got some fantastic photos. Stayed and looked at everything and a few hours later, the place was full, so was really happy to have gone early.

I do not believe the towers are open yet, due to Covid. Check the official website though.

Thank you ! Great info. I appreciate your help

It’s best to visit a museum first thing in the morning when you’re most alert. There’s a lot to absorb.

We went on a cloudy day, some rain, at 4:45 pm on 4/6. That was the time we were able to book for a guided tour in English, on somewhat short notice (long story). The light was still extremely beautiful streaming through the stained glass that day. I had the same concern, but it turned out to be unfounded. Only problem with going at that time of day was our energy level remaining for the museum downstairs, but the windows were stunning.

My understanding is that the light through the windows is great in the afternoons.
I was advised to have a ticket in advance. I got mine online before my trip.
Enjoy!

I was there late morning and the light streamed through the stained glass windows in multiple shades of pastels.

I was there, mid Sept. at 09:00 for the 1st tour. The light and windows were more than stunning and there weren't 100s of people blocking the view of the rainbows and reflections on the floor. Perhaps the light is nice in the afternoon, but with all the people, you wouldn't get the same beautiful effects as mornings.

Great point, Ms. Jo.. We'll be in Barcelona mid September and I'll plan accordingly! :)

Another vote for 1st time slot, and get there pretty early so you are at the front of the line of the people waiting to get in with the same time. Those first few minutes, when there are not a lot of other people, are priceless.