It’s no doubt that Barcelona is one of the most photogenic cities on the planet—especially at sunset. 

As evening falls over the city, Barcelona takes on a special kind of magic that you have to experience for yourself. Of course, since Barcelona lies on Spain’s eastern coast, you won’t be able to catch a true coastal sunset—you’ll have to go to Galicia or Spain’s islands for that. However, the beautiful twilight that settles over Barcelona is still incredible. 

If you’re visiting town, be sure to set aside a few moments to watch the sunset in Barcelona. Here, we’ve rounded up a few of our personal favorite spots.

Where to watch the sunset in Barcelona

Castillo de Montjuic

From its commandeering position 173 meters above the city, this former military fortress is a much more peaceful site in the present day. Along with having one of the best views of the city, it’s also our favorite place to watch the sunset in Barcelona.

Take the cable car up to the top of the hill a few hours before nightfall and spend some time exploring the castle and its grounds. Then, as evening gently approaches, you’ll have a prime spot to watch the sunset.

Round off the experience by heading back down the hill in time to catch the Montjuic Magic Fountain Show. This spectacular display of light, color and water is a must when visiting Barcelona!

W Barcelona

You might recognize this strikingly modern hotel from its unique sail-like design, making it a standout in the Barcelona skyline. Along with being one of the city’s most luxurious hotels, the W Barcelona‘s several terraces each make for a perfect place to watch the sunset in Barcelona!

Treat yourself to a drink at one of the bars and settle in for a spectacular view as twilight falls over the Mediterranean.

Carmel Bunkers

Perched high on a hilltop above the city, these leftover relics from the Spanish Civil War make for a unique place to watch the sunset in Barcelona. The Carmel Bunkers are relatively off the beaten path and a hidden gem even among locals, so you won’t be fighting off crowds.

Although it’s a bit of a trek to get there, with some careful planning you should be set. Make the experience even more special by packing a picnic for dinner while you enjoy the panoramic views—you’ll be hungry after the climb!

Park Güell

Barcelona architect Antoni Gaudi’s best-known work is worth a visit regardless of the time of day, but we especially recommend visiting Park Güell at sunset.

Get there while it’s still daytime and marvel at the incredible tilework on the buildings, which look like giant, whimsical gingerbread houses. Then, climb to the top of the hill and enjoy the beautiful evening light falling over Barcelona. While this experience does require an entrance fee, it’s worth every penny!

Tibidabo

Along with being one of our favorite spots to catch the sunset in Barcelona, Tibidabo might just be one of the most unique places in the whole city. With an amusement park, a church and a fantastic viewpoint, it’s easy to spend all day up here!

This is an especially popular park among kids, so if you’re traveling with little ones, be sure to make room in your itinerary to come.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)

Barcelona’s best art museum houses more than 260,000 masterpieces in an awe-inspiring, stately building. If you’re an art aficionado, it’s well worth it to spend a few hours marveling at the incredible works inside the MNAC.

Even if art isn’t your thing, be sure to make some time to come to the museum and enjoy an incredible sunset in Barcelona. Grab a drink from the terrace bar and enjoy the view!

Las Arenas

This former bullring hasn’t seen a bullfight in years (Catalonia outlawed the controversial sport in 2010), but today it’s one of the trendiest malls in a city known for its great shopping.

In addition to dozens of shops, a gym, restaurants, a movie theater and more, Las Arenas also offers one of the best views of the city from its rooftop terrace. Enjoy a glass of crisp sparkling cava as you watch the sun set over Plaça d’Espanya.

There’s one more stunning sunset spot in Barcelona that we didn’t include here—but if you join us on our Sagrada Familia Closing Time Experience, we’ll let you in on the secret! Enjoy views of Gaudi’s masterpiece at sunset with a glass of cava in hand before heading inside to explore the church at the most peaceful time of day. It’s a truly unforgettable way to experience this verifiable Barcelona icon.