Located two blocks south of Park Güell, Gaudí Experiència is an interactive exhibition space dedicated to the life and work of Barcelona’s very own Antoni Gaudí, the innovative architect responsible for the visionary designs behind such local landmarks as Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, and Casa Vicens. The centerpiece of a visit to Gaudí Experiència is an augmented-reality movie that brings Gaudí’s greatest achievements to life. Gaudí Experiència is also home to several museum-style displays, architectural models, and a gift shop.
History of Gaudí Experiència
A relatively new venture that’s made quite the splash within the Barcelona sightseeing industry since its opening, Gaudí Experiència is helmed by three “Founding Partners”: Marcos Santana, Toni Cruz, and Josep Maria Mainat. Their popular attraction manages to make learning about Gaudí, modernist architecture, and the history of Barcelona both educational and entertaining.
And speaking of fun: Barcelona visitors who love to discover terrific photo opportunities will not want to miss the life-size bronze statue of Antoni Gaudí that graces a mosaic-covered bench within the attraction. There you can snap a social-media worthy selfie with the legendary architect, or get an adorable picture of the kids sitting next to one of the city’s favorite sons.
Gaudí Experiència Highlights
The highlight of a visit to Gaudí Experiència is without a doubt the attraction’s 15-minute movie, which uses 4D, augmented-reality technology to showcase Gaudí’s beloved architectural accomplishments as never before. You’ll sit down in a chair within a movie theater, where you’ll put on 3D glasses, fasten a seatbelt, and be taken away on a “ride” through the famous Barcelona buildings created by Gaudí—during which time these iconic structures will seem to come to life before your eyes.
While the Gaudí Experiència’s interactive film tends to receive the most attention, the attraction also provides visitors the chance to examine two exquisite models of architectural designs by Gaudí. One is a replica of the so-called “monumental area” of Park Güell; the other is a true treat for Gaudí aficionados: it’s an incredibly striking model of a hotel Gaudí designed for a project that was to be completed in New York City (the hotel was never built).
Before you depart Gaudí Experiència, you’ll want to spend some time checking out the attraction’s interactive screens. These large museum-style panels cover Gaudí’s entire life, sharing insights into his designs, methods, and a whole lot more. All the materials accessible on these touchscreens are available in nine different languages.
More to See and Do at Gaudí Experiència
Continue reading for several tips that’ll help make your visit to Gaudí Experiència all that much more rewarding.
*The Gaudí Experiència shop is a can’t-miss opportunity for big-time enthusiasts of the architecture of Antoni Gaudí. There you’ll find a well-curated selection of books, accessories, and souvenirs pertaining to Gaudí’s life, buildings, and role as the preeminent figure associated with the Modernisme movement. There are even several exclusive products for sale here.
*No matter what the listed hours of operation are for the day you plan to visit Gaudí Experiència, it’s important to keep in mind that the day’s final show begins 30 minutes prior to closing time.
*Prospective visitors should be advised that the 4D-audiovisual portion of Gaudí Experiència is not suitable for pregnant people, individuals with heart or back conditions, and children under the age of six years old. Children under the age of four years old are prohibited.
*If you’ve got your heart set on visiting Gaudí Experiència, but you’re still looking to save some money on tickets, consider using a Barcelona tourist pass to visit the attraction. Numerous Barcelona tourist passes work with Gaudí Experiència, so you’ll have a nice selection of options to choose from.
*One way many creative Barcelona visitors choose to make Gaudí Experiència happen is by taking the Blue Route of the hop-on hop-off Barcelona Bus Turístic to Park Güell. From there, it’s a very short walk to Gaudí Experiència.
Why Gaudí Experiència Should Be on Your Must-See List
If you’re on a tight schedule while in Barcelona and you only have time to visit a few attractions, you’re probably best served prioritizing an itinerary that lets you experience one (or as many as you can fit into your plans) of Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces firsthand. However, if you’re a huge fan of Gaudí’s style—or you’ve already been to Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera, Casa Batlló, and Casa Vicens—then you’ll absolutely want to stop at Gaudí Experiència, where you’ll be able to enjoy the greatness of Gaudí as never before.
