Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera Barcelona
A unique desert oasis on Montjuïc, featuring over 800 species of cacti and succulents with stunning city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera Barcelona
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique desert oasis on Montjuïc, featuring over 800 species of cacti and succulents with stunning city views.
"An oasis of serenity that is only a 15-minute walk from the center of Barcelona."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The gardens are on a slope; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
It can get hot, especially in summer. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Cactus Collection
Throughout the gardens
Explore over 800 species of cacti and succulents from around the globe. A true desert oasis in the city!
+1
Panoramic City Views
Various viewpoints
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea from elevated points within the gardens.
Tranquil Desert Escape
Secluded pathways
Find a peaceful retreat amidst unique flora, offering a serene escape from the bustling city.
+1Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Montjuïc Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The gardens are on a slope; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
It can get hot, especially in summer. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
📸 Capture Unique Flora
Perfect spot for photography enthusiasts with diverse and striking plant life.
📍 Find Hidden Spots
Wander off the main paths to discover quieter areas and unique plant arrangements.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The gardens are on a slope; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
It can get hot, especially in summer. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
📸 Capture Unique Flora
Perfect spot for photography enthusiasts with diverse and striking plant life.
📍 Find Hidden Spots
Wander off the main paths to discover quieter areas and unique plant arrangements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera as a unique and tranquil botanical escape on Montjuïc, offering stunning desert flora and beautiful city views. While some find the terrain challenging, most appreciate the free entry and the opportunity to discover a less-crowded gem in Barcelona.
"Its a medium sized garden. Better to go with a car. Lot of cactus all around. Be careful with the thorns. Nice view of the city. Overall once in a life, if you have nothing to see, you can explore this park."
Pranjal Nandi
"The Cactus Garden in Barcelona offers a stunning view, with its unique collection of cacti and breathtaking scenery. Unfortunately, the weather was not on my side during my visit, but despite that, the place was still beautiful and worth seeing. I definitely need to come back when the sun is shining and the weather is better to fully enjoy the experience!😍"
Stanisław Gorzelany
"Such a peaceful and underrated spot! The garden is full of unique cactus species and offers incredible views over the sea. I went around 7 PM, and the golden hour light made everything look even more magical.
While I was there, a local woman walked by and told me I should leave soon because the area can get a bit unsafe in the evening. She suggested not staying too close to closing time. I ended up leaving around 8 PM. I didn’t personally see anything dangerous, but I appreciated the heads-up and decided not to take any chances.
Overall, it’s definitely worth a visit during the day. Quiet, green, and full of character — just maybe plan to go earlier rather than later!"
Khai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the gardens by taking a bus to Montjuïc or by walking from other Montjuïc attractions. Some visitors suggest using a scooter service for easier access up the hill.
Limited parking is available on Montjuïc, but it can fill up quickly. Public transport or ride-sharing services are often more convenient.
It's a significant uphill walk from the city center. It's recommended to use public transport to get closer to Montjuïc first.
Consider using the Montjuïc Cable Car for scenic views and easy access to various points of interest, including areas near the gardens.
Yes, several bus lines serve Montjuïc, bringing you within walking distance of the gardens. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Jardins de Mossen Costa i Llobera is generally free. It's a public botanical garden.
The gardens typically open in the morning and close around sunset. It's best to check the official Barcelona Parks website for the most current hours, as they can vary seasonally.
There is no admission fee to enter the Jardins de Mossen Costa i Llobera, making it a great free attraction in Barcelona.
The gardens are not typically open at night. They close at sunset, so plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the daylight hours.
While not as common as in other major attractions, keep an eye on local event listings for potential guided tours or botanical talks.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for unique cactus formations against the sky, panoramic city views, and the intricate textures of the succulents. The late afternoon light is particularly beautiful.
Drone usage is generally restricted in public parks and gardens in Barcelona to ensure safety and tranquility for visitors. Check local regulations.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, offers the most dramatic and flattering light for photography.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to inquire with the Barcelona Parks department beforehand, as permits may be required.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the gardens and city views, while a macro lens can highlight the intricate details of the cacti.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The gardens are situated on a hillside, so expect some inclines and uneven paths. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Yes, there are benches scattered throughout the gardens, offering spots to rest and enjoy the scenery.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find quiet spots to enjoy a packed lunch. Remember to take all your trash with you.
You can spend anywhere from 1 to 3 hours exploring the gardens, depending on your pace and interest in the plant collections.
Restroom facilities may be limited within the gardens themselves. It's advisable to use facilities at nearby Montjuïc attractions before or after your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities within the gardens are minimal. Consider visiting the nearby Jardins de Joan Brossa, which are more geared towards children with playgrounds and open fields, as a complementary activity on Montjuïc.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Look for interesting silhouettes against the sky, close-ups of succulent details, and wide shots incorporating the city skyline. Aim for the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the most magical light. The elevated positions within the gardens also provide excellent vantage points for capturing panoramic shots of Barcelona.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
+1It's a perfect spot to decompress from the city's energy. The relatively low visitor numbers, especially during off-peak hours, contribute to its peaceful atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Desert Oasis on Montjuïc
+1Visitors often describe the gardens as a tranquil escape, a place where you can feel transported to a desert landscape without leaving the city. The diverse shapes, sizes, and textures of the cacti create a visually captivating experience. It's a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike, offering a peaceful contrast to the urban environment.
+2Navigating the gardens involves some walking on inclines, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended. The best times to visit are typically early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy softer lighting for photos.
Exploring Montjuïc's Green Spaces
Other notable gardens on Montjuïc include the Jardí Botànic de Barcelona (Barcelona Botanical Garden), which focuses on Mediterranean flora, and the Jardins de Joan Brossa, known for its open spaces and play areas. The Jordi Marimurtra Garden is also a popular spot, though it can be reserved for private events.
When planning your visit, consider how the gardens fit into a broader Montjuïc itinerary. Many visitors combine a trip to the cactus garden with a visit to the castle, the Poble Espanyol, or simply to enjoy the numerous viewpoints offering spectacular cityscapes.
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