Located in Sants neighborhood in Barcelona, Montjuic is a vast and beautiful landscape with breathtaking scenic views. Home to a variety of museums, cultural attractions, sporting facilities and Olympic sites, Montjuic is very much a part of Barcelona's personality. It's even been said to define the city in many ways.
In 1929, the International Exhibition was held in Barcelona, which helped foster the development of the area around Montjuic. Then in 1992, during the Olympics, there was an even greater surge for renewal.
What was once a military fort, Montjuic has today become a cultural attraction. Museums such as the Miro Museum, the Archeology Museum and the Museum of Catalan National Art (MNAC) are all situated on Montjuic. In addition to cultural attractions, there are a number of sporting sites such as Olympic Stadium; Palau Sant Jordi, which also houses a number of concerts each year; and the telecommunications tower, which can be seen pretty much anywhere in the city.
Another eye-catching and very worthwhile attraction is the Botanical Gardens. These gardens are wonderful to stroll through, as you take in the scenery and fresh air.
Montjuic in Barcelona — Photo courtesy of Barcelona Turisme
Throughout the year, Montjuic also plays host to a number of exhibits, fairs and festivals. The open-air movie festival takes place every summer right by the castle. The latest Hollywood blockbusters as well as a host of independent genres are featured weekly during the summer months.
The Montjuic Picnic is also an exciting event that takes place every weekend from May through October. Well-known DJs make their mark in the afternoon. It's one of the city's most exciting parties for children and adults alike.
Although Montjuic can be reached by cable car from La Barceloneta, it's also a short walk from Poble Sec and Plaza Espanya. It's not in the city center; however, it's not too far from the downtown core and an easy bus ride or cable car ride to the top.
The mountain has always been free to enter. But recently, a new admission fee to the castle has been introduced. Visitors must pay between 3-5 Euros. Meanwhile, locals - as long as they can prove they live here - can still get in free.
If you're looking to eat and drink atop the mountain, be sure to check out their tasty, picnic-style restaurants such as the Mirador and other kiosk-type locales, ideal for a quick bite, a good tan and a cold beer.
Montjuic is a great place to spend an afternoon in Barcelona, especially when the weather cooperates.
