Reaching new heights and finding different perspectives is at the heart of travel, and sometimes it helps to get a bird’s eye view of where you’re at. If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, we recommend you enjoy its colorful vistas. Plus, what’s a vacation without photos of sweeping panoramic views?

Here are our favorite observation points in Barcelona.

Turó de la Rovira

Sunrise or sunset, the ruins of Spanish Civil War bunkers atop the Turó de la Rovira offer some of the best views of the city, whether of mountains, cityscapes or the sea. Pack a picnic and bottle of wine (don’t forget the opener!) and enjoy the view after the uphill hike to the top. From the city center, take bus V17 to the last stop and hike the rest of the way (about 10 minutes). Other visitors opt for the half-hour hike from the metro, both equidistance from stations Guinardo or Alfons X. If visiting during the day, make sure to prepare for the elements; in warm seasons the sun can be intense and evening winds can be chilly.

Montjuïc

There are two options to travel up to the summit of Montjuic: via aerial tram or gondola lift. The gondola lift provides a leisurely, 85-meter ascent up the Montjuïc hill, reaching the centuries-old Montjuïc Castle. Trips begin at Montjuïc Park at around €12; cable cars hold up to eight passengers and can accommodate passengers with reduced mobility. The trip up to the summit lasts about 8 minutes, with a stop half-way for guests to enjoy panoramic city views. Once up top, guests can explore the military fortress complete with its parterre gardens. For more info, check out the Teleferico de Montjuïc website.

The Port Vell Aerial Tramway is a bit more thrilling, with views over the harbor and heights up to 107 meters at a quicker pace. The cabins don’t contain seats and hold up to 20 passengers, allowing those on board to move around and check out panoramic views of the Sagrada Família, Torre Agbar and more. Ride fares are comparable to those of the gondola lift. There are two tramway tower stations to reach Montjuïc: one on San Sebastia Beach (complete with a tower restaurant!); and the midpoint stop of Torre de Jaume in front of the World Trade Center. Make sure your camera has a full battery — you’ll take a lot of photos on the trip up to Montjuïc and at the summit!

Diagonal 205 Skybar & Lounge

Newly opened in May, our rooftop bar offers 360-degree panoramic views of Barcelona right near Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes. The bar and lounge features a swimming pool, live DJ sets, excellent cocktails, and, of course, best views just steps from your hotel room. Enjoy the vista at night or during the day by the pool. Relax and enjoy fresh cuisine, craft cocktails and wide-open views.

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Planning a trip to Barcelona? Check out rates at The Gates Hotel Diagonal