Fancy discovering Barcelona from above? Here are the city’s best lesser-known viewpoints! Because if you’ve already been to the classics like the Carmel Bunkers, Montjuïc, or Tibidabo, you’ve probably noticed one thing: there are always lots and lots of people. But… what if we told you there are other viewpoints where you can enjoy the views without the crowds?

At Lugaris, we’re going to show you the best viewpoints in Barcelona where you can breathe deeply, snap a photo in peace, and admire the city without dodging selfie sticks. If you love finding those hidden corners that aren’t yet in every guidebook, keep reading!

Why discover Barcelona’s lesser-known viewpoints

Visiting the best viewpoints in Barcelona is always a great idea. The Catalan capital has a way of surprising you every time you see it from above: from the sea to Collserola, across the Eixample, or with landmarks like the Mapfre Towers or Torre Agbar.

Most visitors (and plenty of locals too) head straight to the most famous viewpoints, such as the Carmel Bunkers. And while they still offer one of the most spectacular 360º views of the city, they’ve become quite crowded in recent years—and for good reason.

But if you’re looking for something quieter, more authentic, and less touristy, you’ll be glad to know that Barcelona is full of viewpoints that hardly anyone climbs to. Some are hidden in parks, others in little-known neighborhoods, and some just call for a bit more curiosity (and sometimes stronger legs).

Discovering these lesser-known viewpoints has plenty of advantages:

• You can enjoy the scenery in silence, without background noise or shoving.
• Your photos will be more original, with fewer strangers in the frame.
• You’ll see a different Barcelona—more local, less staged for tourists.
• Many of these spots are surrounded by nature, authentic neighborhoods, and peace.

Now, let’s dive into the must-sees.

Barcelona from above: the best little-known viewpoints to escape the crowds

Fancy discovering Barcelona from above? Here are the city’s best lesser-known viewpoints! Because if you’ve already been to the classics like the Bunkers del Carmel, Montjuïc, or Tibidabo, you’ve surely noticed one thing: there are always a lot of people. But… what if we told you there are other viewpoints where you can enjoy the views without the hassle?

At Lugaris, we’ll show you the best viewpoints in Barcelona where you can breathe deeply, take a photo in peace, and see the city without having to dodge selfie sticks. If you like uncovering those secret corners that don’t yet appear in every guidebook, keep reading!

Why discover Barcelona’s lesser-known viewpoints

Heading up to the city’s viewpoints is always a great idea. Barcelona has the power to surprise you every time you see it from above: from the sea to Collserola, across the Eixample, or past landmarks like the Mapfre Towers and Torre Agbar.

Most visitors (and plenty of locals, too) head straight to the famous viewpoints, like the Bunkers del Carmel. And while they still offer one of the most spectacular 360º views of the city, they’ve become quite crowded in recent years.

But if you’re after something quieter, more authentic, and less touristy, you’ll be glad to know that Barcelona is full of viewpoints hardly anyone visits. Some are tucked inside parks, others in lesser-known neighborhoods, and some simply require a little more curiosity (and sometimes a bit more legwork).

Discovering these lesser-known viewpoints comes with lots of perks:

• You can enjoy the scenery in silence, without the noise and distraction of crowds.
• Your photos will be more original, with fewer strangers in the frame.
• You’ll see a different side of Barcelona—more local, less dressed up for tourists.
• Many are surrounded by nature, and peaceful, authentic neighborhoods

Now, let’s get to the must-sees.

Mirador de Horta: unique views from Parc del Guinardó

The Mirador de Horta is one of those spots that surprises even longtime Barcelona residents. Parc del Guinardó is far less known than Park Güell, but it offers spectacular, little-known views.

It’s in the Horta-Guinardó district and features gardens, dirt paths, and stairways among the pines. At the very top, you’ll find a stone platform with incredible views of the sea, the Sagrada Familia, and the city skyline.

Best of all? It’s almost always empty. It’s the perfect spot to read, picnic, meditate, or simply watch the city lights change at sunset.

How to get there
Walk up from Alfons X metro (L4) or take the V17 bus. You can also combine your visit with the nearby Laberint d’Horta and enjoy a very complete circular route.

Tip
Bring water and snacks. There are no bars or vendors here, and that’s part of its charm.

Remember, at Lugaris you’ll find the best apartments in Barcelona for your stay in the Catalan capital.

Alternative Carmel Bunkers: nearby spots with fewer people

Yes, the Carmel Bunkers are a classic… but it’s getting harder and harder to find a quiet place to sit, especially in summer or on weekends. Luckily, there are nearby areas that offer nearly identical views with far fewer crowds. Here are a couple of hidden gems:

• Mirador del Turó de la Rovira (side access): While the bunkers are the highest point, if you skirt the park and climb via the side streets of the Carmel neighborhood, you’ll reach small clearings and stone walls with practically the same view—without the crowds. Perfect for a peaceful sunset. Just you, the wind, and the city.
  
• Mirador del Parc del Carmel: Located on the opposite slope of Turó de la Rovira, this park has benches strategically placed with views over the Eixample and the sea. Surrounded by nature and calm, you might even spot squirrels if you visit in the early morning.
  

How to get there
Take El Carmel metro (L5) or Vallcarca (L3) and walk uphill. You can also link it with Park Güell if you have time.

Tip
If you enjoy walking, try a viewpoint route from Park Güell to Turó de la Rovira, passing through Parc del Carmel. It’s a bit of a hike, but you’ll see the city from many angles without the crowds.

Turó de la Rovira at sunrise: a tourist-free experience

It’s true: Turó de la Rovira has become one of Barcelona’s most famous viewpoints. But what many don’t know is that at sunrise, it transforms. At that time, tourists are still asleep, it’s silent, and only a few early risers (or lucky night owls) are there to enjoy the show.

Watching the city slowly wake up, with the orange sunlight hitting the sea, the rooftops of the Eixample, and the silhouette of the Sagrada Familia, is one of those experiences that connects you with the city in a special way.

You don’t need much: a jacket, a thermos of coffee, and the desire to live a magical moment. If you’re traveling as a couple, it can become one of the most memorable parts of your trip.

Travel tip: Arrive through the Parc del Guinardó side to avoid the busiest areas. Weekdays are even better.

Mirador de Sarrià: panoramic views of the city and sea

In Sarrià you’ll find another of Barcelona’s best viewpoints. This peaceful neighborhood hides one of the most relaxing and little-known spots: the Mirador de Sarrià, also called Mirador dels Xiprers, nestled among gardens and hills.

From here, you’ll see a panorama that blends the greenery of Collserola, the blue of the sea, and Barcelona’s urban skyline. It’s the perfect place to sit with a book, gaze at the horizon, or take photos in peace.

And since it’s slightly off the typical tourist path, you’ll find more locals than visitors, giving it an authentic atmosphere.

How to get there
Take the bus or FGC train to Peu del Funicular, then walk uphill for a few minutes.

Tibidabo from another angle: hidden viewpoints on the mountain

Everyone knows Tibidabo for its amusement park and the Sagrat Cor church, but few know that its surroundings hide natural viewpoints where you can enjoy stunning views—no lines, no tickets.

Follow the trails around the mountain, and you’ll come across panoramic spots where the city stretches at your feet, the sea in the distance, and a striking contrast between urban and natural. Some are marked, others aren’t, but the reward is always worth it.

A local favorite is the Mirador del Virolai, accessible on foot from Vall d’Hebron or via the Vallvidrera funicular. You’ll also find quiet corners between Collserola Natural Park and the Carretera de les Aigües.

Perfect plan: Pack a picnic, hike at sunset, and end the day watching the city lights gradually flicker on.

Natural viewpoints in Collserola: Barcelona seen from the forest

If there’s one spot where you can feel far from the city without really leaving it, it’s Collserola. This vast green range to the north is full of hidden corners with sweeping views of Barcelona—straight from the forest.

Walking in Collserola is an activity in itself: fresh air, pine shade, real silence, and occasional clearings that gift you with unforgettable cityscapes. Best of all? No crowds, no shops, no bars—just you, nature, and Barcelona on the horizon.

Some of the most beautiful and little-known viewpoints here include:

• Mirador de la Carretera de les Aigües: a linear trail, easy to do on foot or by bike, with several stops to admire the city from different angles.
  
• Mirador de la Font del Turó d’en Cors: a small clearing among the trees, perfect for resting while taking in the skyline in silence.
  
• Mirador de Torre Baró: technically at Collserola’s edge, but with breathtaking views and almost always empty. It feels like you have the whole city at your feet.
  

Visiting these viewpoints isn’t just a way to see Barcelona from above, but also a way to disconnect from urban life and reconnect with the essentials.

Our tip: Many trails are signposted, but we recommend apps like Wikiloc or Maps.me so you don’t get lost and can discover new routes along the way.

Enjoy Barcelona from above!

These lesser-known Barcelona viewpoints give you unique views, no stress, and authentic charm. So grab your camera, good shoes, and a curious spirit—because the best of Barcelona isn’t always in the most touristy places.

And if you’re planning your next trip and wondering where to stay, remember that Lugaris offers apartments by the beach in Barcelona, apartments in Poblenou, and long-stay rentals.

Discover Barcelona from above… and feel at home with Lugaris apartments. A trip to remember!