Originally published in Metropolitan
Anyone who has stood outside at night and peered up into the skies above Barcelona knows that there’s not much more to see than the gold-frosted hue of light pollution typical of metropolitan cities. This light pollution, known as skyglow, means we city dwellers see a fraction of the stars that are visible in the countryside, and even with the help of telescopes, they’re difficult or impossible to spot.
Luckily, we live near rural landscapes that are perfect for viewing the stars unobstructed. Whether you choose to see them through a telescope at an observatory or with the naked eye through the flap of your tent, we have gathered a few of the best places to stargaze in Barcelona’s backyard.
Learn about the Stars
Observatori Fabra de Barcelona
Closest to Barcelona, the Fabra Observatory is a short drive into the Collserola hills. Established in 1904, it’s the fourth oldest functioning observatory in the world. The observatory’s scientists give tours of the facility (in Catalan or Spanish), which teach visitors about astronomy, meteorology and seismology, as well as the domestic uses of the building in the early 20th century. The guides also demonstrate how the observatory’s two modern telescopes work and show guests around the library and panoramic terrace. During the visit, you can freely access the observatory's gardens every Sunday and public holiday from 11:00 to 13:00. If you want to know more about the night sky after the tour, there are basic and advanced astronomy courses available.
For a less academic experience that’s just as memorable, during the summer months you can make a reservation for the Dining with the Stars dinner series that the observatory hosts. The dinners take place outdoors with a privileged view of Barcelona. After dinner, a 30-minute scientific talk is held, with a question and answer session at the end. You can also visit the museum, the modernist room, the telescope and the large dome room. From the dome you will be able observe elements of distant constellations, stars and much of the solar system, with the 1904 telescope—one of the largest and oldest in Europe still in operation.
Guided Day Tours
Hours: Sundays, 11:00
Price: €3, free for children under 14
Guided Night Tours & Observation
Hours: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at sunset, October to June
Price: €15 adult on Friday, €25 adult on Saturday and Sunday, children up to 12 years pay half-price
Reservations required: Call 93 327 0121 or 697 864 262
Address: Camí de l'Observatori, s/n, 08035 Barcelona | fabra.cat