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Parks

Parc de Can Mercader

4.4 · 11,643 reviews
A family-oriented and nostalgic green space.
Parc de Can Mercader, Ctra. de l'Hospitalet, 78, 08940 Cornellà de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The park houses a rare 5-inch and 7.25-inch gauge miniature railway that has been operational since the 1980s.

2

The mansion on the property, Palau Mercader, features an original collection of clocks, paintings, and porcelain from the 19th-century aristocratic lifestyle.

3

The park's layout reflects the transition from Romantic-style gardens to more functional public recreational spaces.

4

The miniature train circuit is maintained by a dedicated local volunteer association rather than the municipal government directly.

5

The park contains specimens of exotic tree species planted during the original design of the estate in the 19th century.

Overview

Parc de Can Mercader is an 11-hectare historic garden located in Cornellà de Llobregat, surrounding the 19th-century Palau Mercader. The park features an extensive miniature railway circuit operated by the Brotherhood of Model Railway Enthusiasts. A decorative lake serves as a central point for the garden's landscaping, which dates back to the mid-1800s. The site includes the Museo Palacio de Can Mercader, housed within the original neoclassical mansion. Visitors can explore diverse botanical zones, including formal gardens and dense wooded areas. The park acts as a major green corridor for the Llobregat river basin. It serves as a community hub with integrated playground facilities and pedestrian paths. The estate was the former residence of the Counts of Mercader before transitioning to public parkland.

Photo spot

The lakeside view with the palace mansion in the background.

Insider tips

Visit during the mini-railway operating windows to witness the active train circuit.

Plan to visit the interior of the palace mansion, as it houses a distinct local museum that is often overlooked.

Bring a picnic, as the park is designed with multiple open green spaces and designated tables.

What to avoid

Do not expect the miniature railway to run on non-event days; check the local volunteer schedule.

Good to know

The miniature railway operates on a limited schedule, typically Sunday mornings; the palace museum has specific restricted visiting days.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Sunday morning for the miniature railway activity; spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures.
Address
Parc de Can Mercader, Ctra. de l'Hospitalet, 78, 08940 Cornellà de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
41.358, 2.085
Get directions
Details
Botanical varietyContains mature exotic tree specimens from the 19th century
Park facilitiesIncludes a miniature railway, lake, and museum

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Sunday morning for the miniature railway activity; spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures..

The lakeside view with the palace mansion in the background.

Close by you'll find Spotify Camp Nou, RCDE Stadium, Parc de Can Buxeres.