Witch Hunt on Montjuïc: Self-Guided Puzzle Quest in Barcelona

If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys combining sightseeing with a little mental challenge, the Witch Hunt on Montjuïc could be an intriguing option. It promises a self-guided, puzzle-based exploration of some of Barcelona’s most scenic and iconic spots, all run through your smartphone. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it’s a creative way to see the city, especially if you like a mix of walking and brain-teasing fun.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its flexibility—you can start it whenever you’re ready, pause as needed, and go at your own pace. Plus, it’s pretty wallet-friendly at just over 8 dollars per person. On the flip side, it’s not a guided tour with a person explaining the sights, so if you prefer a more traditional, docent-led experience, this might not be your best bet. It’s best suited for curious travelers who enjoy puzzles, discovering hidden corners, and want a personalized adventure rather than a cookie-cutter tour.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Flexible self-guided format allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Affordable price point makes it accessible to many travelers.
• Focus on local sights from Montjuïc Park to Castle, blending art, nature, and city views.
• No guide required, but 24/7 customer support is available if needed.
• Ideal for independent explorers comfortable with technology and puzzles.
• Not including attraction tickets means you’ll need to plan for those separately if you wish to enter specific sites.

What Is the Witch Hunt on Montjuïc?

This experience is not your typical walking tour. Instead, it’s a part scavenger hunt, part exploration game that uses your smartphone as the main guide. You begin at Joan Miró Park and follow clues that lead you across Montjuïc’s highlights, from the old bullring turned commercial space to the majestic Font Màgica fountain, finally ending at Montjuïc Castle.

It’s a creative way to discover Barcelona, especially if you’re tired of conventional sightseeing or want to add a bit of challenge to your day. The entire adventure takes roughly 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed. Since it’s independent, you get to control how long you linger at each spot, which appeals to travelers who prefer a relaxed, unstructured itinerary.

How Does the Self-Guided Puzzle Work?

Using the Questo app, your smartphone becomes your personal tour guide. Once you download the game, it provides you with clues and challenges that correspond to specific locations. For example, at Parc Joan Miró, you’ll receive your first puzzle, which unlocks the story and guides you to the next location.

The puzzles are designed to be fun and engaging, and they encourage teamwork if you’re with friends or family. You can choose to stop and explore each site more deeply or simply move on once you’ve solved the challenge. The game is limited to your group, which means no noisy crowds or strangers interrupting your experience, adding a layer of intimacy and personalization.

Breakdown of the Itinerary

Let’s walk through the stops and what you might expect at each. Keep in mind, since this is a self-guided experience, your level of engagement and how long you spend at each stop will vary.

Stop 1: Parc Joan Miró

Starting at this peaceful park, you’ll receive your first clue. It’s a nice introductory point, with greenery and art just nearby. As Anderson_C noted in a review, the building (possibly referencing the surroundings) has a “bela organização entre os tempos passados e separados por alas,” which translates to appreciating the blend of old and new aesthetics—a nice touch for art lovers.

Stop 2: Centro Comercial Arenas De Barcelona

This site used to be a bullring, now converted into a shopping center. Here, you’ll solve your next puzzle, which might involve some visual or historical clues. You’re free to explore at your own pace, perhaps grabbing a snack or just taking in the architecture.

Stop 3: Plaça d’Espanya

A major square with impressive views and notable landmarks. It’s a good place to soak in the city vibe while working on your next challenge. The stop is brief but packed with visual interest.

Stops 4-5: Torres Venecianes & The Magic Fountain

The Venetian Towers are an iconic entry point to Montjuïc, and the Magic Fountain is famous for its evening shows (though you might visit during the day). The puzzles here could involve the fountain’s history or the towers’ design—perfect for those who love a bit of trivia while enjoying the outdoor scenery.

Stops 6-8: Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, Palauet Albeniz, Joan Miró Foundation

These cultural sites offer a chance to appreciate Catalonia’s art scene. The museum and Joan Miró Foundation are particularly notable. However, the tickets for entry are not included, so if you want to see the inside, plan for additional costs. Several reviewers have highlighted these stops as highlights, though some also noted that the challenge doesn’t require entrance fee visits.

Stops 9-11: Jardins de Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer, Montjuïc Slides, Montjuïc Castle

Relax in these gardens, take a fun ride on the slides, or explore the historic castle. The puzzles are designed to keep the adventure engaging without requiring extra tickets. Ending at Montjuïc Castle allows for a panoramic view of Barcelona, making a satisfying finale.

What Are the Pros and Cons?

Pros:
– The cost is very reasonable for a personalized experience.
– It offers flexibility and independence—play it whenever, stop when you want.
– You get to explore lesser-known areas and enjoy local art and scenery.
– The limited group size makes it more intimate and less crowded.

Cons:
– Since it’s self-guided, you miss out on the insights a guide might provide.
– Some sites require separate tickets, which aren’t included—this might surprise some.
– Puzzles might be less engaging for those who prefer straightforward sightseeing or guided commentary.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $8, this is an affordable way to add some fun to your day in Montjuïc without breaking the bank. It’s especially good for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with some mental activity. Considering you control the pace and the experience is private, you get good value for your money.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour is ideal for independent travelers, small groups, or couples who enjoy puzzles, art, and scenic walks. It’s suited for those comfortable with technology and looking for a personalized, no-pressure way to explore Barcelona. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer guided tours, you might prefer other options, as this is more about self-navigation and discovery.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a light, engaging way to see Montjuïc, this self-guided puzzle quest offers a mix of art, history, and outdoor beauty at a reasonable price. Its flexibility makes it perfect for those who don’t want a strict schedule and enjoy solving riddles in a beautiful setting.

While it might lack the depth of a guided tour, the personalized nature and the chance to uncover hidden corners give it a charm of its own. Just remember, you’ll need to handle your own entry tickets for some sites, and if you prefer detailed commentary, this route might feel a little light.

Overall, for curious explorers looking for something different, this adventure could be a highlight of your Barcelona trip. Just bring your curiosity and a sense of fun.

FAQ

Do I need a guide to participate? No, this is a self-guided experience. You use your smartphone to navigate and solve puzzles, so no guide is necessary.

Are attraction tickets included? No, tickets for sites like the Museu Nacional or Montjuïc Castle are not included. You can explore some sites outside or plan ahead if you want to enter.

How long does the tour take? Expect around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each stop.

Can I start and stop whenever I want? Yes, the experience is flexible—you can pause, continue later, or take extra time to explore each site.

Is this suitable for families or kids? The tour is more suited for older children, teens, or adults who enjoy puzzles, since it’s primarily an activity-based exploration.

What language is the game in? While not specified, most mobile apps like Questa are available in multiple languages, but it’s worth checking if you need a specific language option.

What if I need help during the tour? Customer support is available 24/7, so if you encounter issues, assistance is just a message or call away.

If you’re looking for a fun, independent way to see Montjuïc with a twist, this puzzle adventure might be just what you need. It balances exploration, challenge, and scenic views—an experience that’s both engaging and uniquely personal.