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Barcelona – Travel Guide
Barcelona, a vibrant Mediterranean gem, captivates with its blend of modernist architecture and historic charm. Gaudí’s masterpieces, like the surreal Sagrada Familia and whimsical Park Güell, infuse the city with artistic magic. Wander through the Gothic Quarter’s narrow, cobblestone streets, where history whispers from ancient buildings and hidden courtyards. The lively atmosphere of La Rambla, with its street performers and bustling markets, energizes your senses. Savor the flavors of Catalan cuisine in seaside tapas bars and relish panoramic views from Montjuïc Hill. Barcelona’s sun-drenched beaches, cultural treasures, and dynamic nightlife create an enchanting tapestry of experiences.
All about Barcelona
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Getting around Barcelona
Walking
Barcelona is a city of contrasts! From the medieval Barri Gòtic (the Gothic Quarter) to the moderniste L’Eixample to the coast of the Mediterranean, it offers not just one, but many different worlds to explore. And while it’s tempting to hop on and off the Metro to see the sights, remember that Metro stations are often only about a 5 – 10 minute walk apart so a good pair of shoes is the best way around central Barcelona.
By Metro
The Barcelona Metro is run by two separate companies: Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), and Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC). You will find the TMB-owned stations (Lines 1-5 and 9-11) on maps and on the streets by looking for a red diamond with a white letter M in the middle. FGC-owned stations (Lines 6-8, 12) are denoted on maps and on signs by an orange square with an interlocking white pattern in the lower right corner.
The Barcelona Metro is the cheapest and easiest way to get around. The Metro runs 5 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, 5 a.m to 2 a.m. Friday, and from 5 a.m. through the whole night on Saturdays. There are twelve color-coded and numbered lines that fan out from the center of the city. Maps are available from the stations and from tourist information offices. The stations at Placa de Catalunya, Sants, and Passeig de Gracia connect with RENFE or over-ground trains.
A single (senzill or sencillo) ticket in central zone 1 costs €2.20. More economical options include a T-10 at €10.20, which offers 10 journeys that can be shared by two or more people, or a T-Día for unlimited 24 hour transport in central Barcelona for €8.60. All these tickets are valid for the FGC and bus systems as well as the TMB Metro lines. When a sencillo ticket is activated it is valid for up to 75 minutes on a different form of transport if you need to do a combined Metro/bus journey – simply insert the card through the slot and the turnstile will open without charging you for a second ride.
The TMB website (www.tmb.cat/en) has information on the city’s transport system in English, including which Metro stations and buses are equipped to take wheelchairs. The customer service number is tel. 93-318-70-74; there are also customer service centers at Universitat, Sagrada Família, Sants, and Diagonal stations. For information on FGC trains, visit www.fgc.cat/en.
By Bus and Tram
Considering the complexity of Barcelona, getting around is surprisingly easy. In addition to the efficient subway system, surface trams and buses will take you from one end of the city to the other for less than the price of a cup of coffee. Barcelona’s main bus station is Estació del Nord (Carrer d’Ali Bei 80, Eixample, Barcelona, Catalonia, 08018. 902/260606), a few blocks east of the Arc de Triomf. Buses also depart from the Estació de Sants. City buses run daily from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Route maps are displayed at bus stops and it is helpful to note that those with a red band always stop at a central square – Catalunya, Universitat or Urquinaona. The 17-route Nitbus system, which is particularly useful, runs from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. These buses are bright yellow and clearly marked with an N. While travel cards and other TMB passes are valid for daytime buses they’re not valid on Nitbuses. Tickets cost €2.20 one-way and are purchased directly from the driver in cash.
Barcelona’s sleek new tramvias (trams) run the main routes through the city alongside buses and the heritage tramvia which runs in the Sant Gervasi and Tibidabo areas. Although buses are plentiful, they can be far less convenient as they are often caught up in the city’s infamous traffic congestion. Most bus and tram routes stop at Placa de Catalunya, which is also the stopping point for the Aerobus service from the airport and the Bus Turistic. Routes and timetables are clearly marked at each stop; however, most buses and trams stop running well before the Metro closes.
By Commuter Rail
The urban and metropolitan rail network, the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat (FGC), is run by the Catalan government and supplements Barcelona’s metro network. There are four urban lines, L6, L7, L8, and L12, which operate 5 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, and 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday with continuous service on Saturday. There are also two Rodalies de Catalunya lines, R5 and R6, and seven FGC suburban lines: S1, S2, S33, S4, S5, S55, and S8.
By Taxi
Yellow and black taxis bear the letters ‘SP’ (Servicio Público) on their front and rear and are plentiful with taxi ranks (parades in Catalan) all over town; or you can hail one on the street if its green light is on. Taxis have meters and the rate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays starts at €2.15 and rises in increments of €1 every kilometer. The more expensive night rate starts at €3.30. There is a supplemental charge of €2.10 for trips to/from a train station and €4.20 for trips to/from the airport or the cruise port. There are official supplements of €1.20 per bag for luggage as well, and a €1.20 surcharge for a pre-ordered radio taxi. By law, a list of prices and surcharges is on display on the back passenger window. Drivers do not expect a tip, although rounding up in their favor is appreciated. To reserve a taxi, please call Radio Taxi (tel. 933 03 30 33).
By Funicular
To visit Tibidabo by public transport, you’ll have to take the Funicular de Tibidabo. The fare is €7.70, or free if you’re also purchasing admission to the Tibidabo amusement park (€29). The funicular operates every 15 to 20 minutes, typically from 15 minutes before the park opens to 15 minutes after it closes. From mid-April to September service is daily 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. In the off season it usually operates only Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. To get to the funicular, take Metro Line 7 to Avinguda Tibidabo. Exit onto Plaça Kennedy and take either the 1901 tram called Tramvía Blau (Blue Streetcar) or Bus 196 to the funicular. The bus is the usual €2.20 fare. Tickets on the Tramvía Blau are €5.50.
Getting to Montjuïc by funicular is a simple ride from the Paral-lel Metro station and is considered part of the Metro network, although you need to change and use a new €2.20 ticket. Once you’re on the mountain, you can ride a cable car to the castle on top. Tickets on Telefèric de Montjuïc are €8.40 one-way, €12.70 round-trip (€6.60 or €9.20 for ages 4–12).
By Bicycle
Barcelona offers about 125 miles of bike lanes and cycling in the city is very safe. The city has a bike sharing program with red bicicletas (6,000 in all) available for free from bus and Metro stations for up to 30 minutes. There are also shops that rent them, including Daily Bike Tours Bike Rental, Esparteria 3 (tel. 93-268-21-05), and Biciclot, Carrer de Pere IV 58 (tel. 93-307-74-75). It is important to note that you are required by law to wear a helmet.
By Car
Our best advice on driving in Barcelona would be: don’t. Between parking, navigating, drunk-driving patrols and traffic congestion, you’ll find the ease and efficiency of public transportation to good to pass up. On the other hand, if you are planning on taking any day trips or touring the Catalonia province then we suggest you pick up your rental car as you depart the city to avoid excessive rental/parking expenses. Alternatively, you may consider renting the car in a town where you will be visiting and then traveling there by train and picking up the car once you arrive.
Warning: Small items such as hand luggage, cameras and laptops are commonly stolen from parked cars. Don’t leave anything in a parked car and keep doors locked, windows up, and valuables out of sight while driving!
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Barcelona FAQ
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
People traveling to Barcelona will be arriving at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (IATA code BCN), located in the city of El Prat de Llobregat, 10.5 miles from Barcelona`s city center. If you have not booked a private transfer with us then you have a few options. The RENFE rail service departs every 25 minutes between 5:40 a.m. and 11:55 p.m. from the El Prat train station to Estacio Barcelona-Sants (Placa dels Paisos Catalans) with a journey time of 16 minutes; then at Placa de Catalunya, Arc de Triomf and Clot-Arago where you will find connections with the Metro and bus services.
Aerobus services A1 and A2 travel between the airport and the city center. Buses leave from outside the Arrivals hall at all three terminals every 5-10 minutes from 5 am to 12:30 a.m. seven days a week and stop at Placa Espanya, Sepulveda-Urgell and Placa de Catalunya. Journey time is about 40 minutes to the last stop and the fare is €5.90 one-way or €10.20 roundtrip.
NOTE: If you are traveling to Barcelona Airport, it is important to remember that Aerobuses for Terminal 1 and for Terminal 2 stop at the same bus stops so make sure that you take the right Aerobus. The Aerobus for Terminal 1 is dark blue. The Aerobus for Terminal 2 is light blue. For more information, visit https://www.aerobusbcn.com/en.
Alternately, there are black and yellow taxi ranks outside all three airport terminals. They should be metered. Cab fare from the airport into town is €30-€35 depending on traffic, the part of town you`re going to and the number of large bags you`re carrying (€1.20 is charged for each large bag). Tip between 5% and 10% of the fare. There`s a supplement from the airport after 10 p.m. (usually €4.20). The journey to the center of town can take from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
How do I get from the train station to my hotel?
Barcelona is serviced by numerous domestic and International rail lines and two main train stations. Spain has invested heavily in its rail system making the train a great way to get around for both long and short distances. Spain`s intercity services (along with some of Barcelona`s rodalies, or local train routes) are handled by the government run railroad system – RENFE. Please check the links below for additional information regarding transportation from your arrival station. If you have not booked a private transfer with us then you will find Barcelona is well connected by Metro, tram and bus.
Barcelona Train Stations: Estacio Barcelona-Sants – Estacio de Franca
How do I get around Barcelona using the Metro?
The Barcelona Metro is the cheapest and easiest way to get around. The Metro runs 5 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, 5 a.m to 2 a.m. Friday, and from 5 a.m. through the whole night on Saturdays. There are twelve color-coded and numbered lines that fan out from the center of the city. Maps are available from the stations and from tourist information offices. The stations at Placa de Catalunya, Sants, and Passeig de Gracia connect with RENFE or over-ground trains.
A single (senzill or sencillo) ticket in central zone 1 costs €2.20. More economical options include a T-10 at €10.20, which offers 10 journeys that can be shared by two or more people, or a T-Día for unlimited 24 hour transport in central Barcelona for €8.60. All these tickets are valid for the FGC and bus systems as well as the TMB Metro lines. When a sencillo ticket is activated it is valid for up to 75 minutes on a different form of transport if you need to do a combined Metro/bus journey – simply insert the card through the slot and the turnstile will open without charging you for a second ride.
The TMB website (www.tmb.cat/en) has information on the city`s transport system in English, including which Metro stations and buses are equipped to take wheelchairs. The customer service number is tel. 93-318-70-74; there are also customer service centers at Universitat, Sagrada Familia, Sants, and Diagonal stations. For information on FGC trains, visit www.fgc.cat/en.
How do I get around the city using other public transportation?
Considering the complexity of Barcelona, getting around is surprisingly easy. In addition to the efficient subway system, surface trams and buses will take you from one end of the city to the other for less than the price of a cup of coffee. Barcelona`s main bus station is Estacio del Nord (Carrer d`Ali Bei 80, Eixample, tel. 902 260 606), a few blocks east of the Arc de Triomf. Buses also depart from the Estacio de Sants. City buses run daily from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Route maps are displayed at bus stops and it is helpful to note that those with a red band always stop at a central square – Catalunya, Universitat or Urquinaona. The 17-route Nitbus system, which is particularly useful, runs from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. These buses are bright yellow and clearly marked with an N. While travel cards and other TMB passes are valid for daytime buses they`re not valid on Nitbuses. Tickets cost €2.20 one-way and are purchased directly from the driver in cash. Most bus routes stop at Placa de Catalunya, which is also the stopping point for the Aerobus service from the airport and the Bus Turistic. Routes and timetables are clearly marked at each stop; however, most buses stop running well before the Metro closes.
Read More
How do I call/hail a taxi?
Yellow and black taxis bear the letters `SP` (Servicio Público) on their front and rear and are plentiful with taxi ranks (parades in Catalan) all over town; or you can hail one on the street if its green light is on. Taxis have meters and the rate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays starts at €2.15 and rises in increments of €1 every kilometer. The more expensive night rate starts at €3.30. There is a supplemental charge of €2.10 for trips to/from a train station and €4.20 for trips to/from the airport or the cruise port. There are official supplements of €1.20 per bag for luggage as well, and a €1.20 surcharge for a pre-ordered radio taxi. By law, a list of prices and surcharges is on display on the back passenger window. Drivers do not expect a tip, although rounding up in their favor is appreciated. To reserve a taxi, please call Radio Taxi (tel. 933 03 30 33).
How do I get around the city using other public transportation?
Considering the complexity of Barcelona, getting around is surprisingly easy. In addition to the efficient subway system, surface trams and buses will take you from one end of the city to the other for less than the price of a cup of coffee. Barcelona`s main bus station is Estacio del Nord (Carrer d`Ali Bei 80, Eixample, tel. 902 260 606), a few blocks east of the Arc de Triomf. Buses also depart from the Estacio de Sants. City buses run daily from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Route maps are displayed at bus stops and it is helpful to note that those with a red band always stop at a central square – Catalunya, Universitat or Urquinaona. The 17-route Nitbus system, which is particularly useful, runs from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. These buses are bright yellow and clearly marked with an N. While travel cards and other TMB passes are valid for daytime buses they`re not valid on Nitbuses. Tickets cost €2.20 one-way and are purchased directly from the driver in cash. Most bus routes stop at Placa de Catalunya, which is also the stopping point for the Aerobus service from the airport and the Bus Turistic. Routes and timetables are clearly marked at each stop; however, most buses stop running well before the Metro closes.How do I call/hail a taxi?
Yellow and black taxis bear the letters `SP` (Servicio Público) on their front and rear and are plentiful with taxi ranks (parades in Catalan) all over town; or you can hail one on the street if its green light is on. Taxis have meters and the rate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays starts at €2.15 and rises in increments of €1 every kilometer. The more expensive night rate starts at €3.30. There is a supplemental charge of €2.10 for trips to/from a train station and €4.20 for trips to/from the airport or the cruise port. There are official supplements of €1.20 per bag for luggage as well, and a €1.20 surcharge for a pre-ordered radio taxi. By law, a list of prices and surcharges is on display on the back passenger window. Drivers do not expect a tip, although rounding up in their favor is appreciated. To reserve a taxi, please call Radio Taxi (tel. 933 03 30 33).
Read More
Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.
How do I call/hail a taxi?
Yellow and black taxis bear the letters `SP` (Servicio Público) on their front and rear and are plentiful with taxi ranks (parades in Catalan) all over town; or you can hail one on the street if its green light is on. Taxis have meters and the rate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays starts at €2.15 and rises in increments of €1 every kilometer. The more expensive night rate starts at €3.30. There is a supplemental charge of €2.10 for trips to/from a train station and €4.20 for trips to/from the airport or the cruise port. There are official supplements of €1.20 per bag for luggage as well, and a €1.20 surcharge for a pre-ordered radio taxi. By law, a list of prices and surcharges is on display on the back passenger window. Drivers do not expect a tip, although rounding up in their favor is appreciated. To reserve a taxi, please call Radio Taxi (tel. 933 03 30 33).
I will have a car in Barcelona, where can I park?
Our best advice on driving in Barcelona would be: don`t. Between parking, navigating, drunk-driving patrols and traffic congestion, you`ll find the ease and efficiency of public transportation to good to pass up. On the other hand, if you are planning on taking any day trips or touring the Catalonia province then we suggest you pick up your rental car as you depart the city to avoid excessive rental/parking expenses. Alternatively, you may consider renting the car in a town where you will be visiting and then traveling there by train and picking up the car once you arrive.
Warning: Luggage, cameras and laptops are commonly stolen from parked cars. Don`t leave anything in a parked car and keep doors locked, windows up, and valuables out of sight while driving!
Is Barcelona a walking city?
Barcelona is a city of contrasts! From the medieval Barri Gotic (the Gothic Quarter) to the moderniste L`Eixample to the coast of the Mediterranean, it offers not just one but many different worlds to explore. And while it`s tempting to hop on and off the Metro to see the sights, remember that Metro stations are often only about a 5 – 10 minute walk apart so a good pair of shoes is the best way around central Barcelona.
Can I pay/tip in U.S. dollars?
The currency of Spain is the Euro. U.S. dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for euros upon arrival. Currency exchange desks and ATMs can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city. For more detailed information, consult our guide to tipping in Spain by clicking here.
Is Barcelona a dangerous city? Are there certain areas I should avoid?
Barcelona has reported a growing number of violent attacks in tourist areas, with older tourists particularly at risk. Criminals, who often work in teams, frequent tourist areas and major attractions as well as trains, train stations, airports, subways and ATMs. Muggings and pickpocketing are common so travelers should exercise caution, carry limited cash and credit cards, and leave passports and personal documents in a safe location. Crimes occur at all times of day and night, but the early hours of the morning are when visitors should be most cautious.
What are the best areas for shopping?
L`Eixample`s elegant Passeig de Gracia is home to some of the most expensive retail space in Spain. Here the top names of fashion have set up shop. And all along the avenue there are dozens of outdoor cafes for relaxing over wine and tapas. The older, more traditional shops and specialized retailers are to be found in the Ciutat Vella (El Raval, El Born and the Barri Gotic). In the Old City, you will also find intimate boutiques and galleries. One promising new area is located around the MACBA, the city`s museum of contemporary art in El Raval.
Clothing, shoes and leatherwear are the items to buy in Barcelona. The quality and value of leather goods is superb with leather shoes, belts and coats being particularly good buys. Barcelona is also renowned for its vibrant design culture so decorative objects and house wares here are original and well made and can be found in the shops around the MACBA and the Museu Picasso. Artisan pieces such as ceramic tiles and earthenware bowls and plates are cheap and plentiful.
Top Attractions
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Sagrada Familia
Gaudi’s iconic basilica, still under construction, is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, intricate facades, and stunning interior
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Park Guell
Gaudi masterpiece, this vibrant park features whimsical mosaics, colorful structures, and panoramic views of the city
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La Rambla
This bustling street in the heart of Barcelona is famous for its lively atmosphere, street performers, markets, shops, and historic buildings.
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Gothic Quarter
Wander through the labyrinthine streets of this neighborhood, home to ancient Roman and medieval architecture.
Unique Experiences
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Barceloneta Beach, a vibrant stretch of golden sand along Barcelona’s coastline, offers a perfect escape from the city’s bustle. Enjoy sunbathing and swimming in the clear Mediterranean waters, or indulge in beach side cocktails at the numerous chiringuitos (beach bars).
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Visit Casa Batllo at Night: Explore Gaudi’s whimsical Casa Batllo after dark during a “Magic Nights” tour. Enjoy live music on the rooftop terrace while taking in the surreal architecture illuminated against the night sky.
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Experience a Castellers Performance: Witness the awe-inspiring human towers, a traditional Catalan activity, at a local festival. The teamwork and skill involved in building these towering structures are a fascinating cultural experience.
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Barcelona’s boating tours offer a unique perspective of the city’s stunning coastline and architectural marvels. Opt for a sunset cruise to witness the city bathed in golden light, or choose a luxury yacht tour for a more intimate experience.
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Embark on a Barcelona culinary tour, starting with a guided tapas tour to savor patatas bravas, jamon iberico, and seafood with local wines. Visit La Boqueria Market to explore fresh produce and join a cooking class for traditional Catalan dishes.
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What to expect while traveling
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