How to Get Around Barcelona: Transportation Tips for Tourists and Locals

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a city rich in culture, world-renowned architecture, and home to an irresistible food scene. Every area has something to offer, from Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell to historic neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter, the beaches of Barceloneta, and the modern district of Poblenou. To make the most of the city, it’s important to understand all your transportation options so you can figure out the best way to get around Barcelona that works for you. 

Whether you prefer to explore Barcelona on foot, take advantage of its efficient public transportation, or opt for more scenic options like tourist buses and cable cars, getting around in Barcelona is easy and convenient. Planning your trips in advance will help you save time and make your visit even more enjoyable. This guide will walk you through how to get around in Barcelona, including public transport options for tourists and residents alike. 

Public Transport in Barcelona

Metro: the fastest way to get around Barcelona 

The metro is the fastest and most efficient way to get around Barcelona, making it an excellent choice for those who want to avoid traffic and move quickly from one part of the city to another. With 12 lines and over 200 stations, you can reach major tourist attractions – like the Sagrada Familia, Camp Nou, and Montjuïc Park – in just a few minutes. 

Trains run frequently, operate daily, and stay open until late at night on weekends, making it a perfect option for tourists and locals. Schedules vary depending on the day of the week and the time of year, with trains running every 2 to 4 minutes during the day and approximately every 10 minutes at night. 

Barcelona’s metro lines are easy to navigate, each identified by a number and color: 

● L1 (Red): connects key areas like Plaça Catalunya and Plaça Espanya 

● L2 (Purple): ideal for visiting the Sagrada Familia and Passeig de Gràcia 

● L3 (Green): perfect for reaching the Gothic Quarter and Barceloneta 

● L4 (Yellow): the best choice for those heading to the beaches and Olympic Port 

The metro system is well integrated with buses and trams, allowing for easy transfers between different modes of public transport in Barcelona. 

Tickets & passes: 

If you frequenty plan to use Barcelona’s public transportation as a tourist, consider purchasing a transport pass. The Hola Barcelona Travel Card offers unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and trams for a set number of days. 

Other options include the T-Casual, a 10-ride ticket ideal for short stays, and the T-Usual, a monthly pass perfect for long-term visitors. 

Buses: the most extensive public transport network in Barcelona 

Buses are a great alternative to the metro, especially for reaching areas with fewer metro stops. 

Barcelona’s extensive bus network covers the entire city, including suburban areas and attractions like Tibidabo. There are also night buses (NitBus) that operate after the metro closes, ensuring you can get back to your accommodation even after a late night out. 

Key tourist bus lines: 

● D20: connects Barceloneta with Paral·lel, great for exploring the waterfront 

● H12: runs across the city, passing Plaça Espanya and Gran Via 

● V15: takes you to high-altitude spots like Park Güell

Additionally, thanks to the preferential lanes, they often provide a quick option for getting around Barcelona, avoiding traffic.

Trams: a comfortable ride through specific areas

Trams are less common than the metro or buses, but they are useful for reaching specific areas, such as Diagonal and Barcelona’s 22@ or “Innovation” district. Modern and spacious, trams offer a comfortable and more scenic journey, ideal for those who want to travel around Barcelona without rushing. 

The tram is especially useful for those staying in the newer areas of the city and who prefer a less crowded mode of transportation in Barcelona. With a regular schedule and quieter service, trams allow you to enjoy the city from a different perspective than other modes of transport in Barcelona. 

Barcelona’s tram system consists of two networks: 

● Trambaix (T1, T2, T3): connecting the city with nearby towns

● Trambesòs (T4, T5, T6): serving the Forum area and Olympic Port 

Trams run daily from 5am to midnight, extending to 2am on weekends. 

Taxi: the most convenient way for tourists to get around Barcelona

Taxis in Barcelona are easy to find and more affordable than in other European capitals. They are ideal for getting around Barcelona quickly or for those traveling with a lot of luggage. You can hail one on the street, find them at designated taxi stands, or book them through apps like Free Now and Cabify. 

Fares are regulated and displayed on the taximeter, with additional charges for night rides and airport transfers. Taxis operate 24/7 and can be a great alternative to public transport, especially if you’re short on time. Plus, most taxis accept credit card payments, making it even more convenient for non-EU tourists who haven’t withdrawn euros. 

Hop-on hop-off tourist buses

Are you looking at how to get around Barcelona as a tourist? The best way for tourists to get around Barcelona is the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus service. These buses allow you to reach the city’s main attractions with a single ticket. They offer the flexibility to hop on and off at any stop, so you can tailor your itinerary based on your interests. The main hop-on hop-off routes cover Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks, including the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, La Pedrera, Camp Nou, and Montjuïc. 

There are several ticket options that combine the bus tour with entry to the city’s top monuments. Some packages include access to the Sagrada Familia’s towers, while others cover entry to Park Güell, the Montjuïc cable car, and unlimited use of the sightseeing buses, making them an easy and convenient way to explore Barcelona. 

The different routes also include strategic stops near the best viewpoints in the city, giving you plenty of opportunities to take photos along the way. Plus, the buses are equipped with WiFi and an open-top deck, adding to the experience and making it even more enjoyable. 

The main companies offering this service include Barcelona Bus Turístic and City Sightseeing Barcelona, both with different routes and multilingual audio guides. For example, Barcelona Bus Turístic has blue and red routes that overlap at certain stops, allowing you to switch itineraries easily. 

Alternative Transport Options

Montjuïc Cable Car: a spectacular view from above 

The Montjuïc Cable Car, also known as the Telefèric de Montjuïc, is a fantastic way to see Barcelona from above. Covering 750m, it takes you from Montjuïc Park to Montjuïc Castle, offering views over the city and the sea. 

To reach the cable car, first take the Montjuïc Funicular from Paral·lel metro station. The funicular will bring you to Montjuïc Park, where you can continue on with the cable car. Alternatively, you can take the Barcelona Bus Turístic, which has a stop near the Montjuïc Cable Car. 

During the ascent, you’ll be able to see landmarks like the Torre de Collserola and the Palau Nacional, home to the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC). On the way back, the cable car stops at Mirador de l’Alcalde, offering a panoramic view of Barcelona. 

The Montjuïc Cable Car is not part of Barcelona’s integrated public transport system, so it requires a separate ticket.

Catamaran Tours: Barcelona from the sea

For a different perspective, a catamaran tour along Barcelona’s coastline is an excellent choice, and potentially the best transportation in Barcelona. Departing from Port Vell, you’ll get views of Barcelona’s  skyline while sailing in an eco-friendly, solar-powered catamaran. 

Onboard the modern catamaran, you can take photos of landmarks such as the World Trade Center and the Puerto Olímpico marina, which hosted the 1992 Olympics. The ride is quiet and environmentally friendly, offering a sustainable and relaxing experience. 

Most catamarans are wheelchair accessible, and some tours even include live music or a bar service, allowing you to enjoy a drink while admiring the view. Additionally, many companies donate part of their proceeds to Mediterranean cleanup efforts, making this experience not only enjoyable but also eco-conscious.

Lasting around an hour, the tour provides a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city, letting you soak in the sea breeze. Be sure to bring a light jacket, as the breeze can be cool even in summer. 

Exploring Barcelona on Foot

Barcelona’s city center is compact, with many top attractions located within walking distance of each other. Exploring on foot is a great way to find hidden spots and soak in the charm of the Catalan capital. 

La Rambla

La Rambla is the energetic heart of Barcelona, a 1.2km pedestrian boulevard stretching from Plaça Catalunya to the sea. Here, you’ll experience a mix of colors, sounds, and scents – from flower stalls and street performers to souvenir vendors and musicians. It’s a must-see, even though it’s quite touristy. Along the way, you’ll find the Boqueria Market, one of Europe’s most famous food markets, where you can sample local specialties like jamón serrano or fresh fruit. 

El Born/La Ribera 

The El Born/La Ribera district is one of the most charming areas in the city, with medieval streets, artisan shops, and cozy bars. Key stops include the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, a masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture, and the Picasso Museum, home to over 4,000 works by the artist. Strolling along Passeig del Born, the neighborhood’s main avenue, you’ll find cafes and boutique stores. 

Guided Walking Tours 

To get the most out of Barcelona, consider joining a guided walking tour. There are various options available, from historical tours to food tours, perfect for tasting local delicacies while discovering the city. 

A great option is a free walking tour, where you can learn about Barcelona’s history without a fixed cost – just leave a tip based on your experience. You can also join themed tours focusing on Gaudí’s architecture or the city’s medieval history, ideal for those who want to get into more specific aspects of Barcelona. 

Airport Transfers

From Barcelona Airport to the City Center

If you’re arriving at Barcelona El Prat Airport, the L9 Metro is an affordable and efficient way to reach the city. It serves both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with a journey time of about 30-40 minutes. Tickets cost around €5.50. 

Another convenient option is the Aerobús, the fastest and most comfortable way to reach central Barcelona. Buses run frequently, taking you to the city center in under 40 minutes, with ample luggage space, free WiFi, and USB charging ports. An onboard app with an audio guide allows you to start exploring Barcelona right away. 

From Girona Airport to Barcelona 

If you’re flying into Girona Airport, a shuttle bus connects the airport directly to Barcelona’s city center in about 75 minutes, which is one of the best airport transportation options in Barcelona for tourists. Bus schedules are synchronized with Ryanair flights, ensuring a seamless transfer. Free WiFi onboard keeps you connected throughout the trip. 

Once in Barcelona, you can easily continue your journey using public transport or a taxi to reach your final destination. 

For those traveling in a group, booking a private transfer is also an option, offering a direct ride to your accommodation with no intermediate stops. 

In conclusion, public transportation in Barcelona offers a convenient and efficient solution for exploring the city. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, using buses and the metro is often the best way to get around in Barcelona, ensuring you can easily access all its neighbourhoods and attractions.