Jess Bergin

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A Complete Guide: How to Get Around Barcelona

So. You’ve purchased your flights and accommodation, and now you’re in the perpetual planning phase of your trip to Barcelona. Navigate the network of options available with this in-depth guide on How to Get Around Barcelona.

A verging voyage engulfed with grandiose Gaudí attractions, tapas-fuelled outings and blissful beach days awaits you. And between all the sights and things to do, you’re probably left pondering over the panoply of ways to make your way around the city. Spain is steeped deep in history, culture and cuisine, and you don’t have to miss out on it all just because you don’t know how to get around…

Here’s what we cover in this guide:

  • Metro, Trams & FGC

  • Bus

  • Walking

  • Bicycles

  • Taxis

  • How to Get to Barcelona Airport

  • FAQs

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Metro, Trams and FGC

To help you navigate Barcelona’s public transport system like a pro, we’re going to take a deep dive into all the details.

The metro, tram, funicular, and FGC (Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat) are generally the quickest and most convenient ways of getting around BCN.

With simple and affordable tickets and travel cards available, this is the best option for price and practicality. These networks connect the most prominent attractions with other hot spots that are situated further out of the city.

Here’s all you need to know about public transportation in Barcelona:

Metro

Barcelona’s metro network is easily the most accessible and efficient option. In terms of frequency and schedules, the suburban rail service runs far more often than buses and trams. Better yet, you can transfer from one train to another on most routes using the same ticket.

So is the metro in Barcelona easy to use? With eight metro lines etched throughout the city, making your way around is made simple thanks to the bold colours and numbers used. Identify your route L1 (red), L2 (lilac), L3 (green), L4 (yellow), L5 (blue), L9N and L9S (orange), L10N and L10S (light blue), L11 (light green) and get on your way. If you’re stumped on how to use public transport in Barcelona, you can also use this metro map for visual reference.

Time Schedule:

  • Metro (TMB): Weekdays (Monday to Thursday, Sunday and public holidays): 5 am to midnight.

  • Fridays (& evenings before public holidays): 5 am to 2 am.

  • Saturdays: continuous service.

Tram

An accessible alternative to the metro is the tram network in Barcelona. This means of transport is relatively fast and comfortable and is ideal if you’re heading out to this metropolitan city’s major shopping areas and residential zones.

The two major tram lines in Barcelona are Trambaix T1, T2, and T3 (covers a route from Plaça Francesc Macià, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Sant Just Desvern, Sant Joan Despí, Sant Feliu de Llobregat and Cornellà, and the Trambesòs T4, T5, T6 (runs from Olympic Village, Plaça de les Glòries to Sant Adrià de Besòs via the Forum and Badalona).

Time Schedule:

  • Weekdays (Monday to Thursday, Sunday and public holidays): 5 am to midnight.

  • Fridays, Saturdays (& evenings before public holidays): 5 am to 2 am.

Funicular

Catch a unique glimpse over bustling Barcelona with the funicular railway. Situated at the foot of the Parallel metro station (L2 & L3), this option connects Montjuïc Park with the rest of this captivating city. With a speedy two-minute journey to the top, this transportation alternative pins it as one of the easiest and quickest ways of reaching Montjuic's heaving hills and verdant gardens.

Travelling with the metro and funicular is made hassle-free thanks to integrated passes and multi-journey travel tickets.

Time Schedule:

In Autumn & Winter:

  • Weekdays (Monday to Friday): 7.30 am to 8 pm.

  • Saturdays, Sundays (& public holidays): 9 am to 8 pm.

In Spring & Summer:

  • Weekdays (Monday to Friday): 7.30 am to 10 pm.

  • Saturdays, Sundays (& public holidays): 9 am to 10 pm.

FGC

The FGC network (Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat) is another top-notch alternative to the city’s metro system. The FGC network has three major lines with both metropolitan and urban routes: L6, L7 and L8.

This transport option is excellent for getting up to the districts beyond the foothills of Barcelona. Suppose you’re a foodie or restaurant aficionado. In that case, you’ll find the best fine-dining eateries in the upper-class neighbourhoods of Sant Gervasi, La Bonanova, Sarrià and Vallvidrera, each with an FGC station. Check out the FGC map to get your bearings.

Time Schedule:

  • Weekdays (Monday to Thursday, Sunday & public holidays): 5 am to midnight.

  • Fridays: 5 am to 2 am.

  • Saturdays (& evenings before public holidays): continuous service.

Barcelona Public Transport Tickets: Methods and Prices

So, is public transportation good in Barcelona? As you’ve gathered from the details above, public transport in Barcelona is frequent, well-connected, and easy to use. But its sheer affordability makes it stand out from other rivalled European cities. This is one of the major factors contributing to the cost of living in Barcelona, making it economical and accessible.

Operating with an integrated fare system, you can transfer (within 1hr of validating your ticket) to another means of transport for free. There are plenty of different kinds of travel cards and transport passes in Barcelona, and the best option for you will depend on various factors. The following passes are valid for the metro, buses, tram and suburban rail:

  • Single ticket: 2,40 €

  • T-casual (10 journeys): 11,35 €

  • T-Familiar (8 journeys): 10 €

  • Day passes (2, 3, 4 and 5 days): Hola Barcelona Card

Disabilities and Accessibility in Barcelona’s Public Transport System

Made practical for people with disabilities, the city’s public transport network features over 90% of stations equipped with ramps and step-free access. The FGC system boasts NaviLens smart tags that offer the visually impaired significant signs and information regarding both bus and metro services.

Each tag has a detailed description of the area, including ticket machines, barriers, escalators, platforms, boarding points, and more. Visually impaired people can independently travel throughout the network and only need a mobile device and the app to scan the tag.

Bus

The city’s bus network is ingrained with hybrid, electric and compressed gas vehicles, pinning it as one of Europe’s most environmentally-friendly options.

The bus system is pretty extensive and comprises a literal labyrinth of lines. Faster options are running through the neighbourhoods in both vertical and horizontal directions, as well as more convenient alternatives connecting the outer districts.

In addition to the thousand-and-something buses operating over 100 different routes, night services (Nit Bus) are functioning well and regularly. You can find the city bus map here.

Barcelona’s bus network can sometimes be faster when compared to the metro and trams, and they can directly connect you with a specific attraction or monument. The metro also has a limited timetable, but a handful of bus lines run all night, making it the ideal option if you’re venturing out late at night. Two tips for buses: tickets can only be purchased inside metro stations. And although the array of routes and lines can seem confusing, Google Maps is a stellar travel aid.

Additionally, Barcelona’s bus system is well-adapted for people with reduced mobility, visually impaired passengers, and those with disabilities. Buses offer designated seating, access ramps, visual and sonic alert systems, as well as signage in braille.

Time Schedule:

Each bus schedule differs according to the route. Most services start around 5 am and 8 am and terminate between 10 pm and 11 pm. For more information about bus times and frequency, check out Barcelona's bus network website.

On Foot

Can you get around Barcelona without a car? Travelling around this city has never been easier… These streets were made for walking!

Whether you’re in the mood to strut it up or simply stroll around at your own pace, hopping from hidden gems to more prominent attractions by foot is a great way to explore.

Navigating the foreign grounds of any new city can seem daunting at first, but there’s honestly no better way to get an authentic feel for local life.

Dive into the delightful depths of this architectural aficionados’ oasis and even discover some of the city’s best-kept secrets.

This is indisputably one of the best ways to get a glimpse at the sprightly social contrasts in this cultural melting pot. Each neighbourhood purveys plenty of unique, quirky finds that can only be discovered on foot.

So, can you walk around Barcelona? Yes, if you’re wondering how to get around Barcelona as a tourist, then walking is a wonderful option.

Suppose you stay in the Gothic Quarter, El Born, El Raval, La Barceloneta, or L’Eixample. In that case, there’s a panoply of the city’s best attractions within a few kilometres of walking distance, and it’s easily the best way to see the Old City (Ciutat Vella).

If you do, however, plan on heading further out to Parc Güell, Montjuic, Sagrada Familia, Casa Vicens or Hospital Sant Pau, then you might want to consider catching a bus or hopping on the metro.

Essential tips to orient yourself on foot:

  1. Las Ramblas are the significant streets in Barcelona.

  2. Avinguda Diagonal divides the Gracia and L’Eixample neighbourhoods.

  3. Passeig de Gracia runs from the north to the city's southern tip before ending at Placa Cataluña.

Bicycle

Another appealing point of why it’s so easy to get around Barcelona is the sheer breadth of bicycle paths blended throughout the city. Cycling is a compelling option if you’re looking to save time, ditch the crowds, and zip further afield.

Barcelona is a sound, cycle-friendly city, spanning a network of more than 200km worth of bicycle lanes, topped with specific traffic lights, signage, and expansive bicycle parking spaces. Getting around this sunny Spanish city on a bike can also be combined with public transport.

Residents can use the city’s bike-sharing service, Smou (formerly known as Bicing), but, unfortunately, it’s not yet available for tourists. If you’ve just moved to Barcelona, you’ll need to wait until you have a NIE or TIE card to sign up.

If you’re thinking about getting around Barcelona but want to stay active on your trip, a bicycle is one of the best options. Plus, there are even electric bicycles here too!

Bicycle shops are dotted throughout the city centre, making it easy for visitors to rent one. Hire a bike from Bamboo Bike Tours, Born Bike Tours Barcelona, Barcelona CicloTours, Penedès EcoTours, or Rent a Bike BCN. For electric bicycle options (which I recommend), check out Barcelona E-Bike Rent or Rent Electric.

Taxi

Teeming with over 10,000 taxis, Barcelona harbours a wealth of hybrid and electric vehicles and is undoubtedly one of the best transport options for ease and comfort.

Illustrated by a standard yellow and black design, taxis can be easily identified around one of the 300 taxi ranks in spots such as metro stations, bus stations, cruise terminals and the airport. Look out for the green light on their roof to know if they are available, or use the free app or flag one down in the street.

If you want to opt for the most environmentally-friendly option, then the Taxi Ecològic network is tailored to you.

Taxi fares typically start around 2,10€. However, they can increase on weekends and at night.

Are cabs safe in Barcelona? Taxis are extremely safe in the city. However, make sure that your driver is using the meter when you take off. Otherwise, you might get ripped off.

Is there Uber in Barcelona? Out of all the do’s and don’ts for getting around Barcelona, the most major takeaway is this: Don’t try to get an Uber. This ride-sharing app is illegal in Catalonia and has actually been suspended since mid-2018.

How to Get to Barcelona Airport

Breaking it down to basics, there are three main ways to get from the airport to Barcelona’s centre. Depending on your budget and time frame, you can opt between a taxi, the metro, or the Aerobus.

  1. Taxi: Taxis are the best option for comfort, convenience and timing. You can use the MyTaxi app or hail one directly outside the arrival terminal. If you’re taking a long-haul flight, I’d recommend a cab. The standard fare from the airport to the city centre is around 30-40€.

  2. Aerobus: As the more budget-friendly option, the Aerobus shuttles (airport express buses) A1 or A2 only cost €5,90 one way. If you’re sticking to a more frugal budget, catch the #46 bus (if it’s during the day) or the N16, N17 or N18 bus (during the night-time).

  3. Metro: The RENFE train service runs every 30 minutes to and from Barcelona. The duration is roughly 25 minutes, and it stops at Estació Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, and El Clot. From either Terminal 1 or 2, head down to the train station and hop on the L9 line towards the city centre. This is one of the least expensive options and ideal if you’re travelling light.

FAQS

What is the best way to get around Barcelona?

The most efficient way to get around Barcelona is by using public transportation. Catalonia’s capital city is well-connected with trams, buses, the metro and the FGC (suburban rail service). There’s also a cable car that links Barceloneta Beach with Montjuic.

Is it easy getting around Barcelona?

Surprisingly, getting around as an English-speaking tourist in Barcelona is relatively easy. The metro is accessible and runs frequently throughout the day and night. Getting around Barcelona is relatively hassle-free, but I’d recommend preparing ahead of time using Google Maps.

Is there Grab or Uber in Barcelona?

In Barcelona, there is no Uber or Grab available. The closest comparison is Cabify, but the prices are similar to catching a regular taxi.

How much does it cost to get around Barcelona?

A one-way journey (without any transfers) costs €2.40. You can purchase a T-10 ticket for €11.35, valid for up to 10 journeys.

What is the cheapest way to travel in Barcelona?

The most economical transport option is the metro or bus system. Walking is, of course, free, but it is not always the fastest.

How late do trains run in Barcelona?

The metro runs until midnight on weekdays and Sundays. On Saturdays, continuously.

Is the subway safe in Barcelona?

Yes, it is very safe. The major thing to look out for is pickpockets.

How walkable is Barcelona?

The city centre is 100% pedestrian-friendly and is relatively flat too. The outer suburbs host heaving hilltops and can be more challenging to conquer on foot.

Is the Hola BCN card worth it?

If you’re coming for a 3-day stay, buying the Hola Barcelona Card pretty much pays for itself. Read more here.

Can you get around Barcelona with an electric vehicle?

As a city committed to e-mobility, BCN boasts over 500 charging points for e-vehicles, making it more than feasible to make your way throughout the city.

What should I avoid in Barcelona?

Avoid spending all your time in the city centre, don’t fall for the tourist traps on the Ramblas, and keep your eyes peeled for pickpockets. Read this post on 13 Things to Know Before Visiting Barcelona, Spain.

The rich tapestry of attractions and activities in this sprightly city will undoubtedly pull you into every single corner. The extensive network of metro, trams, and buses, topped with teeming bike lanes and electric alternatives, make mobility in metropolitan Barcelona all too easy.

There’s no doubt that the various means of transport have something to suit your needs. Save this Guide to How to Get Around Barcelona, Spain, for your upcoming trip.

Which BCN transport option do you prefer?