All you need to know for getting around Barcelona

Barcelona is an ideally sized city.

It’s large enough that there's always something to do and new experiences to uncover, yet its compact layout and extensive metro and bus systems ensure you can navigate the city swiftly.

For cycling enthusiasts, you'll be pleased to know that the city now boasts 200km (124 miles) of bike lanes, making it one of the easiest 'big' cities to explore in Europe. Many of Barcelona's highlights are located in the Old City, easily accessible by walking.

Here are the top ways to get around Barcelona.

The best way to explore Barcelona's main attractions is via the Metro

With eight lines and 161 stations, the Barcelona Metro has been in operation since 1863, forming a vast electric railway network that primarily runs underground, linking the city center to its suburbs and nearby towns, including L’Hospitalet and Badalona.

Today, Barcelona's top neighborhoods and major attractions are easily accessible via the metro. Key destinations such as Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, Platja de la Barceloneta, Arc de Triomf, and others are just a metro ride away, making it the most efficient way to navigate the city.

The metro operates from 5am to midnight from Sunday to Thursday. On Fridays, Saturdays, and the nights before public holidays, it runs until 2am.

Take the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat to reach the foothills of Barcelona

The Collserola mountain range marks the northern boundary of Barcelona. To reach the neighborhoods at the base of these hills and beyond, you’ll need to use the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat (FGC).

The upscale neighborhoods of Sant Gervasi, La Bonanova, Sarrià, and Vallvidrera each feature an FGC station. These areas are definitely worth a visit, particularly Sant Gervasi, known for its top-notch fine-dining restaurants.

While the FGC is part of the Barcelona Metro system, it operates quite differently. Instead of the typical metro trains, the FGC consists of actual trains. They all depart from the city center, and ticket prices vary based on your destination, unlike the standard metro which has a flat rate.

The bus is the best option for late-night travel

With over 200 lines and dedicated bus lanes, Barcelona's hybrid city buses can often be quicker than the Metro, particularly when a Metro line doesn’t directly connect to a specific attraction. Many bus routes operate throughout the night, allowing for easier exploration of Barcelona after dark.

While navigating the various routes can be tricky, Google Maps is a valuable travel companion, and every station features maps and detailed route information. Tickets can only be purchased inside metro stations.

In line with its commitment to a carbon-neutral future, Barcelona's public transport system is gradually transitioning to more energy-efficient vehicles, with all new buses being electric or hydrogen-powered.

Experience stunning views from Barcelona's cable cars and funiculars

Barcelona features funicular lines and cable cars that lead to popular attractions like Tibidabo, the city's tallest hill, known for its breathtaking church views. You can glide high above the port or reach Montjuïc, another hill on the west side of the city, home to the castle.

Tickets are available for purchase at metro and FGC stations

All forms of public transportation in Barcelona utilize the same travel card, which can be obtained at any metro or FGC station. Keep in mind that the prices mentioned apply to Zone 1; however, the FGC encompasses a total of 6 zones with varying fares. A fare reduction was implemented in September 2022 for some of the most common ticket types and will continue until the end of 2023.

A single metro fare is €2.40 (€5.15 for trips to or from the airport), but if you plan to travel frequently and want to save money, visitors can select from various integrated ticket options:

• T-Dia (€10.50): A 24-hour individual ticket, perfect for solo travelers planning multiple metro rides in a single day.

• T-Casual (€11.35): An individual ticket valid for 10 journeys, ideal for solo visitors staying in Barcelona for a few days.

• T-Familiar (€10): A multi-person travel card offering eight journeys, great for families or groups of friends.

• T-Usual (€40): An individual travel card with unlimited rides for 30 days, best suited for solo travelers staying longer in the city.

All integrated tickets allow for one ride to remain valid when switching modes of transport within a 75-minute window. However, if you use a single ticket, you'll need to purchase an extra one when transferring from metro to bus or metro to FGC.

Barcelona is transforming into a bike-friendly city

Cycling is an excellent way to navigate Barcelona. Less than ten years ago, cyclists were a rare sight in the city, but recent efforts have significantly improved its cycle-friendliness. Plans are underway to expand the cycling lanes even further in the coming years.

Unfortunately, only locals can access the public bike rental service, Bicing (pronounced 'be-zing'). However, visitors looking to explore Barcelona by bike can easily rent one from various shops scattered throughout the city. The city center is mostly flat, making cycling and exploration quite manageable.

Many attractions in the Old City are best discovered on foot

Wandering through the streets of Barcelona—moving from neighborhood to neighborhood while soaking in the diverse architecture and social contrasts—is one of the most rewarding experiences in the city.

If you’re staying in the Old City or downtown, most attractions are just 2-3km (1 to 2 miles) away. La Barceloneta, El Raval, the Gothic Quarter, Passeig de Gràcia, and Passeig del Born are all within walking distance from the city center, where you’ll find landmarks like the Barcelona Cathedral, the Museum of Contemporary Art, La Pedrera, and even Barcelona's finest beaches.

Choose a taxi for convenience and comfort

If you tire of strolling through the city, simply flag down one of the yellow taxis that cruise Barcelona all day. Fares typically start at €2.10, though prices may rise at night and on weekends. Alternatively, various taxi apps are available in Barcelona, with Hailo and MyTaxi being the most popular options.

Accessible transportation is a key focus in Barcelona

Barcelona boasts one of the most accessible public transportation systems in Europe, with 153 out of 165 metro stations fully accommodating wheelchair users. All buses are equipped with access ramps, wide doors, and reserved seating. The ultimate aim is to achieve universal access across the metro network.

The city is also enhancing accessibility for blind individuals by introducing a voice navigation system and braille guides at all metro information points.

For additional tips, download Dinogo Planet's free Accessible Travel Online Resources.