Have you just arrived in Barcelona and are wondering how to get around this great city? Whether you’re curious about how to get to the center to settle into your apartment or how to move around during your stay, we’ve got all the answers!
On foot, by bike, public transportation, or car, we give you the best tips to explore Barcelona to the fullest, enjoying every corner without wearing yourself out. Discover how to get around like a local and make the most of your visit!
Public transportation: A very well-connected city
With a network of 8 metro lines, numerous buses, urban trains, and an excellent public transportation infrastructure, the Catalan capital stands out for its fantastic connectivity. Getting around Barcelona is easy and fast, allowing you to explore every corner of the city with total comfort. After reading this guide, you’ll surely be inspired to enjoy public transportation in Barcelona. Let’s discover it together!
Bus
Over a hundred urban and interurban bus lines, both daytime and nighttime, travel through every corner of the fascinating city of Barcelona. Thanks to this extensive route network, reaching any corner of the city is easy and accessible for everyone. Whether you’re staying right in the center or in a more remote area, there will always be a bus ready to take you to your destination. Are you ready for your next journey?
Bus Timetable:
- Start of daytime bus service: From 5:00 to 23:00
- Start of nighttime bus service (NitBus): From 22:30 to 5:00
For updated information on bus schedules in Barcelona, check the official TMB website.
Metro
What would we do without the metro? In just minutes, it connects us from one point to another, making travel quick and efficient. Though it can get a bit crowded during rush hours, its frequency and speed make it our perfect ally for moving around the city. Additionally, its numerous access points in the center make it very easy to get wherever you want.
The Barcelona metro connects you to every corner of the city: from main attractions to the best bars, restaurants, and museums. From north to south and east to west, its 8 lines cover the entire Catalan capital, making city exploration easier. Get on the metro and let it take you on your next adventure!
Metro Timetable:
- Monday to Thursday and weekday holidays: From 5:00 to 24:00
- Fridays and holiday eves: From 5:00 to 2:00
- Saturdays: Starts at 5:00; continuous service through the night from Saturday to Sunday
- Sundays: Continuous service from Saturday night to Sunday; ends at 24:00 on Sunday
- June 23 (Sant Joan’s Eve): Continuous service through the night; ends at 24:00 on June 24
- September 23 (La Mercè Eve): Continuous service through the night; ends at 24:00 on September 24
- December 24: From 5:00 to 23:00
- December 31: Continuous service on New Year’s Eve
The last time shown is when the last trains leave from each end of the metro lines.
The Mas Blau, Mercabarna, and Parc Logístic (L9 Sud) stations, and ZAL | Riu Vell, Ecoparc, and Port Comercial | La Factoria (L10 Sud) stations have the same daily opening hours: from 5:00 to 24:00. On December 24, they close at 23:00.
Tram
The best way to discover the city outdoors is by tram. Although there are few tram lines, if you live near one, this is your chance to try it out. The tram usually covers areas not served by bus or metro. In Barcelona, there are 6 tram lines, Trambaix with T1, T2, and T3 lines, and Trambesòs with T4, T5, and T6 lines. Discover the city in a different way!
Tram Timetable:
- Monday to Thursday: From 5:00 to 24:00
- Fridays, Saturdays, and holiday eves: From 5:00 to 2:00
- Sundays: From 5:00 to 24:00
On weekdays from August 1 to 31, the T1, T2, and T3 TRAM lines operate according to the non-school schedule.
These schedules are available in the timetable search on the website, where real-time schedules are shown.
Train
If you live far from the center or are looking for a more direct way to get around, the urban train is your best option. Not only does it perfectly complement the metro network, but it also allows you to explore the charming nearby cities around Barcelona. It’s ideal for a family getaway or for enjoying a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Hop on the train and discover new experiences!
There are two companies, RENFE and FGC, offering train travel throughout the Catalan capital. The most popular stations are Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, Catalunya, and Espanya. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to reach your destination!
RENFE Timetable
Visit the RENFE website to find the real-time schedule for each line.
FGC Timetable
- Monday to Thursday, Sundays, and holidays: From 5:00 to 24:00
- Fridays: From 5:00 to 2:00
- Saturdays and eves of 1/1, 6/24, and 9/24: Continuous service
Funiculars
Enjoy spectacular views of the city, landscapes, and monuments! Hop on Barcelona’s iconic funiculars and experience a unique ride. With direct connections from the Paral·lel and Montjuïc metro stations, these funiculars offer you a different way to explore the city.
Alternatively, you can take the Montjuïc Cable Car; the most exciting way to reach Montjuïc Park, the imposing Montjuïc Castle, and the impressive Mirador de l’Alcalde. This is a must-do at least once during your stay in Barcelona!
Funicular Timetable:
- From January to February: From 10:00 to 18:00
- From March to May: From 10:00 to 19:00
- From June to September: From 10:00 to 21:00
- October: From 10:00 to 19:00
- From November to December: From 10:00 to 18:00
On December 25, January 1, and January 6, the timetable is from 10:00 to 14:30
Check the service advisories to know the Montjuïc funicular timetable on days when FC Barcelona plays at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium.
Tickets and Public Transport Passes
It’s normal to feel a bit lost with so many transport ticket options in Barcelona. But don’t worry, we’ve gathered the most useful options for those planning a stay in the city. Let’s find the perfect ticket to get you moving without complications!
The T-mobilitat has revolutionized transportation in Barcelona and its metropolitan area. This digital card, which replaces traditional paper tickets, allows for a more comfortable and sustainable travel experience throughout the public transport network. Thanks to its advanced technology, managing your journeys is now easier and more economical.
Ticket Types
T-usual Card
A personal pass with unlimited journeys for 30 days across all operators in the Integrated Fare System. Only for T-mobilitat.
Price: From €21.35
T-casual Card
Single-person pass for 10 journeys with all operators in the Integrated Fare System. Only for T-mobilitat.
Price: From €12.15
T-grup Card
Multi-person pass with 70 journeys over 30 days for all operators in the Integrated Fare System. Only for T-mobilitat.
Price: From €84.80
T-jove Card
For those under 30, enjoy unlimited journeys for 90 days across all integrated transport operators. Only for T-mobilitat.
Price: €42.70
T-familiar Card
Multi-person pass for 8 journeys over 30 days with all operators in the Integrated Fare System. Only for T-mobilitat.
Price: From €10.70
T-usual FM/FN General Card
Unlimited journeys for one month for general category single-parent and large families. Only for T-mobilitat.
Price: From €17.05
T-usual FM/FN Special Card
Unlimited journeys for one month for special category single-parent and large families. Only for T-mobilitat.
Price: From €10.65
T-day Card
Single-person pass for unlimited journeys for one day with all operators in the Integrated Fare System.
Price: From €11.20
Single Ticket
TMB ticket valid for one journey on bus or metro (except for Aeroport T1 and Aeroport T2 stations on the L9 Sud line), on bus or Montjuïc funicular. It’s a single-use, non-integrated ticket.
Price: €2.55
Airport Ticket
Includes one metro journey to travel between the airport and the rest of the metro network.
Price: €5.50
Transport Cards for Travelers
Hello Barcelona Card
Exploring Barcelona has never been easier with Hello Barcelona Cards. Choose the card that best suits your visit and enjoy up to 5 consecutive days of unlimited travel. Your adventure begins the first time you validate it.
With this card, all means of transportation in Barcelona are within your reach. Whether you prefer the metro, bus, or tram, everything is included to discover the city at your own pace and without worries!
Hello Barcelona Travel Card 2 days (48 h)
This 2-day pass includes unlimited travel on Barcelona public transport for two consecutive days.
Price: €17.50
Hello Barcelona Travel Card 3 days (72 h)
This 3-day pass includes unlimited travel on Barcelona public transport for three consecutive days.
Price: €25.50
Hello Barcelona Travel Card 4 days (96 h)
This 4-day pass includes unlimited travel on Barcelona public transport for four consecutive days.
Price: €33.30
Hello Barcelona Travel Card 5 days (120 h)
This 5-day pass includes unlimited travel on Barcelona public transport for five consecutive days.
Price: €40.80
Enjoy a 10% discount by booking directly on the Hello Barcelona website.
Barcelona Card
As a good tourist, you’ll want to visit the most famous monuments in Barcelona during your stay. For this, you’ll need an “all-in-one” card. Opt for the Barcelona Card (Barcelona Card), available for periods of 2 to 5 days (from 48 hours to 120 hours). This card has only advantages, which are as follows:
- Free public transportation for 48 hours: Metro and urban buses of Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona-TMB (night buses not included), urban lines of Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya-FGC, trams, metro and train to Barcelona airport, and Renfe commuter trains zone 1.
- 90 discounts on museums and attractions, tours, entertainment, shows, unique transportation options, and other services to make the most of your stay in Barcelona. See list 2024
- General map of Barcelona city with:
- Discount locations
- Metro network map
Prices
Barcelona Express Card
This card is valid for 48 hours. To enjoy the discounts, the validated Barcelona Card Express with the start date must be shown to the staff of the collaborating establishment. Discounts are not valid in combination with other discounts and/or promotions.
Price: €24.30
Barcelona Card
- Adults:
- 72 hours: €55 (€18.30/day)
- 96 hours: €65 (€16.25/day)
- 120 hours: €77 (€15.40/day)
- Children:
- 72 hours: €32 (€10.67/day)
- 96 hours: €42 (€10.50/day)
- 120 hours: €47 (€9.40/day)
This card can be obtained at the Tourism Office or on the website, with a 10% discount.
Tourist Bus Card
Can you imagine exploring Barcelona comfortably using just one means of transport? As you travel around the city, you’ll have the chance to admire the urban landscape and marvel at its monuments, all while enjoying audioguides that tell you the history of each place. And best of all, you can stay connected thanks to the free WiFi available onboard!
For a 24-hour ticket, prices are €16.20 for children, €29.70 for adults, and €25.20 for seniors/people with disabilities. Children under 4 have free access.
Barcelona Transport Map
Here is a map of the entire Barcelona public transport network.
Other Means of Getting Around
Renting a Bicycle
Choose to rent a bicycle in Barcelona and enjoy a pleasant outdoor ride. Barcelona has kilometers of bike lanes—no excuse not to grab one and tour the city! There are many rental options, and if you prefer, you can also book guided tours.
We also recommend Bicing Barcelona, as it’s easy to find throughout the city and offers excellent service.
Segway
For the more adventurous, the Segway is a great option. It’s a lightweight vehicle with two side wheels and handlebars that allow you to control movement by balancing on the platform to indicate your direction. It’s pure fun! Why not sign up for a Segway tour in Barcelona?
Note: Helmet use is mandatory!
Car Rental
Renting a car in Barcelona might seem challenging without a parking spot, but don’t worry: if you plan to stay longer or explore nearby cities, having your own vehicle becomes an excellent option to move around with total freedom. Dare to discover beyond Barcelona and rent a car for your travels!
Don’t miss out on fascinating places like Montseny Natural Park, Montserrat, and many other day trips near Barcelona. These destinations offer breathtaking landscapes. Get ready to discover the best of nature!
Taxis and VTCs
Hailing a taxi in Barcelona is really easy. Just raise your hand, and one will quickly stop to take you wherever you need to go. Once inside, simply tell the driver your destination. In the city center, the price usually ranges between €15 and €20, although this can vary depending on the time of day. Remember there are day and night rates, and additional charges may apply, for instance, if heading to the airport.
However, if you prefer a fixed fare for your trip, we recommend choosing a VTC. Some companies operating in Barcelona include Uber, Cabify, and Bolt.
From the Airport to the Center: I Just Arrived at the Airport, What Should I Do?
Have you just collected your luggage? It’s time to head to your apartment—choose the means of transport that suits you best. Your adventure in Barcelona is about to begin!
Aerobus
Available 365 days a year, the Aerobus is the top choice for going from the airport to the center of Barcelona. In under 30 minutes, it takes you straight to the city center, with Plaça Catalunya as its final destination. It departs from both airport terminals and makes several stops across the city. The best part? Its excellent value for money and luggage space allow you to enjoy the trip with total comfort.
Prices:
- Single ticket: €7.25
- Round trip ticket: €12.50
Metro
For a more economical journey, you can opt for the metro. The L9 Sud line serves both airport terminals and connects with other stations in the city. The trip takes just over half an hour. If you have a card, no extra is required; the airport trip is included. Otherwise, the ticket costs €5.50.
Bus
If you want to see Barcelona without spending too much, choose bus no. 46. The route goes from Airport T1/T2 to Plaza España, running every 30 minutes and taking about an hour. It’s a bit long but very affordable! The price is only €2.
Train
If you want to travel by train, you’ll need to take the R2 Nord line. Note that it’s only available at Terminal 2! You can reach the city in 20-25 minutes, and a single ticket costs €4.90!
Taxi or VTC
Another option is to take a taxi or a VTC. If you choose a taxi, you’ll enjoy a quick and hassle-free journey, though it may cost a bit more. On the other hand, VTCs offer an extra level of comfort and the peace of mind of a fixed price—no surprises upon arrival!
Now that you have all the information you need about public transport in Barcelona, it’s the perfect time to check out our top money-saving tips during your stay in the city! Ready to discover it?
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