Barcelona Getting Around

Getting around Barcelona
Large parts of Barcelona are best seen on foot. However, all but the keenest city walkers you will need to use public transport to reach major Barcelona attractions like La Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell, the Gracia neighbourhood and the modernist buildings of L’Eixample. With the exception of the central old town, the city has a grid system of streets that makes getting around in Barcelona pretty straightforward. Much of the historic centre is pedestrianised and major boulevards like the Ramblas have pleasant wide pavements for relaxed strolling.

On foot
It is perfectly feasible to tour most of the interesting sights and neighbourhoods on foot. Walking is the only way to see the best of the medieval Barri Gotic and the Ramblas. Walking in Barcelona you will happen across fantastic cafes, bars, shops and markets and have time to admire Barcelona’s rich architectural heritage. The superbly planned harbour waterfront area and the famous Ciutadella and Montjuic parks are excellent for a break from the city streets. 

Metro
The Barcelona metro is a fast, cheap, safe way to cover the longer distances. Barcelona metro is the fastest and most convenient way to get out to more distant Barcelona sights like the Sagrada Familia. 10 journey tickets can also be used on Barcelona buses.

Bus
Barcelona buses are an efficient way around the city. 10 journey tickets and period passes are much cheaper than single tickets and can be used on the Barcelona metro.

Taxi
Barcelona taxis are easy to hail and are always metered. There may be supplements for bags and destinations like the airport. As in all Spanish cities, taking a taxi is a normal way to get round the city rather than an expensive luxury.

Sightseeing buses
Open top buses are a delightful way to see the city. Barcelona sightseeing buses operate at least two different routes. All day tickets allow you to get on and off at a variety of stops. Barcelona sightseeing buses are ideal in the summer when you may not feel like walking longer distances. Head for Placa de Catalunya or a Barcelona tourist office for details.

Barcelona airport
Barcelona airport is close to the city. Getting to and from Barcelona airport is easy. Regular Barcelona airport buses depart for the city centre or take the Barcelona airport train to Estacio des Sants. The train takes around 20 minutes. A taxi can take anything from 20 minutes to an hour.
 
Cable car
The Barcelona cable car from Port Vell to Montjuic Castle offers superb views and is a great way to reach Barcelona attractions around the Olympic park. Funiculars also climb to Montjuic and Tibidabo.

Boat trips
A variety of Barcelona boat trips depart from the port near the Columbus Monument.

Trains
Barcelona suburban trains are an ideal way to reach Barcelona beaches and popular beach resorts on the Costa Brava and the Costa Dorada like Sitges and Calella.

Bicycle
Unlike Madrid, Barcelona has made some effort to encourage cycling.

Barcelona City Breaks  Getting Around Barcelona

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