Transportation in Barcelona
Find your way around town
Find your feet in Las Ramblas and rise high in the Montjuïc funicular.
The vast Plaça de Catalunya square is at Barcelona's geographical
centre. Streets fanning out from this convenient meeting place lead to the
arty districts of Barrí Gòtic, El Raval and La Ribera in the Ciutat
Vella (old town). The broad boulevard of Las Ramblas cuts through the area's
heart.
To the north of Las Ramblas lies the 19th-century moderniste district of
Eixample, where Gaudí made his mark, and the business hub of Diagonal.
Stepping south, reach the seafront at Port Vell. Two hills frame the city centre,
Tibidabo and Montjuïc.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Metro
Speedy and efficient, Barcelona's modern metro system is easy to navigate and is the quickest way to get about town.
Foot
The best way to explore the winding streets and narrow alleyways of the Gothic Quarter, El Raval and La Ribera in the Ciutat Vella is on foot. Take a stroll along the busy pedestrianised Las Ramblas to see the city's shoppers and entertainers out in force.
Bus
The main hub of the Greater Barcelona bus network is on the Plaça de Catalunya. The regular service runs from 5.30am-11pm, while night buses shuttle night owls home from 11pm-4am (after the metro shuts down). The special Shopping Line bus ferries shoppers between the main districts with extra room for bags. Visit the Tourist Office for a T-Shopping card that allows you to get on and off the bus as many times as you like during the day.
Taxi
Yellow-and-black taxis ply Barcelona's streets and fares are reasonable. Hail them in the street if their green light is on, or wait at one of the many ranks. Tip around 5-10% if you wish.
Tram
The tram system is a fast and scenic way of seeing the city, the most convenient route for most visitors running between Forum and Diagonal. Buy tickets at tram stops and remember to stamp your ticket when boarding. City public transport passes are also valid on the tram.
Transportation Tips
Save on public transport by investing in a one-, three- or five-day travel card, available from metro stations and valid for all TMB (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona) bus and metro routes.
Special Transportation
Funicular
See Barcelona shrink as you rise above the city in the Montjuïc funicular (lines 2 and 3). The funicular begins at the Paral.lel metro station. A second funicular creaks its way to the top of Mont Tibidabo from Plaça Doctor Andreu.
