Practical info Barcelona, Spain
Getting around the city
Barcelona's excellent transport system includes the metro, buses, trains, funiculars and cable cars; tickets for all (except night buses) are transferable across the system. The metro is the fastest and most efficient way to get around the city, except during the rush hour when it becomes very crowded. The bus network is extensive and is easy to master with a transport map. Night buses take over from about 10pm to 6am. During summer the hop-on hop-off Bus Turistic links all the main sights and tourist destinations. Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive and are a good option especially late at night, but charge extra for a number of things - ask for a receipt. Hiring a car is unnecessary and frustrating within the city, but can be useful if planning daytrips outside the city.
Time
GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March and the last Sunday in October).
Electricity
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are standard.
Currency
Spain's official currency is the Euro (EUR). One Euro is divided into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at bureaux de change and major hotels, but banks give the best rates. All major credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are widespread and are generally the cheapest and most convenient method of obtaining money.
Communication
The international access code for Spain is +34. Mobile phone operators provide throughout the country and the Balearic and Canary Islands. Internet access is available at internet cafes in most towns and resorts, and wifi is increasingly easily available.
Emergency number
112 (General).
Travel documents and health
Barcelona El Prat Airport
Getting to the city
The Aerobus service goes to and from Placa de Catalunya every five to 15 minutes, dropping off at locations along the way. Trains run from the airport to various stations in the city centre every 30 minutes; the airport station is located near Terminal 2. There are taxi ranks outside the airport terminals; taxis are metered. The journey time by road or rail is between 20 and 30 minutes.
Car rental
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt.
Airport taxi's
There are taxi stands at every terminal at El Prat Barcelona Airport. Avoid touts and unlicensed taxis. Prices are steeper at night and on the weekends.
Transfer between terminals
A free shuttle bus connects the two terminals.
Facilities
Facilities at the airport include ATMs, currency exchange facilities, banks, shops (including duty-free), a children's play area, VIP lounges, bars and restaurants. Disabled facilities are good.
Parking
Both terminals at El Prat Airport have their own dedicated parking garages (T1 and T2). There is also a long-stay parking lot connected to the terminals by a free shuttle bus.
Internet
Free, unlimited wifi is avaliable.