Barcelona Travel Guide

Find your feet in Las Ramblas and rise high in the Montjuïc funicular.

The vast Plaça de Catalunya is at Barcelona’s geographical centre. Streets fanning out from this convenient meeting place lead to the arty districts of Barri 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.

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).

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.

Funicular

See Barcelona shrink as you rise above the city in the Montjuïc funicular (lines 2 and 3). The funicular begins at the Parallel metro station.

Tram

The new 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.

Transport 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.

Time Travel

For an instant trip through time, take a ride on the mechanical plane at the antiquated Victorian fairground on Mount Tibidabo. As you explore the city, note the marked difference between the jumbled alleyways of the Old Town and the straight lines of the Eixample (extension), where wide leafy boulevards are laid out in a grid designed by visionary Catalan engineer lldefons Cerdà in the 1850s.