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Cycling in Barcelona

Barcelona is a great city to explore by bike. In recent years, the city has invested a lot in improving a bicycle-friendly network and now there are many cycle paths in the city. You can cycle through the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, along the waters of the port and the Barceloneta beach. Curious about routes, bike tours and bike rentals? Then keep reading.

Cycling in the city

Cycling in Barcelona not only offers a fun way to explore the city, but it is also a healthy and sustainable way to enjoy the highlights. Moreover, it is often faster than using public transport or a car.

Today, the most important and busiest streets in Barcelona often have bike lanes. One popular route is the cycle route leading to the famous Sagrada Familia. The route takes you through the charming Gracia district and along the beautiful Passeig de Sant Joan, a wide boulevard full of terraces and trees.

You can rent a bike and explore the city on your own or book a guided bike tour.

A guided tour of Barcelona by bicycle

If you are not an experienced cyclist, it might be better to go out with a guide or opt for an organised bike tour. This way, you can enjoy cycling without worrying about navigating the streets of Barcelona and someone will be watching out for your safety. You will also simultaneously learn about the city's history, architecture and culture.

There are many different bike tours available, from historical to culinary tours. You can also book a tour with an English and Dutch speaking guide. There are several companies offering this, like Baja Bikes and Green Bikes Barcelona. These tours are usually offered in small groups and last about 3 hours.

Bike rental in Barcelona

There are many different places in Barcelona where you can rent bikes. Here are a few suggestions:

Barcelona Rent a Bike: This is a reputable bike rental company with several locations in the city. They have many types of bikes for hire, including cargo bikes (the Dutch bakfiets).
Born Bike Tours Barcelona: This is a company that offers bike rentals as well as bike tours. They have different types of bikes and also offer private and group bike tours.
Green Bikes Barcelona: This is an eco-friendly bike rental company that rents out bikes at affordable rates. They have a wide range of bikes, including electric bikes. They also do guided tours in serval languages.

Tip!

It is important to know that using an electric bike in Barcelona is subject to certain rules and restrictions, such as wearing a helmet and avoiding certain bike lanes.

Traffic laws in Barcelona

Although there are many cycle lanes, there are still parts of the city where cyclists have to mix with car traffic, especially in the city centre and in narrow streets in the old neighbourhoods. Sometimes, a cycle lane ends, you have to bike onto the road only to find another cycle lane hundreds of metres away.

It is important to be careful and know and respect the traffic laws when cycling in Barcelona. Perhaps avoiding the busiest roads and wearing a helmet is wise. But don't worry; you will definitely enjoy a fantastic and unique experience in Barcelona if you explore the city by bike.

Spanish cycling rules

Bike routes in and around Barcelona

There are many different cycling routes you can take to explore the Barcelona area.

The coast route: This route starts in Barcelona and follows the coastline to the north. You can enjoy beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and stop in picturesque towns along the way, such as Badalona, Montgat and Mataró.
The mountain route: This route also starts in Barcelona, but heads inland into the mountains. It is a challenging route with steep climbs and descents, but it also offers breathtaking mountain views. You can stop in charming villages such as Sant Cugat del Vallès and Terrassa.
The wine route: This route passes through the Penedès wine region south of Barcelona. You will cycle past beautiful vineyards and have tastings at local wineries. You can visit the historic town of Vilafranca del Penedès and the monastery of Montserrat.
The delta route: This route follows the delta of the Llobregat river south of Barcelona. It is a level route suitable for all abilities and you will have a good view of the delta and the surrounding nature. You can stop in towns such as Castelldefels and Gavà.

To Barcelona by train

Barcelona, the capital of the Catalonia region, is the second largest city in Spain and easy to reach by train from the Netherlands. From Amsterdam Centraal, you only need to change trains in Paris. The travel time from Amsterdam Centraal to Barcelona Sants is 11.10 hours. Ideal for a long weekendgetaway or a vacation in Barcelona.

Advantages of travelling by train

Take the train without hassle, enjoy a spacious seat, speed leisurely past traffic jams and travel sustainably. Moreover, on the train, you will enjoy the best views along the way.

Find train tickets