Barcelona in summer is full of intensity: the sun, the people, the lively terraces and the sea. Knowing how to get around Barcelona in summer can make the difference between a chaotic experience and a comfortable, efficient and memorable stay. To enjoy it to the full, no matter what kind of traveller you are, it's best to get around efficiently, comfortably and sustainably. If you're staying at Hotel España, located right on the Rambla, you've already got a great base from which to get around. But either way, we've got a few tips to help you get the most out of your stay.
Public transport: what you need to know before getting around the city
Barcelona has a fairly extensive and easy-to-use public transport network, which combines metro, bus, tram and local trains. Here's how to make the most of it:
Recommended cards, timetables and how to avoid crowds
The Hola Barcelona Travel Card is the star for frequent travellers. It allows unlimited travel on the metro, TMB buses, trams, funicular and suburban trains (zone 1), choosing between 2, 3, 4 or 5 days (48h-120h). It also includes the journey to and from the airport at no extra cost. Price from €18, and available online with pick-up at stations or airports.
If you prefer one-off journeys, the T-casual (10 trips) o the T-day (1 day unlimited) may be more convenient.
Barcelona metro timetables in summer:
- Monday to Thursday and Sundays: 05:00-00:00.
- Fridays and eves of public holidays: until 02:00.
- Saturday and Saturday evenings: continuous service.
The NitBus runs from 22:00 to 06:00, covering the whole city, although it is not included in the Hola BCN.
To avoid crowds, avoid rush hours (08:00-10:00 and 17:00-19:00). Luckily, air-conditioning in coaches and buses is a relief on hot days. Important: keep an eye on your belongings on any public transport you choose to use. Pickpockets are a problem, but it's still important to take precautions and don't get lost.
Metro, bus, tram and trains to get around without hassle
- Metro (TMB): the most efficient means of transport for long journeys. Hotel España is a five-minute walk from Liceu (L3).
- Bus: excellent option for seeing the city on the move. The network covers the city centre and suburbs well.
- Tram (TRAM): useful for areas such as Diagonal Mar or the Forum, with good access from the centre.
- FGC and Rodalies: ideal for trips to places like Montserrat, Sitges or the Costa Brava.
Ecological and local alternatives
If you prefer to move independently and take care of the environment, you will love these options:
Bicycles, electric scooters and shared mobility apps
- BicingMunicipal public system (mechanical and electric bikes). Only available to residents with an annual or occasional season ticket. Includes free rides up to 30 minutes; fractional fares after that time. To be used via the SMOU app.
- Donkey Republic, RideMovi, Lime (bikes/scooters): perfect for tourists. Donkey Republic charges about €12 per day or per-minute rates.
- AMBici: metropolitan network of electric bikes outside the central core, operational from 05:00 to 00:00, with an annual flat rate of 25 €.
Precautions: wear a helmet, carry water, respect bike lanes and block your vehicle well. Barcelona is very well prepared: safe lanes and respectful drivers in general, but you must be responsible.
Move like a local, in style and without polluting.
Getting around by bike is quick and allows you to discover places that can only be seen at the slow pace of two wheels: Born, Poblenou, Barceloneta... And from Hotel España you can walk to La Boqueria, MACBA, the Gothic Quarter or Montjuïc in about 10-15 minutes.
Essential apps for getting around Barcelona
These apps for getting around Barcelona in summer will make your life easier:
Recommendations on where to go and how to get there
- TMB Appmaps, timetables and real-time transport alerts.
- Citymapper: combined routes (metro + bike + bus) with accurate estimates.
- Moovit: information on accessibility, incidents and waiting times.
- SMOUBicing: in addition to Bicing, it offers other urban mobility and air quality options.
Plan routes, avoid waiting times and discover hidden gems.
These tools also suggest less crowded routes, avoiding mass tourist areas, and help you discover charming cafés or secret viewpoints. Perfect for those looking for the authentic local experience.
Hotel España: the best way to start the day in Barcelona
Staying at Hotel España means starting your day with the best advantages from the first minute:
Ideal location, excellent connection and advice from the local team.
- Strategically located next to Las Ramblas and a few minutes from Plaça Catalunya.
- Reception staff with local knowledge: they will help you with routes, timetables and transport options.
- Possibility to book taxis, private buses or coaches for excursions with ease.
Book your stay at Hotel España
Ready to start your adventure in Barcelona from the best starting point? Book now at Hotel España, the perfect place to rest in elegant surroundings and with all the comforts you need. Book your room at Hotel España
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