How To Use Barcelona’s Metro System

With so many incredible sights to see, Barcelona’s Metro system is by far and away the best way to get around the city.

However, as it is such a popular tourist destination, the idea of getting around Barcelona can sometimes feel a bit intimidating to some people, especially when you consider how big the city actually is. With 12 lines, 186 stations and a total length of over 150 kilometres, it’s no surprise that some tourists opt to avoid the metro simply for fear of getting it wrong.

The system is a lot easier to use than it might seem and, despite Barcelona’s size, transportation around the city is actually relatively cheap and efficient. Whether you walk, take the bus or grab a taxi, there are several options to choose between – click here to find out more.

The Metro is the most popular mode of transport for tourists and locals alike, largely due to its cheap ticket prices, reliability and frequent running times. Despite its initially daunting façade, it is a surprisingly straightforward system to use once you’ve got your head around it.

We’re here to guide you through the process, equipping you with all you need to know to use Barcelona’s Metro system effectively.

The Map

First things first: you’ll need a map of the Metro, which you can either pick up in person at a number of stations, or online by clicking here. It’s generally a good idea to have a rough idea of where you’re going before you set off so, using the link above, you can pre-plan your route before you leave.

Days & Times

Next, you’ll need to know what time the Metro runs from and to on each day of the week. Using our handy table below, we break down the running times each day, making it easy for you to know when you’ll need to head back.

It’s also worth mentioning that, on average, Metro trains arrive every two to six minutes so don’t panic if you miss one. You won’t be waiting too long before the next one arrives.

Tickets

There are a number of ticket options to choose from, but by far the most common is the T-10 – 10 journeys for €10.20. This ticket can be used on buses as well, allowing you to get around the city in more ways than one. It’s also shareable, so your friends and family can use it as well should they need to.

However, if you’re in Barcelona for a little while and would rather have a ticket which offers unlimited usage, you can obtain these as well. Take a look at the table below to get a better idea of the costs involved:

Each type of ticket can be bought from locations throughout Barcelona. These include:

• Ticket machines at each Metro station.
• Terminal 1 and 2 at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport.
• Newspaper and tobacco shops.
• Online at the official website.

Getting to and from Barcelona Airport

Okay, so the Metro works slightly differently when it comes to getting to and from the airport.

Rather than buying one of the ticket options mentioned above, you will instead need to purchase a special ticket for the L9 metro line. This will take you directly to both of the airport’s terminals, and will cost €4.60 for a one-way ticket. It won’t, however, allow you to get around the city – it is only designed to take you to and from the airport.

With metros running every seven minutes, you will need to look for stations that change to the L9S line, bearing in mind heavy travel times, peak hours and any unexpected delays. The stations on this line include:

• Zona Universitària (Barcelona City)
• Collblanc
• Torrassa
• Can Tries | Gornal
• Europa | Fira
• Fira
• Parc Logístic
• Mercabarna
• Les Moreres
• El Prat Estació
• Cèntric
• Parc Nou
• Mas Blau
• Aeroport T2
• Aeroport T1

If you have any further queries or concerns, please feel free to contact us or, alternatively, check out our useful guide for more information on how to explore the city.