Make the most of Barcelona’s numerous bike lanes!
Origins of this massive bike lanes project
It’s hard to believe that 40 years ago, the 15th of July 1983, was created the first cycling lane of Barcelona. A group of bicycle lovers took the initiative to build it themselves. And only 7 years later, in 1990, the city council finally inaugurated this lane. This was the beginning of the long bike-lane journey in Barcelona.
Ever since this time, Barcelona slowly started to invest in building cycling infrastructure. Yet, it’s only in 2015 that the city started to massively invest into it. Since 2015, the city has witnessed a doubling of infrastructure, now boasting an extensive network of 250+ kilometers!
Goals of this cyclist-friendly project
Barcelona’s extensive investment in cycling lanes aligns with multifaceted objectives. Primarily, it seeks to reduce car dependency, easing traffic congestion and fostering a sustainable urban transport ecosystem. With a visionary goal, the city aims to ensure 95% of its population has access to a cycling lane within 300 meters from their homes, promoting inclusivity and making cycling a convenient choice for residents.
Simultaneously, this initiative targets pollution reduction, encouraging a shift from motorized to pedal-powered transportation for a cleaner urban environment. And, of course, the emphasis on cycling serves as a proactive measure against obesity and overweight issues, contributing to larger public health measure.
1. Discover the Poblenou area and the Forum parc
A recommended route for non-sporty people
This easy-going route is essentially flat, so no need to worry about huffing and puffing. Plus, it stays away from the busy city center, making your ride hassle-free without dodging pedestrians, or slaloming between them.
The path is mostly smooth (made of asphalt) like your favorite sidewalk, with just a tiny bit (less than 5%) of bumpy gravel to spice things up.
Get ready to pedal by the sea for half of the journey, and if you feel like it, take a break at the beach or grab a coffee, ice cream, or any drink in the cozy Poblenou center on Rambla street.
It’s the perfect ride for a laid-back and enjoyable cycling experience, in a great area of Barcelona, away from most tourists!
The route
What you can expect to find along the way
1/ The Agbar tower (Glòries)
What to do: just take of picture of this penis-shaped tower, from French architect Jean Nouvel. It’s also possible to get up to its observatory deck (floor 33) and get a 360° view of Barcelona. The cost should be around 15-20€ per person.
2/ The Rambla de Poblenou
What to do: get a coffee, a pastry, or something else on one of its numerous places.
3/ The Marbella Skatepark
What to do: stop a few minutes, and watch people doing tricks with their skateboards. If you’re lucky, some very talented skaters will make the show!
4/ Beach coastal walk
What to do: a couple of selfies with the sea in the background. If you carry bike lockers, go on the beach and take a quick dip!
5/ The Forum park: known for its events
What to do: make sure there is not an event taking place while you’re riding. Otherwise, the access to the park will be restricted.
6/ The famous Diagonal street
What to do: just pedal as long as you want. If you’re sporty enough, you can go all the way to the other side of the city in about 40 min!
2. From Ciutadella Parc, all the way to Sagrada Familia
A perfect route to see Barcelona must-see spots
This second route is perfect for beginners looking to add a hint of challenge to their ride. While mostly flat and paved with smooth asphalt, there are occasional uphill stretches that aren’t steep at all.
Be prepared to share the path with more fellow cyclists and pedestrians as we venture through some tourist hotspots, making the journey livelier but still beginner-friendly. Remember to pack your friendliest “ding-ding” as you might need to use your bike bell along the way.
And here’s a little insider tip: this route is a shopper’s paradise! With plenty of shops lining the way, having a bike locker can be a game-changer. Park your bike securely and explore the local scene, whether it’s indulging in some retail therapy or sipping a coffee at one of the charming spots from this track.
The route
What you can expect to find along the way
1/ The Sagrada Familia
What to do: turn around the church and take photos from all its angles. If you haven’t visited it already, come back another day to visit it, and make sure to book a ticket at least one day in advance.
2/ The famous Sant Joan street
What to do: when you get close to the Arc de Triomf, stop for a minute and take your best selfie! Make sure to stop on the side to not bother other cyclists.
3/ The Arc de Triomf
What to do: cycling underneath, take pictures, and pedal all the way to the end of its square.
4/ The Ciutadella Parc and its fountain
What to do: cycle around the park, lose yourself it its alleys, say “hi” to the ducks, and find the exit at the other side of its entrance.
5/ The Barceloneta coastal walk (the neighborhood of Barceloneta)
What to do: pedal all the way to the W hotel (you won’t miss it with this shape). Go back on your steps, and pedal along the coast walk.
6/ The Marina street, all the way to The Sagrada Familia
What to do: get a well-deserved drink on this street. It’s not the best for bars and restaurants, even though you’ll find plenty of them!
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
1) Is Barcelona a good city for cycling?
Absolutely! Barcelona shines as the top city for cycling in Spain, thanks to its extensive network of cycling lanes. While these lanes are often integrated with the road (not ouside of it), Barcelona drivers typically show respect for cyclists. However, a universal rule applies: always lock your bike when leaving it unattended.
2) Is Barcelona flat for cycling?
For the most part, yes! The city center offers a blissfully flat terrain, perfect for easy rides. However, if you decide to venture into neighborhoods like Gracia or Parc Güell, be prepared for some uphill challenges.
3) How do you bike around Barcelona?
If you’re a resident, the “Bicing” system offers an excellent option for public bikes. For non-residents, several bike-sharing apps (examples below) make it convenient to hop on a bike and explore Barcelona at your own pace.
4) Where can you rent a bike in Barcelona?
Options abound! You can head to one of the numerous rental shops in the city center for a traditional rental experience. Alternatively, opt for bike-sharing apps such as Bolt, Swapfiets, Cooltra, or Donkey Republic, offering flexibility and convenience for your cycling escapades. Finally, the red bicycles are called “Bicing” and are only for the use of residents. Don’t waste your time trying to unlock one if you don’t have a NIE (identification number in Spain).