There is not “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to rent a bike. That’s why I made this quick guide.
Exploring a city on two wheels is a blast, but let’s face it, there are a lot of question marks: Where do you find a reliable bike? How do you avoid bike-rental scammers? Which paths should you pedal down? And, of course, what’s the budget you can expect?
Fear not, fellow cyclists! In this post, I’ll serve up three delightful ways to rent a bike in Barcelona. Your choice depends on your vibe, the number of people you’re travelling with, your budget, and your cycling level.
Oh, and a quick heads-up: those vibrant red bikes, the “Bicing” ones? Save yourself the trouble unless you’re a city resident. Attempting to unlock one from their many stations is a one-way ticket to wasting your time.
Let’s dive in!
1) Use an app on your phone
The most flexible and cheap option
Why opt for a mobile app to rent a bike in Barcelona?
In my opinion, it’s all about seamless, digital experiences, and the idea of avoiding face-to-face interactions. If you’re rolling solo or with a group of three or less, this is your golden ticket—finding bikes parked in the same spot for a larger crew can be a bit of a treasure hunt.
The cherry on top? It’s budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice if you’re watching your euros. Plus, if you’re only swinging by Barcelona for a short time (let’s say, fewer than five days), the app’s flexibility and affordability make it the go-to choice for your cycling escapades in the city.
So, whip out that smartphone and pedal into a world of convenient, wallet-friendly biking adventures!
Three apps with a big fleet of bicycles in Barcelona
- Donkey Republic – Download on Apple or Android
- RideMovi – Download on Apple or Android
- Cooltra – Download on Apple or Android
2) Go to a tourist bike rental
Best if you’re travelling with your family or a group of friends
If you’re rolling into Barcelona with your family or a squad of friends, opting to rent bikes from a local shop is your key to a stress-free, group-friendly adventure.
Need some advice on the best routes or the comfiest saddles? That friendly shop assistant has your back. This choice is particularly spot-on if your crew is more substantial, surpassing the limit of app rentals.
Beyond just bikes, these shops often propose extra perks, from guided tours to bike maintenance services.
Speaking of tours, cycling through Barcelona’s warm streets with a knowledgeable guide is not just a sightseeing delight, but also a superb way to soak in the city’s sunny vibes.
So, gather the troops, head to a local shop, and let the group pedalling fun begin!
Three rentals for tourists with good reviews in 2024
- Orange Fox – 4.9/5 on Google Maps, with 450+ reviews
- Bike Rental Barcelona – 4.8/5 on Google Maps, with 450+ reviews
- Born Bike Tours Barcelona – 4.8/5 on Google Maps, with 200+ reviews
3) Go to a professional bike rental
For bicycle lovers who want to visit the city and its surroundings
For the passionate cyclists with a penchant for exploration, steering towards speciality rental shops is the way to go. This option is a dream come true for those who boast some serious pedal-pushing experience and are up for more than just a quick spin.
If your idea of a perfect ride involves exploring the city surroundings, perhaps conquering a few uphill challenges, these shops have your high-quality bike needs covered.
Whether you’re into gravel bikes, mountain bikes, or sleek road bikes, these specialized shops are your go-to spot.
Perfect for those planning an extended stay in Barcelona, clocking in at more than five days, because let’s face it, the longer you’re here, the more ground you’ll want to cover. So, saddle up, gearheads, and get ready for a cycling adventure that goes beyond the city limits!
Three advanced rental shops with good reviews in 2024
- Terra BikeTours – Wide range of road, gravel and mountain bikes.
- VELODROM – High-quality road and gravel bikes.
- Gravel Planet Store – Bianchi road and gravel bikes.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Can tourists rent bikes in Barcelona?
Absolutely! Renting a bike in Barcelona is easy for tourists. You’ve got two options to choose from: the convenience of a mobile app or the personalized touch of a physical shop. The app is all about flexibility, while the shops go the extra mile with added services like guided tours.
How much is it to rent a bike in Barcelona?
The cost of renting a bike in Barcelona depends on your choice. For a classic, mechanical bike, prices typically range from 5 to 10€ per hour and 15 to 30€ per day. If you’re up for an electric adventure, prices for e-bikes vary between 8 to 20€ per hour and 45 to 65€ per day.
Are there public bikes in Barcelona?
Absolutely, and they’re the iconic red bikes known as “Bicing.” However, only Barcelona residents can use this service.
Can tourists use Bicing?
Unfortunately not. To use Bicing, you need a Spanish identification number, and there’s an annual subscription fee that doesn’t make it a cost-effective option for short-term tourists in Barcelona.
Can you rent ebikes in Barcelona?
Absolutely! Renting an electric bike in Barcelona is easy: you can use a mobile app or visit a physical shop. Prices for electric bikes range from 8 to 20€ per hour and 45 to 65€ per day.
Do you need a license for an electric bike in Spain?
Riding an electric bike in Spain doesn’t require a license. Yet, there are a few rules to keep in mind: stick to a maximum speed of 25 km/h, be at least 14 years old, ensure your e-bike is insured.