Car Hire Barcelona

Driving in Barcelona can open up a world of adventures. You’ll pass over cobbled roads and navigate one-way systems around the city, driving through historic streets lined with beautiful architecture.

As you would expect in a major city, traffic can be busy at peak times so setting off a little in advance can help beat the rush.

Main routes are fairly well signposted and easy to navigate, and roads are well maintained across the city and surrounding areas. Parking is plentiful in Barcelona, so you don’t need to worry about finding somewhere to leave the car.

Escape the city and you’ll enjoy the pleasure of the open road. Watch the landscape change from imposing mountains to sunny coastal roads. An hour’s drive along the C-16 will transport you from to Vic, a historic town that plays host to busy markets on the weekend and boasts a healthy smattering of gourmet restaurants.

Take the C-32 out of Barcelona to Tarragona and you can explore a different kind of architecture. The jewel in its crown of unearthed Roman sites is a seaside amphitheatre that ranks as one of Spain’s most important archaeological finds.

The speed limit on Spanish roads switches from 120km/h on the main highways down to 50km/h through towns and cities, so make sure you keep an eye on your speed.

Spanish law also requires you to carry a number of items in your vehicle. These include spare light bulbs and a high visibility vest – but don’t worry, we’ll make sure you have everything you need to travel safely.

A warm welcome awaits you in the city of Barcelona. It doesn't matter whether you’re looking to fill your days with sightseeing, cheer along at a sporting event at numerous venues around the city or just want a few days relaxing on the beach, you’ll find it all in Barcelona.

Built to last

Barcelona is probably best known for is its stunning architecture – you can fill your days here exploring all the fascinating sights this city has to offer. If you only see one, make sure it’s Antoni Gaudí’s Basilica of the Sagrada Família, one of Barcelona’s most famous attractions.

Ornamental spires with intricate, almost lace-like brick work stretch into the sky, while the stunning stained-glass windows send colours cascading around the opulent interior.

Casa Batlló is another legendary Gaudí creation. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the façade is crafted from mosaic glass and ceramic discs. Explore the Nobel Floor where the bourgeois Batlló family lived and marvel at the Mediterranean influences seamlessly integrated into the roof terrace and loft.

You can even enjoy a guided tour from an actor in the guise of Gaudi himself, who will let you into the house’s secrets, share stories about how he built it and offer glimpses into life in Barcelona at the time.

Take to the pitch

Mention Barcelona and many people automatically think soccer. And with good reason – the city’s team is one of the giants of the world game. Camp Nou, home to FC Barcelona, is the biggest soccer stadium in Europe and an unmissable sight for sports fans.

Explore the grounds with a stadium tour, learn more about the history of the legendary club in the FC Barcelona museum, or grab a ticket to watch this illustrious team at work, roared on by 50,000 passionate fans.

The Olympic Stadium, Estadi Olímpic, in Barcelona is another incredible place to visit. Constructed for the 1992 Olympic Games, the huge stadium plays host to a number of different events throughout the year.

Check out the calendar to see what’s on during your stay, and be prepared to feel dwarfed by the vast surroundings and exhilarated by the lively atmosphere.

Hit the beach

A trip to Barcelona wouldn’t be complete without a day at the beach. Barceloneta Beach is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Once you see the crystal blue ocean, you’ll understand why.

Lay back and relax in the sun, get a bird’s-eye view of the gorgeous surroundings with a spot of parasailing or grab a bite to eat and absorb the stunning sea view in one of the many amazing seafront restaurants.

If you’re looking for somewhere quieter for your beach break, seek out Llança in north Girona. Less than a two-hour drive from Barcelona, this charming, tranquil Mediterranean town is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches and natural coves in the area. You’ll discover historic churches, picturesque vineyards and spectacular views.

Savour a taste of Spain

Visitors from all over the world fall in love with the incredible mix of food on offer in Barcelona. Seafood lovers should make a beeline for Botafumeiro, a traditional spot serving freshly caught fish straight to your plate.

For a true taste of tapas, choose the local favourite Bar Celta, a lively little eatery that plates up sensationally moreish patatas bravas and chocos.

Barcelona is a city filled with experiences that will dazzle your senses and create memories that will last a lifetime. Car hire in Barcelona is the perfect way to see the best of the Catalan capital and beyond.