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Ultimate guide to Barcelona public transport with Hola BCN Card

A Guide to Public Transport with Hola Barcelona Travel Card

Barcelona’s public transport system is one of the most efficient and tourist-friendly networks in Europe. With metros, buses, trams, and even funiculars, navigating the city is seamless. For tourists, the Hola Barcelona Travel Card stands out as the ultimate solution for unlimited, hassle-free travel across the city.

Exploring public transport with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card

Barcelona metro train arriving at a station platform with passengers boarding.
Aerobus One-Way Tickets: Barcelona Airport to/from City Center
Tourists exploring Barcelona city with the Turbopass Barcelona City Card, visiting over 25 attractions and using public transport
Barcelona Travel Card
Barcelona Travel Card

Tips

  • Redeem your card at the L9 Sud Metro Station at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport. This saves you the €5.15 airport transfer fee and gives you unlimited travel to the city center and beyond.
  • The metro is the fastest way to navigate Barcelona’s top attractions, such as Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Camp Nou. Plan routes using Google Maps or the TMB app to avoid peak-hour congestion. A single metro ride costs €2.55. With the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, unlimited metro rides cost as little as €8.75/day (2-day pass).
  • While the metro is efficient, buses provide scenic views of the city and access to areas like Tibidabo or Barceloneta Beach. Use buses to explore neighborhoods off the beaten path or travel directly when the metro requires multiple transfers. Each bus ride costs €2.55. Frequent use makes the card indispensable for budget-conscious travelers.
  • The card is valid for consecutive calendar days, so activate it early in the morning to get the most out of your first day. For example, activating a 3-day card on Monday morning means it will remain valid through Wednesday evening.
  • Plan to use public transport frequently, especially the metro and buses, which cover most tourist hotspots. For example, Visiting La Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Barceloneta Beach in one day can cost over €12.75 for a single ticket. The Hola Barcelona Travel Card ensures unlimited access for a flat rate.
  • The card is valid for consecutive calendar days, so activate it early in the morning to get the most out of your first day. For example, activating a 3-day card on Monday morning means it will remain valid through Wednesday evening.
  • The card automatically activates on its first use and remains valid for the consecutive days you selected. For example, a 2-day card first used on a Monday afternoon will expire at midnight on Tuesday.
  • Plan multiple stops along metro lines to save time and maximize the card’s value. For example: Line L3 (Green): Plaça Catalunya → Passeig de Gràcia → Park Güell. Line L4 (Yellow): Barceloneta → El Born → Poblenou



Book Hola Barcelona Travel Card

Hola Barcelona Travel Card
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€17.50
Barcelona All Inclusive Card: 25+ Museums & Public Transport
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Aerobus Tickets: Barcelona Airport to/from City Center
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35 min. - 40 min.
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€9.24
Turbopass Barcelona City Card: 25+ Attractions & Public Transport
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€127.40

Frequently asked questions about public transportation in Barcelona

Can I use the Hola Barcelona Travel Card for round trips to the airport?

Yes, the Hola Barcelona Travel Card covers both your arrival and departure trips via the airport metro (L9 Sud) or the airport train (RENFE R2). Simply swipe your card at the turnstiles—no additional tickets are needed. For late-night flights, check the metro and train schedules as the last rides are around midnight.

What happens if I lose my Hola Barcelona Travel Card?

Unfortunately, lost cards cannot be replaced, as the pass is non-transferable and linked to your unique voucher code. To avoid this situation, keep your card secure and store your voucher code separately—it cannot be reissued once redeemed.

Can I use the card for group travel?

No, the Hola Barcelona Travel Card is personal and valid for one user only. Each person in your group needs their own card, but you can purchase multiple passes in a single transaction when booking online.

How do I redeem my card if the vending machine isn't working?

If a ticket machine is out of order, visit any Tourist Information Office or another metro station. These offices operate between 8:30am and 8:30pm and can assist with card redemption. Always carry your voucher code for easy processing.

Does the card work for suburban travel or nearby beaches?

Yes, the card covers all Zone 1 travel, which includes suburban areas like Castelldefels and the beaches of El Prat. Use the RENFE trains or metro for these trips without worrying about additional costs.

Are there ticket inspectors, and what happens if I forget my card?

Yes, ticket inspectors frequently check for valid passes, especially on metros and trains. If you’re caught without your Hola Barcelona Travel Card, fines can exceed €100. Always carry your pass with you to avoid penalties.

Can I check how many days are left on my pass?

Yes, you can check your pass validity at any metro ticket machine. Insert your card, and it will display the remaining days. Alternatively, count consecutive days from the first time you used the card, as the validity is based on calendar days, not 24-hour periods.

Can I use the card on public holidays?

Yes, Barcelona’s public transport operates on holidays, albeit with a slightly reduced schedule. The Hola Barcelona Travel Card remains valid, allowing you to travel seamlessly even on days like Christmas or New Year’s.

Can children use the Hola Barcelona Travel Card?

Children under 4 years old travel free on public transport in Barcelona and don’t need a card. For children aged 4 and above, you must purchase a separate Hola Barcelona Travel Card as there are no discounted fares for kids.