We will flying into Barcelona after visiting London. I am looking at flights that will get us into BCN around 830-10pm, will it be a problem getting to our hotel off Las Ramblas hotel? What is the best/cheapest/safest way to get to the hotel? We will 2 adults, 4 children. Also, what are your recommendations for 2 days in Barcelona?
Thank you!
Posted by
Spokane, WA, USA
121 posts
I found that the best thing to do is contact your hotel and ask them what is the best way to get to the hotel. It's not like here in the US where hotels have shuttles. The hotel will usually recommend a taxi company or give you a name of a taxi driver and number. They may even arrange for the driver to meet you at the airport holding a sign with your name on it. When in doubt, I always check with the hotel and have yet to be disappointed or ill-at-ease. We're going to Barcelona in early may and have already booked online tickets to Sagrada Familia (a must-see). Other than that, we plan on playing it by ear for the 4 days we'll be in the city. You may want to look at a day tour or 1/2 day tour to familiarize yourself with the area.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
The Aerobus from Barcelona airport runs to Placa d'Espanya and Placa de Catalunya, near many of Rick's recommended hotels, 6 euros, service until about 1:00 a.m., see also p. 175 and/or hotel maps in Rick's Spain book.
Posted by
3 posts
Don't worry about arriving too late: at 10 o'clock in Barcelona is just dinner time!!
From the airport you can take the Aerobus, as said in a previous comment (cheapest option), or take a Taxi, what will cost you between 20€ and 50€ (mmh being 6 people you will have to take 2 taxis so the price will be twice).
As for what to do in 2 days, I would not miss Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Batllo, la Pedrera and the coast. Here is a good index for the main spots in Barcelona.
Posted by
San Diego, CA
344 posts
Megan, how old are your children?
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12313 posts
If the Aerobus is still running, it's easy and takes you to Placa Catalunya in three stops. Traffic shouldn't be an issue, so something like 20 minutes. Placa Catalunya is right at the start of Las Ramblas, If you're walking distance from there (and not carrying too many bags, it should be easy).
Las Ramblas is somewhat notorious for pickpockets. I don't think I'd want to negotiate it at night carrying lots of stuff. If you have a lot of bags, you're probably better off getting a taxi from the airport.
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12313 posts
In two days, I'd start with the Gothic quarter. The TI gives a good guided walk. At 15 euro, it's a good value. Afterwards you can wander to see the sights of the quarter at your own pace.
Day two should focus on the Moderniste architecture that is unique to Barcelona, Block of Discord, Parc Guell, and Sagrada Familia. We walked it, but I'd suggest getting a taxi to Parc Guell then to Sagrada Familia to save your legs.
There's a lot more to see in Barcelona but you have limited time.