Cycling in Barcelona: The City’s Best Routes and Bike Rentals
Barcelona is a city steeped in history, with stunning architecture and natural landscapes that are best enjoyed on two wheels. If you’re a big fan of cycling, this city offers a wide variety of routes for all skill levels, perfect for exploring every corner of the city. In this edition of the Musik Boutique Hotel Barcelona Guide, we bring you a selection of the best bike routes through Barcelona. Plus, at the end of this guide, we’ll share some of the best bike rental services to help you make the most of your ride.
The Best Bike Routes in Barcelona: Routes for Every Taste
Montjuïc: A Challenging Hike with Incredible Views
This is one of those routes you can’t miss if you like to feel alive and enjoy breathtaking views of Barcelona. The route is part of the famous Ronda Verda and takes you along various trails with uphill and downhill sections that put your skills to the test; it’s ideal for cyclists looking for a bit more of a challenge. It starts at Plaza de España or Santa Madrona and invites you to discover many interesting places, such as museums, gardens, or even the Palau Sant Jordi and the Pueblo Español. Along the way, you’ll also come across the Montjuïc Botanical Garden—the perfect spot to take a break, catch your breath, and recharge.
This route has a medium-to-high level of difficulty, so it’s not recommended for beginners; however, if you like a challenge, you’re going to love it. What makes this route so special is the wide variety of landscapes it offers: from historic urban areas to nature and tranquility. This is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and well-rounded routes in the city.
Exploring the Coast: Tranquility and Ocean Views
If you don’t have much experience or prefer something more relaxed, this route along the Barcelona coast is perfect for you. It’s very easy and suitable for everyone, including families with children. It’s about 10 kilometers along the city’s coastline, from the port to the mouth of the Besós River. Along the way, you’ll pass by places like the Moll de la Fusta, the Columbus statue, and the Forum. It’s a very peaceful walk, ideal for unwinding and enjoying the views, the sun, and the sea breeze. It’s also important to note that in some sections, the path shares space with other roads, so you’ll need to watch out for other vehicles and pedestrians.
Monument Tour: A Cultural Stroll Through the City
If you’re interested in architecture and history, you’re going to love this route. It starts at Plaza de Cataluña, right in the heart of Barcelona, and continues along Passeig de Gràcia, where you’ll see some Modernist masterpieces such as La Pedrera, Casa Amatller, and Casa Batlló. Next, you’ll pass by the Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s magnificent masterpiece, and end at Ciutadella Park, the perfect spot to take a well-deserved break surrounded by nature and art. This route is a great way to explore the city’s main landmarks while getting some exercise and having a thoroughly enjoyable time.
The Llobregat Delta: A natural haven that feels like an oasis right near the city
This route is a leisurely walk surrounded by nature. The Llobregat Delta is a great option for a hike—it’s about 5 kilometers long, fairly easy, and invites you to explore its unique ecosystem. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys wildlife and nature. It starts in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat and continues toward the viewpoint at El Prat Airport, where you can take a break while watching the planes land. You’ll be amazed by the natural landscapes, such as Lake Ricarda and El Prat Beach—ideal spots to enjoy their beauty and take a deep breath of fresh air.
From Barcelona to the Can Borni Nurseries: A Hidden Garden in Collserola
Finally, the route to the Can Borni Botanical Gardens is perfect for a peaceful stroll away from the city. Located in the Collserola mountain range, the gardens were established for the 1929 International Exposition and today are home to a wide variety of plants from around the world. This route presents no challenges, so it’s suitable for any cyclist. The route begins at Plaza de Artós, passes through Calle Mayor de Sarriá, and climbs up to the Tibidabo funicular until it reaches a beautiful garden, where you can rest after about 8 kilometers of adventure.
Best Bike Rentals in the City
Barcelona and its surrounding areas are the perfect places to discover every corner on two wheels. The city has an extensive network of bike lanes and a great climate for outdoor rides at any time. Hopping on a bike to take in the scenery and explore the city is a great option. Below, we’ll share some of the best bike rental services in Barcelona, where you can choose between traditional bikes or even electric ones:
- Barcelona Bike Rental
- Bike Rental Barcelona
- RENT A BIKE BARCELONA
- The Barcelona Fietstours & Fietsverhuur Series
- Rivera Bike Rental