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Traveling by metro with Hola Barcelona Travel Card

Navigate Barcelona on metro with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card

Barcelona's metro and bus networks are the city's lifeline, offering a fast, affordable, and seamless way to explore its iconic attractions. With the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, you unlock unlimited access to public transport, ensuring your adventures across the Catalan capital are as stress-free as possible. Whether you’re darting through the Gothic Quarter or heading to Park Güell, this travel card is your key to exploring the city like a local.

Why the Hola Barcelona Travel Card is your best bet

  • Unlimited travel, flexible options: Choose a pass that works for you—2, 3, 4, or 5 consecutive days of unlimited journeys. No need to worry about running out of trips or juggling multiple tickets.
  • Airport to city center made easy: Forget expensive airport taxis. With the card, you can hop on the metro from Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport straight to the city center, starting your trip with ease.
  • Simple activation and use: Collect your card at any metro station or airport metro vending machine using your voucher code. Swipe your card on buses, metros, and trains, and you’re good to go.
  • Budget-friendly travel: Public transport in Barcelona is clean, air-conditioned, and well-connected. The Hola Barcelona Travel Card ensures you don’t overspend while covering every corner of the city.

Hola Barcelona travel card explained

How to get your Hola Barcelona travel card

  • Purchase online: Visit the official website and choose your preferred pass (2, 3, 4, or 5 days).
  • Receive your voucher code: After purchase, a barcode will be emailed to you instantly.
  • Collect your card: Locate a ticket vending machine at any metro or train station in Barcelona.
  • Select the Hola Barcelona option on the screen, enter your barcode, and your card will be issued.
  • You can also redeem your card at vending machines in the airport metro stations.

It’s quick, straightforward, and ensures you’re ready to start exploring as soon as you arrive.

What’s included with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card?

  • Metro and buses operated by TMB: Navigate the city’s main hubs like Plaça Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, and Plaça d’Espanya with ease.
  • Montjuïc funicular: Enjoy quick access to Montjuïc Park’s panoramic views.
  • Trams and trains: Travel to attractions like Montjuïc Park or connect with suburban zones via FGC (Zone 1) and RENFE trains.
  • Unlimited journeys: Travel freely for 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours from the first validation.
  • Validity and flexibility: Purchase online and activate your pass anytime within 90 days.

Why choose public transport in Barcelona

The Barcelona metro system is efficient, with trains arriving every 2–5 minutes during the day and slightly less frequently at night. The city’s buses complement the metro with routes to places the subway doesn’t reach. All metro lines and buses are in Zone 1, making navigation simple.

Operating hours:

  • Metro: Monday to Thursday (5am–midnight), Friday (5am–2am), and continuous service on Saturdays.
  • Buses: Regular daytime services and limited nighttime routes.

With the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, you can ride during all operating hours.

Understanding the Barcelona Metro zone system

The Barcelona metro zone system is designed to simplify travel across the city and its surrounding areas by organizing transport into pricing zones. This system applies to all forms of public transport, including metro, buses, trams, and suburban rail. Here's everything you need to know

What are the zones?
Why is Zone 1 important for tourists
How does pricing work?

Barcelona's public transport network is divided into six zones, each representing a different distance from the city's center.

  • Zone 1: The most central zone, covering the heart of Barcelona, where the majority of attractions, like Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, and other popular destinations are located.
  • Zone 2–6: These zones extend outward, covering the suburban and regional areas such as La Palma de Cervelló, El Papiol, Ripollet, and Sant Andreu de la Barca. The farther the zone, the higher the ticket price.

For most visitors, Zone 1 is all you need since it includes nearly all of Barcelona's iconic landmarks and tourist hotspots. Here's what you can access with a Zone 1 ticket:

  • Historic neighborhoods: Gothic Quarter, El Born, and Gràcia.
  • Landmarks: Sagrada Familia, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), Casa Batlló, and Park Güell.
  • Cultural spots: Picasso Museum, Joan Miró Foundation, and more.
  • Sports and entertainment: Camp Nou (FC Barcelona Stadium), Montjuïc Park.

Even Barcelona International Airport (El Prat) is within Zone 1. However, traveling to and from the airport on the metro requires a special airport metro ticket, as standard Zone 1 tickets do not include this service.

The pricing is based on the zone you travel to, with Zone 1 offering the most affordable fares. As you move into higher-numbered zones (Zone 2 to Zone 6), the ticket cost increases. This ensures that the system is fair for locals and visitors, with longer distances requiring a higher fare.

  • For tourists primarily staying in the city center, a Zone 1 travel card like the Hola Barcelona Travel Card is the most practical and economical choice.
  • For trips extending beyond Zone 1, you may need a ticket or card covering multiple zones.

Using the Hola Barcelona Travel Card on the metro

To use the Hola Barcelona Travel Card on the metro, simply validate your card at the ticket machine or barrier before starting your journey. Each time you board a metro train, ensure that your card is validated to avoid fines. The card allows for unlimited journeys during its validity period, so you can hop on and off as needed without worrying about purchasing individual tickets.

Barcelona metro timetable

Month
Day
Time

January–December

Monday–Thursday
5am–12am

-

Friday
5am–2am
-
Saturday
Continuous service
-
Sunday
24 hours
Public Holidays
General Hours
5am–12am
-
December 24
5am–11pm
-
December 31
Continuous service

Pro tip: Metro services often extend during major public celebrations or "fiestas," providing continuous operations on the eve of the holiday. It’s always a good idea to confirm the schedule at your nearest station or online for any special occasions.

Note: 24-Hour Service in the Barcelona metro means trains run continuously from Friday night through Sunday night, allowing travel at any hour during that period. Continuous Service also refers to specific nights or events when the metro operates all night without stopping, such as during major holidays or special occasions, extending beyond the usual closing times.

Metro routes in Barcelona

Key routes
Barcelona metro accessibility

Barcelona's metro network is organized into several color-coded lines that cover all major parts of the city and its surrounding areas. Here’s a snapshot of the key routes:

  • L1 (Red Line): Crosses the city from east to west, connecting hubs like Plaça de Catalunya and Plaça d’Espanya.
  • L2 (Purple Line): Links Badalona to Parallel, stopping at landmarks like Sagrada Familia and Passeig de Gràcia.
  • L3 (Green Line): Covers the Rambla and reaches destinations like Park Güell and Camp Nou.
  • L4 (Yellow Line): Accesses the beaches and connects the Gothic Quarter to the Olympic Port.
  • L5 (Blue Line): Ideal for business districts and key attractions like Sagrada Familia and Sants Station.
  • L9S (Orange Line): Connects Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (Terminals 1 and 2) to the city.

Tips to explore Barcelona by Metro

  • Look for the TMB logo or signage near entrances. Information panels at the entrance display the station name, metro lines, network map, and nearby area maps for seamless navigation.
  • If you're carrying luggage, bicycles, or strollers, use elevators where available. Fold strollers for safety. Avoid flip-flops on escalators and stand on the right-hand side to let others pass on the left.
  • Tickets must be validated before passing through turnstiles. Arrows guide you to the correct turnstile—validate on the indicated side and proceed through the matching gate.
  • Automatic ticket machines allow you to choose your language (Catalan, Spanish, English, or French). Select your ticket type, pay in euros (coins, notes, or card), and print a receipt if needed by pressing the “Payment Receipt” button.
  • Study metro maps and diagrams to determine your travel direction. Staff at stations can assist if you’re unsure. Clear signage ensures easy navigation through the system.
  • Stay behind the safety line until the train stops completely. Let passengers exit before boarding. Wheelchair users should use the second door of the first carriage for better access and visibility.
  • Priority seats are reserved for pregnant women, elderly passengers, and those with reduced mobility. Avoid standing near doors to allow smooth boarding and exiting. Upcoming stations and connections are announced via the PA system.
  • To exit, press the door button or lever, depending on the train model. Watch your step, especially on curved platforms. Follow directional signs to locate exits and check maps for onward routes and attractions.
  • Avoid rushing or running inside metro stations to prevent accidents. Stand clear of closing doors, and never board once the alert signal sounds. Courtesy helps maintain smooth operations for everyone.
  • At each station, maps display urban attractions, cultural sites, and nearby bus routes to help you continue your journey efficiently. These resources are also available near exits.



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Frequently asked questions about metro in Barcelona

Is the Hola Barcelona Travel Card cost-effective for metro travel?

Yes, the Hola Barcelona Travel Card can be cost-effective if you plan to use the metro multiple times during your stay. For example, a single metro ticket costs €2.55, while an airport ticket is €5.50. With just two to three trips per day, the card quickly pays for itself compared to buying individual tickets. The card also provides convenience by eliminating the need to queue for tickets each time you travel

Are there any restrictions when using the Hola Barcelona Travel Card on the metro?

While the Hola Barcelona Travel Card allows unlimited travel on all metro lines within Zone 1, it does not cover night buses or certain special services like the Montjuïc Cable Car. Additionally, each card is non-transferable and valid only for one person. Ensure to keep your card in good condition and validate it before each journey.

Can I use the Hola Barcelona Travel Card for airport transfers on the metro?

Yes, the Hola Barcelona Travel Card includes metro travel between Barcelona El Prat Airport and the city center. You can take the airport metro line directly to various central locations without incurring additional fees. This feature makes it a convenient option for travelers arriving in or departing from the airport.

How do I know which metro station to use with my Hola Barcelona Travel Card?

To find the best metro station for your destination while using the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, you can utilize tools like Google Maps or the TMB app. Simply enter your starting point and destination, select the transit option, and it will provide you with detailed directions, including which metro lines to take and any necessary transfers.

What should I do if my Hola Barcelona Travel Card is lost or damaged?

If your Hola Barcelona Travel Card is lost or damaged, unfortunately, it cannot be replaced or refunded as it is a non-transferable card. It is advisable to keep your card in a safe place during your travels. If you suspect that your card has been stolen, report it immediately to local authorities for assistance.