Getting Around Barcelona by Bus: Visitor’s Guide
Barcelona has one of the most efficient and scenic urban bus networks in Europe. Whether you’re heading to a beach, a historic site, or simply looking to enjoy the city views, buses are a comfortable and affordable way to get around.
Here’s everything you need to know about using buses in Barcelona in 2025.
🚍 Overview of the Bus System
Barcelona’s buses are operated by TMB (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona) and cover over 100 routes across the city and surrounding areas.
- ✅ Air-conditioned & modern fleet
- ✅ Digital signs and announcements in Catalan, Spanish, and English
- ✅ Great for reaching spots not covered by the Metro
- ✅ Many run later than the Metro, including night buses
🗺️ Where Buses Go
Buses are great for reaching places like:
- Montjuïc (Castle, Museums): Use Bus 150 from Plaça Espanya
- Barceloneta Beach: Try Bus V15 or D20
- Parc Güell: Use Bus H6 or 24
- Tibidabo: Take Bus T2A from Plaça Catalunya
- Poble Espanyol & Magic Fountain: Buses 13 and 150
🎟️ Bus Tickets and Travel Passes (2025)
Bus tickets are integrated with the rest of Barcelona’s transport system, meaning one ticket works across bus, metro, tram, and local trains within Zone 1.
🔸 Common Ticket Options:
| Ticket Type | Price (2025) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Single Ticket | €2.65 | Valid for 75 mins; no transfers |
| T-Casual (10 rides) | €12.55 | For individual use; allows transfers |
| T-Usual (Unlimited) | €22.00 | Unlimited journeys for 30 days |
| Hola Barcelona Card | From €18.10 | Unlimited rides for 2–5 days, incl. airport travel |
| Airport Bus Ticket | €6.75 | Aerobús (special airport service) |
❗ Tickets can be bought at metro stations, TMB apps, vending machines, and some tobacco shops (“Estancos”).
✈️ Getting to & from the Airport by Bus
🛫 Aerobús (Express Bus to Airport)
- Route: Runs between Plaça Catalunya and Terminals 1 & 2
- Frequency: Every 5–10 minutes
- Duration: ~35 minutes
- Price: €6.75 (one way), €11.65 (return)
- Tickets: Buy online, at stops, or onboard (card only)
🌙 Night Buses (NitBus)
Missed the metro? No problem!
Barcelona runs NitBus services all night, covering the entire city and suburbs.
- Operating Hours: From 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM
- Main Hub: Plaça Catalunya
- Lines: N0 – N11
- Ticket Use: Same tickets as during the day
🚏 How to Catch a Bus in Barcelona
- Go to a bus stop (clearly marked with red signs).
- Check the digital display for upcoming buses.
- Wave your hand slightly as the bus approaches to signal the driver.
- Enter from the front door, tap your ticket or travel card.
- Exit from the rear doors.
📱 Use the TMB App or Google Maps to track buses in real time and plan routes.
💡 Travel Tips for Using Buses in Barcelona
- 🕒 Buses are frequent during the day (every 5–15 mins depending on the line).
- 👛 Keep a T-Casual or Hola Card handy to save money.
- 🪑 Seats at the front are reserved for people with reduced mobility.
- 📶 Free Wi-Fi is available on some buses.
- 🛑 Press the red stop button in advance when your stop is near.
🧭 Helpful Bus Routes for Tourists
Here are some useful routes to get you around top attractions:
| Route | From / To | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|
| V15 | Av. Tibidabo – Barceloneta Beach | Passeig de Gràcia, Plaça Catalunya |
| D20 | Estació Marítima – Ernest Lluch | Port Vell, Columbus Monument, beaches |
| 24 | Carmel – Plaça Catalunya | Parc Güell, Gràcia, Rambla de Catalunya |
| 150 | Plaça Espanya – Montjuïc Castle | Magic Fountain, MNAC, Montjuïc Castle |
📍 Summary: Why Use Buses in Barcelona?
✅ See the city above ground
✅ Reach neighborhoods not served by metro
✅ Great for airport travel (Aerobús)
✅ Safe, clean, and accessible
✅ Affordable and tourist-friendly
For more travel tips and itineraries, visit Barcelona Budget Travel Guide and start planning your perfect trip to Barcelona!