Barcelona cruise port excursions. Excursions & transportation guide

Barcelona cruise port excursions? Discover what to do as soon as you leave the port. Free guide to download!

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Barcelona cruise port excursions

How to get out of the cruise port in Barcelona ?

Barcelona is a must-see stop on any Mediterranean cruise. However, it’s no longer possible to walk out of the cruise port on foot. No worries! Here are the two easiest ways to quickly reach the city center and make the most of your day in port.

1. The cruise bus (blue bus) – The best option

The blue bus, also known as the cruise bus, is the most convenient and budget-friendly way to leave the port. It picks you up right at the foot of your ship and drops you off just 5 minutes later near the Christopher Columbus statue, at the entrance to the famous Las Ramblas.

Fare: €3 one-way, €4.50 round trip
Drop-off: 5-minute walk from Las Ramblas
Perks: fast, easy, no reservation needed

This is clearly the most logical and popular choice among cruise passengers.

2. Cruise line shuttles – Best to avoid

Some cruise lines offer their own shuttles for the same route… but at a much higher price (up to €10 round trip per person). The service is identical to the Cruise Bus, just without the better fare. Bottom line: you’re paying more for the same thing.

What to do on foot from the port?

Barcelona cruise port excursions

Once dropped off at the base of the Columbus Monument, you’re just a 3-minute walk from Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s most famous boulevard. Here are some must-see sights you can explore easily on foot:

La Boqueria Market: a lively, colorful spot — perfect for tasting tapas and discovering Catalan specialties.
Palau de la Virreina: a stunning 18th-century palace that now hosts art exhibitions.
Gran Teatre del Liceu: one of Europe’s most prestigious opera houses — worth a visit even if you’re not attending a show.
Port Vell & Rambla del Mar: take a walk along the floating bridge with views of the marina, yachts, and the sea.

Cruise port metro – Drassanes station

A 5-minute walk from the Columbus Monument takes you to Drassanes Station, the closest metro stop to the port. It’s a great option if you want to explore other neighborhoods like the Barri Gòtic or visit the Sagrada Família by metro.

Las Ramblas

Barcelona cruise port excursions

Las Ramblas is one of Barcelona’s most iconic promenades, located just a 5-minute walk from the cruise port (well, from where the Blue Bus drops you off). It’s the perfect way to quickly reach the vibrant heart of the city.

How to get to las Ramblas from the cruise port

On foot: Once you disembark, head toward the famous Christopher Columbus Monument, located just outside the port. Cross the street safely at the pedestrian lights, and you’ll find yourself right on Las Ramblas. The walk takes about 5 minutes.

Why visit las Ramblas during your stop in Barcelona?

Enjoy the lively atmosphere with street performers, markets, and local shops.
Don’t miss the Boqueria market : perfect for tasting tapas, fresh fruit, and Catalan specialties.
Admire the façade of the Gran Teatre del Liceu, one of the most famous opera houses in Europe.
Easily access other landmarks like plaça Catalunya.

We’re giving away the very first cruise travel guide (and if you’re stopping in Naples, we’re giving that one too!). Even though it’s listed at €9.99, it’s completely free for you. Don’t miss out!

Free Barcelona cruise guide

Download your guide now!

The Gothic quarter

Barcelona cruise port excursions

Barcelona’s Gothic quarter is like stepping back in time. Its narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings tell the city’s rich story. You’ll find the majestic Barcelona Cathedral, lively spots like Plaça Reial, and plenty of cozy cafés and shops. It’s the perfect place to wander and discover hidden gems around every corner.

Just around the neighborhood, you can visit the Picasso Museum, stroll down Las Ramblas, or explore Plaça Sant Jaume, home to both the City Hall and the Palau de la Generalitat of Catalonia.

How to visit the Gothic quarter

On foot:

From the Christopher Columbus Monument, head northwest on Rambla de Santa Mònica toward Carrer del Portal de Santa Madrona.
Cross the roundabout and continue onto Carrer dels Escudellers.
Keep slightly left onto Carrer de n’Arai and continue on Carrer de Cervantes.
Turn left onto Carrer dels Gegants, then right onto Plaça de Sant Miquel — you’re now in the Gothic Quarter.
You can also walk up Las Ramblas from the Columbus Monument to the Liceu metro station, then turn right — it’s very simple.

By metro

If you prefer public transportation, the closest metro station is Drassanes (line 3), near the port. Take the train toward Trinitat Nova and get off at Liceu.
You can also take line 4 (yellow line). Head toward La Pau and get off at Jaume I, then walk a few minutes to reach the quarter.

→ Still, walking is the fastest and easiest way to get to the Gothic Quarter from any Las Ramblas metro station (Catalunya, Liceu, Drassanes), all of which offer access to different parts of the area.

Port Vell and the Rambla del Mar

Port Vell is one of Barcelona’s most iconic gems, where history and modernity blend in a lively and vibrant setting. This renovated old port is the perfect place to stroll by the water, admire the yachts, and soak up the pleasant atmosphere.

Things to do at Port Vell and Rambla del Mar

Discover the Barcelona aquarium
Located right in Port Vell, it’s one of the largest aquariums in Europe — perfect for a family outing.

Shop at Maremagnum shopping center
Enjoy a variety of stores, restaurants, and sunny terraces right by the water for a relaxing break.

Enjoy tapas and local dishes
Many cafés and restaurants offer fantastic views of the port and luxury yachts — a truly Barcelona-style experience.

Explore souvenir shops
Don’t leave without picking up a keepsake or a local specialty to take home.

Take a sightseeing cruise
See the city from a different perspective on a boat tour departing from the port, offering panoramic views of the coastline and Barcelona’s famous landmarks.

Visit the maritime museum
Located near the Columbus Monument, this museum tells the fascinating maritime history of the region.

How to get there from the cruise port

On foot:
Once you disembark, head toward the Columbus Monument : a key landmark at the entrance to Port Vell. You can visit the Mirador de Colón and take the elevator to the top for a panoramic view.
Then walk along Moll de les Drassanes for about 60 meters, turn right to reach Rambla del Mar. The walk to the Maremagnum shopping center takes about 10 minutes after crossing the bridge.

By taxi:
A ride from the port will cost around €8 and will drop you off right by Maremagnum.

By bike:
For a quick and eco-friendly ride, rent a classic or electric bike from the rental services around Port Vell — a fun and practical way to explore the area.

Barcelona aquarium

Barcelona cruise port excursions

Located in Port Vell, the Barcelona Aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and a must-see during your cruise stop. It offers a unique immersive experience with its many tanks, underwater tunnels, and diverse marine life.

What to see at the Barcelona aquarium

The Ocean Tunnel: an impressive 80-meter underwater walk surrounded by sharks, rays, and hundreds of marine species.
Themed Tanks: explore Mediterranean and tropical ecosystems filled with colorful fish, coral reefs, and rare species.
Interactive Activities: workshops, fish feeding, and kid-friendly animations make for a fun and educational visit.
Ocean Conservation Awareness: the aquarium is committed to marine conservation and educates visitors on the importance of protecting biodiversity.

Practical information

Address: Moll d’Espanya del Port Vell, s/n, 08039 Barcelona
Opening Hours: open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (hours may vary by season)
Admission: €27 for adults, discounted rates available for children and families
Access: just a 10-minute walk from the Columbus Monument, easily reachable from the cruise port

La Barceloneta

Barcelona cruise port excursions – A Must-see neighborhood

The Barceloneta neighborhood, located just minutes from Barcelona’s cruise port, is a must-see for cruise travelers. This lively district offers a perfect blend of beach atmosphere, local gastronomy, and cultural discovery.

What to do in Barceloneta?

Enjoy the beach
The Barceloneta beach is ideal for relaxing in the sun after a morning of sightseeing. Beach bars, loungers, and water activities are available for a moment of pure relaxation.

Eat seafood
The neighborhood’s restaurants offer Catalan specialties like paella or fideuà, best savored on a terrace with sea views.

Explore the waterfront
Stroll along Port Vell and Port Olímpic, admire the yachts and terraces, and enjoy magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Visit the Immigration History Museum
For culture enthusiasts, this museum tells the fascinating story of this historic neighborhood before you explore its lively streets.

Relax at Barceloneta Park
If you want some calm, the shaded Barceloneta park is the perfect place for a nature break away from the tourist bustle.

How to get there from the port for cruise passengers?

On foot:
From the Christopher Columbus statue at the port exit, it’s about a 20-minute walk along Moll del Dipòsit. A pleasant and easy stroll to enjoy the maritime setting.

By taxi:
A quick and comfortable ride will cost about €8 to €9, taking 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic.

By metro:
From Drassanes station (near the Christopher Columbus statue), take line 3 to Passeig de Gràcia, then transfer to line 4 (yellow line) and get off at Barceloneta. This journey takes about 20 minutes, but it’s not the fastest option.

By boat:
For a unique experience, take the water bus from Drassanes quay (water bus ticket office). For just €2, this boat drops you off directly at Barceloneta beach.

Tourist bus

Barcelona cruise port excursions – A must for cruise passengers

Maximize your time during your stopover with the tourist bus, the preferred choice for cruise passengers.

Why choose the tourist bus?

Flexibility and comfort. Explore the city at your own pace aboard an open-top bus. No need to worry about public transport – relax and let yourself be guided.
Comprehensive discovery. Don’t miss any must-see attractions and discover the city’s hidden treasures.
Guaranteed savings. By booking in advance, you get the best price and avoid the extra fees often charged on-site.
Convenient and efficient. Sit back comfortably and make the most of every minute of your stopover.

Barcelona Free Tour

Discover Barcelona differently with an engaging Free Tour!

Want to dive into the heart of Barcelona right upon arrival? The free tour of the historic center is the best way to start your visit: enriching, lively… and 100% free (with reservation)!

Duration: 2 hours of walking discovery
Departure: Plaça Catalunya – the true heart of the city

What you will experience

Walk along La Rambla, Barcelona’s busiest avenue, before losing yourself in the alleys of the Gothic Quarter, a true medieval maze full of stories, ancient legends, and hidden treasures.

→ You will discover:

Plaça Sant Jaume, political center since Roman times
The Gothic Cathedral with its mysterious gargoyles
The El Call Jewish Quarter, a discreet but powerful remnant of the past
Plaça Reial, the stage of royal intrigues

→ The tour continues in the Born district, one of the city’s most charming areas: bohemian alleys, small squares, trendy cafés… And especially: the majestic Cathedral of the Sea, which you will discover with a fascinating historical perspective.

The tour ends near the Fossar de les Moreres, an emotional memorial site.

Why choose this free tour?

✅ Perfect way to start your stay
✅ Passionate guides who will show you the city differently
✅ Accessible to everyone, whether you’re with family, as a couple, or with friends
✅ You pay what you want, depending on your satisfaction!

👉 Book your spot now and enjoy an unforgettable first immersion in Barcelona.

The Sagrada Família

Barcelona cruise port excursions

The Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s architectural icon and a must-see during any stopover. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this basilica, still under construction since 1882, fascinates with its sculpted facades, slender towers, and light-filled interior. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it attracts millions of visitors every year.

How to get to the Sagrada Família from the cruise port?

On foot (1 hour walk for the motivated ones)

From the Christopher Columbus monument (cruise passengers’ landmark at the port exit), walk up Las Ramblas to Plaça Catalunya, then follow Avinguda de la Catedral and the main avenues of the Eixample. The route takes about 60 minutes on foot. A lovely stroll to discover the city.

By metro (recommended)

Take line 3 (green) at Liceu station (7 minutes on foot from the port).
Get off at Diagonal, then transfer to line 5 (blue).
Get off at Sagrada Família station (2 stops later).

⏱ Estimated time: about 25 minutes.
💡 Tip: buy a T-casual ticket (valid for 10 rides) to save money.

By taxi

A direct taxi ride from the port costs around €10 to €15 and takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Convenient if you’re in a group or in a hurry.

What to see around the Sagrada Família?

The Sagrada Família Museum: explore models, drawings, and the basilica’s history.
Avinguda Gaudí: a pretty pedestrian avenue with cafés, perfect for a break facing the basilica.
Hospital de Sant Pau: a masterpiece of modernist architecture, just a short walk away.
Nearby parks for a relaxing stroll.

Enjoy your visit to this unique place!

Park Güell

Park Güell, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is one of the most enchanting places in Barcelona. This colorful park blends nature, modernist architecture, and panoramic views over the city. Stroll among the famous mosaic serpentine benches, tilted columns, and whimsical sculptures that make this place feel like a true fairy tale setting.

👉 To find out how to get there from the port, the best viewpoints, and visiting tips,
download our special cruise visitors guide to Barcelona for free below (although it is listed at €9.99, it is entirely free for you).

Download your guide now!

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If you want to support my work, you can book your activities through the links provided. It costs you nothing extra: the commission is paid by the organizer, not by you.
Thank you for your support!

Private transfer cruise port → Barcelona airport

Barcelona cruise port excursions

Is your cruise coming to an end? Would you like to book a private transfer to Barcelona Airport?

Private transfer port – airport – Barcelona

Enjoy a private transfer from the cruise port to Barcelona airport.
Price → 38 euros per person
Relax while traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Your driver will give you the opportunity to learn more about the city during your trip.
Enjoy a meet and greet service at the cruise port.
Enjoy a hassle-free transfer with no hidden fees

See availability – Reservation