• CruiseMapper
  • Cruise Ports
  • Mediterranean - Black Sea Cruise Ports

Barcelona (Spain)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Barcelona cruise port

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-04-18 22:45

Port Barcelona cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Barcelona, Spain. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Barcelona cruise port is currently ranked the largest Mediterranean cruise port with turnaround operations (roundtrip itineraries) and the world's 4th busiest. Its harbor area is one of the world's biggest. By population (over 1,6 million) the city is ranked Spain's largest and Europe's 16th largest.

By the metro population (around 5,5 million) it is ranked EU's 6th largest (after Paris , London , Madrid , Ruhr, Milano ). The city is on the Mediterranean Sea, located between the mouths of two rivers (Llobregat and Besos).

IMPORTANT : Since October 22, 2023, cruise vessels are no longer allowed to dock at Muelle Barcelona Norte (northern port, near the World Trade Centre area) and instead are redirected to berth at Moll Adossat Pier (southern port) which was previously utilized by larger cruise companies like NCL-Norwegian , RCI-Royal Caribbean and MSC . As a result, disembarking cruise tourists instead of stepping directly into the city's historic downtown (10-minute walking distance) are transported via shuttle buses (~30 minutes drive distance) from the southern port to access the city center.

Barcelona cruise port

Barcelona Port (locode ESBCN) is ranked Europe's 9th largest containership port by annual traffic.

The Port's area (sized 10 km2 / 4 mi2) is divided into 3 zones - Port Vell, Commercial Port, and Barcelona Free Port ("Zona Franca de Barcelona", industrial/logistics port).

There is an ongoing enlargement project that will double the port's size by diverting the Llobregat river to the south.

  • UN-LOCODE (United Nations location code) - ESBCN
  • supported by excellent road, rail, and air infrastructure
  • deep harbor water and berths (draft 11,5 m / 38 ft)
  • sheltered harbor area
  • access unrestricted by tides
  • capability to accommodate 9 cruise vessels at a time

Each of the Port's international cruise ship terminals has air conditioning, public phones, lifts and escalators, currency exchange kiosks, duty-free shops, gift/souvenir shops, cafe-restaurant, taxi rank, bus shuttle to downtown.

The cruise port is accessible the whole year round - 24/7, 365 days a tear.

The best vantage points to observe the cruise port's traffic are the cable car (connecting La Barceloneta neighborhood, Ciutat Vella district), the Ferry Station and the Montjuic Castle.

Cruise ships usually arrive in Barcelona in the early morning (4, 5, 6, 7, 9 am) and in the early afternoon (at 1, 2, 2:30 pm) and depart from Barcelona in the late afternoon or in the evening (at 5, 6, 7, 8:30, 10 pm).

Port Barcelona's cruise operations contribute to the city's economy (as revenues) around EUR 796 million (USD 900M) annually. The cruise port adds EUR 413 million (USD 467M) annually to Catalonia's GDP (gross domestic product). This industry also supports 6760 local jobs and generates EUR 152 million (USD 172M) in government taxes. Each cruise vessel in Barcelona generates on average EUR 1 million (USD 1,13M) in sales, contributes EUR 0,5 million (USD 565,417) to Catalonia's GDP, and generates EUR 0,2 million (USD 226,131) in Gov taxes.

In 2014, at its 6 existing cruise terminals, the seaport handled 764 ship calls and over 2,36 million passengers, with an economic impact of EUR 257 million (spent on restaurants, bars, visiting museums, churches, also on transportation and city shopping). On February 5, 2014, Royal Caribbean announced that for the summer 2015 season the Allure of the Seas ship will be based in Europe and homeported in Barcelona. Starting May 24, the Allure's program had 25 voyages with a repeating 7-night round-trip itinerary visiting the ports of Palma de Mallorca , Marseille , La Spezia, Civitavecchia-Rome, Naples. Right after the RCI's announcement, the Barcelona Port announced its estimation for the Allure's additional 158000 passengers and expected spending of around EUR 17,5 million in the city.

On July 23, 2015, Carnival Corporation announced its agreement with Barcelona Port Authority to invest over EUR 46 million in building a second (private) cruise terminal at Moll Adossat (read more in the "Terminal" section). The facility was opened on May 5, 2018. On September 13, 2015, the cruise port had its day record for cruise tourists, handling a total of 26,770 passengers on 4 cruise ships visiting the port in a single day. These were the vessels Norwegian Epic , Nieuw Amsterdam , Vision OTS and Allure OTS .

Port's cruise passenger growth in the period 2010-2015 was as follows: 2010 (2,350264 million, growth of 9,06%), 2011 (2,658691 million, growth of 13,06%), 2012 (2,408618 million, -9,4%), 2013 (2,599363 million, growth of 7,9%), 2014 (2,364292, -9%), 2015 (2,540302 million, growth of 7,4%).

The port ended 2015 with more turnaround passengers (embarking in Barcelona) reporting 3,7+ million (a 7% increase). The number included regular ferry passengers (~1,1 million) and cruise ship passengers (~2,54 million). The biggest increase in passengers concerned those leaving on ships using Barcelona as a turnaround port (where the itinerary begins and ends). In 2015, the cruise port posted its highest-ever number of handled passengers (2,5+ million). In terms of home-ported ships, Barcelona was ranked Europe's second - following Port Venice .

In November 2016, Port Barcelona presented its "Air Quality Improvement Plan" - an initiative aiming to reduce bad emissions from port activities. The document involved 25 actions rolled out in 53 operations. Among the most representative actions are promoting the LNG fuel (liquefied natural gas) as an alternative for both marine vessels and road freighters. The policy offers discounts for cleaner ships and replacing the Port's service fleet with electric vehicles. According to statistics, port activities produce 7,6% of the city's average NOx concentrations annually and 1,5% of the fine particulates. Promoting LNG-powered ships , terminal machinery and trucks is one of the plan's highlights. LNG fuel cuts NOx emissions by 80% and eliminates soot, particles and SOx emissions. The environmental discounts are on port fees. Currently, the law allows a max 5% port fee discount for environmental reasons.

For season 2019, the cruise port had scheduled a total of 830 ship calls with estimated 3,2 million tourists.

In May 2021, MSC Cruises signed a deal for building an exclusive (for MSC ships only) terminal in Port Barcelona. The facility will be operated under a 31-year concession, includes an MSC investment of ~EUR 33 million (~USD 40,2M) and is planned for completion and inauguration in 2024.

In June 2022 the Port announced that starting in 2023, all visiting cruise ship tourists will pay an additional EUR 3 (12+ hours stay) and EUR 1 (fewer than 12 hours stay). The new port fees are added to the existing EUR 1,75 per person and are usually included in the cruise fares listed upon booking. For comparison, since 2019, Port Marghera-Venice charges EUR 10 port fee.

Port Barcelona statistics

FY2018 (fiscal) was a record year with significant growth in various sectors. Port's main trade is with China. Around 25% of all TEUs (containers shipped on large box ships ) passing through the port start or end in China. In 2018 also increased the shipping trade with Algeria (+45%), USA (+18%), India (+4,4%), Mexico (+12,6%), Vietnam (+27,5%), Thailand (+18,7%), Egypt (+14%). "Motorways of the Sea" (Mediterranean routes connecting to Italy and North Africa) goods shipping volumes increased 7%.

These Mediterranean lines connect Barcelona to the ports Civitavecchia-Rome , Genoa (Milan) , Savona , Livorno-Florence , Porto Torres (Sardinia Island) , Tangier (Morocco) , Algiers (Algeria) and La Goulette-Tunis .

  • Liquid bulk (mainly hydrocarbons) grew 5,2% (to 15,2 million tons), LNG +3%, gasoline +12,6%, Biofuels +34,8%. Dry bulk cargo decreased 4,7%. Vehicle shipping decreased 3% (to 810,218 units). The port handled a total of 262,379 TEUs (+7,7%). Port's rail traffic increased 13,3%. Car transport by rail increased 11% (to 263,900 units).
  • In 2018, the port handled total 4,4 million passengers (8,6% increase), including 1,4 million ferry (+2%) and 3 million cruise (+12%). Turnaround passengers grew 16%. Day-passengers grew 8%. Low-season cruisers increased 17% and were ~44% of all cruise passengers.

For 2018, Port Barcelona reported 4% increase in net turnover - EUR 173,5 million (USD 198 million), 8% increase in profit - EUR 53,7 million (USD 61,3 million) and 4% increase in cash flow - EUR 102,5 million (USD 117 million).

APM Terminals (global container terminal operator) operates under the concession port's container terminal. In 2019, APM Terminals Barcelona invested ~EUR 47 million in equipment (29x new straddle carriers/trucks, 2x new Super PostPanamax gantry cranes, 1x Reefer Rack with refrigerated container plugs) to improve terminal's efficiency and productivity. Also in 2019 APM increased terminal's reefer (refrigerated TEU-container) capacity by 31% (to a total of 632 reefer connections) and launched online real-time TEU tracking (on its website).

Cruise itineraries to and from Barcelona Spain

Follows a list of destinations visited by cruise ships leaving out of Barcelona:

  • Mediterranean itineraries on cruises out of Barcelona port visit the largest ports of Italy, France, Greece, and Turkey. Feature destinations are also the French Riviera and the Italian Riviera (coastal regions with top-luxury resorts).
  • The most commonly operated are 7-day round-trips. One-way itineraries from Barcelona end up in Civitavecchia-Rome , Genoa , Piraeus-Athens , Venice , Istanbul .
  • Most of the Canary Islands itineraries leaving roundtrip from Barcelona also visit North Africa (Morocco) and Funchal (Madeira Island) often combined with other ports in Spain and Portugal.
  • Short-break (Mini Cruises) from Barcelona to Genoa are 2-nights / 3-days long. They are operated by MSC Cruises ships and visit Marseille France .
  • Among the most visited Mediterranean island ports are Mallorca, Sicily, Corsica, Malta, Sardinia.
  • World Cruises from Barcelona are offered mainly by Costa Cruises ships. The itineraries are usually eastbound (via Suez Canal ) and visit ports in Southeast Asia, South Pacific (Australia, New Zealand), South America.

Ship relocation voyages (RepositionCruises.com) are one-way itineraries from Barcelona to the largest ports of the UK, Holland, Denmark, as well as to the Canary Islands. Eastbound routes (transiting the Suez Canal) may end up in ports in Asia ( Dubai , Singapore , Hong Kong ) and even in Australia ( Sydney NSW ) on longer "around the world" itinerary segments.

Westbound Transatlantic crossings (on ship relocations out of Barcelona) are offered in the Fall (starting in late September - early October through the end of November). Among the special destinations that may be visited is Bermuda. The disembarkation could be in NYC New York, in some of the large Florida ports, also in Bridgetown (Barbados) , Fort de France (Martinique) , even in Havana (Cuba) . The longest Transatlantic cruises out of Barcelona are on Costa ships repositioning from Europe to South America. They offer disembarkation in either Brazil ( Rio De Janeiro , Santos-Sao Paulo ) or Argentina ( Buenos Aires ).

Barcelona cruise terminal

Port Barcelona has a total of 8 cruise ship terminals, 4 ferry terminals, and 2 large yacht marinas. There are restaurants and cafes at most of the terminals.

(NEW) Catalonia Cruise Terminal G (Royal Caribbean)

In January 2024,  RCG/Royal Caribbean Group became the solitary contender/only bidder for Barcelona Port's newest Cruise Terminal G. The bid was placed by the consortium "Catalonia Cruise Terminal G" including RCG and CTI/Cruise Terminals International Ltd (2022-founded, London England UK-based company that owns, develops and manages cruise port infrastructure).

The approval for Terminal G was granted in April 2024.

RCG will co-fund the project (total budget EUR 85 million/USD 92M), start the construction works, and also will be the managing company of Terminal G, scheduled for completion/inauguration in 2027-Q1.

The modern facility encompasses an area of 54000 m2 (581250 ft2) including a dock/quay with length 450 m (1476 ft), which allows berthing for the world's most colossal cruise vessels .

Initially, three companies - NCL/Norwegian ,  Viking OCEAN  and  Virgin Voyages - planned to participate in the bidding process. However, as the process resumed, Royal Caribbean remained the sole bidder.

One of the tender's stipulations was that the partner/participating entity could not hold a controlling interest in Terminal G.

Until 2024, through its subsidiary Creuers del Port de Barcelona, RCG held a 38% stake in Barcelona Port Investment - the entity that manages Barcelona's cruise terminals A, B, and C (at Adossat Dock), along with World Trade Center's two terminals. The remaining 62% were owned by the Turkish company Global Ports Holding/GPH. Since 2023, GPH is the sole proprietor of Creuers del Port de Barcelona's shares as RCG opted to divest its stake (38%) to ensure compliance with the Terminal G tender's conditions.

(NEW) MSC Cruise Terminal

In May 2021, MSC was approved to build an exclusive (for MSC Cruises ships only) terminal.

The facility will be operated under a 31-year concession (2024 through 2055), sized 11670 m2 (125620 ft2) and designed by Ricardo Bofill.

The new MSC Cruise Terminal project is budgeted ~EUR 33 million (~USD 40,2M).

Construction works started in June 2021, with planned completion and inauguration in 2024.

Port Vell (Maremagnum) cruise terminal "M" (Old Port Barcelona)

The Port Vell port complex includes a fishing port, 2 yacht marinas, 1 cruise ship terminal, ferry terminal. Terminal M ("Maremagnum", near the World Trade Center) is for both ferry and cruise vessels. It has 3 small piers - named "South Pier" (S), "North Pier" (N) and "East Pier" (E). All terminals are designed to serve smaller ships. Their location is near the World Trade Center (which has a dedicated cruise parking area) and the Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel.

The Maremagnum terminal (aka "Port Vell terminal") is the port's smallest and the most central as location. The terminal is a short walking distance from the old city. The walking distance from here to La Ramblas street is some 10 min. There is a tour bus stopping at Portal de la Pau (at the harbor's end of Las Ramblas).

The Port Vell area has the Maremagnum (shopping mall, nightlife complex), the IMAX Port Vell (cinema complex) and the famous Aquarium Barcelona (with over 8000 fishes and 11 sharks kept in 22 seawater basins).

Moll Adossat Pier (Palacruceros) cruise terminal

At Adossat Pier are located 4 terminals - at berth A, berth B, berth C, berth D (Palacruceros). They have the biggest distance from downtown. Here berth most (including the largest) cruise ships. This dock handles over 85% of the visiting ships. There is a blue bus shuttle between the Port and the city center (Las Ramblas).

Moll Adossat Barcelona (or Muelle Adosado in Spanish) is the port's biggest wharf and also the newest cruise terminal. At this long quay can be berthed 4 large vessels simultaneously.

In October 2013 was announced a plan for the expansion of Terminal D and the building of a new Terminal E serving ships with capacity 4500+ passengers.

(NEW) Carnival's "Helix Cruise Center" terminal (Barcelona Adossat)

At the end of April 2017, the world's largest cruise shipping company Carnival Corporation released renderings of its new cruise terminal at Barcelona Adossat. The facility was named "Helix Cruise Center" and inaugurated on May 5, 2018, as Europe's newest passenger terminal.

  • The new terminal (cost EUR 46 million / USD 55 million) is designed to handle Carnival's largest ships, among which are the new class LNG-powered vessels .
  • The facility is designed by Batlle I Roig Arquitectura, sized 12,500 m2 (134,550 ft2). Paired with an existing facility, it represents Europe's largest (combined) passenger terminal.
  • Building's design company is "Battle I Roig". The plans show a modern architectural style featuring straight lines, minimalistic concepts, a contemporary and comfortable environment.
  • Construction works officially started in July 2016 and were completed in May 2018.

The new terminal is located at Adossat Wharf. Currently, this berthing is used by 8 of Carnival's all 10 brand companies. The terminal is used as both destination (call port) and homeport (for Barcelona turnaround operations). Carnival expects to handle here 1+ million passengers annually after the opening of the new (2nd) terminal.

This terminal has its own pier-side parking facility (max capacity 300 vehicles) dedicated to embarking passengers.

The new terminal is exclusively used by Carnival Corporation ships (only) as the company was granted with exclusive concession rights to operate the facilities. In addition to the new cruise terminal in Barcelona, Carnival Corporation also operates exclusive terminals at ports Puerta Maya (Cozumel Mexico) , Grand Turk Island , Mahogany Bay (Roatan Island, Honduras) , Amber Cove-Puerta Plata (Dominicana) , Long Beach (California USA) , plus 2 private Caribbean islands (in the Bahamas) - Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays .

World Trade Center

The World Trade Center has two terminals – pier South and pier North. Those terminals provide easy Las Ramblas tours. There is an overflow area at the East berth.

San Bertran cruise terminal

The port's Sant Bertran wharf is a terminal for the ferry and small-sized cruise vessels. It is used for docking of smaller cruise ships only during peak season.

The building's interior size is 2200 m2 (23680 ft2). The wharf's width is only 12 m (40 ft). The berth's length is 255 m (837 ft) allowing max ship length of 220 m (720 ft) and a max draft of 11 m (36 ft).

The distance from San Bertran to the city is 400 m (1310 ft).

Port Barcelona Ferry Terminals

The port has 3 terminals dedicated to ferry shipping traffic:

  • Terminal Drassanes is operated by Balearia .
  • Terminal Ferry de Barcelona is operated by Trasmediterranea .
  • Grimaldi Terminal Barcelona is operated by GNV-Grandi Navi Veloci .

Each of the ferry terminals has a ticket office, air conditioning, public phones, cafe-restaurant, taxi rank, and provides short-term parking for check-in passengers (before embarkation).

Long-term parking is not permitted (only drop-off areas).

Long-term parking is available at the World Trade Center (phone number 0034 93 508 80 62), at Valet Parking Cruceros (phone number 0034 93 511 37 44) and at Parking Viajeros (phone number 0034 618 70 79 70).

The port's ferry terminals are with convenient underground (metro) and bus connections.

  • Picasso museum: the best artworks of Picasso.
  • Montjuic: see all the city, its countryside and the ocean from a vantage point. There is a good view of the two industrial Barcelona port terminal.
  • La Sagrada Familia: Gaudi designed that iconic church in 1883. The building has big doors that show charity, hope, and faith. The towers and the frontage are designed with mosaic work.
  • La Rambla: breathtaking promenade which connects the old Barcelona’s heart with Port to Placa de Catalunya. The famous street offers shops, cafes, lively food markets, street performers and here is situated the Gran Teatre del Liceu, the opera theater of Barcelona.
  • Palau Guell: a 19th-century palace designed by the famous Antoni Gaudi
  • Barri Gotic: enjoy the old-world experience in the narrow pavement streets with shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars. Here you will find the Picasso museum and the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia.
  • La Pedrera: the last work of Antoni Gaudi before Sagrada Familia was made for Pere Mila Camps, a property developer.
  • Barceloneta: situated across Port Vell, an ex-fishing port. Enjoy a clean and sunny beach surrounded by houses in a bright colour. The gamblers can spend some time at the Gran Casino de Barcelona.

Barcelona tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

Cunard unveils stellar lineup: Three Queens to grace path of next Solar Eclipse

Cunard unveils stellar lineup: Three Queens to grace path of next Solar Eclipse

The recent celestial event of the solar eclipse has sparked anticipation for the next occurrence on August 12th, 2026. Cunard UK announced that...

Explora Journeys introduces exclusive Mediterranean experiences for 2024

Explora Journeys introduces exclusive Mediterranean experiences for 2024

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand and subsidiary of MSC Group, has unveiled a new assortment of distinctive destination...

MSC Armonia incident: Spain to deport Bolivian passengers stranded in Barcelona Port

MSC Armonia incident: Spain to deport Bolivian passengers stranded in Barcelona Port

Spain has initiated the deportation of 65 out of the 69 Bolivians who found themselves stranded aboard an MSC ship in Port Barcelona since April...

Hannah Waddingham named Godmother of Princess Cruises' Sun Princess

Hannah Waddingham named Godmother of Princess Cruises' Sun Princess

Renowned actress and performer, Hannah Waddingham, is set to partake in the esteemed maritime tradition as the official Godmother of Princess Cruises...

Seabourn unveils exclusive The Collection cruises with shoreside experiences

Seabourn unveils exclusive The Collection cruises with shoreside experiences

The ultra-premium travel brand Seabourn is introducing "The Collection," a series of meticulously crafted voyages also offering unparalleled...

HAL-Holland America changes World Cruise 2025 itinerary (ship Zuiderdam)

HAL-Holland America changes World Cruise 2025 itinerary (ship Zuiderdam)

HAL-Holland America Line has announced a revised itinerary for its 2025 Grand World Voyage aboard ms Zuiderdam, aiming to enhance safety and provide...

MSC Armonia detained in Barcelona port amid visa irregularities

MSC Armonia detained in Barcelona port amid visa irregularities

The cruise ship MSC Armonia, carrying ~1500 tourists, was under detention at Port Barcelona (Spain) on April 2nd. The detention stems from the...

Royal Caribbean and CTI win bid for future cruise terminal at Port of Barcelona (Spain)

Royal Caribbean and CTI win bid for future cruise terminal at Port of Barcelona (Spain)

The management board overseeing operations at the Port of Barcelona, Spain, has granted approval for the development and operation of a forthcoming...

Brazilian authorities seize 28 kg of cocaine on cruise ship at Port Ilheus

Brazilian authorities seize 28 kg of cocaine on cruise ship at Port Ilheus

At Port Ilheus, the Brazilian federal police apprehended two individuals for the alleged smuggling of ~28 kg of cocaine aboard a cruise ship. ...

Oceania Cruises announces free pre-cruise hotel stays for select 2025-2026 voyages

Oceania Cruises announces free pre-cruise hotel stays for select 2025-2026 voyages

Oceania Cruises has unveiled an enticing offer for travelers looking to embark on unforgettable journeys during late 2024 and 2025. Guests booking...

  •   show more news

Barcelona - user reviews and comments

Sunshine Seeker

Dream ◇ Create ◇ Travel

Popular categories, barcelona cruise port: a complete guide for first-timers.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 8. February 2024 · In: Spain , Travel

cruise port barcelona

ARE YOU DOCKING IN BARCELONA DURING YOUR CRUISE? Or maybe your cruise departs from Barcelona? Then you’re in for a treat!

Spain has many port cities such as Cartagena and Malaga, but Barcelona cruise port is among the busiest and most popular in Europe. And it’s easy to see why! The port can accommodate some of the largest cruise ships in the world, and it offers a wide range of services and amenities to passengers.

Located just a few miles from the city center, Barcelona cruise port offers easy access to all the sights and attractions of this exciting city. So let’s take a look at how to get around from Barcelona cruise port, the best shore excursions and the top things to do close by.

Everything you need to know about Barcelona Cruise Port in one place!

Two cruise ships docked at Barcelona cruise port at sunset.

Article overview

Barcelona Cruise Port map

Where does the cruise ship dock in barcelona, how far is barcelona cruise port from the city center, is barcelona walkable from the cruise port, 🌟 my top pick: barcelona highlights tour, 🚁 360º barcelona tour, 🍷 electric bike tapas and wine tour, private driver, shuttle buses and public transport, can i use uber in barcelona, cruise port shuttle bus, taxi and private drivers, barcelona city center, beaches in barcelona, museums and art galleries, hotel at barcelona cruise port, how far is the cruise port from las rambla, how far is barcelona cruise port from a train station, how long does it take to travel from the barcelona cruise port to the airport, what temperatures can i expect in barcelona, what is the nearest beach to barcelona cruise port, which cruise lines operate from the barcelona cruise port, is €100 a day enough in barcelona, is barcelona expensive, remember to pin for later 😉, location of barcelona cruise port.

Barcelona Cruise Port, or Port de Barcelona in Spanish, is located on the edge of Ciutat Vella, or Barcelona’s old city center. The port has nine terminals, with Terminals A, B, C and D, based at the Adossat Quay, being the most commonly used for cruise ships.

The other terminals are the World Trade Center Dock (North, South and East) and Maremagnum Dock (M) mostly used by smaller Mediterranean cruise ships.

The exact terminal where your ship will dock depends on the size of your ship and the schedule. You can confirm the terminal location with your cruise line or travel agent.

Barcelona Cruise Port is conveniently located within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions. The distance from the port to the city center varies depending on which terminal your ship is docked at.

Moll Adossat is located around 30-40 minutes away on foot from the beginning of La Rambla. While the other terminals are about 10-15 minutes away.

Yes, Barcelona is a walkable city from the cruise port. The city center is easily accessible on foot from all of the terminals if you are in shape.

However, depending on the weather, if you are limited on time or whether you carry luggage or not, it can be better to take advantage of the port bus or private transfer.

Let’s take a closer look at all your options.

View of Port Vell and Barcelona Cruise Port at dusk.

Most Popular Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in Barcelona by booking a shore excursion departing from the cruise port. Whether you are interested in visiting famous landmarks, sampling delicious food and wine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, there are plenty of options available to suit every taste and budget. 

This private tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Barcelona who want to see the city’s most iconic sights within a limited time. It includes a visit to the famous Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, Casa Batllo and the lively La Rambla street. You will also get to take in the stunning panoramic views of the city from Montjuic Hill.

Your English-speaking driver will be waiting for you right outside the ship, holding a sign with your name. It doesn’t get more convenient!

Worry-free Shore Excursion: Top Excursions Italy will ensure your timely return to the cruise port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, they will arrange for transportation to the next port of call.

🎫 Check price and availability here >> Barcelona Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

⚠️ If you’re traveling with a larger group of people, I recommend this Barcelona Highlights Private Guided Tour instead. It is not as extensive, but a more affordable option for larger groups.

Explore Barcelona through three unique perspectives: land, sea, and air, on this super fun guided tour .

Start with a walking tour through Passeig de Gràcia where you will see some of the most emblematic buildings of Gaudí, architect of the world-famous Sagrada Familia that have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, such as Casa Batlló and La Pedrera up to plaça Catalunya and Gothic Quarter.

Then enjoy breathtaking views of the city from above during your helicopter flight and take a boat to enjoy the beautiful skyline, accompanied by your guide. Such a unique and fun tour, and quite affordable for everything that’s included.

You have to make your way to the meeting point at Passatge de la Concepció 8, but the tour ends right back at the Cruise Bus stop, close to the Colombus Monument.

🎫 Check price and availability >> Barcelona Walking, Helicopter & Sailing Tour

Calling my fellow foodies! No trip to Barcelona is complete without trying the city’s delicious tapas and wine. This popular tour takes you to some of the best tapas bars in the city, where you’ll sample a variety of traditional Spanish dishes.

Enjoy typical Spanish vermouth and tapas in a truly authentic wine cellar in the Gothic Quarter. Eat and drink vibrant Spanish flavors in the same bar where Picasso, Lorca, and Dali wrote, painted and argued. Explore the squares, parks, alleyways, and beaches from a local’s perspective. So much fun!

You have to make your way to the meeting point at Plaça de Sant Agustí Vell, 16.

🎫 Check price and availability >> Barcelona Electric Bike Tour Tapas and Wine

A famous cobbled street in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter that you can easily see from the cruise port.

Transportation from the cruise port

As a major port city, Barcelona offers several transportation options to and from the cruise port. Here are the best transportation options:

If I haven’t booked a shore excursion, I love having a private driver pick me up right at the cruise port for a hassle-free transfer and to make the most of my limited time.

Not only will the driver help you with your luggage so you can jump right into the airconditioned car, but he will also know exactly where to take you and give you some advice for visiting the city.

Luxury for a very affordable price.

🌟 Check price and availability >> Barcelona Cruise Port Transfer to City Centre

Is it easy to get a taxi from Barcelona cruise port?

All the terminals at Barcelona cruise port have taxi stands, but there are often long lines to catch one. And remember that there will be a surcharge for pier pick-up or drop-off. The last time I was there it came out to about about 10€.

The most affordable way to get to the Barcelona Cruise Port is by using public transportation. The city’s metro system is an affordable and efficient way to get around. You can take the metro from the Drassanes station on the green line, which is located near the port.

To get to the metro station you can take the Cruise Bus service (known as the T3 Port Bus and Blue Bus) offered by the port authority. The buses don’t follow a set timetable, departures are coordinated with the arrival and departure of the cruise ships.

The shuttle bus runs in circles from the port to the Colombus Statue in front of the World Trade Centre and costs €3 per person and €4.5 for a return ticket. From there, you have to walk about 7 minutes to reach the metro station and the beginning of La Rambla.

To continue on by bus you can catch the D20 to the beaches around Barceloneta, or the V13 that will take you to Plaça Universidad, from where you can walk to Plaça Catalunya in about 5 minutes.

The tickets for the Cruise Bus can be purchased with cash (coins or small notes) on the bus itself or online .

Barcelona public transport still operates on paper tickets valid for metro, bus, tram and train, which you can buy from vending machines at most stops.

If there are two or more of you travelling together, you can save money by purchasing a T-familiar travel card for €10 allowing 8 journeys over 30 days to be made by metro or bus in Barcelona.

Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus

Visit Barcelona at your own pace aboard a red double-decker bus , with two different routes available. Hop on and hop off as many times as you wish through the day with a single ticket.

🎫 Check price and availability here >> Barcelona 24 or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Uber is not currently available in Barcelona, but the city has several other ride-hailing services, such as Cabify and Free Now. These services are similar to Uber and offer a convenient way to get around using the city’s regulated taxis.

Night view of Barcelona cruise port and the World Trade Center.

Barcelona Airport To Cruise Port

For those of you who are starting your cruise in Barcelona, you’ll have a few options to get from El Prat Airport to Barcelona cruise port or vice versa. The total distance is 17 km and should take around 25 minutes by car.

You can book a shuttle from Barcelona airport to the cruise port with Moventis Experience. There are no set times or vehicles, it all depends on when you arrive and how many passengers have booked the shuttle.

Landing Terminal 1:

If you’re landing at   Terminal 1, after collecting your luggage you should make your way to the Tourism Office   located on the right side of the arrival point. There, someone from the Moventis crew will be waiting for you to finish the check-in process. Loom for someone in a bright orange uniform.

Landing Terminal 2:

If you land at Terminal 2, go to the Tourism Office   and you will find a From2 agent waiting for you, who will provide you with the necessary information to reach your destination.

The fastest way to get to the Barcelona cruise port by public transport is the super-convenient Aerobus , which departs every 5 minutes from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. A one-way ticket costs only €6.75 and you’ll have WiFi onboard if you need to do some last-minute research.

The bus takes you to Plaça Catalunya where you can take the metro two stops to Drassanes or you can hail a taxi and get to the port for about €10.

If you prefer not to wait for a shuttle or bus you have the option of going by taxi or private driver.

🚘 Click here to book a private transfer from the airport to Barcelona cruise port.

🏨 Click here to book a private transfer from the airport to your Barcelona hotel.

✈️ Click here to book a private transfer from Barcelona cruise port to the airport.

How much is a taxi from Barcelona airport to cruise port?

The fixed price to get from the airport to Barcelona cruise port is €39. There is no need to book in advance since there are always plenty of licensed cabs waiting at the taxi ranks at both airport terminals.

Early morning looking out over Parc Güell, on a shore excursion from Barcelona Cruise Port.

Nearby attractions

As one of the busiest cities in Europe, it’s important to book all your Barcelona tickets in advance. Some attractions have even stopped selling tickets on the ground, and require to be pre-booked.

If you visit during the warmer months and are limited on time, get skip-the-line tickets or you will spend most of your time waiting in line.

Barcelona City Center is easy to visit from Barcelona Cruise Port . As mentioned above, it is located just a few miles away from the port and offers a wide range of things to do. So whether you have 24 hours in Barcelona or just a few, these are the attractions you must see:

La Rambla 

La Rambla is a lively pedestrian street that stretches for 1.2 kilometers, from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. It is lined with trees, flower stalls, street performers, and outdoor cafes, making it a vibrant and exciting place to explore.

Along La Rambla, you will find many interesting sights and attractions. One of the most popular is the Boqueria Market, a colorful and bustling market that sells fresh produce, seafood, meats, and other local delicacies. It is a great place to sample some of the city’s famous cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture.

🥘 If you’re a lover of Spanish food (who isn’t, right), I highly recommend this paella class overlooking Las Rambla & Boqueria Market. You will shop for fresh produce at the market and also learn how to make Spanish tortillas, gazpacho and tomato bread.

Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is a stunning basilica located in the Eixample district of Barcelona. It was designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi and is known for its unique and intricate design.

Despite being under construction for over 100 years, the Sagrada Familia remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona, drawing millions of visitors each year. It’s a must on any Spain bucket list .

As the most famous landmark in Barcelona, Sagrada Familia draws quite a crowd. So I highly recommend you book your tickets in advance.

You can visit the Sagrada Familia with an expert guide, skip-the-ticket-line access and choose between a small-group or private experience.

🌟 Check price and availability here >> Sagrada Familia fast-track access tour

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter is one of the most historic and charming neighborhoods in Barcelona. It is located in the heart of the city’s old town and is known for its many charming streets and alleys, such as the Carrer del Bisbe, a narrow street that is famous for its beautiful archway, and the Plaça Sant Jaume, a historic square that is home to the City Hall and the Palace of the Generalitat.

One of the most famous landmarks is the Barcelona Cathedral, a stunning Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. The cathedral is known for its beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and impressive bell tower.

Another popular attraction in the Gothic Quarter is the Plaça del Rei, a beautiful square that was once the site of the royal palace of the Catalan kings. Going for a stroll through the Gothic Quarter is one of the best things to do in Barcelona at night .

Parc Guell is a beautiful park located in the Gracia district of Barcelona and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The park was designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi and is known for its stunning architecture, colorful mosaics, and beautiful views of the city.

One of the most famous landmarks in Parc Guell is the Dragon Stairway, a colorful staircase that leads up to the park’s main terrace. The staircase is decorated with a mosaic of colorful tiles and is guarded by a large dragon statue, which has become one of the most iconic symbols of the park.

🌟 Remember that all the Barcelona highlights I mention above are included in this Private Barcelona Highlights Shore Excursion .

Sagrat Cor Church

If you have the time I highly recommend you also see Sagrat Cor Church, a stunning basilica located on the top of Mount Tibidabo in Barcelona. It was designed by the Spanish architect Enric Sagnier and was completed in 1961.

The church is known for its beautiful Neo-Gothic style architecture and its impressive location, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Sagrat Cor, a church on the summit of Mount Tibidabo i Barcelona, Catalonia

One of the biggest draws of Barcelona is its stunning beaches. The city has several beaches that are easily accessible from the cruise port, including:

  • Barceloneta Beach:  The most popular beach in the city, Barceloneta is known for its lively atmosphere and wide range of activities.
  • Nova Icaria Beach:  A quieter beach that is popular with families and offers a variety of water sports.
  • Bogatell Beach:  A long, wide beach that is popular with locals and offers plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.

Barcelona is home to a wealth of museums and art galleries, many of which are located in or near the city center. Some of the top museums and galleries to visit include:

  • Picasso Museum:  A museum dedicated to the life and work of Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
  • Museum of Contemporary Art:  A museum that showcases contemporary art from around the world.
  • National Art Museum of Catalonia:  A museum that houses a collection of Romanesque art and Catalan modernism.

So as you can see, there is no shortage of things to see and do near the Barcelona cruise port. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the sun on the beach, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

The only hotel at the Barcelona cruise port is the  Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel GL in the World Trade Center, a very good 5-star hotel.

The hotel offers 291 spacious and stylish rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Many of the rooms also offer stunning views of the port and the city skyline.

One of the highlights of the Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel GL is its rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The terrace is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing and features a swimming pool, a bar, and plenty of comfortable loungers and seating areas.

The hotel also offers a range of other amenities and services, including a fitness center, a sauna, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel’s restaurant, the Aire de Mar, serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish and elegant setting.

🌟 Book your stay at Barcelona cruise port >> Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel GL

Aerial view of Barcelona and the Sagrada Familia.

Frequently Asked Questions

The distance between the main cruise terminals at Moll Adossat in Barcelona Cruise Port and Las Ramblas is approximately 2.5 kilometers, which is about a 30-minute walk or a 10-minute taxi ride.

The distance between the Barcelona Cruise Port and the nearest train station, Estació de França, is approximately 1.5 kilometers, which is about a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride. The main Barcelona Sants Train Station is 6 km away, about 20 minutes by car.

It takes approximately 30 minutes to travel from the Barcelona Cruise Port to the Barcelona-El Prat Airport by taxi or private transfer. Alternatively, you can take the Aerobus shuttle service, which takes about 40 minutes.

  • Summer (June to August): The average temperature during this time is around 27°C (81°F), with highs averaging around 31°C (88°F) and lows around 22°C (72°F).
  • Shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October): The average temperature during these seasons is around 20°C (68°F), with highs averaging around 23°C (73°F) and lows around 15°C (59°F).
  • Winter (November to February): The average temperature during this time is around 12°C (54°F), with highs averaging around 15°C (59°F) and lows around 8°C (46°F).

The nearest beach to the Barcelona Cruise Port is the famous Barceloneta Beach, which is located about 2 kilometers away. It is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.

Several cruise lines operate from the Barcelona Cruise Port, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises.

Yes, €100 a day is enough to cover basic expenses in Barcelona, such as food, transportation, and one or two attractions. However, the amount you spend will depend on your travel style and the activities you choose to do. On average I have spent €150 per day in Barcelona.

Barcelona can be expensive, especially in tourist areas and during peak season. However, there are many budget-friendly options for food, accommodation, and activities. Eat street food and explore parks, architecture and viewpoints to keep your expenses down.

Popular Spain guides

  • A first-timer’s guide to Cartagena Spain cruise port
  • Is Hacienda Riquelme the best golf resort in Spain?
  • The Enchanted City of Bolnuevo : A lesser-known natural wonder in Spain
  • Rafting the stunning Segura River in Murcia, Spain
  • One remarkable day in Ronda, Spain (from Málaga by train)
  • Mojácar Pueblo in Andalucía : One of Spain’s most beautiful white villages
  • Discover the incredible Floración de Cieza (peach blossom season) in Murcia, Spain!
  • Barrancos de Gebas : The incredible Lunar Badlands in Murcia Spain
  • Region of Murcia Spain : 15 awesome things to see and do
  • Discover Spain’s stunning pink lake : Laguna Salada de Torrevieja

Your complete guide to Barcelona cruise port. The best shore excursions and how to get around Barcelona from the cruise port. Everything you need to know before you dock at Barcelona cruise port in Spain.

About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

You’ll Also Love

23 Instagrammable places in Budapest you can't miss

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

cruise port barcelona

11 incredible day trips from Aarhus Denmark

Join the travel creator club.

Sign up to receive one of my favorite Lightroom presets + my tour/product collab pitch template!

By clicking "SEND" you confirm that you want to join our mailing list and that you have read our Privacy policy .

cruise port barcelona

I’m social…sort of!

Join me on Instagram

cruise port barcelona

  • Privacy Policy
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Terms & Conditions

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Sunshine Seeker

Local Travel Experts

Secure Payment Options

Electronic Tickets - No Need to Print

  • Groups & MICE

BCN.travel

Discovering Barcelona: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors at Barcelona Cruise Port

' src=

Excited to explore Barcelona? You’ve found the perfect guide. Though the bustling Barcelona cruise port might seem a bit overwhelming, don’t worry.

I’ve explored every corner of this beautiful city and I’m here to help you feel like a local in no time. 

In this article, we’ll take a quick virtual tour around the cruise port area. We’ll discover secret Tapas bars, explore historic sites full of stories, and even learn how locals order their coffee (hint: “un café con leche”). 

So, get ready for an adventure that’s as exciting as it is memorable. Let’s dive into the heart of Barcelona and create some unforgettable experiences.

Understanding the Layout of Barcelona Cruise Port

The  Barcelona cruise port  is a marvel that reflects architectural brilliance and efficient planning. Its layout is designed to ensure every visitor’s convenience, whether you’re there for a day or embarking on a multi-week voyage. The port comprises seven terminals spread out in two main areas: Adossat Quay and World Trade Center pier.

Cruise Port Terminal In Barcelona At Night

“Barcelona’s port has a soul and a particular charm that no other cruise destination can offer.”

Terminals A, B, C, and D are located at Adossat Quay – the newer part of the  Barcelona cruise port , purpose-built for large ships. These terminals boast numerous amenities such as:

  • Sleek lounges with panoramic views.
  • A variety of eateries offering local delicacies.
  • Lavish duty-free shopping outlets.

And don’t forget about Terminal North and South at World Trade Center Pier. They may be smaller but offer easy access to the city center – making it an ideal starting point if you want to explore Barcelona. But there’s more than just infrastructure at this bustling hub; it’s also about location. Nestled next to Las Ramblas Street and the Gothic Quarter,  Barcelona cruise port’s strategic position ensures visitors can easily immerse themselves in vibrant Spanish culture without wasting time on transportation. Plus, its proximity to Barcelona El Prat Airport makes it an extremely accessible gateway for international travelers.

Ease of Access: Public Transport Options at Barcelona Cruise Port

If you’re considering a trip to the vibrant city of Barcelona, arriving via the  Barcelona Cruise Port  is an excellent choice. This port is not only visually stunning but it’s also conveniently integrated with various public transport systems.

Whether your interest lies in exploring Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces or sampling Spain’s famous tapas, accessibility is no concern here.

A plethora of transportation options await you as soon as your cruise ship docks. Upon disembarking at the  Barcelona Cruise Port , one can opt for either buses or taxis that are readily available right outside the terminal.

The blue ‘Portbus’ shuttle service connects all cruise terminals with the iconic Christopher Columbus monument – a convenient starting point for any exploration journey within this captivating city. On a lighter note, don’t be surprised if your taxi driver passionately debates about FC Barcelona during your ride; soccer runs deep in their veins. For those seeking more autonomous and flexible travel options from  Barcelona Cruise Port , bike rentals and even segways are popular choices among tourists.

  • Bike rentals provide an eco-friendly way to explore this cycle-friendly city.
  • The thrill-seekers might prefer whizzing around on segways.

Barcelona Biking Tourist

And let’s not forget – there’s always walking. Although it may take slightly longer, strolling through Barcelona’s picturesque streets has its unique charm. Remember though, keep an eye out for pickpockets while soaking up all that beauty.

So whether by bus, taxi, or foot – ease of access isn’t just guaranteed when you dock at  Barcelona Cruise Port,  it’s part of the fun-filled experience.

Exploring Local Cuisine near Barcelona Cruise Port

The  Barcelona cruise port , nestled in the heart of Catalonia’s vibrant capital city, serves as an ideal gateway to a gastronomic adventure.

One can’t help but be enticed by the tantalizing aromas wafting from local cafes and restaurants, each offering their unique interpretation of traditional Spanish cuisine.

Seafood Paella 2

From freshly caught seafood paella served sizzling hot in large pans, to delectable tapas that comprise a melange of flavors and textures – there is no shortage of culinary delights here. Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling  Barcelona cruise port , you’ll find La Boqueria Market .

La Boqueria Market Barcelona

Filled with stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to cured meats and cheeses, it offers an authentic taste of Spain at its freshest.

  • Fancy trying some Jamón ibérico (Iberian ham)?
  • Care for some Manchego cheese or olive tapenade on freshly baked bread?

You’re sure to find these delicacies and much more at this lively market. If you have time after your meal, why not take a stroll along Las Ramblas?

Strolling In Las Ramblas

Just around the corner from the  Barcelona cruise port , this iconic street is filled with shops selling artisanal chocolates and pastries – perfect for those looking for something sweet after indulging in savory fare earlier.

And if you’re feeling adventurous enough, try out Churros con Chocolate – crispy fried dough sticks dipped into thick hot chocolate. What better way to end your food journey than near the magnificent  Barcelona cruise port?

Churros Con Chocolate 1

Cultural Landmarks within Reach from Barcelona Cruise Port

Barcelona, a city boasting rich culture and history, is the jewel of Catalonia. One of its most exquisite aspects is the  Barcelona Cruise Port , an entryway to architectural marvels and artistic grandeur.

The port’s proximity to world-renowned landmarks makes it a gateway to cultural exploration. A stone’s throw away is La Rambla, a bustling boulevard with street performers that will keep you entertained as you stroll towards the Gothic Quarter’s medieval charm. Further along, lies Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece – Sagrada Família, an unfinished basilica blending Gothic and Art Nouveau forms in a breathtaking spectacle.

Sagrada Familia 2

“The vibrant culture you experience on the streets of Barcelona extends seamlessly into its bustling port.”

Apart from architecture,  the Barcelona Cruise Port  offers access to art nirvana at Museu Picasso housing Pablo Picasso’s profound works, or at Fundació Joan Miró where abstract masterpieces await your admiration. Culinary enthusiasts can relish local cuisine like ‘tapas’ (small plates) or ‘paella’ (rice dish), washed down with fizzy ‘Cava’, all within reach from this versatile port.

Museu Picasso 3

  • Famous Landmarks: La Rambla, Sagrada Familia.
  • Museums: Museu Picasso, Fundació Joan Miró.
  • Cuisine: Tapas, Paella.

The Barcelona Cruise Port , besides being an efficient maritime hub facilitating travel logistics for tourists worldwide also doubles up as a gateway opening into Spanish grandeur for visitors docking here. From historical sites echoing tales of yore to modernist structures showcasing architectural innovation; from masterful artworks narrating silent stories to scrumptious delicacies satiating taste buds – everything commences right at  the Barcelona Cruise Port .

Shopping Experiences around Barcelona Cruise Port

When it comes to shopping, nothing matches the unique and vibrant experience offered by the area surrounding  Barcelona cruise port .

This region is a treasure trove for all kinds of shoppers with its diverse mix of traditional markets, luxurious boutiques, and trendy urban stores.

One can find an array of local handicrafts, designer outfits, or timeless pieces at El Corte Inglés department store situated near the harbor. The charm lies in not just what you buy but also in the bustling atmosphere filled with both locals and tourists. The streets leading from  Barcelona cruise port , especially La Rambla boulevard are lined up with quaint shops selling everything from chocolates and wines to leather goods like handbags & shoes.

El Corte Ingles Department Store

  • Mercat de la Boqueria: A historic market offering fresh produce that’s perfect for food lovers.
  • Passeig de Gràcia: Home to high-end brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton making it a paradise for luxury seekers.
  • Raval: Known for vintage clothing outlets giving thrift shoppers their share of joy.

Despite being crowded often due to its popularity among tourists these places have managed to maintain an air of authenticity adding more color to your shopping spree. No trip would be complete without some souvenir hunting. Right outside  Barcelona cruise port,  you’ll come across numerous stalls showcasing colorful Spanish fans, ceramic plates, or flamenco dresses which serve as perfect reminders of your Barcelona visit.

Also worth mentioning are shops like ‘La Manual Alpargatera’ where one can find traditional espadrilles – Yes, those comfortable canvas shoes with jute soles.

So whether it’s last-minute shopping or a leisurely retail therapy session,  Barcelona Cruise Port  has something for everyone. Just don’t forget to bargain when you can, it’s part of the fun!

Accommodation Options near Barcelona Cruise Port

The  Barcelona cruise port , a bustling hub of activity, presents an array of accommodation options for every kind of traveler.

You’ll find that the choices range from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Nonetheless, each one offers unique features and amenities that can enhance your stay in this vibrant city.

If luxury is your preference, then you’re in luck.

The area around the  Barcelona cruise port  boasts some top-notch hotels like Eurostars Grand Marina or W Barcelona, where comfort spectacularly meets style.

The rooms are spacious with stunning views over the harbor and they offer world-class services including fine dining restaurants and wellness centers.

Don’t worry if these sound too pricey – there’s humor in knowing that raiding the minibar might cost as much as a small country’s GDP.

  • Eurostars Grand Marina :  A five-star hotel offering panoramic views.
  • W Barcelona :  An iconic sail-shaped building right on the beachfront.

W Barcelona

For those traveling on tighter budgets, fear not! There are plenty of affordable yet comfortable accommodations near the  Barcelona cruise port .

Hostal Orleans for example provides clean rooms at great prices while maintaining proximity to local attractions. It’s reminiscent of staying at grandma’s house – minus her insisting you eat more food than humanly possible.

Moreover, Airbnb options abound providing both private homes and shared spaces depending on your personal preferences.

  • Hostal Orleans : An economical choice with cozy rooms situated near local attractions.
  • Airbnb: Furnished apartments or houses available for temporary rental offering a home-away-from-home experience.

Regardless of your budget, the accommodations near  Barcelona cruise port  ensure you have a memorable and comfortable stay in this beautiful city.

And remember, no matter where you choose to lay your head at night – it’s what you explore by day that counts.

Recreation and Leisure Activities around Barcelona Cruise Port

The Barcelona cruise port , a hub of excitement and adventure, is not just a gateway to the Mediterranean’s azure waters, but also a portal into the vibrant city life of Barcelona.

A stone’s throw away from this bustling dockyard lies Las Ramblas, an iconic street brimming with vitality at every corner.

Take delight in its lively markets, and colorful human statues, or simply indulge in some lip-smacking delicacies at the local cafés.

For those seeking solace amidst nature without straying too far from the  Barcelona cruise port , Montjuïc mountain provides an idyllic escape.

  • Home to breathtaking gardens,
  • a majestic castle,
  • and even an Olympic stadium.

Your senses will be captivated by its serene beauty and panoramic views of Barcelona that it offers.

Moving closer to the heart of Barcelona from the  cruise port , one can’t help but admire Gaudi’s architectural marvels which are scattered across this Catalan capital.

Be awestruck by Sagrada Familia’s towering spires or lose yourself in Park Güell’s enchanting landscapes. Remember though – these masterpieces have been known to play tricks on your sense of time.

Park Guells Enchanting Landscapes

Nightlife and Entertainment near Barcelona Cruise Port

There’s a certain charm to be found in the nightlife around the  Barcelona cruise port .

As day gives way to twilight, the city transforms into a vibrant spectacle of music, dance, and dining. The area surrounding this bustling hub is filled with enchanting bars that offer mouth-watering tapas and sangria as live flamenco guitarists create an authentic Spanish atmosphere.

Live Flamenco

Don’t forget about the chic beach clubs nearby as well; these establishments often host world-class DJs who spin tracks until dawn. For those seeking a more relaxed vibe after disembarking at the  Barcelona cruise port , there are countless entertainment options.

  • The iconic Liceu Theatre stages mesmerizing opera performances,
  • Maremagnum shopping center offers state-of-the-art cinema experiences,
  • The Maritime Museum provides fascinating insights into Spain’s rich naval history.

All these attractions are just a stroll away from where your ship docks. In contrast to its daytime persona, nightfall sees the vicinity of the  Barcelona cruise port  come alive with numerous street performers entertaining passers-by on Las Ramblas Boulevard.

If you’re lucky enough, you might even catch impromptu salsa dancing sessions happening right next door. Moreover, when it comes to late-night nibbles or early-morning cravings post partying, La Boqueria market serves local delicacies round-the-clock.

In essence – whether it’s food lovers or culture enthusiasts – everyone will find something enticing close by after they step off their vessel at this dynamic location.

The Barcelona Cruise Port is a bustling hub for Mediterranean cruises, offering top-notch facilities and services. It’s conveniently close to the city center, providing tourists easy access to Barcelona’s rich cultural heritage, architecture, dining spots, and shopping areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Barcelona Cruise Port is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable journey. It offers ample parking, luggage storage, and car rental services. There’s also free Wi-Fi, ATMs, and currency exchange offices. Numerous cafes and shops can be found within its premises.

From Barcelona Airport, you can reach the cruise port by taxi or bus. The Aerobus service runs every 5-10 minutes from both terminals directly to Plaça de Catalunya which is a short distance away from the port.

Yes indeed! A wide variety of hotels surrounds Barcelona’s cruise port ranging from budget-friendly lodgings to luxurious resorts. Many offer shuttle services making it easy for passengers needing convenient access to their cruises.

Certainly! If your time allows, check out some iconic landmarks like La Sagrada Familia or Park Guell that are easily accessible via public transit or taxis.

Rest assured that security measures are robust here with constant camera surveillance and regular patrols ensuring passenger safety.

Did you know?

Barcelona’s cruise port, tucked into the bustling cityscape, is a kaleidoscope of fascinating features. Imagine this – it’s one of Europe’s busiest ports with more than 2.7 million passengers passing through each year. The sheer volume can almost rival the city’s entire population. Adding to its charm is its strategic location – barely missing a heartbeat away from Las Ramblas Boulevard and Gothic Quarter. This proximity allows eager explorers to step off their vessel and instantly immerse themselves in Barcelona’s vibrant culture. Finally, let your mind marvel at this; the port isn’t just for embarkation or disembarkation. It acts as an attraction itself. With a gleaming shopping complex known as Maremagnum and an IMAX Theater to boot, visitors will find plenty of entertainment even before stepping foot onto Barcelona’s streets.

cruise port barcelona

4 thoughts on “ Discovering Barcelona: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors at Barcelona Cruise Port ”

Can you tell me how to get to Andorra La Vella by bus from BCN?

There is a company called AndBus that has several daily departures from Barcelona city and Barcelona airport to Andorra: https://andbus.net/en/time-and-rates

How many pieces of luggage can I take on the bus to Andorra La Vella? What weight each?

With AndBus you can bring up to 20kg of luggage in 2 suitcases. Additional luggage (surcharge) please indicate when you do the reservation.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Adventour Begins logo

10 Amazing Things To Do In Barcelona Cruise Port + Port Guide

Mediterranean cruises - Montjuic Hill in Barcelona

Welcome to Barcelona cruise port! (Post updated: 2024)

Cosmopolitan. Artistic. Captivating. Whether you are a first-time visitor or have already been to Barcelona, you never get enough of it. The city has incredible energy and so many places to explore that one day in Barcelona is certainly not enough!

However, if Barcelona cruise port is in your cruise itinerary, you’ll be able to see the majority of city highlights as the cruise terminal is situated close to the city center. In this informative article, you’ll read about:

  • Barcelona cruise port (Barcelona cruise terminal, getting around, helpful info & links)
  • 10 best things to do in Barcelona port & Barcelona shore excursions

Visit our cruise port guides for  Marseille , Palma de Mallorca , Ibiza , Alicante , Cartagena , Valencia

Barcelona Cruise Port

Barcelona is the capital city of Catalonia and one of the major Mediterranean cruise ports, located in the northeast of Spain. It is one of the busiest and most visited European cruise ports, particularly due to its proximity to the city center and its main attractions.

Barcelona cruise ship port consists of 9 terminals grouped around Port Vell marina, out of which 7 are cruise terminals. Depending on the size, cruise ships dock at Quai Adossat (Moll Adossat), which consists of 4 terminals (A, B, C, D), or at the World Trade Center (WTC), which has 3 terminals (South Terminal, North Terminal, East Terminal).

Two other terminals are Sant Bertran Wharf , used for ferry transportation between Barcelona and the Balearic Islands, and Maremagnum Port Vell which can accommodate large ships, but not cruise liners.

Quai Adossat Cruise Terminals

A, B, C, and D terminals (D is also called Palacruceros) are located around 3 km/1.8 miles (a 10-minute drive) from La Rambla, the tourist hub and one of the most famous boulevards in Barcelona. Quai Adossat is connected to the city by the bridge Porta d’Europa (Puente de la Puerta de Europa).

The cruise lines may organize shuttle buses (for an additional fee) to transfer the passengers to the area of the World Trade Center, located a 5-minute walk from Christopher Columbus Monument, where La Rambla starts.

These buses are wheelchair-users friendly, and you can purchase the tickets onboard or in the terminal buildings (depending on the cruise line). For guests who don’t want to take buses, taxis or a 20-40-minute walk to the city center are an alternative option.

The terminal buildings are equipped with modern facilities, such as duty-free shops, elevators, souvenir shops, a bar restaurant, an exchange office, public phones, restrooms, and ATMs. There is a taxi rank in front of each terminal, as well as a shuttle bus station and parking for tour buses.

Given that Barcelona is not only a port of call but also a homeport, the terminals also feature embarkation/disembarkation facilities.

Barcelona cruise port - Quay Adossat cruise terminals, view from Montjuic Hill

World Trade Center Terminals (WTC terminals)

South , North , and East Terminals are located at Moll de Barcelona, within a 10-minute walk from Columbus Monument and the start of La Rambla street. The three docks surround the modern, state-of-the-art building of the World Trade Center, and can accommodate cruise liners of moderate size. You can find public transport stations nearby as well.

The terminal buildings consist of duty-free and souvenir shops, an exchange office, and a small tourist information center. There are no restaurants or bars, as you can find those next door inside WTC. The terminals also feature embarkation/disembarkation facilities and suit the needs of guests with disabilities.

The cruise bus station is located near the terminals, so in case you can’t walk, you can take a round-trip ticket (prices starting at 3€), and the bus will drop you off at the Columbus Monument. Cruise buses don’t have fixed timetables – they depend on the arrival and departure times of the ships in port.

Getting Around Barcelona Port

  • The port area is flat and wheelchair-accessible.
  • Barcelona city center is partially flat, however, some parts are hilly so make sure you wear comfortable shoes (ex: the area surrounding Sagrada Familia is flat, but to get there, you need to walk slightly uphill).
  • The currency in Barcelona (Spain) is EURO (€). ATMs and currency exchange are available at the cruise terminals and in the town. Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • If you are embarking on a cruise ship in Barcelona, especially if you’re coming from the US, make sure you come to Barcelona at least two days before the embarkation to avoid the inconveniences of jet lag. If you want to fully enjoy the city, you’ll need to come at least 4-5 days before your cruise starts. Check out my article on the 15 Best Hotels near Barcelona Cruise Port
  • Barcelona has an excellent public transport network which is primarily operated by TMB (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona). Drassanes is the closest metro station, located at the foot of La Rambla. It serves the L3 line, which will take you to the majority of Barcelona’s attractions. To get to Sagrada Familia, you will need to change to L2 or L5 lines and get off at Sagrada Familia station. If you’re planning to get around Barcelona by public transport, it’s recommended to get Hola Barcelona Travel Card for 17.50€ (valid for 2 days, unlimited rides). You can check the timetables, fares and get extensive information on public transport’s official webpage https://www.tmb.cat/
  • Josep Tarradellas Barcelona Airport – El Prat Airport is the main Barcelona airport and is located around 15 km/9 miles (a 20-minute drive) southwest of Barcelona cruise port. The best way to get from Barcelona airport to the port of Barcelona is by taxi or a private transfer. Alternatively, you can take the Aerobus shuttle transfer which departs from the airport every 10 minutes and stops at Barcelona city center. The travel time is 35 minutes and the fare is reasonable. You can purchase the bus tickets online, from the driver (make sure you have coins or small bills), or at the ticket machine at the airport. Check out the private transfers from/to Barcelona cruise port
  • Barcelona Hop on hop off sightseeing bus tours are also available and the bus stop is located close to the cruise terminal. Three routes are offered and all include stops at the most iconic landmarks and attractions including the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, the Pedrera, Camp Nou, La Rambla, Montjuïc and many others. You can check out the Hop on Hop off Barcelona tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
  • Cruise lines sailing to/from Barcelona Spain include Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises .
  • Explore the best Barcelona tours and activities

10 Amazing Things to Do in Barcelona Cruise Port

Before I share the best things to do in Barcelona, I invite you to grab your copy of the “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide” , the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Barcelona) , packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)

Book

1. Sagrada Familia

Antoni Gaudi, the Catalan architect and one of the major exponents of Catalan Modernism, dedicated 43 years of his life to La Sagrada Familia (The Church of the Sacred Family). The construction of this stunning architectural masterpiece began in 1883, and when Gaudi died in 1926, less than a quarter of the project was finished.

Obstructed during wars, the creation of the fascinating cathedral resumed after 1950 and is anticipated to be completed in 2026, commemorating the centenary of Gaudi’s death. Sagrada Familia architecture reflects his religious views and the whole temple is an ode to nature.

For the best photo ops of Sagrada Familia, go to Plaça de Gaudí Park in front of the cathedral. The surrounding area is large and beautiful, it is packed with cafes, street sellers, parks, and restaurants.

La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona.

The distance between Barcelona cruise port (Moll Adossat cruise terminals) and Sagrada Familia is around 9 km/5.5 miles (a 20-25-minute drive). The taxis shouldn’t charge you more than 15-20€ per vehicle one-way.

From Drassanes metro station, you can take metro line L3 and change to L2 or L5 to go to Sagrada Familia. You need to get off at Sagrada Família metro station and the entire journey takes about 15-20 minutes.

You can also book a shore excursion through your cruise line or with an independent tour operator . If you decide to come on your own, you must book the skip-the-line tickets in advance. Allow yourself at least 1 hour inside the Cathedral, and 1 hour to wander around as the surrounding area is beautiful and offers extraordinary views of Sagrada Familia.

Explore Sagrada Familia tours and activities

2. Casa Batlló

Located on one of main Barcelona’s shopping and business avenues – Passeig de Gràcia, in the heart of the Eixample district, Casa Batlló is another of Gaudi’s masterpieces and one of the finest architectural examples of Gaudi’s approach to Catalan Modernism.

The house belonged to a rich textile industrialist Josep Batlló who hired Antoni Gaudi in 1904 to redesign the house in an audacious and innovative architectural style that would make his house stand out among other houses on the avenue.

Casa Batlló is locally known as Casa dels Ossos (House of Bones) and Casa del Drac (House of the Dragon), due to its curving, skeletal shapes and design, and astonishing façade resembling the bony jaws of a surreal, fantastic beast.

Casa Batlló’s roof resembles the back of a dragon and features a turret with a cross, which symbolically represents St. George, the patron saint of Catalonia, killing the dragon.

Casa Batlló has been declared a World Heritage Site and today belongs to different owners. A part of it is a museum open for visitors, while the majority of the rooms in the building have been rented out for multiple purposes, such as company offices and event places.

Casa Battlo Barcelona

Casa Batlló is situated around 5.5 km/3.5 miles from Barcelona cruise port (Quai Adossat cruise terminals). To get to Casa Battlo, take the L3 metro line at Drassanes and get off at Passeig de Gràcia Station . A taxi ride takes about 20-25 minutes.

If you are planning to visit Casa Batlló, I recommend you book a combo tour with La Sagrada Familia , as the distance between these two Gaudi’s masterpieces is around 2 km (a 20-minute walk).

Cruise ship shore excursions normally don’t include the Casa Batlló interior visit, but some tours include a stop in front of the building and a visit from the exterior. Also, if you go on your own, make sure you have a skip-the-line ticket as you don’t want to waste your time queuing in front of the museum.

Explore Casa Batlló tours and activities

3. Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

Casa Milà is another of Gaudi’s controversial artworks located only a stone’s throw from Casa Batlló – on the famous Passeig de Gràcia avenue. It was built between 1906 and 1912 for Pere Milà and his wife but changed several owners throughout the 20 th century.

La Pedrera means “The stone quarry”, referring to the undulating quarry-like stone façade that consists of massive blocks of limestone and twisting wrought-iron balconies.

In 1984, La Pedrera was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and two years later was bought by Caixa Catalunya, a Spanish Bank that restored the building and brought back some of the original decorations.

Nowadays, a total of 4.500 square meters spread over the five floors can be visited, including an apartment and a splendid rooftop offering spectacular views of the city.

La Pedrera, Gaudi's masterpiece

The driving distance between La Pedrera and Barcelona cruise port (Moll Adossat cruise terminals) is 6.5 km/4 miles or a 15-20 minute drive.

To get to La Pedrera, follow the same instructions as for Casa Battlo, as the two buildings are located close to each other. If you want to visit both buildings inside, it’s recommended to do it one after another.  Cruise ship shore excursions normally don’t include La Pedrera’s interior visit, only the exterior.

To avoid waiting in line, you can book skip-the-line La Pedrera tickets online.

Check out La Pedrera tours and activities

4. Park Güell

Sitting proudly on Carmel Hill and overlooking the city of Barcelona, Park Güell is one of Gaudi’s major works and a true gem among his masterpieces.

The large park where architecture and nature come together was originally constructed between 1900 and 1914 for the Spanish entrepreneur Eusebi Güell as private property, but soon after that opened its doors to all visitors as a public park.

The park features mosaic-covered buildings, sculptures, lush vegetation, and breathtaking views over Barcelona, as well as the Gaudi House Museum (Casa Museu Gaudi), a former residence of Gaudi, where you can get an amazing insight into the architect’s life and works. Park Güell was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984.

Park Guell in Barcelona cruise port

The distance between Park Güell and Barcelona cruise port (Moll Adossat cruise ship terminals) is 13 km/8 miles (a 35-minute drive).

To get to Park Güell, take the metro line L3 and get off at Lesseps stop , from where you will need to walk for an additional 20 minutes. Instead of walking, you can walk 150 m to the bus stop and take bus H6 to the park.

Cruise lines normally don’t offer shore excursions to Park Güell, so the best way to visit it is either on your own (make sure you book a skip-the-line ticket ) or with an independent tour operator .

Explore Park Güell tours and activities

5. La Rambla

The famous La Rambla Street is a must-see place in Barcelona. For cruise passengers, it is easy to get around as La Rambla is located within walking distance of the ship.

La Rambla is a tree-lined, 1.2 km/0.75 miles long pedestrian promenade (although there are narrow parallel streets used for traffic) that connects Plaça de Catalunya square and the Columbus Monument, located at Port Vell – a waterfront harbor that is part of the port of Barcelona.

It is a tourist-packed street full of shops, street restaurants, souvenir kiosks, street performers, and a great number of attractions.

You can find some important buildings on La Rambla Avenue, such as Palau Güell , Palace of the Virreina, Liceu Theater ,  Teatre Principal, Plaça Reial, and La Boqueria , one of the most visited and popular markets in Barcelona where you can find a large selection of goods, such as meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, cheese, and much more.

To the east of La Rambla is the Gothic Quarter , the old town, another must-see landmark in Barcelona.

Enjoying beer at La Rambla with friends

The distance between the Barcelona cruise terminal (Moll Adossat cruise terminals) and La Rambla is less than 3 km/1.8 miles.

To get there, you need to take a shuttle bus or a cruise bus (“blue bus”) that will get you to the Christopher Columbus Monument, where La Rambla starts. From the World Trade Center terminals, you can get to La Rambla on foot in less than 10 minutes (the distance is around 650 m).

When in La Rambla, keep your eyes open because there are many pickpockets .

6. Mercado de la Boqueria

La Boqueria market is located at La Rambla.It is a large, indoor public market offering an amazing selection of foods, including fish, seafood, meat, vegetables, fruit, cheese, beverages, and a great number of shops and street stalls selling freshly squeezed juices, candy, nuts, quick bites and so much more. This place is absolutely awesome and a must-see Barcelona attraction!

Explore La Boqueria Market tours and activities

La Boqueria market, Barcelona cruise port

7. Plaça de Catalunya

Plaça Catalunya or Catalonia Square (Plaza de Cataluña) is a large square and a central hub often considered as Barcelona city center. It is located at the northern end of La Rambla, and a 10-minute walk from the Gothic Quarter.

The square covers a spacious area of 50.000 square meters and consists of a wide range of statues, fountains, sculptures, and decorative art. This is where important city streets and avenues meet, such as Passeig de Gràcia, a famous avenue where La Pedrera and Casa Batlló are situated.

The square is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, shops, bars and designer boutiques, and its most popular and photographed attraction is the flocks of pigeons that you can spot swimming in the fountain.

The distance between Barcelona cruise port (Moll Adossat cruise terminals) is around 5.5 km/3.4 miles or a 15-minute drive. The best and shortest way to get there is by walking because Plaça de Catalunya is located at the end of La Rambla.

Plaça de Catalunya in Barcelona cruise port

8. The Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter, or Barri Gòtic in the Catalan language, is the historic heart of the old city of Barcelona, located near La Rambla and Plaça de Catalunya.

Although the name of the quarter refers to the Middle Ages, the whole quarter was completely restored in the late 19th and early 20th centuries which gave the old buildings a brand new, neo-Gothic look.

A large portion of the quarter is closed to regular traffic (open only to taxis and service vehicles) and consists of pedestrian streets, squares, and several remarkable historic landmarks.

The iconic landmark is Barcelona Cathedral (the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia), an imposing Gothic cathedral that was originally constructed from the 13th to 15th centuries. It features an extraordinary, late 19th-century neo-Gothic facade, a sumptuously decorated interior, and a beautiful, verdant, geese-filled cloister that you can see on your tour.

Barcelona Cathedral - Gothic Quarter

Barcelona Cathedral dominates a large square – Placita de la Seu , surrounded by hotels, restaurants, shops, and souvenir stores. The square is connected with Plaça de Catalunya by a pedestrian promenade Avinguda del Portal de l’Angel.

You can reach the square in a 10-15 minute easy walk. At a stone’s throw from the Cathedral, you can find several other attractions and historical landmarks:

  • The ruins of the Roman and Medieval city walls.
  • Barcelona’s History Museum at Plaza del Rey.
  • Gaudi’s Exhibition Center
  • The 14th-century Gothic Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi
  • Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya
  • Ajuntament de Barcelona, a 14th-century Barcelona City Hall
  • Picasso Museum
  • Jewish quarter  and Sinagoga Major , one of the European oldest synagogues.

The distance between the Gothic Quarter and Barcelona cruise terminal (Moll Adossat cruise terminals) is 4.4 km/2.7 miles or a 10-minute drive.

To get there, the best way is to take a shuttle bus/cruise bus from your terminal to the Christopher Columbus monument and walk 10 minutes to the Barcelona Cathedral and the Gothic Quarter (800 m). If your cruise ship is docked at World Trade Center terminals, you can simply walk 15 minutes to the Gothic Quarter.

Check out Gothic Quarter tours and activities

9. Montjuïc Hill

Montjuïc Hill is another must-see area of Barcelona offering the best and most spectacular views of the entire Barcelona. The hill overlooks a harbor and covers a large area that consists of monuments, museums, a palace, a castle, a multitude of botanical gardens and much more!

The best way to get there is by taxi, with a shore excursion, Hop on Hop off bus , or by cable car. There are two cable cars in Barcelona: the Port Cable Car and the Montjuïc Cable Car . Both cable car base stations are located within a 10-minute drive from the cruise port. They cover different routes and you can check all the details on the official web pages:

  • https://www.telefericodebarcelona.com/
  • https://www.telefericdemontjuic.cat/

The view of Barcelona from the National Art Museum of Catalonia, Montjuïc Hill

The distance between Barcelona cruise port (Moll Adossat cruise terminals) and both Telefèric de Montjuïc and Telefèric del Port is around 5.5 km/3.4 miles or a 10-minute drive.

If your cruise ship is docked at World Trade Center terminals, both Telefèric del Port and Telefèric de Montjuïc are around 3 km/1.8 miles away or less than a 10-minute drive.

If you decide to skip the cable car, you can simply catch a taxi at the cruise port and reach the major Montjuïc Hill attractions in less than 15 minutes, and then explore the area on foot. If you want to properly visit Montjuïc Hill, you need at least a half-day, but if you want to take a glimpse of it, you might consider booking one of the tours .

If you stay several days in Barcelona, save one full or at least a half-day for Montjuïc Hill, as there are so many beautiful places and attractions to see.

  • Explore Montjuïc Hill tours and activities
  • Book Telefèric de Montjuïc tickets online

National Art Museum of Catalonia and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc below

10. Barceloneta Beach

Playa de la Barceloneta, or Barceloneta Beach, is a long, busy public beach equipped with facilities such as chair and umbrella rentals, showers, water sports, wi-fi spots, cafes restaurants, bars, and much more.

It is a bustling, urban area packed with both locals and tourists, offering beautiful views of the harbor and the lively surrounding area. It is a perfect way to spend a couple of hours if you want to soak up some Mediterranean sun.

Barceloneta Beach

How to Get to Barceloneta Beach from the Barcelona Cruise Port?

The distance between Barceloneta Beach and World Trade Center terminals is around 2.5 km/1.5 miles. If you go by taxi, the ride lasts less than 10 minutes, and if you decide to walk, you’ll need around 30 minutes to get from your cruise terminal to the beach.

The distance between the Barcelona cruise port (Moll Adossat cruise terminals) is around 5 km/3.1 miles. It takes 10-15 minutes to reach the beach by car, and if you walk, it takes 1 hour.

You can either take a taxi or   bus 59 at La Rambla – Santa Mònica (1325) stop and get off at Pg Marítim – Pepe Rubianes (1606) stop. The journey takes less than 15 minutes by bus. It might be challenging to find taxis at Barceloneta Beach on the way back to the ship. You need to book a taxi via the app or pre-book the transfer to the port.

Visit our cruise port guides for Rome (Civitavecchia) , Florence (Livorno) , Naples , Cannes ,  Malta (Valletta) , Dubrovnik , Corfu , Taormina (Messina)

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your Mediterranean cruise experience with our “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide “- your ultimate companion to discovering the region’s hidden treasures and creating unforgettable memories; click below to purchase your copy today and embark on the voyage of a lifetime!

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my  disclaimer  here.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

cruise port barcelona

Barcelona Cruise Port

One of europe's leading cruise ports.

If you're planning a cruise to the Mediterranean and your voyage includes a stop in Barcelona , you're in for a treat. Barcelona Cruise Port is your doorway to one of Europe's most vibrant and culturally rich cities. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make your visit to the Barcelona Cruise Port as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Discover the Terminals of Barcelona Cruise Port

The Barcelona Cruise Port boasts a total of nine terminals, each with its unique charm and offerings. These terminals are divided into three main clusters: Adossat Quay Terminals Terminals A, B, C, D, and E are located at the Adossat Quay, slightly further from the city center. Terminal D , also known as Palacruceros, is one of the highlights. World Trade Centre Terminals For those looking for convenience, the World Trade Centre (WTC) features two terminals – North and South. The nearby Sant Bertrand Terminal caters to ferries to the Balearic Islands. Maremagnum & Port Vell Port Vell  is Barcelona's old port for small and large ships, it offers a unique experience for sailors. It's also the port for the 2024 America's Cup! 

Barcelona Port Cruise Map

Smooth Transport Options from and to Barcelona Cruise Port

Getting from the port to Barcelona's city center and its attractions is a breeze. You have several options to choose from: Shuttle Transfer Service A hassle-free way to reach your destination, this service ensures you bypass the queues and reach your hotel swiftly. It's ideal for travelers short on time or those looking for a stress-free arrival. Walking The nearest cruise terminal to the bustling La Rambla is just a 15-minute walk away. However, if you're docked at one of the Adossat Quay terminals (A, B, C, D, or E), it's best to catch the Cruise Bus to the World Trade Centre and then walk to La Rambla. Cruise Bus Shuttle Service The "Blue Bus" offers convenient transportation from all cruise port terminals to the World Trade Centre and back. It's wheelchair-accessible for travelers with disabilities. Taxi A quick and cost-effective way to reach the city center in less than 10 minutes. Hop on Hop Off Tourist Bus Hop on Hop Off Barcelona  Perfect for tourists with limited time, this bus provides a quick overview of Barcelona's main attractions. Stops are conveniently located near the cruise terminals.

From Airport to Port

If you're arriving at the airport and need to reach the cruise port, options include bus transfers and taxis. Taxis are quick and will take you to the port in about 25 minutes.

Park and Cruise

For those arriving by car, the Barcelona Cruise Port offers short-term car park facilities. For longer stays, there are car parks a short drive from the port to meet your parking needs.

Convenient Baggage Storage

While there are no locker storage facilities at the port, you'll find nearby options for luggage storage to keep your hands free for exploration.

Accommodation Close By

The Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel , situated at the World Trade Centre, offers splendid views of the port area and makes for a great base during your stay. Additionally, there are hotels within walking distance of the cruise port, providing various accommodation options.

Plan Your Visit with Ease

The Barcelona Cruise Port is well-equipped for travelers with disabilities, featuring lifts and accessible transportation. If you plan to explore the Balearic Islands, you'll find ferry operators like Acciona Trasmediterranea and Balearia offering trips to Mallorca, Minorca, or Ibiza.

Cruise with Confidence

When it comes to planning your trip, we've got you covered. You can access the cruise port's timetable and arrival information to ensure a seamless experience. For more specific information and inquiries, you can contact the Cruise Port's customer service department or visit their official website for the latest updates.

>> Prepare for an unforgettable Mediterranean adventure, anchored by your visit to the Barcelona Cruise Port.

Nearby best places

Discover the Barcelona Cruise Port , a gateway to your Mediterranean adventure. Get the lowdown on terminals, transport, and nearby amenities in our comprehensive guide.

Monument of Christopher Columbus

The monument to Christopher Columbus is a 60-metre high column that was erected for the 1888 World's Fair in honour of the famous explorer. The view of the city from the top is obviously remarkable.

" data-type="cafe" data-latitude="41.3771232" data-longitude="2.1770202" > Bar Bosc de les Fades

Bar Bosc de les Fades means "the fairies forest", a very magic and unique bar in Barcelona to have a cocktel...

Torre d’Alta Mar

This old cable station, overlooking the Barcelona port, houses a restaurant....

Maritime Museum

Maritime Museum of Barcelona

Last comments

We recommend >> must-sees in barcelona.

These are the most recommended things to do in Barcelona for your holidays.

Barcelona Hotels

The ideal hotel for your stay.

Whether you are looking for a family or a business stay or just for a weekend, we have selected for you the best hotels in the city to choose from. All categories at all prices. But also the bargains according to your travel dates. Have a good stay!

Barcelona Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Best city tour: one single ticket, 3 routes and 45 stops.

Discover city sightseeing at your own pace with our selection of Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour tickets. An extraordinary and economic way to make the first connection with main tourist attractions.

Hola Transport Card

Unlimited access to public transport.

Enjoy unlimited access from 48 to 120 hours to Barcelona's public transport: Metro, bus (TMB), urban railway (FGC, Zone 1), Montjuïc funicular, tram (TRAM), regional railway (Rodalies de Cataluny) + 1 round trip from the airport to the city center. Only excluding NitBus, Aerobus & hop-on hop-off.

Barcelona City Pass

Incl. sagrada familia, park güell + hop-on hop-off...

The "City Pass Barcelona" our best selling pass! > Sagrada Família Fast Lane + Audioguide > Fast entrance to Park Güell + Audioguide > Hop-on Hop-off 24 or 48 hours or Casa Batlló or Casa Milà > 10% discount on other tours > Audioguide of Barcelona

Be the first to comment this page ! Please, click the [Add a new Comment] button below.

Cookies consent

This website uses cookies to personalize content, analyze traffic, and share information with partners.

  • español
  • español (España, alfabetización internacional)

La Boqueria Market

Palacruceros, casa mila “la pedrera”, welcome to bct.

Barcelona Cruise Terminal (BCT), with Palacruceros (Terminal D) and Helix Cruise Center (Terminal E), is the beginning of the cruising experience in Barcelona, where passengers can enjoy relaxing waiting areas as well as an assortment of different venues including shops and cafes, all with great views of the Mediterranean. The terminals have been created to ensure that your holiday to or from Barcelona is a great experience.

If you are departing on a cruise from the port of Barcelona, then reserve your parking space with us today for access to exclusive long stay parking. Located adjacent to Helix Cruise Center, Terminal E.

Local Weather

Live conditions from barcelona.

Temperature:

Wind Speed:

NEWS & EVENTS

  • News & Events: Carnival Corporation Opens Helix...

Main attractions

Palacruceros.

Palacruceros cruise terminal was designed by Studio Vicini (Arch. Luigi Vicini and Andrea Piazza). Opened since 2007, it has been the center of operations for major cruise shipping companies in the region. It is located at Pier Adossat at the Port of Barcelona, approximately 800m from the bridge.

Helix Cruise Center is our latest 12,500m² state-of-the-art terminal. Designed by Catalan architecture firm Batlle i Roig Arquitectura, the company's newest cruise terminal reflects modern and graceful architectural style with straight lines, creating a contemporary and comfortable guest environment designed to enhance the embarkation and disembarkation process for cruise guests.

Barcelona Community

Flannels or Flip Flops

Barcelona Cruise Port Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Flannels or FlipFlops Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my disclaimer for more information.

Are you wondering about the Barcelona Cruise Port?

You’re in the right place. As a travel advisor that specializes in cruise travel, I have extensive knowledge of cruise ports and what to do in each port!

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for cruisers. As you take a stroll down the city’s charming streets or marvel at the unique architecture of Sagrada Família, it’s easy to see why.

The Spanish city’s popularity amongst cruisers means that the Barcelona Cruise Port is sprawling, comprising 7 different cruise terminals.

In this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know about the Port of Barcelona, from useful tips to recommendations on how to spend your glorious day in this beautiful city!

Barcelona Quick Facts

  • Barcelona is located on the northeast coast of Spain, in the region of Catalonia.
  • The official currency used in Barcelona, and throughout Spain, is the Euro (EUR).
  • The official language spoken in Barcelona is Catalan, although Spanish is also widely spoken and understood.
  • Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain, after Madrid, with a population of over 1.6 million people.
  • Barcelona is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Sagrada Familia Cathedral designed by Antoni Gaudi.
  • The city is also home to several world-renowned museums, including the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miro Foundation.
  • Barcelona is located on the Mediterranean Sea and boasts several beautiful beaches, including Barceloneta Beach and Nova Icaria Beach.
  • The city is a popular destination for foodies, with a vibrant food scene that includes traditional Catalan dishes as well as international cuisine.
  • Barcelona is famous for its lively nightlife, with bars and clubs staying open late into the night.
  • The city is home to two major football (soccer) teams, FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol, and is passionate about the sport.

Barcelona mosiac tiles

Where is Barcelona Cruise Port Located?

The Barcelona cruise terminal can be found in Port de Barcelona, which sits just beneath the Gothic Quarter of the city, a short walk away from many of Barcelona’s key sights.

There are 9 terminals in the port, 7 of which are allocated for cruise ships.

The 7 terminals can be found at the foot of one of Barcelona’s most beloved streets, Las Ramblas.

The majority of the cruise terminals (A, B, C, D, and E) can be found on Adossat Quay, a long pier to the outside of the harbor, which is connected to the rest of the port by a bridge. Terminal D is also referred to as Palacruceros.

There are two more cruise terminals at the World Trade Centre pier, known as the North and South terminals. The World Trade Centre pier is the closest pier to the city center.

No time to read this? Book excursions and transportation ⤵️

⭐️⭐️ Click Here to Book Discounted Shore Excursions with a back-to-the-ship guarantee!

Getting Around Barcelona from the Cruise Port

The good news is there are a number of ways in which you can journey from Barcelona Cruise Port to the city center.

Are There Free Shuttles From Barcelona Cruise Port?

There is a shuttle bus available from the cruise port known as the Blue Bus which takes cruisers to the monument of Christopher Columbus (just below Las Ramblas).

The Blue Bus coordinates its run time with the cruise arrival and departure times and comes roughly every 15 minutes when there’s a cruise ship in port. It isn’t free, however.

🚎 The fare is €3 per person or €4.50 for a return ticket.

Bus sitting with sunset

Can You Walk to the City Center from Barcelona Cruise Port?

From the World Trade Center pier, it is a short 10-minute walk to Barcelona city center.

From the other cruise terminals, however, walking isn’t recommended as you need to journey 2 km (1.2 miles) just to reach the opening to the city. Taking the Blue Bus or taxi is a far better option.

Are there Taxis Available from Barcelona Cruise Port?

Just outside the port terminal, you will find a taxi rank. The taxis liaise with the cruise terminal staff to ensure there are always enough taxis outside to accommodate everyone.

Taxis are convenient as you can take them directly to the location you want to visit. They are, however, a lot more expensive than the Blue shuttle bus and a typical fare to Las Ramblas is €10 each way.

Best Shore Excursions from the Barcelona Cruise Port

When you arrive in Barcelona, there are a number of exciting shore activities for you to enjoy. Below are some of my favorites!

La Rambla

1. Stroll Down Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas Boulevard is a colorful and energetic street in the heart of Barcelona. It houses some of the city’s most iconic attractions, spanning an impressive 1.2 km (0.7 miles) in length.

When wandering down this iconic boulevard, you’ll pass numerous street performers, all out to impress with their unique costumes and heart-stopping acrobatics.

One of the best places to visit in Las Ramblas is La Boqueria Market , Barcelona’s key market. It’s a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat.

2. Marvel at Sagrada Família

Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

The infamous Sagrada Família is perhaps the first attraction that comes to mind when you think of Barcelona. This never quite finished landmark is a church designed by famous architect Antoni Gaudí.

It’s a spectacular piece of artwork and has earned itself the title of the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. Construction first began in 1882.

La Sagrada Familia can be admired from afar. Alternatively, you can buy tickets and enter the famous church. The interior is just as impressive as the exterior, with so many intricate details in the structure waiting to be admired.

3. Visit Casa Milà

Casa Mila, Barcelona

Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera which means ‘stone quarry’ in Catalan) is a beautifully-constructed block of apartments and was the last private residence designed by Antoni Gaudí, constructed in the early 1900s.

This grand building is undoubtedly spectacular. However, the star of the show is its terrace with unique chimneys shaped like statues.

Today the house is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a great monument to visit. Within the building is a Gaudí interpretation center. The site also houses art exhibitions and performances.

4. Relax in Plaça de Catalunya

Plaça de Catalunya i

Plaça de Catalunya is a large square in the heart of Barcelona, primely positioned at the meeting point between Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and the 19th-century part of the city.

The square covers an area of 5 hectares and features several interesting sculptures, expanses of verdant grass, and a handful of fountains.

Plaça de Catalunya is a great place to sit on a park bench and admire Barcelona with an ice cream or takeout coffee from one of the numerous local cafes.

5. Wander Through Park Güell

Park Güell,

In the northern district of Gracia is Park Güell, a grand park consisting of neat gardens as well as beautiful buildings and sculptures designed by Antoni Gaudí. One of the houses within the park used to be the residence of Gaudí himself.

In this park, you can find the famous mosaic Gaudí dragon fountain as well as the tranquil Nature Square which has fantastic views over Barcelona city center.

6. Explore The Gothic Quarter

Barcelona Gothic Quarter

Made up of winding cobbled streets and tranquil squares, the Gothic Quarter is the historic center of the old city of Barcelona.

Included in this beautiful segment of the city are the remains of Barcelona’s Roman city walls, a Roman temple ( Temple d’August ), and a magnificent Gothic Cathedral.

The Gothic Square also houses the oldest restaurant in Barcelona and the second oldest restaurant in the entirety of Spain: Can Culleretes , which dates back to 1786.

7. Visit Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló

Considered one of Antoni Gaudí’s greatest masterpieces, Casa Batlló (also known as Casa dels ossos which means ‘ House of Bones’ ) is a remodeled house in the center of Barcelona.

The remarkable building is designed to look as though it has been constructed from skulls and bones and uses colors inspired by the ocean.

Visitors can enter the building to see yet more impressive work from Gaudí, who also designed the interior of the house.

8. Walk Down Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia is one of the most popular avenues in Barcelona, housing some of the city’s key sights such as Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, as well as markets, museums, and some of the city’s best restaurants.

As well as being regarded for its incredible architecture, Passeig de Gràcia is also renowned for its shopping scene, with some of the most prestigious brands found lining the street.

Getting From Barcelona Airport to the Cruise Port

If your cruise starts or ends in Barcelona, you’ll need to have a way to get to and from the airport and cruise terminal.

There are three main ways to travel between Barcelona Airport and the cruise port: by taxi, train, or bus.

✔️ Taxis to the cruise port from the airport typically take around 15 minutes and cost around €40. It’s by far the most convenient way to reach the cruise terminal.

✔️ There are no direct trains between the airport and the cruise terminal. Therefore you will need to take the train from the airport to the city center and then from there take either the metro or a bus to the cruise port.

✔️ Like with trains, there are no direct buses between the airport and the cruise port so you will need to take a bus to the metro and then the metro to the cruise port.

When you reach the entrance to the cruise terminal after catching the bus or train, you will then need to take the Blue Bus shuttle if your cruise ship is stationed on Adossat Quay.

Journeying from the airport by bus or train can easily take around an hour.

Hiring a shuttle is the easiest and most carefree way to travel between the airport and the cruise terminal.

🚙 Book a transfer between the cruise port and the airport

Places to Stay Near Barcelona Cruise Port

There are a number of highly rated hotels only a short taxi ride away from Barcelona Cruise Port.

InterContinental Barcelona is only a 12-minute taxi ride from the World Trade Centre pier or a 15-minute drive from Adossat Quay. The comfortable hotel has an outdoor roof terrace featuring a pool, sun loungers, and a dining area.

Another great option is Barceló Sants . This modern hotel is slightly further away from the cruise port but its fantastic online reviews make it worth the extra 5-minute journey.

Occidental Barcelona 1929 is another highly-rated hotel. Its convenient location in the center of the city not only makes it easy to reach the cruise port, but it’s a great base from which to explore the city itself.

Best Time to Visit Barcelona

Barcelona is generally considered a year-round destination. However, if you’d like to get the best weather for your visit then visiting between May and the end of September is the ideal time.

Barcelona is a popular destination so expect it to get busy in the school holidays and at weekends.

If you want to strike a good balance between good weather and beating the crowds then May and September are ideal times to make your visit.

Cruise Lines that Visit Barcelona Cruise Port

Barcelona Cruise Port is visited by numerous cruise liners from around the world. These include:

  • MSC Cruises
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Oceania Cruises
  • Viking Ocean Cruises
  • Seabourn Cruises
  • Costa Cruises
  • Disney Cruises
  • Princess Cruises

These are just a handful of the numerous cruise liners that pay Barcelona a visit each year.

Barcelona

Barcelona Cruise Port FAQS

How far is barcelona cruise port from the city center.

If your cruise liner is stationed at the World Trade Center pier then it is a short walk to the city center.

Adossat Quay, which is deeper into the port, is slightly further away from the city center.

How Do I get from Barcelona City to the Cruise Port?

After your day spent exploring Barcelona, you can return to the cruise port easily and directly via taxi. Alternatively, you can make your way to the Christopher Columbus monument (by bus, metro, or on foot), where the shuttle bus to the cruise terminal departs roughly every 15 minutes.

Is it worth buying a day pass for Barcelona?

A day pass is worth it if you would like to venture inside numerous attractions as it is cheaper than purchasing entrance tickets for each attraction individually.

It also saves you time as you are able to skip the lengthy queues to the attractions.

Barcelona Cruise Port

Final Thoughts on the Barcelona Cruise Port

Barcelona cruise ship terminals are conveniently positioned just a stone’s throw away from the lively city. The port’s own shuttle bus service makes journeying between the cruise port and the city center extremely convenient.

Based on the numerous incredible attractions and restaurants that are on your doorstep, a visit to Barcelona really is a must for cruisers!

Avatar photo

Chantelle Kincy

Chantelle is a nationally syndicated travel writer, and travel advisor. An avid cruiser, Chantelle has explored many parts of the world through her travels. She is also a dedicated National Parks enthusiast and loves to hike in these beautiful locations. To further her expertise in the industry, Chantelle has taken numerous courses to become a specialist in various destinations, including the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, and Alaska. Through her blog and advising business, Chantelle shares her love for travel and helps others plan their dream vacations.

Please Share!

Similar Posts

The Best Santorini Wineries and Wine Tours Worth Exploring

The Best Santorini Wineries and Wine Tours Worth Exploring

The Best Nassau Bahamas Resort Day Passes For Cruisers 2024

The Best Nassau Bahamas Resort Day Passes For Cruisers 2024

Your 2024 Guide To European Countries

Your 2024 Guide To European Countries

10 Best Barcelona Shore Excursions in 2024

10 Best Barcelona Shore Excursions in 2024

Can You Drink On A Cruise At 18? Everything you need to know

Can You Drink On A Cruise At 18? Everything you need to know

Discovering the Best Month for an Alaska Cruise

Discovering the Best Month for an Alaska Cruise

Ellie's Travel Tips

Barcelona to Cruise Port Guide: Expert Tips & Tricks!

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Ah, Barcelona! The land where Gaudí’s whimsical architectures dance under the sun, and the aroma of tapas fills the air in ancient alleyways.

Barcelona isn’t just one of Europe’s artistic and cultural capitals; it’s also a gateway to the vast and wondrous Mediterranean Sea. Barcelona’s cruise port, humming with activity, echoes the vibrant rhythm of the city itself.

In this guide, we’re going to deep dive into everything you need to know about getting from the heart of Barcelona to cruise port, and vice versa.

Barcelona to cruise port

Historical Background of Barcelona’s Cruise Port

Barcelona, with its rich maritime history, has always had the Mediterranean Sea close to its heart. Its port isn’t just a functional hub; it’s a tapestry woven with tales of adventures, trade, and cultures intermingling.

The Ancient Roots

Long before the modern-day buzz of cruise liners and cargo ships, Barcelona’s port played host to the Iberians and later the Romans, who saw the value in this strategic seaside location. Called Barcino by the Romans, the city was a pivotal maritime base that fostered trade with various Mediterranean cultures.

The Middle Ages: Expansion and Trade

Fast forward to the medieval era, and the port underwent significant expansions. As the Kingdom of Aragon merged with the Kingdom of Castile in the late 15th century, trade flourished. Barcelona’s port bustled with merchants from Italy, North Africa, and other parts of Europe.

The commodities? Wine, textiles, and grain were just a few. This period solidified Barcelona’s reputation as a thriving Mediterranean trading hub.

Barcelona cruise port

The Modern Era and The Rise of Cruises

By the 20th century, with advances in maritime technology and the rise of leisure travel, Barcelona began to see the potential in cruise tourism. The 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona acted as a catalyst.

The city revamped its port facilities to cater to the influx of international visitors. Since then, the cruise port has grown exponentially, becoming one of Europe’s top departure points for Mediterranean cruises.

Today’s Vibrant Port

Today, the port is a harmonious blend of history and modernity. While its terminals and facilities are state-of-the-art, you can still see remnants of the past in the historic buildings and customs sheds dotted around the area. As ships depart, they’re not just embarking on a sea journey but also sailing through a portal of Barcelona’s rich maritime legacy.

To experience the port is to take a journey through time. From ancient sailors navigating by the stars to modern cruisers enjoying the luxuries of state-of-the-art vessels, Barcelona’s cruise port stands as a testament to humankind’s enduring love affair with the sea.

As we delve deeper into this guide, keep this history in mind. It’s not just about the logistics of getting from Point A to Point B; it’s about being a part of a tradition that’s centuries old. Stay tuned as we navigate the practicalities while soaking in the ambiance of this iconic port.

Barcelona Airport

Getting to Barcelona: Transportation Overview

Navigating a city as vibrant and expansive as Barcelona can initially seem daunting, but fear not! The Catalan capital is as user-friendly as they come. Whether you’re arriving by air, rail, or road, we’ve got the lowdown on how to get you smoothly from Barcelona’s key transportation hubs to the bustling cruise port.

Barcelona Airport (El Prat)

  • Located about 13 km southwest of the city center, Barcelona El Prat is the city’s main international gateway.
  • Aerobús: This express bus service will whisk you directly to the city center (Plaça Catalunya) in roughly 35 minutes.
  • Metro (L9 Sud): The metro can take you closer to residential areas and is a popular choice for those staying overnight.
  • Taxis: Available 24/7, taxis are a convenient option to get directly to the cruise port. Look out for the black and yellow!
  • Tips: If traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, a taxi might be more cost-effective and hassle-free.

Barcelona Sants

Train Stations

  • Barcelona Sants: This is the city’s main railway hub, connecting Barcelona to various Spanish cities and international destinations like Paris and Zurich.
  • Metro: Lines L3 and L5 can connect you to Drassanes or Paral·lel stations. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to the port.
  • Taxis: Directly available outside the station. A 15-minute ride should get you to the port.
  • Tips: The train station is vast, so allocate extra time if you’re unfamiliar with it. There are plenty of eateries for a quick bite if you’re early!

Bus Stations

  • Barcelona Nord Bus Station: The primary intercity bus hub, connecting Barcelona to both national and international destinations.
  • Metro: Arc de Triomf station (L1) is nearby. You can take the metro to Urquinaona and switch to L4, alighting at Barceloneta or Drassanes.
  • Taxis: They’re right outside the station. It’s a short, 10-minute ride to the port.
  • Tips: The area around the bus station is picturesque. If time allows, explore the nearby Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Ciutadella.

Barcelona sunset

Recommendations

Barcelona’s efficient transportation system ensures smooth sailing (or riding!) for visitors. Remember:

  • Tickets: Buy transportation tickets in advance where possible. Multi-day travel cards can be a good deal if you plan on exploring the city.
  • Rush Hours: Just like any major city, Barcelona has its rush hours, typically between 8-10 AM and 6-8 PM. If traveling during these times, allocate a bit of extra time.
  • Ask Locals: Barcelonians are friendly and most speak English. If in doubt, ask!

Next, we’ll dive deeper into the specifics of getting to the cruise port. Whether you fancy a scenic walk or want the quickest route, we’ve got the details lined up for you!

Barcelona Metro System

Transportation to the Cruise Port

Barcelona is more than just its historic landmarks and beautiful beaches—it’s also a gateway to the Mediterranean via its famed cruise port. Whether you’re tight on time or looking to soak in the city’s ambiance on your way, here’s how to make the journey efficiently and enjoyably.

Barcelona Metro System

The metro, with its intricate web of lines crisscrossing the city, is a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

  • Drassanes (L3): Nearest to the port. Once you alight, you’re just a stone’s throw away from the cruise terminals.
  • Barceloneta (L4): Another nearby station, especially useful if you’re coming from the northern parts of the city.
  • Tickets: Opt for a T-10 ticket if you plan multiple journeys. It offers ten rides and is more economical than single tickets.
  • Frequency: Trains usually come every 2-5 minutes during peak hours. Less frequent during off-peak times, but you’ll rarely wait longer than 10 minutes.
  • Tips: Avoid rush hours (8-10 AM & 5-8 PM). The metro stations have escalators, but elevators are less common, so be mindful if you have heavy luggage.

Barcelona bus

Buses offer a scenic route through the city, with the added bonus of being above ground to catch all the sights.

  • Bus D20: This route goes from Paral·lel to the cruise port, stopping right outside the terminals.
  • Buses are frequent, especially during the day, with an average wait of 10-15 minutes.
  • Fares are similar to the metro, and the T-10 ticket can be used here too.
  • Tips: Buses have special spots for luggage, so they’re a good option if you’re carrying more than just a backpack.

Taxis and Ride-shares

For a direct, hassle-free route, taxis and ride-shares like Uber are great options.

  • Cost: A taxi from the city center to the cruise port will typically cost around €10-€15.
  • Availability: Taxis are plentiful in Barcelona. Look for the signature black and yellow cabs.
  • Tips: Always ensure the meter is running to avoid overcharges. If you prefer ride-sharing apps, ensure you have a working internet connection.

Barcelona bike

Walking and Biking

For the adventurers who love to soak in the surroundings.

  • Walking: It’s a pleasant walk from the bottom of La Rambla (the famous pedestrian street) to the cruise port, taking around 20-30 minutes.
  • Biking: Barcelona is bike-friendly, with plenty of bike lanes. You can rent a bike and ride to the port. There are several drop-off points for rentals near the cruise terminals.
  • Tips: If walking, ensure you have comfortable footwear. If biking, always lock your bike, even if leaving it for just a few minutes.

Barcelona’s multifaceted transportation system provides an array of choices tailored to every traveler’s needs. No matter your preference, the journey from the heart of the city to the embrace of the Mediterranean Sea at the cruise port promises to be memorable.

Up next, let’s go from Barcelona to cruise port itself, where your sea-bound adventure truly begins!

Adossat Quay Terminals

Port Facilities and Amenities

As you step closer to the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean, Barcelona’s cruise port welcomes you with open arms. But before you embark on your sea voyage, it’s worth taking a moment to explore the extensive facilities and amenities that this modern port offers.

Whether you’re in need of last-minute essentials or looking for a leisurely coffee before boarding, this port has it all.

Barcelona’s cruise port boasts multiple terminals , ensuring it can cater to the vast number of ships and passengers passing through each year.

  • Adossat Quay Terminals (A, B, C, D): These are the primary terminals for larger cruise ships. They’re equipped with all the modern amenities and are a short shuttle bus ride away from the city’s World Trade Center.
  • World Trade Center Terminals (North and South): These terminals are closer to La Rambla and are generally used by smaller cruise lines and ferries.
  • Luggage Services: You can find luggage storage and forwarding services, handy if you have a few hours to spare before boarding or after disembarking.
  • Currency Exchange & ATMs: Located in the terminals, ensuring you’re equipped with the right currency for your travels.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available, but if you’re after faster speeds, premium plans are purchasable.
  • Information Desks: Multilingual staff are on hand to help with any queries or provide local tips.

Barcelona cafe

Dining & Shopping

  • Cafés and Restaurants: From quick bites to sit-down meals, there’s a variety of options to satiate your hunger.
  • Duty-Free & Retail Outlets: Ideal for last-minute gifts, travel essentials, or luxury items. Remember, you’re about to embark on a cruise—perhaps a bit of shopping is in order?

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Access: The port and its terminals are wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and accessible restrooms.
  • Elevators: Available in all main areas, ensuring those with mobility issues or heavy luggage can move around with ease.

Transport Within the Port

  • Shuttle Buses: These run regularly between the terminals and other key locations within the port.
  • Pedestrian Routes: If you’re keen on stretching your legs, there are safe walking routes marked out, especially useful if you’re at the World Trade Center Terminals.

Barcelona cruise port safety

Safety and Security

  • Security Screening: All passengers undergo security checks, similar to airport procedures. Ensure you’re aware of the prohibited items list provided by your cruise line.
  • CCTV & Patrols: The port area is monitored 24/7 to ensure the safety and security of passengers and staff.

Tips and Recommendations

  • Arrive Early: This gives you time to explore, shop, or relax without the rush.
  • Local SIM Cards: If you’re in need of a data connection for your onward journey, there are kiosks selling local SIM cards.
  • Port Lounge: Some terminals offer lounge facilities, perfect for unwinding before your voyage. Check availability based on your ticket or loyalty program status.

In conclusion, Barcelona’s cruise port is not just a departure point—it’s the start of your journey. With its world-class facilities, you’re ensured a stress-free transition from land to sea. So, grab that cup of coffee, buy that souvenir, or simply soak in the views—the adventure is just beginning!

Up next, we’ll shed light on nearby attractions. Whether you have a few hours or a whole day before boarding, Barcelona brims with treasures waiting to be discovered.

Barcelona Tapas

Culinary Delights: Savoring Barcelona from the Cruise Port

Ah, Barcelona! The name alone evokes visions of vibrant streets, mesmerizing architecture, and of course, an enticing culinary landscape. Spain’s Catalonian capital is a gastronomic paradise, boasting flavors that range from age-old traditional recipes to avant-garde culinary innovations.

If your cruise is docking in or departing from Barcelona, it would be an absolute sin not to dive into its rich culinary tapestry.

Tapas – Spain’s Coveted Small Plates

  • Patatas Bravas: Golden cubes of fried potatoes topped with spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
  • Pimientos de Padrón: Fried green peppers sprinkled with sea salt.
  • Albóndigas: Spanish meatballs, often simmered in a rich tomato sauce.
  • Gambas al Ajillo: Succulent shrimp fried in garlic and chili.

Pro Tip: Head to the lively El Raval neighborhood or the bustling La Boquería Market on La Rambla to savor some of the best tapas in town.

Zarzuela

Seafood – A Bounty from the Mediterranean

  • Zarzuela: A rich seafood stew with fish, prawns, mussels, and clams in a saffron-infused broth.
  • Suquet de Peix: A hearty fish stew, thickened with potatoes and flavored with garlic and paprika.

Spotlight: Don’t miss dining at Barceloneta , the city’s seaside neighborhood brimming with seafood restaurants.

Fideuá food

Traditional Mains

  • Fideuá: A paella-like dish, but with noodles instead of rice, often loaded with seafood.
  • Butifarra: A traditional Catalan sausage often served with white beans.

Sweets & Desserts

  • Crema Catalana: Catalonia’s answer to crème brûlée.
  • Churros: Deep-fried dough pastries, best enjoyed dipped in thick hot chocolate.
  • Panellets: Almond and potato-based pastries, especially popular during the All Saints’ Day celebrations.

Cava drink

Drinks to Sip

  • Cava: Catalonia’s famous sparkling wine, often compared to Champagne.
  • Vermouth: Enjoyed especially during the midday as an aperitif. Many bars in Barcelona have their own house-made versions.
  • Horchata: A refreshing cold drink made from tigernuts, sugar, and water.

Culinary Experiences

  • Cooking Classes: Enroll in a local cooking class and learn how to make paella, tapas, or other Spanish delicacies.
  • Wine Tasting: Catalonia is home to several wine regions. Consider a wine tasting tour to sample local varietals.

Vegetarian & Vegan Eateries

While Spanish cuisine is traditionally meat and seafood-heavy, Barcelona has seen a rise in vegetarian and vegan eateries. From vegan tapas to plant-based paellas, the city caters to all dietary preferences.

La Boquería Market

Food Markets

La Boquería Market: Probably the most famous market in Barcelona, it’s a riot of colors, smells, and flavors. Dive into its aisles to discover fresh produce, meats, seafood, and a variety of eateries.

Mercat de Sant Antoni: A less touristy alternative to La Boquería but equally vibrant and diverse.

To truly understand Barcelona, one must savor its food. Each bite tells a story of its history, culture, and the passion of its people. So, while the city’s architectural wonders like the Sagrada Família or Park Güell might dominate most itineraries, remember that Barcelona’s real pulse can often be found in its bustling markets, cozy tapas bars, and the aromatic kitchens of its local chefs.

As you set sail from the Barcelona cruise port, let your palate carry the flavors and memories of this Catalonian jewel. ¡Buen provecho!

La Rambla

Things to Do Near the Barcelona Cruise Port

Barcelona’s cruise port isn’t just a gateway to the Mediterranean—it’s also a stone’s throw from some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and experiences. Whether you’ve got a few hours to spare before departure or a whole day after your cruise, here are some unmissable attractions nearby:

Distance: 10-15 min walk from the World Trade Center Terminals.

  • Description: Barcelona’s iconic pedestrian street, stretching over 1.2 km, is lined with shops, restaurants, and kiosks.
  • Mercat de la Boqueria: A bustling market offering fresh produce, meats, and tapas bars.
  • Liceu Theatre: A historic opera house boasting beautiful architecture.
  • Tips: Keep an eye on your belongings; the area is known for pickpockets.

Barri Gòtic

Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)

Distance: 15 min walk from the port.

  • Description: A labyrinth of narrow medieval streets filled with history at every turn.
  • Barcelona Cathedral: An awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral with a rooftop that offers panoramic city views.
  • Plaça Reial: A lively square surrounded by restaurants and known for its nightlife.
  • Tips: Wander and get lost—this is the best way to experience the Gothic Quarter’s charm.

Barceloneta Beach

Barceloneta Beach

Distance: 20 min walk or a short taxi ride.

  • Description: Barcelona’s most famous beach, perfect for a quick dip or to soak up some sun.
  • Beachside Restaurants & Bars: Enjoy seafood paella with a view of the sea.
  • Watersports: Rent a paddleboard or go windsurfing.
  • Tips: The beach can get crowded, especially during summer. Arrive early for a good spot.

El Born District

El Born District

Distance: 20-25 min walk from the port.

  • Description: A vibrant neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe, boutiques, and tapas bars.
  • Picasso Museum: Home to one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso.
  • Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar: A beautiful example of Catalan Gothic architecture.
  • Tips: Visit in the evening for lively tapas hopping.

Port Vell

Port Vell and Maremagnum

Distance: 10 min walk from the World Trade Center Terminals.

  • Description: Once an old port area, now transformed into a bustling waterfront with an entertainment complex.
  • Aquarium Barcelona: One of Europe’s largest and most fascinating aquariums.
  • IMAX Port Vell: Catch a movie at this giant cinema.
  • Shopping & Dining: Maremagnum offers a mix of local and international brands, plus several dining options.
  • Tips: A great spot for families with kids.

Columbus Monument

Columbus Monument and Viewpoint

Distance: 10 min walk from the port.

  • Description: A towering monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus, which offers a viewing platform.
  • Elevator Ride to the Top: Get a bird’s eye view of the city and the port.
  • Surrounding Plaça: A vibrant area with street performers and local vendors.
  • Tips: The elevator has a small fee, but the view is worth it, especially on a clear day.

The proximity of Barcelona’s cruise port to the heart of the city ensures you can easily dip into the rich tapestry of culture, history, and leisure experiences the city offers.

Whether you’re a food lover, history buff, or simply keen to relax on the beach, there’s something for everyone just moments away from where your ship docks.

Montserrat

​​​​ Short Day Trips from the Barcelona Cruise Port

While Barcelona itself is a treasure trove of attractions, the surrounding areas are equally intriguing and make for wonderful day trips. If you’re extending your cruise vacation or have a long layover before setting sail, here are some short excursions from Barcelona’s cruise port:

  • Duration: Half-day to full-day.
  • Montserrat Monastery: A stunning 9th-century abbey nestled in the mountains.
  • Montserrat Mountain: Offers panoramic views of Catalonia. You can reach the top via a funicular or hiking trails.
  • Montserrat Museum: Features an array of art from artists like Dali and Picasso.
  • Getting There: About an hour by train from Barcelona.

Sitges

  • Duration: Half-day.
  • Beautiful Beaches: Soft sands and serene waters, great for relaxation.
  • Historic Center: Meandering streets filled with shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings.
  • Cau Ferrat Museum: Showcases the works of artist Santiago Rusiñol.
  • Getting There: Around 30 minutes by train from Barcelona.

Girona

  • Duration: Full-day.
  • Medieval Quarter: Features well-preserved medieval architecture.
  • Girona Cathedral: Boasts a stunning Gothic nave and the Tapestry of Creation.
  • Jewish Quarter: One of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe.
  • Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Girona was a primary filming location for the series.
  • Getting There: Just over an hour by train or car from Barcelona.

Figueres

  • Dalí Theatre-Museum: A surreal museum dedicated to the life and works of Salvador Dalí.
  • Sant Ferran Castle: One of the largest fortresses in Europe.
  • Getting There: About 90 minutes by train from Barcelona.

Tarragona

  • Ancient Roman Ruins: Includes an amphitheater, circus, and the Pont del Diable aqueduct.
  • Old Quarter: Offers a mix of medieval and Roman architecture.
  • Cathedral of Tarragona: A beautiful 12th-century edifice.
  • Getting There: Roughly 1 hour by train or car from Barcelona.

Penedès

Wine Regions: Penedès and Cava Country

  • Wine Tastings: Sample local wines and cava (sparkling wine) at renowned vineyards.
  • Winery Tours: Learn about the wine-making process.
  • Scenic Vineyard Views: Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of rolling vineyards.
  • Getting There: 30 minutes to an hour by car or organized tour from Barcelona.

Costa Brava

Costa Brava

  • Stunning Beaches: From secluded coves to vibrant beaches.
  • Medieval Villages: Explore towns like Pals and Peratallada.
  • Botanical Gardens: Such as the Marimurtra Botanical Gardens in Blanes.
  • Getting There: Varies based on specific destinations, but generally 1-2 hours by car from Barcelona.

While Barcelona is a destination in its own right, its surrounding regions are brimming with history, natural beauty, and cultural gems. Each of these day trips offers a unique glimpse into the richness of Catalonia, ensuring that cruisers can make the most of every moment of their extended journey.

is norwegian cruise line good

Cruise Lines Operating from Barcelona

Barcelona, being a major European cruise port and a gateway to the Mediterranean, plays host to a plethora of cruise lines. These range from luxury, intimate vessels to massive, state-of-the-art ships that resemble floating cities.

If you’re considering setting sail from this vibrant city, here’s a comprehensive overview of the major cruise lines that regularly operate from Barcelona:

Royal Caribbean International

  • Notable Ships: Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas.
  • Destinations: Primarily Mediterranean destinations, but also offers transatlantic cruises.
  • Unique Selling Points: Perfect for families with onboard water parks, Broadway-style shows, and adventure activities like zip-lining and surf simulators.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

  • Notable Ships: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Getaway.
  • Destinations: Western and Eastern Mediterranean cruises with occasional transatlantic voyages.
  • Unique Selling Points: NCL is known for its “Freestyle Dining” concept, extensive entertainment options, and vibrant nightlife onboard.

msc virtuosa cabins to avoid

MSC Cruises

  • Notable Ships: MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview.
  • Destinations: Covers a broad range of Mediterranean ports and occasionally sails to Northern Europe.
  • Unique Selling Points: Emphasizes European elegance, offers Cirque du Soleil shows at sea, and provides family-friendly options like LEGO-themed play areas.

Carnival Cruise Line

  • Notable Ships: Carnival Horizon, Carnival Legend.
  • Destinations: Primarily Mediterranean destinations during the European summer season.
  • Unique Selling Points: Offers a fun, laid-back atmosphere with plenty of entertainment and dining options suitable for families and younger cruisers.

Princess Cruises

  • Notable Ships: Emerald Princess, Island Princess, Sky Princess.
  • Destinations: Mediterranean, British Isles, and Northern Europe.
  • Unique Selling Points: Offers a blend of traditional and modern cruising experiences with a focus on destination immersion and onboard enrichment programs.

Celebrity Constellation

Celebrity Cruises

  • Notable Ships: Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Edge.
  • Destinations: Primarily Mediterranean, but also offers transatlantic and Northern European voyages.
  • Unique Selling Points: Emphasizes modern luxury with gourmet dining, sophisticated décor, and a spa-inspired approach to relaxation.

Holland America Line

  • Notable Ships: Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, Westerdam.
  • Destinations: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and transatlantic voyages.
  • Unique Selling Points: Offers classic cruising with a touch of Dutch maritime tradition, extensive enrichment programs, and world-class dining.

Cunard Line

  • Notable Ships: Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth.
  • Destinations: Mediterranean, World Cruises, and transatlantic voyages.
  • Unique Selling Points: Known for its British sophistication, offers traditional ocean liner experiences, afternoon teas, and grand ballroom dancing.

Oceania Cruises

  • Notable Ships: Marina, Riviera.
  • Destinations: Mediterranean, Baltic, and occasionally longer voyages that cover multiple regions.
  • Unique Selling Points: Focuses on luxury and destination-rich itineraries, renowned for gourmet cuisine and upscale amenities.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

  • Notable Ships: Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Splendor.
  • Destinations: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and extended global voyages.
  • Unique Selling Points: Offers all-inclusive luxury cruises with fine dining, spacious all-suite accommodations, and enriching shore excursions.

Barcelona’s reputation as a major European cruise port is evident in the array of cruise lines and ships that start or visit the city. Whether you’re searching for luxury, family adventures, or a rich itinerary that dives deep into the Mediterranean’s treasures, there’s a ship and cruise line ready to set sail with you from Barcelona.

Up next, we’ll provide you with some practical cruise tips to ensure your embarkation day goes smoothly. Safe voyages!

first time cruise tips

Travel Tips for Cruisers in Barcelona

Setting sail from the picturesque Barcelona can be an unforgettable experience, but a smooth journey often hinges on good preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer , here are some travel tips tailored to help you make the most of your Barcelona cruise experience:

Arrive a Day Early

  • Why: This not only gives you a buffer against travel delays but also an opportunity to combat jet lag and explore Barcelona.
  • Tip: Choose a hotel close to La Rambla or the Gothic Quarter for easy access to both attractions and the cruise port.

Be Aware of the ‘Siesta’ Culture

  • Why: Many shops and restaurants in Barcelona close in the afternoon, typically from 2 pm to 4 pm.
  • Tip: Plan major activities and shopping either before or after this period.

Beware of Pickpockets

  • Why: Popular tourist areas, especially La Rambla, are hotspots for pickpockets.
  • Tip: Use anti-theft bags, don’t flash valuables, and always be aware of your surroundings.

cruise travel tips

Pack a Day Bag

  • Why: It can take time for your luggage to be delivered to your stateroom.
  • Tip: Pack essentials like medications, swimsuits, important documents, and a change of clothes in a carry-on.

Language Basics Help

  • Why: While many in Barcelona speak English, knowing a few phrases in Spanish or Catalan can enhance your experience.
  • Tip: Learn basics like “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), and “Dónde está…?” (Where is…?).

Stay Hydrated and Sun-protected

  • Why: Barcelona can be hot, especially in the summer.
  • Tip: Carry a reusable water bottle and always apply sunscreen, even if you’re just exploring the city for a few hours.

Familiarize Yourself with Local Transport

  • Why: Taxis can get expensive, especially if there’s traffic.
  • Tip: Barcelona’s metro and bus systems are efficient. The T10 ticket offers ten rides on public transportation and can be shared.

norwegian cruise line vacation

Research Shore Excursions in Advance

  • Why: While cruise lines offer organized shore excursions, they can be pricier than local operators.
  • Tip: Check out reviews of local tour providers on platforms like TripAdvisor. However, ensure they have a reputation for punctuality; you don’t want to miss the ship!

Keep a Check on Boarding Time

  • Why: Ships have a strict departure schedule.
  • Tip: Always be back at least 30 minutes before the last boarding time, and keep the ship’s local contact number handy.

NCL things onboard

Get Acquainted with the Port Layout

  • Why: Barcelona’s cruise port is expansive with various terminals.
  • Tip: Before your cruise, check which terminal your ship departs from. If disembarking for a day in Barcelona, note where you’ll need to return.

Consider Dietary Needs

  • Why: While cruise ships cater to a plethora of dietary requirements, local eateries in Barcelona might not.
  • Tip: Research restaurants in advance if you have specific dietary needs. Many places now offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Save on Mobile Data

  • Why: International roaming charges can be exorbitant.
  • Tip: Either buy a local SIM card, utilize free Wi-Fi spots around the city, or download offline maps.

Embarking on a cruise from Barcelona offers a mix of cosmopolitan vibes and Mediterranean allure. By preparing in advance and being aware of the local nuances, cruisers can ensure their journey begins on a high note.

Conclusion: Setting Sail from the Heart of Catalonia

As we draw this comprehensive guide to a close, it’s evident why Barcelona remains one of Europe’s most coveted cruise ports. Nestled between the azure Mediterranean and the rugged Collserola hills, Barcelona is more than just a departure point—it’s a tantalizing blend of history, art, architecture, and vibrant street life.

From the undulating designs of Gaudí’s masterpieces to the rhythmic beats of flamenco dancers, the city is a feast for the senses. Its cruise port, strategically located and equipped with top-notch amenities, serves as a gateway to the Mediterranean’s shimmering coasts and beyond. The surrounding regions of Catalonia further elevate the allure, with their vineyards, mountain monasteries, and golden beaches.

For cruisers, Barcelona offers a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re soaking in the city’s ambiance pre-cruise, embarking on short day trips, or simply taking in the panoramic city views as your ship sets sail, Barcelona promises an experience like no other.

So, whether it’s your maiden voyage or you’re a seasoned cruiser returning to this beloved port, Barcelona never ceases to captivate. As you step onto your cruise, with the city’s skyline fading into the horizon, it’s not just a journey you embark on, but a plethora of memories you carry along.

Here’s to adventures on the high seas, tales from ancient streets, and the timeless charm of Barcelona. Until next time, bon voyage!

FAQs on Barcelona to Cruise Port

1. where is the barcelona cruise port located.

The Barcelona cruise port is strategically located at the southern end of La Rambla, in the city’s Port Vell area. It is one of the Mediterranean’s most popular cruise destinations and consists of multiple terminals.

2. How can I get from Barcelona airport to the cruise port?

You have multiple options:

  • Taxi: Takes about 20-30 minutes and is the most convenient option.
  • Bus: The Aerobus service connects the airport to Plaça Catalunya. From there, you can take the Portbus or a taxi.
  • Private Transfer: Pre-booked vehicles that offer door-to-door service.

3. Can I walk from La Rambla to the cruise port?

Yes, it’s possible to walk from La Rambla to the cruise port, especially if your ship is docked at the Adossat Quay. The walk can take around 20-30 minutes.

4. Is there luggage storage available at the Barcelona cruise port?

Yes, there are luggage storage facilities at the cruise port where you can safely store your bags for a fee.

5. How early should I arrive at the Barcelona cruise port before my departure?

It’s advisable to arrive at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure. This gives you ample time for check-in, security checks, and boarding.

6. Are there any nearby hotels to the cruise port?

There are numerous hotels located near the port, ranging from luxury to budget options. Some popular choices include the Eurostars Grand Marina and the Tryp Barcelona Apolo Hotel.

7. What is the taxi fare from the city center to the cruise port?

Taxi fare from the city center to the cruise port typically ranges from €10 to €15, though prices can vary based on traffic and exact location.

8. Is there parking available at the Barcelona cruise port?

Yes, there are several parking areas around the port, offering both short-term and long-term parking options.

9. Are there any currency exchange counters at the cruise port?

While the Barcelona cruise port has many amenities, it’s advisable to exchange currency at the city’s banks, at the airport, or at major tourist areas for better rates.

10. Does the cruise port offer Wi-Fi services?

Yes, there’s Wi-Fi available at the cruise terminals, though it might be limited. Many nearby cafes and restaurants also offer free Wi-Fi.

11. Can I find duty-free shopping at the Barcelona cruise port?

Yes, there are duty-free shops available at the cruise terminals where you can purchase a variety of goods including alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, and more.

12. Are there facilities for travelers with special needs at the cruise port?

Yes, the Barcelona cruise port is equipped with facilities to assist travelers with disabilities, including ramps, elevators, and wheelchair-friendly shuttles.

13. How far is the Barcelona cruise port from major attractions like the Sagrada Família or Park Güell?

The cruise port is roughly 4 km from the Sagrada Família and around 6 km from Park Güell. You can easily reach these attractions by taxi, public transport, or organized tours.

14. What language is primarily spoken at the cruise port?

While Catalan and Spanish are the official languages of Barcelona, English is widely spoken at the cruise port and most associated service areas due to the international nature of cruising.

15. Are pets allowed at the Barcelona cruise port?

Pets are generally not allowed at the cruise terminals unless they are service animals or they are in proper carriers for travel.

16. Are there any dining facilities at the Barcelona cruise port?

Yes, the cruise port terminals feature a range of dining options including cafes, snack bars, and restaurants where passengers can enjoy a meal or a quick bite before departure.

17. How safe is the area around the Barcelona cruise port?

The area around the Barcelona cruise port is generally safe for tourists. However, like any major city, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, especially against pickpocketing.

18. Can I rent a car at the cruise port?

While there isn’t a direct car rental agency within the cruise terminals, several major car rental companies have offices near the port. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

19. Is there a dress code to board the cruise ships at Barcelona?

While there isn’t a strict dress code to board the ship, most cruise lines recommend smart casual attire. However, each cruise line might have its own dress policies for onboard activities and dinners, so it’s advisable to check with your cruise operator beforehand.

20. Can I find guided tours that start from the cruise port?

Absolutely! Many tour operators offer shore excursions and city tours that commence from the Barcelona cruise port. These can be booked in advance or often even on the day of arrival, depending on availability.

21. Is it possible to store my cruise luggage and explore the city?

Yes, there are luggage storage facilities at the cruise port where you can deposit your bags for a fee, allowing you to explore the city without the burden of carrying your luggage around.

22. Are there any medical facilities or pharmacies at the cruise port?

While there’s a basic first aid station at the cruise port, for more comprehensive medical needs, it’s better to visit hospitals or clinics in the city. Pharmacies are abundant in Barcelona, with some located near the port.

23. What’s the best time of year to cruise from Barcelona?

Barcelona is a year-round cruise port. However, the peak cruising season is from April to October when the Mediterranean climate is at its best. Off-peak seasons might offer fewer crowds and potentially lower prices.

24. How can I stay updated about my cruise schedule or any changes?

Most cruise operators have mobile apps or websites where passengers can check real-time updates regarding schedules, boarding times, and any itinerary changes. Additionally, announcements are frequently made at the cruise port.

25. Are there any child care or entertainment facilities for kids at the cruise port?

While the cruise port terminals primarily serve as transit points and don’t have extensive child entertainment facilities, most cruise ships docked offer a range of onboard activities and entertainment options for kids.

WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

Interactive world cruise map, home | cruise ships | port expenses | hints and tips, barcelona spain cruise port guide.

How to arrive:

The Airport of Barcelona is about 13 km from Barcelona center. Trains and buses have frequent schedules to the center, but since you have to change a couple of times and also to walk the last part to the terminal, the best option for traveling from the airport to the cruise terminal is to catch a taxi. Taxis are quick and not expensive. The journey will take about 35 min's by taxi. The journey from the airport to the port is unlikely to cost you more than €40. If you are a group of 4 or more you might consider a private transfer with Barcelona-airport-transfers . Luggage storage is only possible at terminal 1 (intercontinental flights) or at train station Sants Estacio (directly connected to the Airport and Plaça de Catalunya.

The Cruise Terminal of Barcelona and getting around:

The port is the starting and arrival point for many Mediterranean cruise itineraries. The seven operating terminals, and the various docks and facilities, are at a short distance from the city center. The terminal is at Port Vell in Barcelona which is at the Southern most end of the famous Ramblas. The seaport terminal is only 10 min's walk from the Ramblas. However, since there are several cruise terminals at the port and if you are in one of the terminals which are further away from the Ramblas you may catch a taxi or the shuttle bus, which will take you to Monument Christopher Columbus which is at the Southern most end of the Ramblas. The shuttle bus service runs from all port terminals down to the monument.

There is a port shuttle bus that goes from the cruise terminals to the Columbus Monument at the bottom of Las Ramblas. The bus is called Cruiser T3 but is often referred to as the 'Blue Port Bus'. The fare is €3 per person, €4.50 return. You cannot use a T10 ticket on this bus. The nearest metro station is Drassanes which is on line L3. It is about 2-3 minutes walk from the Columbus Monument, where the shuttle bus stops. The bus is wheelchair friendly.

A taxi is a good bet (around 15 Euro) if you want to go to Placa de Catalunya with its famous stores and stroll back, slightly downhill, over the Ramblas towards the harbor. Taxi back will be 2.10 euro more, due to port charges. Do not pay more than that as cabbies make you believe.

As your hand luggage is checked by the port authorities itself before entering the modern terminal, there is ample of opportunity to stock up on your favorite alcoholic beverage in the competitive priced tax-free shops before boarding. No carry-on bags will be checked when boarding the ship.

In spring 2018, Carnival Corporation opened a new terminal, which is designed to accommodate Carnival's next-generation ships, powered by eco-friendly Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Ships from eight Carnival brands -- AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises (U.K.), Princess Cruises and Seabourn -- visit Barcelona throughout the year.

Printable map to take along.

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

Cruise calendar for this port.

Check here for festivals and events in Barcelona when you are in port.

Watch a destination video

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Barcelona Spain Cruise Port

Sightseeing:

Barcelona balances itself on the cutting edge of architecture, intellectual life, and style. Among the city's unique delights is its Picasso Museum, palm-lined avenues, striking Gaudi architecture , revamped beachfront, and late-night club scene. The capital of Spain's Catalonia region is one of the country's -- maybe even Europe's -- most beautiful and vibrant places. A city of contrasts, it is like no other in Spain; this is most evident in its architecture, a marriage of Gothic spikes and modern curves.

Barcelona is also a city of neighborhoods, all distinct, which are surprisingly walkable and easily accessible by bus, metro or even on foot (in comfortable shoes). Don't miss a stroll along Las Ramblas , replete with produce and flower stands, a historic opera house and a thoroughly intriguing open pet market. Maybe you will be there when they are celebrating one of the many fiestas: whether they are celebrating a saint's day or the changing of the seasons, the people of Barcelona fill the streets with color, music, and excitement for young and old. Experiencing the traditions ranging from Spanish to Catalan or even unique to the city of Barcelona, adds to a visitor's enjoyment like nothing else can. The largest fiestas in Barcelona are Sant Joan (Saint John) on June 23rd ringing in the summer, and La Mercè for the Patron Saint, September 24th. The most beautiful holiday is undoubtedly Sant Jordi (Saint George) – the day of the book and the day of the rose April 23rd.

The Picasso Museum in Barcelona is indispensable for understanding the formative years of Pablo Ruiz Picasso. The genius of the young artist is revealed through the more than 3,500 works that make up the permanent collection. However, the Picasso Museum also reveals his relationship with Barcelona: an intimate, solid relationship that was shaped in his adolescence and youth, and continued until his death. Thanks to the wishes of Picasso and his friend Jaume Sabartés, Barcelona now has the youthful work of one of the twentieth century's most significant artists.

Miró's works are to be found today in the world's principal museums and cultural institutions. Many, however, have remained in Catalonia, mostly in the Joan Miró Foundation in Barcelona. Throughout his life, Joan Miró took a particular interest in the diversity of materials, forms and colors. It led him to explore and experiment with different art forms such as painting, sculpture, printing techniques, ceramics, the theater, and tapestry. One result of this was a collaboration with Josep Royo, an innovative craftsman, who during the seventies aroused Miró's interest in tapestry and textiles.

Sagrada Família - Barcelona's most popular and famous attraction, the Sagrada Família is a testament to Antonio Gaudi's modernist style and unlike any other church in the world

Tours Excursions Transportation:

Rent a bike or take an excursion by bike with an English speaking guide showing the most important sights of Barcelona: the Gothic Quarter with the cathedral, the Old harbor with the statue of Columbus, the Ciutadella Park, the Sagrada Familia, the Olympic Port and Gaudi´s fabulous monuments with Fat Tire Bike Tours Barcelona . The best place for a ride is along the well-marked bike lanes by the sea, which lead to the medieval streets of the old city, past busy ports and down to beaches. If you're willing to brave traffic and tackle a few hills, you can crisscross the city and there are many more bike lanes in the planning. A guide and a map can be purchased at the Tourist Offices .

Hop on hop off . If you are coming to Barcelona for the first time, or if you are planning to stay in the city for a short time, this is one way of getting to quickly see the city's monuments and most important tourist sights of interest.

The Barcelona Tourist Office offers, among other interesting tours, 4 different, english speaking, guided walking tours, including a Gourmet walk in which you will find out about the history of Barcelona's cuisine as well as some of its flagship restaurants and food outlets, and sample some of their products. If you want to see Barcelona from a birds eye point of view, ride the Montjuic cable car . You can buy tickets on board. The entrance is not to far from the harbor, just follow the cables to the entrance. If it is too windy, the cable cars won't run. So simply look to the sky to see whether they are running or not. A small guide book is very useful, as there is so much to see in Barcelona!

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Tourist Information

Nearby Places:

Nova Icaria, Bogatell, Mar Bella and Barceloneta are all beaches in Barcelona which has restaurant and café lined promenades.

Further away:

Shopping and Food

If you love to shop then you're going to love Barcelona! Barcelona Spain shopping offers around 35,000 shops. The city is also home to the famous 5 KM shopping line. The shopping line stretches from the top of the Ramblas, through Placa de Catalunya along Passeig de Gràcia and up Avenue Diagonal. Much of the shopping line is pedestrianized making it a pleasant experience to wander from shop to shop without worrying about traffic. Along the Ramblas you will find La Boqueria A very colorful food market which also sells other goods and souvenirs.

Also along the Ramblas you also will find the Gothic Quarter, the medieval part of Barcelona. Here you will find many fine restaurants and outdoor cafe's as well as great stores who specialize in colorful ceramic goods of top quality.

The Ramblas is also the world's most pick-pocketed area!

Communication:

Barcelona has free Wi-Fi in the city - they are currently working on completely covering the city, but it's not there yet. Around the Ramblas, the reception is generally good.

Fire brigade, police and ambulance: tel. 112

Opening Hours and Holidays:

The most common business for shops and businesses hours are Monday through Saturday, from 9.30 oh to 13.30 oh, and from 16.30 to 20.00 h.

Big shopping centers and department stores open from 10.00 h to 21.00 or 22.00 h uninterruptedly. These big stores open in December sometimes on Sunday.

In coastal cities, in high season, shops are usually open passed 22.00 h.

Pharmacies open from 9.30 to 13.30 h, and from 16.30 to 20.00 h. In all major cities you can find pharmacies that open 24 hours. Pharmacies follow a rolling late-hour schedule, which is published in the newspapers, and is posted at all pharmacies.

Museums are in general closed on Mondays.

National public holidays.

Help us to keep this page up to date: Mail us your suggestions

Thank you for printing this article! Please don’t forget to come back to whatsinport.com for new and updated port guides.

Home | Privacy Policy

Logo of IQCruising

Independent Quest: Maps and Guides for Travelers ™

The Cruise Terminals in Barcelona (Spain) Port: Review (2023)

Panoramic photo of the cruise port in Baercelona

Where ships dock in Barcelona cruise port and what's at the cruise terminals: home port or port of call; Moll Adossat terminals and World Trade Center terminal.

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: June 3, 2023

Barcelona is a major port in the west Mediterranean cruise itineraries both as a Home Port and a Port of Call.

This means that as a Home Port cruise ships will start and/or end a cruise in Barcelona, where embarkation and disembarkation will take place.

But many cruise ships visit the port of Barcelona for one day as any other port within a regular itinerary. Depending on the size of the cruise ship, there are two distinct docking spots in Barcelona: the Moll Adossat cruise terminal and the WTC terminal.

Home Port and Port of Call

However, there are very few cruises that dock in Barcelona as a port of call as it really is a European major embarkation port. Passengers on a cruise calling at Barcelona for a day will have the opportunity to explore this charming city either on tours booked onboard or on their own.

Barcelona is one of the easiest European cruise ports to get around - both cruise ports are minutes away from all major attractions - and there are quite a few affordable ways to enjoy the city.

Photo of Port of Barcelona.

Port of Barcelona

Photo © IQCruising.com

Although Barcelona is a major embarkation-disembarkation port in Europe, most cruise travelers are not well advised when booking a cruise. Travelers flying from the USA or Canada, in particular, do not realize that a long red-eye flight (over 8 hours) coupled with jet lag (5 to 8 hours earlier) is the worst possible way to start a cruise.

Hence, the Editor's strong recommendation: any traveler embarking in Barcelona should fly at least one day ahead of the start of the cruise. If possible, fly two or more days ahead of the cruise , so that you can adapt to a new time zone (if flying from North America) and enjoy one of Europe's most interesting cruise ports. Naturally, if your cruise ends in Barcelona, you should plan to stay in Barcelona for at least a couple of days.

Docking in Barcelona

Barcelona's two cruise ports (WTC Port and Moll Adossat) are ideally located to explore the city. The WTC Port has 3 piers around the World Trade Center building, it is located just under 1/2 a mile (700 meters) from the Plaça Colon and the start of La Rambla, but only small cruise ships can dock here.

Photo of WTC Port in Barcelona.

WTC Port in Barcelona

World Trade Center Port & Terminal

This port has obviously the best location as it is within walking distance to La Rambla and it is a delight for travelers on cruise lines like Seabourn, Silversea, Regent, Azamara, or the small ships of Oceania. Because no more than 3 ships can dock at the WTC Port do not have it for granted that these high-end cruise ships will always dock within walking distance to a good number of Barcelona's attractions. It happens quite frequently that small cruise ships will have to dock at the Moll Adossat.

Docking at the Moll Adossat

The major port of Barcelona is, in fact, the Moll Adossat and where the overwhelming majority of cruise ships dock. Although this port is only 2 miles (3km) from Plaça Colon , walking with (or without) luggage is quite a stretch, particularly in the heat of the summer as pedestrians will have to go over a bridge.

Photo of Moll Adossat in Barcelona.

Moll Adossat, Barcelona

Considering that the already mentioned T3 Port Bus provides such a good service it doesn't make any sense to walk to or from the Moll Adossat. The port has four Terminals (A, B, C, and D) all very large, modern, well kept, and efficient for both embarkation and disembarkation.

Photo of Terminal B, Moll Adossat, in Barcelona.

Terminal B, Moll Adossat

Amenities and Services

All sorts of amenities will be found at the Terminals including large sitting areas with AC, shopping, cafeterias, money exchange , and, of course, plenty of taxis available if disembarking. Because Barcelona is not used frequently as a port of call, you will not find Tourist Information Kiosks at the Terminals although you may find a desk with maps and touristic brochures.

Photo of Terminal B, Interior, in Barcelona.

Terminal B, Interior, Moll Adossat

The good news is that there is one of many Tourist Information points in Barcelona at Plaça Colon (aka Plaça Portal de la Pau), inside the Columbus Monument and also along the Rambla. Click here to find all Tourist information points in Barcelona.

How to get around in Barcelona

Unless your ship is docking at the World Trade Center as a port of call, it is useful to know that the Port has excellent transportation services both public and private to move around to the city or to the airport.

Taxis and Luggage Services between Port and Airport

If you have already booked your cruise and flights, there are a few insider tips to keep in mind. To start with, the cruise traveler should know that the distance between Barcelona's two cruise ports and the Airport is around 23 km (15 miles) away.

Photo of Taxi in Barcelona.

Taxi in Barcelona

Regardless of whether you are embarking or disembarking, a taxi is one of the best ways to travel from or to the Airport. A taxi between the Airport and the Port (Moll Adossat) will cost approximately €40.00 and a little bit less if the WTC Port is the final destination - Check the Official Taxi Fares in Barcelona.

There are also a number of private services that offer transfers to and from the port to either the Airport or/and Hotels that can be very convenient. One of the best services to look into is Bags & Go - this company handles your luggage (transfer and lockers) whilst you can enjoy a few hours exploring Barcelona.

Photo of Bags & Go Van.

Bags & Go Van in Barcelona

Fares are both reasonably affordable (around $12.00 per person/piece of luggage) and you can book it online or right at the terminals as you pick up your luggage. To learn more about Bags & Go click here .

Photo of Terminal B in Barcelona.

Terminal B, Moll Adossat, in Barcelona

If staying in Barcelona, it is very easy to calculate a taxi fare to or from a hotel and compare it with the transfers offered by all major cruise lines. The official Barcelona Taxi website has a great Route Calculator in English - check the Taxi fares calculator .

Port of Call - Taxis and Shuttle

However, if Barcelona is a Port of Call on your cruise, travelers should avoid taxis if docked at the Moll Adossat and having La Rambla as a final destination.

There is an official extra charge (€3.10) for taxis to enter-exit the port and an unscrupulous taxi driver may take you for a long ride when, in fact, La Rambla is just around the corner.

Photo of T3 portbus in Barcelona.

T3 portbus in Barcelona

Instead of a taxi, it is advisable to use the circular route bus Cruisebus (aka T3 port-bus) between all Port Terminals and Plaça Colon close by the famous Ramblas, on the latge square by the World Trade Center.

Panoramic view of 4 ships docked at the T-shaped cruise piers in Puerto Costa Maya

Photo copyright IQCruising

These buses are suitable for wheelchair users. The fare is €3.00 one-way ticket and €4.00 return ticket, paid onboard in cash either in coins or bills under €10.00.

Cruise tip: because the Cruisebus (aka T3 port-bus) has become so popular thanks to its good service, most cruise lines do not offer shuttle buses to Plaça Colon anymore and the ones that do charge ridiculous amounts.

Cruise passengers may like to know that the Cruisebus can be booked online: click here to book the Cruisebus .

Barcelona Cruise Port - News

Photo of Terminal E, Carnival Corportation Terminal, in Barcelona.

Carnival Corporation Cruise Terminal in Barcelona

Photo courtesy of Barcelona Cruise terminal

There is good news for those planning to cruise the Mediterranean on any of the Carnival Corporation Cruise Lines. In 2018, a new Cruise Terminal was built on the Moll Adossat for the fleets of Carnival Corporation. It is named Helix Cruise Center but may also be referred to as terminal E. This cruise terminal is at the end of the breakwater after Terminal D.

► Explore: Overview & Highlights Top Things To Do and See, Beyond the Highlights, Sightseeing and Tours... Learn More ►

Share Barcelona Port Review

Image Facebook Button

The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, tour or excursions of Barcelona Cruise Port. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

Submit a Correction / Suggestion.

Image Facebook button

  • Terms of Use
  • Legal & Privacy

© 2023 • INDEPENDENT QUEST LLC • Florida - USA. All Rights Reserved Duplication in part or whole without prior written consent is prohibited by international laws.

Barcelona Cruise Port 

cruiseportshq_6lfhu2

Barcelona Cruise Port

Affiliate Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

Terminal & Transport Guide

Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and its cruise port terminal is a major gateway for travelers from all over the world. The new terminal at Barcelona Cruise Port is a state-of-the-art facility that offers a seamless experience for passengers. Equipped with modern amenities such as restaurants, shops, and lounges, the terminal caters to the needs of travelers. The timetable for arrivals and departures at the terminal is carefully managed to ensure smooth operations and minimize wait times. With its strategic location and excellent facilities, the Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal has become one of the most popular cruise destinations in Europe.

barcelona cruise port

Modern Amenities at Barcelona Cruise Port: Restaurants, Shops, Lounges

Passengers at Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal have access to a wide range of modern amenities that make their stay more enjoyable. There are several restaurants serving local cuisine as well as international dishes. Travelers can also find shops selling souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, electronics, and other items. For those who need some quiet time before boarding their ship or after disembarking it upon return home there are lounges where they can relax with comfortable seating areas.

Timetable Management: Smooth Operations

The timetable for arrivals and departures at Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal is carefully managed to ensure smooth operations. The port authorities work closely with cruise lines to coordinate schedules so that ships arrive and depart on time without delays or disruptions. This helps minimize wait times for passengers who are eager to start exploring the city or return home after a memorable vacation.

Ferry Terminals at the Barcelona Cruise Port: Adossat and Sant Bertran Docks

The ferry terminals at the port are located at two docks: Adossat and Sant Bertran. The Adossat dock is the largest and most modern dock in the port. It has three berths for large cruise ships, making it ideal for handling multiple large vessels simultaneously. The Sant Bertran dock is smaller and mainly used for ferries and smaller cruise ships.

barcelona cruise port - adossat dock

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The docks at the port are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure seamless operations. These include luggage handling systems that make it easy to transfer passengers’ bags from their cabins to their transportation vehicles or vice versa. Passenger boarding bridges have been installed to facilitate safe transfer of passengers between ships and ports without exposing them to harsh weather conditions or other hazards.

Security checkpoints are also available on every dock to ensure that only authorized personnel gain access to restricted areas such as cargo holds or engine rooms. These measures help prevent security breaches that could compromise passenger safety while they are on board.

Quay Length

With over 4 kilometers of quay length, there is ample space for ships to maneuver and dock safely at Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal. This feature makes it possible for large vessels like Oasis-class Royal Caribbean ships to navigate easily through narrow channels without risking damage or accidents.

Tourist Transport Options from Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal

Cruise ships are a popular way to travel, and Barcelona’s cruise port is one of the busiest in Europe. Once you arrive at the port, there are various transportation options available to explore the city. In this section, we will discuss some of the most convenient and budget-friendly tourist transport options from Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal.

Cruise Shuttle Bus

The cruise shuttle bus is a convenient option for tourists as it provides direct transportation from the cruise port to popular destinations in the city. The blue bus operates every 30 minutes, making stops at Plaça d’Espanya, Passeig de Gracia, and Plaça Catalunya. This service is especially useful for those who want to visit top attractions such as La Sagrada Familia or Park Guell without having to worry about navigating public transport.

Tourist Bus

The tourist bus is another great option for exploring Barcelona at your own pace. This hop-on-hop-off service allows tourists to get on and off at any stop along the route with stops near major attractions and landmarks such as Camp Nou Stadium, Park Guell, La Pedrera, and Casa Batllo. With an audio guide available in multiple languages providing information about each site visited, this service offers an informative and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Port Shuttle Bus

The port shuttle bus is a free service provided by the cruise port that connects passengers to the nearest metro station (Drassanes) for easy access to the city center. This service runs every 10-15 minutes during peak hours and provides a cost-effective way of reaching your destination quickly.

Shuttle Bus Service

For those looking for hassle-free transfer from the cruise port to hotels or other destinations in Barcelona can pre-book shuttle bus services. These private transfers offer door-to-door service with professional drivers who speak English fluently. The shuttle buses are air-conditioned and comfortable with enough space for luggage.

Public Transport

Public transport, including buses and metro, is a budget-friendly option for tourists looking to explore the city on their own. The Aerobus is an airport bus that connects the airport with the city center, making it easy for visitors to reach their destination quickly. TMB (Barcelona Metropolitan Transport) offers a range of tickets and passes that can be used on buses, metro, and trams.

Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and offer a convenient option for those looking for a more personalized mode of transportation. Taxi drivers in Barcelona are known for being friendly and helpful, making them a great choice if you’re new to the city or need help getting around.

How to Reach Barcelona El Prat Airport from the Barcelona Cruise Port

Taxi and private transfer: the most convenient way to reach barcelona el prat airport.

Barcelona El Prat Airport is the main airport serving the city of Barcelona, located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of the city center. For travelers arriving or departing by cruise ship, the cruise port in Barcelona is a convenient option as it is only about 20 kilometers away from Barcelona El Prat Airport.

The most popular and convenient way to reach Barcelona El Prat Airport from the cruise port is by taxi or private transfer. Taxis are readily available at the cruise port terminal, and a ride to the airport takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Private transfers can also be arranged in advance through various companies for added convenience.

While taxis and private transfers are more expensive than other transportation options, they offer several advantages such as comfort, convenience, and reliability. Travelers with heavy luggage or those who value privacy will find these options particularly appealing.

cruise port barcelona

Public Transportation: A More Affordable Option

For travelers on a budget, taking public transportation such as buses and trains is a more affordable option for reaching Barcelona El Prat Airport from the cruise port. The Aerobus shuttle service connects both terminals of the airport with Plaça de Catalunya in central Barcelona, making stops at several locations along the way including Gran Via-Urgell and Plaça d’Espanya. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes one way and costs €5.90 per person.

Another public transportation option is taking RENFE trains from Estació de França train station near the cruise port to Barcelona Sants train station where there are connections to trains that go directly to Terminal 2 of Barcelona El Prat Airport. This option costs €4.60 per person one way but requires some walking between stations.

Flying into Costa Brava Airport: An Alternative Option

For travelers looking for alternative airports near Barcelona, Costa Brava Airport is located approximately 100 kilometers north of the city and offers a range of low-cost carriers. While it may require additional travel time to reach Barcelona from Costa Brava Airport, it can be a more affordable option for travelers on a budget.

Getting from the Barcelona Cruise Port Terminals to the City Centre

Walking distance to world trade center barcelona.

If you’re arriving at the World Trade Center Terminals in the south of Barcelona’s port, you’re already within walking distance to the city center. The World Trade Center Barcelona is located just a few minutes from the city center, making it an ideal location for travelers who want to explore the city on foot. It takes around 20-30 minutes to walk from the World Trade Centre Terminals to the city center.

The World Trade Center is a landmark that can be used as a reference point when navigating your way to the city center. You can easily spot it from afar due to its unique architecture and design. Once you’ve arrived at this iconic building, you can start exploring some of Barcelona’s most popular attractions such as Las Ramblas, La Boqueria Market, and Plaça de Catalunya.

Alternative Ways of Getting Around

If walking isn’t your thing or if you have limited mobility, there are other ways of getting around in Barcelona. Taxis are readily available outside both terminals and can take you directly to your destination in the city center. Alternatively, public transportation is also an affordable and convenient option for travelers who want to explore the city.

The metro system in Barcelona is extensive and connects all major tourist destinations throughout the city. There are several metro stations near the cruise terminals including Drassanes (L3), Paral·lel (L2/L3), and Liceu (L3). You can purchase individual tickets or multi-day passes depending on how long you plan on staying in Barcelona.

Left Luggage and Baggage Transfer Services at Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal

Luggage storage and transfer services are essential for travelers who want to explore the city without carrying their heavy bags around. The Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal offers these services to arriving passengers, making it easier for them to enjoy their stay in the city. Here are some of the benefits of using these services:

Luggage Storage Service

The luggage storage service at the Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal allows passengers to check their bags and explore the city without carrying heavy luggage around. This service is perfect for travelers who arrive early or have a late departure flight and want to make the most of their time in Barcelona.

The luggage storage service is located near Adossat Quay, which is just a few minutes away from the cruise terminal. Passengers can store their bags securely and pick them up when they’re ready to leave. The cost of storing luggage depends on how long you need it stored, but it’s generally affordable.

Baggage Transfer Services

Passengers with disabilities can also benefit from baggage transfer services at the Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal. These services allow them to easily transfer their luggage and navigate the terminal within minutes of arrival at Adossat Quay.

Shuttle Services, Private Transfers, and Taxi Ranks

Shuttle services, private transfers, and taxi ranks are available at the terminal for easy transportation to the airport or other destinations in Barcelona. Passengers can choose between shared shuttles or private transfers depending on their budget and preferences.

Shared shuttles are perfect for passengers who want an affordable option that still provides comfort during transportation. Private transfers offer more privacy and flexibility since passengers can choose when they want to be picked up or dropped off.

Taxi ranks are also available at Adossat Quay if you prefer taking a taxi straight from your cruise ship. However, keep in mind that taxi fares may vary depending on your destination.

Cheap Car Parks Near Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal

Several affordable car parks near barcelona cruise port terminal.

If you’re planning to embark on a cruise from the Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal, finding an affordable and secure car park is essential. Fortunately, several cheap car parks are available near the terminal that provides convenient parking options for passengers.

The Prices of These Car Parks Vary Depending on the Location and Services Offered

The prices of these car parks vary depending on the location and services offered. Some car parks offer indoor or outdoor parking spaces, while others provide covered or uncovered parking spots. The cost of indoor or covered parking is usually higher than outdoor or uncovered parking.

Some of the Car Parks Offer Shuttle Services to and from the Terminal

To make it easier for passengers to transport their luggage, some of these affordable car parks offer shuttle services to and from the terminal. This service is particularly useful if you have heavy bags or if you’re traveling with young children.

It Is Recommended to Book Your Parking Spot in Advance

Booking your parking spot in advance is highly recommended to ensure availability and avoid last-minute stress. You can book your spot online through various platforms such as ParkVia, Parclick , or Parking Kong. Some car parks also offer discounts for early bookings.

Tours, Shore Excursions, Hotels, and City Tours at Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal

Tours and shore excursions at barcelona cruise port terminal.

The Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the city’s rich culture, history, and architecture. The terminal offers a wide variety of tours and shore excursions that cater to different interests and preferences. Visitors can choose from guided walking tours, bike tours, food tours, wine tasting tours, art museum visits, and many more.

One of the most popular tours available at the terminal is the Gaudi Tour. This tour takes visitors to some of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works in the city such as La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Batllo, and Casa Mila. Another must-try tour is the Gothic Quarter Walking Tour which takes you through Barcelona’s medieval streets while learning about its rich history.

cruise port barcelona

To avoid long queues or fully booked slots upon arrival at the port terminal, tickets for these tours can be purchased online in advance or directly at the terminals themselves. By purchasing tickets ahead of time online visitors can save time and ensure they get a spot on their desired tour.

Other things to do in the city, wander the famous street of La Rambla, the most famous street in Barcelona, this 1.2km boulevard starts at Plaça de Catalunya and ends at the statue of Christopher Columbus down by the port.

cruise port barcelona

Hotels Near Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal

Visitors who prefer to stay near the port terminals have several options for hotels in close proximity. One highly recommended hotel is Helix Cruise Center Hotel which provides guests with comfortable rooms equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi access and air conditioning.

Other nearby hotels include Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel which has stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea; H10 Port Vell which boasts stylish rooms with balconies overlooking the harbor; and Hotel Duquesa de Cardona which features an outdoor pool with panoramic views of Barcelona’s skyline.

City Tours From Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal

Barcelona has so much to offer beyond just what’s within walking distance from its cruise ship terminals. Visitors looking to explore more of what this beautiful city has to offer can easily access shopping areas as well as hop-on-hop-off city tours from the port terminals. These tours take visitors to different parts of the city such as Montserrat, Sitges, and Costa Brava.

Exploring Barcelona on Foot

For those who prefer to explore the city on foot, information is readily available at the port terminal. Visitors can get maps and brochures that detail popular walking routes around the city. One of the most popular walking routes is La Rambla which takes you through some of Barcelona’s most vibrant neighborhoods such as El Raval and Barri Gotic.

About the author

' src=

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest posts

Hotels near Copenhagen Cruise Port

Hotels near Copenhagen Cruise Port

Top 10 Copenhagen Hotels For Cruise Passengers Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a vibrant city that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers, offering a variety of attractions such as colorful buildings, top seafood restaurants, and busy shopping streets. When it comes to boarding a…

Hotels Near Sydney Cruise Port

Hotels Near Sydney Cruise Port

Top 10 Sydney Hotels Near Cruise Port: Luxury To Affordable Options Sydney is a city that boasts a picturesque cruise ship port of call, with two specialized ports catering to cruise passengers. The hotels in and around the port offer a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury to affordable, making it an ideal location…

Hotels near Tampa Cruise Port

Hotels near Tampa Cruise Port

Park, Stay, And Cruise: Hotels Near Tampa Port Cruising from the Tampa Cruise Port can be a thrilling experience, but finding convenient and affordable accommodation with parking and shuttle services can be a daunting task. Fortunately, numerous hotels in the Tampa area offer park, stay, and cruise packages to simplify your pre-cruise stay. These packages…

CRUISE PORT GUIDES

logo

Barcelona – Spain

Cruise Destination Barcelona

About Spain

Inhabitants – 46 million Official language – Spanish Capital city – Madrid

Kingdom of Spain Government – Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Spanish language

Good day – buen dia How are you? – ¿como estas? Thank you – gracias Cruise ship – crucero Port – puerto

Travel information Spain

Official currency – Euro Accepts Us dollars – generally not Creditcards – are often accepted

Drives on the – right Timezone – UTC +1

Also visit our cruise port guides for:

Ajaccio Gibraltar Naples Civitavecchia Valletta Alicante

Cruise Port Guide Barcelona – Spain: docked  

Cruise ship dock at Barcelona’s cruise terminal A, B, C or D. The smaller cruise ships are able to dock at the boulevard. The normal sized ships however will dock at terminal A, B, C or D. Most of the times the cruise liners will provide a shuttle service to get to the city centre. Check with your ship what the plan is for your particular call. If the ship doesn’t provide a shuttle bus you can always use the port shuttle. This is a service offered by the port that you can use for just a couple of euro (pay the driver). It drops you off near the Columbus monument, close to La Rambla (Barcelona’s famous pedestrian street). You are allowed to walk in the port area, but check how far it is before you start your walk. It usually varies from 1 to 2,5 km.  

Taxis in Barcelona

Taxis are available at the cruise terminal in front of the ship. Official taxis are black and yellow. They are equipped with a meter. The taxis at the cruise terminal are here for taxi tours and they are not very keen on short rides. The prices are on display. Please know the taxi prices are roughly:

Placa de Catalunya: 16 euro

Sagrada Familia: 19 euro

Parc Guell: 23 euro

Public Transport

The Public Transport is the easiest way to get around Barcelona. Especially the metro is a great, fast and cheap way to go. Find the nearest metro station at the beginning of the La Rambla. The most important metro stops are: Plaça de Catalunya (heart of Barcelona), Passeig de Gràcia (for Casa Mila or Batllo), Sagrada Famillia (for Sagrada Familia), Diagonal (for Gaudi’s La Pedrera, Paral.lel (for the funicular to Mt Montjuic), Collblanc (for FC Barcelona stadium) and Barceloneta (10 minute walk from the beach). The metro operates between 5 am and midnight. A day ticket for public transport cost 14 euro (valid for 2 days). You can also opt for Billet sensual, this is a one way ticket, but please know you cannot use these to transfer onto another line or bus. We would recommend the Tarjeta T-10, zone 1. This ticket is valid for 10 rides on the metro, bus and tram and only costs you 9,95 euro. Buy it at any metro station.

Hop on hop off bus

The hop on hop off bus is available in Barcelona. Pick it up at the Colombus monument where the shuttle drops you off.

Destination and distance (from the Columbus monument, drop off port bus)

La Rambla 100 meter

Placa Catalunia 1,4 km north

Cathedral 1,2 km north

Picasso museum 1,3 km north

Montjuic 3,2 km west

Sagrada Familia 3,9 km north

Park Guell 5,8 km north

Out of town: Montserrat 52 km north west

Find your port of call:

  • Mediterranean
  • Norway – Cruise port guides
  • Baltic & Scandinavia
  • British isles
  • Western Europe
  • French Polynesia
  • North America
  • Central America
  • Southeast Asia
  • North Africa
  • Middle East

cruise port barcelona

Plaça de Catalunya marks the end of the La Rambla and the beginning of Gaudi land. This is without doubt the most important square for the people of Catalunya. Visit the square for its shopping, its transportation hub of to pass on your way to L’eixample.

Plaça de Catalunya

Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona

Park Güell

Is not in the city centre but well worth visiting. What Gaudi designed to be a residence housing project is nowadays a public park. In the park you’ll find the hall of a 100 columns, the playful arcade, the surfers tube, the mosaic benches and much more.

Park Guell, Carrer d'Olot, Barcelona, Spain

Plaça Reial

When walking down the La Rambla you will see Plaça Reial popping up in the corner of your eye. This is the famous 19th century square with its neoclassical facade. Enjoy the beautiful fine arcades, palm trees and lams designed by nobody less than Antony Gaudi himself. The nice thing about this terrace is also that it is in the sun the entire day and that makes it perfect for a cup of coffee or some local tapas.

Plaça Reial

Plaça Reial, Barcelona

Fundació Joan Miró

It you appreciate contemporary art this is the a museum you simply cannot miss. One of the most influential artist has thousands of pieces of art on display here.

Fundació Joan Miró

Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona, Spain

Casa Milà

Casa Milà from the outside is not as spectacular as Casa Batllo, but the inside is by far more interesting. Here you’ll find several things inside, one of the most important being the museum that explains you in a very visual way the geometrical form of nature behind the architecture of Gaudi. Expect long lines, which will definitely be worth it.

Provença, 261-265, 08008 Barcelona, Spain

Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló was build between 1904 and 1906. Its architect was Gaudi himself. What looks like a house straight out of the story of Hans and Grettle stands here right in the centre of Barcelona. The inside is just as beautiful as the outside, make sure to make a stop inside.

Casa Batlló

Passeig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain

La Rambla

La Rambla is the famous pedestrian street of 1,4 km. It is a great location to start your journey through Barcelona. Get a feel for the place with you stroll along the many souvenir stands, bird market, street artist and outdoor cafe’s.

La Rambla, Barcelona

L’Eixample

This is the “new” district of Barcelona. When the city grew in the 19th century this is where the new neighbourhood was established.

L’Eixample

Placa de Catalunya, Barcelona

Mercat de la Boqueria

Just off the La Rambla you’ll find Barcelona’s famous market: the Mercat de la Boqueria. It is an excellent public food market that is great for local food tastings.

Mercat de la Boqueria

La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain

Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Familia will one day become the most elaborate cathedral in the world. It is Gaudi’s master piece that even today it still unfinished. It is scheduled to open in 2026, a 100 years after Gaudi’s death. You don’t want to miss the inside of the cathedral for the fact that it is one of the most unusual structures in the world.

Sagrada Familia

Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain

Tarjeta T-10 card

If you are wondering what kind of public transport ticket to buy we would recommend T-10 for zone 1. It costs 9,95 euro. It allows you to travel by metro, bus or tram 10 times total. Purchase these cards in cash (coins or notes) from the ticket vending machines at the metro stations.

Tarjeta T-10 card

Barcelona Cathedral

The Cathedral of Barcelona is one not to be missed, because it is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture. This is an architecture style that renewed Europe completely. It changed the experience of the church for the fact that this is the first time since Roman times that they are able to create large windows thanks to the pointy arch. Make sure to step inside to undergo the same religious experience as our fellow humans many centuries ago.

Barcelona Cathedral

Placita de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain

Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia is regarded as the most expensive street in Barcelona and in Spain. It is an archtectual showcase. Modernism is the Catan version of Art Nouveau and you’ll find it here in all its glory. Find the famous Casa Mila and Casa Batlo here.

Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona

Montjuïc

Parc de Montjuïc is the recreation area of Barcelona. It is located on an imposing hill overlooking the city. Green areas, gardens mix with museums and cultural attractions. It is home to: Botanical gardens, Magic Fountains, Archeological Museum, Barcelonas castle, Fundacio Miro and Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya.

Montjuïc, Barcelona

Gothic quarter

The Gothic quarter is something not to be missed. It is a district parallel to La Rambla where you basically step back in time. In this oldest area of Barcelona you’ll find bold towers dating back to Roman times, charming boutiques, medieval labyrinths of pedestrian streets and a mix of 13th and 15th century residences, antique shops and tapas bars.

Gothic quarter

Carrer del Bisbe, Barcelona

Plaça d’Espanya

The square that back in the days was the spot to enjoy a nice public hanging is today the big transportation hub of the city. Catch the train to Montserrat here for example. On this square you will also find the old bullring that nowadays houses the Bullfighting Museum of Barcelona.

Plaça d’Espanya

Av. del Paraŀlel, s/n, 08015 Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona cruise dock

Cruise ships most of the times dock at the cruise terminals A, B, C or D on Molle Adossat. From here you can take the shuttle bus to the city. Find more information on your docking location and transportation options in the full Barcelona cruise port guide.

Barcelona cruise dock

Barcelona cruise port, Barcelona

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

This museum is located on Montjuic Hill. Inside you’ll find impressive collections of Gothic art, Renaissance, Baroque and Modern art. Outside is where you get one of the best experiences of Barcelona. Sit on the staircase overlooking the fountains and Barcelona while enjoying some live music and a cup of coffee.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona, Spain

Add a location?

Do you have a special shop, museum, attraction or tour you would like to share? Add it!

cruise port barcelona

Explore What the Barcelona Cruise Port Has To Offer

B arcelona is a historic city in Spain with plenty of tourism appeal . It is located in the Northeastern Mediterranean coast of mainland Spain. The city is filled with exciting things to do and unique experiences. Barcelona is an area of Spain that has a thriving art culture and welcoming locals. The city is quite expansive, so tourists traveling there should do their research to sort through all the options in the area . Some of the most popular things in Barcelona include top notch cuisine, stunning architecture and culturally significant landmarks.

Cruisers that have a port day in Barcelona are in for a great time. The city is known for its beautiful seaside views, nightlife and striking landscapes. Although many travelers say that longer visits work best, tourists can still explore Barcelona during shorter stays. An amazing port day in Barcelona may even inspire cruisers to visit Barcelona for a longer stay . Here is everything travelers need to know before visiting the Barcelona cruise port.

Is the Barcelona Cruise Port Popular?

Barcelona is a top tourism destination in Europe, so it is no surprise that travelers aim to visit. The city provides a quite walkable and welcoming environment. Over 800 cruises and 2.5 million cruise passengers visit Barcelona each year. The port has become quite popular with travelers. It has distinct areas that establish it as a major port. To better handle cruise crowds, Barcelona has moved cruise ships to its less central pier.

The Moll d’Adossat pier (officially, Port de Barcelona) is now the primary cruise port. This change means travelers now have a short commute to the city center. The change may seem like an inconvenience to travelers, but it also helps to avoid excessive tourism, pollution and crowds. There are seven cruise terminals within the main cruise port of Barcelona. Each terminal (A, B , C, D and E) offers its own amenities, but in general the port is quite modern and popular.

What Cruise Lines Dock at Barcelona’s Cruise Port?

The Barcelona cruise port has plenty of terminals, which holds space for up to seven cruise ships a day. Its high yield for cruise ships and local offerings make it a popular port. There is an array of cruise lines that visit Barcelona’s cruise port. This means that travelers have a huge assortment of cruise lines to choose from for their perfect getaway. These cruise lines include Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Virgin Voyages, Disney, MSC, Seabourn, Oceania, Viking Ocean, Costa, Norwegian, Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, Cunard, Windstar, Silverseas, Holland America, Explora Journeys, Sea Cloud, Ponant and Lindblad cruises.

Things To Do in Barcelona

Barcelona is filled with grand architectural gems, so many tourists enjoy simply walking around. The Gothic Quarter (or Barri Gotic) is an area that is known as the heart of the old city. Because the area dates back to a time before automobiles, the area has been urban planned for walking. This means that travelers will have no problem getting around on foot. Many of the popular tourist’s sites in the city can be reached on foot, once travelers get to the area.

But there is plenty more for travelers to do during their short exploration of Barcelona. Some of the most popular local attractions include the Barcelona Aquarium, Maritime Museum, the Barcelona Cathedral, Casa Batlló and Park Güell. Another popular attraction is La Rambla. La Rambla is the famous Barcelona street that can help travelers get to know the local culture and provide a place to leisurely walk. The street is a nice pedestrian area filled with restaurants, vendors, bars and great photo opportunities.

Transportation

Getting to the central areas of Barcelona is not difficult for travelers since it is an easily accessible tourist destination. Cruisers should actually have an easy time getting around. There is a cruise shuttle bus (called the Blue Bus) that is dedicated for cruise passengers, which stops off around La Rambla. This bus goes between the Barcelona cruise port terminals to town and runs on a daily schedule.

Travelers should be able to catch the bus around every 15 minutes. The Barcelona cruise port can also be reached by taxi. This option is best for travelers who venture out of central areas and need transportation back to the port. The transportation system at the Barcelona port is quite efficient. So, travelers should not have problems catching a ride since buses and taxis are managed to meet the needs of visiting cruise ships.

The cruise port of Barcelona is quite popular due to its safety, amenities and convenience. Pictured: the cityscape of Barcelona with views of the beach and blue skies

Global Ports

Barcelona has managed to become one of the most touristic cities in Europe. According to the Barcelona Tourism Board ( Turisme de Barcelona ) office, 2018 saw 15 million tourists visit. The location of the port area is ideal for cruise passengers to reach the historical centre quickly, enabling them to fully enjoy the many charms and attractions of this great city.

Creuers del Port de Barcelona S. A. was founded in 1999 and develops its business activities in terminals A, B, and C of the Adossat dock as well as North Terminal and South Terminal of the World Trade Center. This port has succesfully become the fourth largest port in the world since its development. 

One of the main objectives of recent managers was the renovation of the terminals so that larger cruise ships could see Barcelona as a destination. Many world renowned cruise lines such as MSC, TUI, and Norwegian now have a fixed stop at this site year after year.

The addition of the connection through the lobby of terminals B and C as well as a specific gangway for the aforementioned cruises have been very well received by both travelers and professionals in the sector. In addition, a continuous effort is made to always be adaptive in the role of the user to achieve excellence.

Thanks to this philosophy, it has been possible to recruit the most appropriate personnel and increase the security measures in the terminals and in all the processes carried out in them. Collaborations with the State security forces also help maintain the high-level of security at the ports.

cruise port barcelona

2022 Best Spanish Cruise Port

cruise port barcelona

2019 Best Spanish Cruise Port

SAFE TRAVELS STAMP

2018 Best Spanish Cruise Port

2017 Best Spanish Cruise Port

Top 5 West med Destination

Best Turnaround Port Operations

Quality of Service and Safety

Europe's Leading Cruise Port

Best Destination Experience

The Third Most Productive Port

Best Turnaround Destination

Most Efficient Terminal Operation

Mejor Proyección Internacional

Most Improved Port Facilities

Most Responsive Port

Most Efficient Port Services

Port with the Most Efficient Services

Port with the Best Turnaround Connections

Best Destination Homeport

Port of the Year

Most Efficient Terminal Operator

Most Improved Terminal Facilities

Mediterranean Most Efficient Terminal Operator

Most Efficient Port Operator

Best New Terminal Building

cruise port barcelona

Barcelona Cruise Port

Photo of Barcelona Cruise Port - Barcelona, B, ES. Barcelona guide

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

Map

Moll Adossat

08039 Barcelona

Recommended Reviews

Photo of Username

  • 1 star rating Not good
  • 2 star rating Could’ve been better
  • 3 star rating OK
  • 4 star rating Good
  • 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

Photo of HoyMay P.

Our cruise ship docked into the Barcelona Cruise Port, Terminal B. Disembarking from the ship to the queue at the taxi takes approximately 1 hour. We chose to hand carry our luggage. For those people who checked their luggage from the ship, the wait was longer. There is only one main option of transport from the terminal and that is to queue for a taxi. Uber is frowned upon by taxis and difficult to set up.

Sign

People Also Viewed

Metro on Yelp

Palau Reial

Suntransfers on Yelp

Suntransfers

United Airlines on Yelp

United Airlines

AIR Europa Lineas Aereas on Yelp

AIR Europa Lineas Aereas

Estació Arc de Triomf on Yelp

Estació Arc de Triomf

Barcelona Sants Estació on Yelp

Barcelona Sants Estació

El-Prat Terminal 1 on Yelp

El-Prat Terminal 1

Alimara on Yelp

Quadrat d’Or

Transport Companies Near Me

Other Transporte Nearby

Find more Transporte near Barcelona Cruise Port

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

  • International edition
  • Australia edition
  • Europe edition

A view from Park Güell

Barcelona bus route removed from map apps to tackle tourist overcrowding

Residents welcome removal of number 116 route, often used to get to Park Güell

While some places will go to any lengths to attract visitors, residents of La Salut neighbourhood in Barcelona are celebrating a move to wipe themselves off the map.

For years, residents had complained that they could not get home because the number 116 bus was always crammed with tourists visiting Antoni Gaudí’s Park Güell. The park is the city’s second most popular attraction after the Sagrada Familia basilica.

Now they have the bus to themselves after the city council arranged to have the route removed from Google and Apple maps.

“We laughed at the idea at first,” said César Sánchez, a local activist. “But we’re amazed that the measure has been so effective.”

Luz López, 75, told elDiario.es: “Before, the bus was so full even people with walking sticks couldn’t get on.”

Albert Batlle, the deputy mayor of security and coexistence on the city council, said that as well as improving mobility around Park Güell, “we needed to eliminate references to the 116 on the internet”.

Batlle declined to admit or deny that the council had asked for the route to be removed, while a Google spokesperson would only say they would not delete a bus route unless requested to do so by the council.

Sánchez, who has been campaigning for eight years for the council to address the problem, joked: “The next thing we need to do is to get the whole of Park Güell removed from Google Maps.”

  • Barcelona holidays

More on this story

cruise port barcelona

‘Summer will be monstrous’: Barcelona wrestles with revival of mass tourism

cruise port barcelona

Catalonia plans law to protect historic shops as rents soar

cruise port barcelona

Controversial Barcelona airport expansion plan agreed

cruise port barcelona

Barcelona cannabis clubs face closure in new legal setback

cruise port barcelona

Surge in violent crime in Barcelona prompts calls for legal reform

cruise port barcelona

Barcelona mayor promises crackdown on cruise ships

cruise port barcelona

Barcelona port is worst in Europe for cruise ship air pollution

cruise port barcelona

Airbnb can’t go on unregulated – it does too much damage to cities

cruise port barcelona

Barcelona Airbnb host 'manages rentals worth £33,000 a day'

Most viewed.

The transformation of the Port of Barcelona to adapt to the future

An economically, socially and environmentally sustainable port, the smart port model: the road to a smart port, highlighted sections.

SAC

Client Service (SAC)

Nexigen

Work with us

Cruceristas

Innovative ecosystem

efficiency_network.jpg

Efficiency Network

Doing business with the port of barcelona, applications, ecocalculator, access time, the port, an engine of social and economic development, companies and organizations.

interact daily at the Port of Barcelona

Coming soon

Seafood expo global, ecg general assembly and spring congress, mediterranean ports & logistics, international logistics exhibition - sil, top logistics europe, the positive impact of the 37th america's cup, towards an emission-neutral port of barcelona, the sustainable transformation of the port of barcelona.

Intermodalidad

A citizen, entrepreneurial and blue port

The activity of the port of barcelona, in real time, car carriers calling today, cruise ships calling today, ferries calling today, most viewed.

The main logistics hub in the Mediterranean.

INFORMATION FOR

Direct access.

Spain to deport dozens of Bolivians whose false visas held up cruise ship in Barcelona

Spain on Thursday will deport more than 60 Bolivians who arrived last week by cruise ship in the northeastern port of Barcelona

MADRID -- Spain will on Thursday deport more than 60 Bolivians who arrived last week by cruise ship in the northeastern port of Barcelona but were not allowed to disembark because their visas were false.

The Spanish government’s office in Barcelona said 65 of the 69 Bolivians who arrived will be flown to the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz. The plane will be paid for by MSC Cruises, which owns the ship in which they arrived from Brazil.

Four members of a family with Spanish relatives will be allowed to enter Spain .

Spanish authorities said the Bolivian passengers had false visas to enter the European border-free Schengen area, an ID-check-free travel zone comprising 29 European countries.

The Bolivians’ visa problems meant that the cruise ship with more than 1,000 passengers was stuck for two days in Barcelona and unable to continue on its route in the Mediterranean Sea until the situation was resolved.

The cruise ship set sail after the Bolivians were temporarily accommodated in another boat while police interviewed them.

MSC Cruises said last week the Bolivian passengers’ documentation appeared correct upon boarding in Brazil.

Top Stories

cruise port barcelona

Trump hush money trial live updates: 12 jurors now seated, alternates to come

  • 7 minutes ago

cruise port barcelona

Rep. Omar's daughter suspended from Columbia University amid protests

  • 22 minutes ago

cruise port barcelona

USC valedictorian speaks out after school canceled her commencement speech

  • 2 hours ago

cruise port barcelona

Nobel-winning molecular biologist on the consequences of aging

  • Apr 17, 12:05 PM

cruise port barcelona

Bear cub recovering after being dropped by bystander who picked it up, took photos

  • 27 minutes ago

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

  • Election 2024
  • Entertainment
  • Newsletters
  • Photography
  • Personal Finance
  • AP Investigations
  • AP Buyline Personal Finance
  • AP Buyline Shopping
  • Press Releases
  • Israel-Hamas War
  • Russia-Ukraine War
  • Global elections
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East
  • Election Results
  • Delegate Tracker
  • AP & Elections
  • March Madness
  • AP Top 25 Poll
  • Movie reviews
  • Book reviews
  • Personal finance
  • Financial Markets
  • Business Highlights
  • Financial wellness
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Social Media

Spain to deport dozens of Bolivians whose false visas held up cruise ship in Barcelona

FILE - Passengers are photographed on the cruise ship MSC Armony, moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, on April 3, 2024. Spain is to deport more than 60 Bolivians who arrived last week by cruise ship in Barcelona but were not allowed to disembark because their visas were false. Spanish government officials said 65 of the 69 Bolivians that arrived would be flown to the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti, File)

FILE - Passengers are photographed on the cruise ship MSC Armony, moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, on April 3, 2024. Spain is to deport more than 60 Bolivians who arrived last week by cruise ship in Barcelona but were not allowed to disembark because their visas were false. Spanish government officials said 65 of the 69 Bolivians that arrived would be flown to the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti, File)

  • Copy Link copied

MADRID (AP) — Spain will on Thursday deport more than 60 Bolivians who arrived last week by cruise ship in the northeastern port of Barcelona but were not allowed to disembark because their visas were false.

The Spanish government’s office in Barcelona said 65 of the 69 Bolivians who arrived will be flown to the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz. The plane will be paid for by MSC Cruises, which owns the ship in which they arrived from Brazil.

Four members of a family with Spanish relatives will be allowed to enter Spain.

Spanish authorities said the Bolivian passengers had false visas to enter the European border-free Schengen area, an ID-check-free travel zone comprising 29 European countries.

The Bolivians’ visa problems meant that the cruise ship with more than 1,000 passengers was stuck for two days in Barcelona and unable to continue on its route in the Mediterranean Sea until the situation was resolved.

The cruise ship set sail after the Bolivians were temporarily accommodated in another boat while police interviewed them.

MSC Cruises said last week the Bolivian passengers’ documentation appeared correct upon boarding in Brazil.

cruise port barcelona

COMMENTS

  1. Barcelona Cruise Port and Terminal Information

    Learn how to get to the Barcelona cruise port, where to park, and what services are available at each terminal. Find out how to get from the airport, the city center, and other attractions to the port by car, bus, metro, or taxi.

  2. HomePage

    Find out everything you need to know about Barcelona Cruise Port, Europe's leading cruise port. Check the cruise schedules, terminals, services, tips and attractions for your visit.

  3. Barcelona Cruise Port Terminal: Tourist Transport, Dock Facilities

    Find out how to get to and from the Barcelona cruise port terminals by shuttle, taxi, metro or walking. Learn about the location, services and nearby attractions of the cruise port area.

  4. Barcelona (Spain) cruise port schedule

    The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Barcelona, Spain. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates - just follow the corresponding ship-link. Barcelona cruise port schedule 2024-2025-2026, map, address, ship terminals, hotels, tours ...

  5. Barcelona Cruise Port: A complete guide for first-timers

    Learn how to get to and from Barcelona Cruise Port, the best shore excursions and the top things to do close by. Find out the location, map, terminals, transportation options and tips for your cruise in Barcelona.

  6. Barcelona Cruise Port: Best Tips for First-Time Visitors

    The Barcelona Cruise Port is a bustling hub for Mediterranean cruises, offering top-notch facilities and services. It's conveniently close to the city center, providing tourists easy access to Barcelona's rich cultural heritage, architecture, dining spots, and shopping areas.

  7. 10 Amazing Things To Do In Barcelona Cruise Port + Port Guide

    Explore Sagrada Familia tours and activities. 2. Casa Batlló. Located on one of main Barcelona's shopping and business avenues - Passeig de Gràcia, in the heart of the Eixample district, Casa Batlló is another of Gaudi's masterpieces and one of the finest architectural examples of Gaudi's approach to Catalan Modernism.

  8. Barcelona Cruise Port > Your Ultimate Guide

    The Barcelona Cruise Port is well-equipped for travelers with disabilities, featuring lifts and accessible transportation. If you plan to explore the Balearic Islands, you'll find ferry operators like Acciona Trasmediterranea and Balearia offering trips to Mallorca, Minorca, or Ibiza.

  9. Barcelona Cruise Terminal

    Palacruceros cruise terminal was designed by Studio Vicini (Arch. Luigi Vicini and Andrea Piazza). Opened since 2007, it has been the center of operations for major cruise shipping companies in the region. It is located at Pier Adossat at the Port of Barcelona, approximately 800m from the bridge. Learn more.

  10. Passenger terminals

    The Port of Barcelona is the leading cruise port in Europe and the Mediterranean and has seven international passenger terminals located on the Adossat quay and the Barcelona quay. All of them have a wide range of services for cruise passengers and ships and are equipped with the highest security measures and highly qualified personnel.

  11. Barcelona Cruise Port Guide: Everything You Need to Know

    If your cruise starts or ends in Barcelona, you'll need to have a way to get to and from the airport and cruise terminal. There are three main ways to travel between Barcelona Airport and the cruise port: by taxi, train, or bus. ️ Taxis to the cruise port from the airport typically take around 15 minutes and cost around €40.

  12. Information to the passenger

    The Port of Barcelona and its cruise terminals, starting point. In collaboration with companies specialised in the cruise sector and with all the institutions involved, the Port of Barcelona can accommodate more than three million cruise passengers each year through its seven international terminals. For this, it has the best infrastructures ...

  13. General Information

    Barcelona Cruise Port consists of 5 terminals, which are located in 2 different areas. Terminals A, B and C are located in the Muelle Adosado, and the North and South terminals in the World Trade Center of Barcelona. Click to the pins on the map to get more information.

  14. Barcelona to Cruise Port Guide: Expert Tips & Tricks!

    Learn about the history, facilities, and attractions of Barcelona's cruise port, a gateway to the Mediterranean Sea. Find out the best ways to travel from the city center, airport, train stations, and bus stations to the port.

  15. Barcelona Spain Cruise Port

    The port is the starting and arrival point for many Mediterranean cruise itineraries. The seven operating terminals, and the various docks and facilities, are at a short distance from the city center. The terminal is at Port Vell in Barcelona which is at the Southern most end of the famous Ramblas. The seaport terminal is only 10 min's walk ...

  16. Terminales WTCB

    Terminales WTCB. The South terminal of the WTCB (Word Trade Center Barcelona) of the Port of Barcelona is the only one located on the Barcelona quay, just 5 minutes from the city centre. It can accommodate up to 2 medium-sised cruise ships and is surrounded by all kinds of passenger services.

  17. The Cruise Terminals in Barcelona (Spain) Port: Review (2023)

    Barcelona's two cruise ports (WTC Port and Moll Adossat) are ideally located to explore the city. The WTC Port has 3 piers around the World Trade Center building, it is located just under 1/2 a mile (700 meters) from the Plaça Colon and the start of La Rambla, but only small cruise ships can dock here. WTC Port in Barcelona.

  18. Barcelona Cruise Port

    Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and its cruise port terminal is a major gateway for travelers from all over the world. The new terminal at Barcelona Cruise Port is a state-of-the-art facility that offers a seamless experience for passengers. Equipped with modern amenities such as restaurants, shops, and lounges, the ...

  19. Map Barcelona Port: Maps of Barcelona Cruise Terminals

    Location of Barcelona Cruise Port in relation to Barcelona city centre. On arrival at Barcelona cruise port, depending on what terminal you arrive into, you will be able to either walk or take the Cruise Bus to the World Trade Centre, from there you have a 15 minute walk to the of the Ramblas.. Barcelona cruise port covers a large area along the coastline of the city of Barcelona.

  20. Barcelona Cruise Port Guide

    Cruise port guide for Barcelona, Spain. Information on where your ship docks, how to get from the port into the city, maps, bus and shuttle information, public transport options, cruise terminal information, cruise port schedules, must see sights, shopping guides, restaurant guides, internet and wifi locations, and suggestions for things to do.

  21. Cruise Port Guide Barcelona

    Cruise Port Guide Barcelona - Spain: docked. Cruise ship dock at Barcelona's cruise terminal A, B, C or D. The smaller cruise ships are able to dock at the boulevard. The normal sized ships however will dock at terminal A, B, C or D. Most of the times the cruise liners will provide a shuttle service to get to the city centre.

  22. Explore What the Barcelona Cruise Port Has To Offer

    The Barcelona cruise port has plenty of terminals, which holds space for up to seven cruise ships a day. Its high yield for cruise ships and local offerings make it a popular port. There is an ...

  23. About Us

    Barcelona has managed to become one of the most touristic cities in Europe. According to the Barcelona Tourism Board (Turisme de Barcelona) office, 2018 saw 15 million tourists visit.The location of the port area is ideal for cruise passengers to reach the historical centre quickly, enabling them to fully enjoy the many charms and attractions of this great city.

  24. How to get to Barcelona from cruise port

    In the next 5 minutes I will explain to you what are the 3 best ways to get from the port of Barcelona, where the cruise ships stop, to the city center so you can start discovering this wonderful city. Option 1. with private transfer Option 2 with a taxi Option 3 with the port bus. Here you will find useful information: timetables, prices, etc.

  25. BARCELONA CRUISE PORT

    1 review and 2 photos of Barcelona Cruise Port "Our cruise ship docked into the Barcelona Cruise Port, Terminal B. Disembarking from the ship to the queue at the taxi takes approximately 1 hour. We chose to hand carry our luggage. For those people who checked their luggage from the ship, the wait was longer. There is only one main option of transport from the terminal and that is to queue for ...

  26. Barcelona bus route removed from map apps to tackle tourist

    Barcelona mayor promises crackdown on cruise ships. 5 Jul 2019. Barcelona port is worst in Europe for cruise ship air pollution. 7 Jun 2019. Airbnb can't go on unregulated - it does too much ...

  27. Port de Barcelona

    Intermodality and rail transport. The Port of Barcelona's commitment to rail takes 172,521 trucks off the roads every year. Alternative fuels. While green fuels such as bio-fuels, e-fuels, synfuels and green hydrogen are consolidating, the port is leading the way in the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Circular economy.

  28. Spain to deport dozens of Bolivians whose false visas held up cruise

    FILE - Passengers are photographed on the cruise ship MSC Armony, moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, on April 3, 2024. Spain is to deport more than 60 Bolivians who arrived last week by ...

  29. Spain to deport dozens of Bolivians whose false visas held up cruise

    FILE - Passengers are photographed on the cruise ship MSC Armony, moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, on April 3, 2024. Spain is to deport more than 60 Bolivians who arrived last week by cruise ship in Barcelona but were not allowed to disembark because their visas were false.

  30. Carnival Glory Sets Sail For Now Home of Port Canaveral

    Carnival Glory returned to service today in Barcelona following a 21-day dry dock. The ship is setting sail on a 14-day Carnival Journeys transatlantic cruise to the ship's new homeport of Port Canaveral, Fla. . Over the last three weeks, the ship received several enhancements, including a new casino layout, refreshed décor and furnishings across all public areas and a newly added Heroes ...