Cruises from Barcelona

History & culture

Docking at Barcelona’s cruise port puts you within walking distance of the city’s Gothic quarter - leading you on a stroll that can take in over 2000 years of architectural art and wonder. A melting pot of modernist, basque, Roman and Catalan buildings, the city’s history unfolds as you flit between tapas stops and sun-drenched terraces. Gaudi’s vibrant and colourful buildings and sculptures set Barcelona apart from other European capitals, though Europe’s long-held love of art is felt just as strongly in this city. Botanical gardens ensure the attention to detail extends to the horticultural landscapes and a diverse music scene caters for just about every taste.

Food & drink

Head to the best tapas spots on Las Ramblas as soon as you dock in Barcelona’s cruise port. You’ll struggle to find better jamón stuffed croquetas elsewhere. When you’re done with the small plates, turn your attention to dessert. Rich crema Catalana is a small but decadent creme brûlée worth indulging in. For a larger local dish, paella is hard to beat. Adventurous foodies might enjoy Esqueixada - though raw salted cod can be a tough choice next to a fiery bowl of patatas bravas. You can pair any dish with a coffee, since Barcelona knows how to roast, grind and brew its beans.

Discover all the tips to make the most of your visit on our Barcelona city guide!

Tarragona

If you’ve docked at the Barcelona cruise port before - and want to explore further, head south to Tarragona. A UNESCO world heritage site, this small fishing village is a world away from the bustling streets of Barcelona. Wander through Roman ruins, mooch along the mediaeval streets in Tarragona’s centre or simply enjoy the daily catch at the beach-side cafes.

Serra de Collserola Natural Park

Take a 25 minute car ride north to explore Barcelona’s nearby natural park. Pine forest peaks - with biking and hiking trails, cover 8,000 hectares of Mediterranean green space. The wildlife doesn’t get too exotic, though birdwatchers will be charmed by the blue tits and robins that flit between the trees.

Sitges

Sitges is a charming coastal spot that changes with the seasons. Head here from the Barcelona cruise port in summer and you may well find a festival in full swing. When summer’s over, Sitges’ stunning beaches, stellar galleries and chic restaurants make it a popular place to relax and unwind.

• Barcelona cruise port

Sagrada Familia

Gaudi’s most impressive work in Barcelona - the Sagrada Família, is a jaw dropping sight to behold. Still unfinished, the church has taken over 100 years to build since construction began. Controversial, steeped in history and exquisitely detailed, this is a site for history, architecture and culture fans alike.

Las Ramblas

Barcelona’s most famous street does have a reputation for being geared towards tourists. Just a short walk from the port, it is an easy way to experience the city in a short space of time that shouldn’t be dismissed, Shopping, entertainment and tapas are all on hand. Don’t miss the side streets for a peek at the real Barcelona.

Park Güell

Gaudi’s influence and creations are dotted across Barcelona, but if you’re short on time during your Barcelona cruise, Park Güell is the place to take in Gaudi’s colourful take on architecture. Relax in the green spaces around the park and learn more about Antoni Gaudi’s life and work.

Want more? Don’t miss out on our tips on the best way to spend a day in Barcelona!

Currency considerations

The Euro is Barcelona’s official currency. VISA and Mastercard are widely accepted in the city, but be mindful of any foreign currency fees charged by your provider. ATMs are city wide, and banks offering currency exchanges are open weekdays, 8:30am - 2pm.

Customs / traditions to be aware of 

Meal times can be a little later in Spain, with lunch being eaten up until 4pm and restaurants waiting until 8pm to open for dinner. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but expect to leave around 5% for good service. Outside of the city, shops tend to close for lunch - though expect some stores to stay open until late evening in the summer.

Making the most use of short durations in port

Strolling the length of Las Ramblas delivers a dose of Barcelona - albeit a slightly tourism-centric one. To see as much as possible? Use the Metro to get around avoiding Barcelona’s traffic jams.

Transport

Barcelona’s transport system is sizable but easy to navigate. Metros, buses and 200km of cycle lanes make exploring the city fast and efficient. The city’s three cable cars take the leg work out of accessing the stellar surrounding views.

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• How do you get from Barcelona Airport to the cruise terminal?

The easiest and quickest way to get from Barcelona Airport to the cruise terminal is by taxi. Direct and simple, the fare is fixed (usually at ~€39) and transfers you from Barcelona Airport terminal to the cruise terminal. There is no direct route by bus or train. 

• Where do cruise ships dock in Barcelona?

Cruise ships dock at 7 cruise terminals in Barcelona - all are located in the port at the end of Barcelona’s famous Las Ramblas. Two terminals at the World Trade Centre pier are the closest to the city centre, while the remaining five berths can be found on the Adossat Quay pier. 

• Where is the best to stay in Barcelona near the cruise port?

One of the best places to stay in Barcelona, that’s also near the cruise port is the 5 star, Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel GL. Right on Las Ramblas, the hotel benefits from port views and is just a short walk away from the closest cruise terminals. In terms of good value, the 4 star Olivia Plaza Hotel is a little further away, but still benefits from a central Las Ramblas location.