Known as one of the best forms of public transport in all of Europe, the Barcelona Metro is an impressive network of underground train lines that can take you all over the city in a short amount of time. There are a range of different ticket options: some passes will give you a a certain number of trips, while others provide unlimited trips in a given span of time. Although it can be confusing at first, the Barcelona Metro system is very easy to navigate, especially with all of the technological advances. Here is a guide to everything you need to know to use the Barcelona Metro.
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The basics of purchasing a Barcelona Metro card
There are several different options when purchasing a Barcelona Metro card. These can be purchased at the vending machines inside the Metro stations or also purchased online. When deciding what card to purchase, it is important to consider how long you will need to use the Metro, as well as how often. If you are planning on staying in Barcelona for about a month and will be using the Metro a lot, the T-usual card is for you. For use in transport zone 1 - which contains almost all the Metro network - the T-usual card costs 20 euros and has unlimited travel for a month. If you are not planning on using the Metro a lot, the T-casual card is a better option. Costing 11.35 euros, you are allowed 10 Metro journeys in zone 1. For those travelling in a group, the T-grup or T-familiar cards may be the best option. The T-grup card is a multiperson card that allows for 70 trips in 30 days for the price of 79.45 euros; while the T-familiar, costing 10 euros, allows 8 trips over 30 days and can be shared by up to 4 people. For those under the age of 30, the T-jove pass is available for 40 euros. This card allows for unlimited Metro journeys for 90 days. There are other options available for Metro cards such as a single journey card or a card effective for 72 hours. With many options available, the Barcelona Metro is very accessible.
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Learning the different Barcelona Metro lines and routes
With the influence of modern technology, it is quite simple to figure out what route you need to take on the Barcelona Metro to arrive at your destination. Most mobile phones have mapping systems where you can select the option of using public transport, and the app will guide you there. If you prefer to not use a device, there are maps all over the walls inside the Metro to help you determine the most efficient lines to take. The Metro is made up of 8 lines and 165 stations and trains, giving you many options to travel around the city. Each line has multiple stops where the station connects to another line, making it very easy to get from one train to the next. The lines are each associated with a number and a colour to simplify the process if you need to remember your route or ask for directions. Once you start using the Barcelona Metro, you will start learning the stops and be able to navigate on your own in no time!
The Barcelona Metro operating hours and weekly schedule
The Barcelona Metro trains are known for being on time, loyal to their schedules. But it is important to know the days and hours of operation. Fortunately, the Barcelona Metro runs every day of the week, including holidays with some alternate hours. During the week, the Metro runs on Monday through Thursday from 5am until midnight. On Fridays and the nights before public holidays, it runs from 5am until 2am the next morning. On Saturday, the Metro starts running at 5am and has continuous service until midnight on Sunday. These hours make the Metro a convenient and reliable transport option.