The Grand Départ of the 2026 Tour de France turned Barcelona’s streets into a major cycling stage for several days. Although the race continues its journey through France towards Paris, its legacy remains and invites us to discover Barcelona by bike.
What has the Tour de France meant for Barcelona?
In addition to strengthening Barcelona’s international profile, the Tour highlighted its cycling tradition and showed that the city can be explored and enjoyed by bike. It also showcased its historical heritage, cultural wealth and some of its most iconic landmarks.
What are the best cycling routes in Barcelona?
Barcelona has an extensive network of cycle lanes and a variety of urban itineraries. From Pensión 45, we suggest three routes for discovering the city by bike after the 2026 Tour de France.
1. Panoramic route through Montjuïc
Approximate distance: 6.9 kilometres
Estimated duration: 30 minutes without stops; between 60 and 90 minutes with stops
Difficulty: moderate
Type of route: urban, with slopes and panoramic views
Start at Plaça d’Espanya and continue towards the Font Màgica and Poble Espanyol. Then climb up to the Anella Olímpica and continue through Montjuïc hill. The route reaches the Mirador de l’Alcalde, which offers sweeping views of Barcelona. The route finishes next to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya.
2. Barcelona seafront route
Approximate distance: 8.1 kilometres
Estimated duration: 25 minutes without stops; between 60 and 90 minutes with stops
Difficulty: easy
Type of route: flat and close to the sea
Start at Port Vell and continue towards Barceloneta beach, following Barcelona’s coastline. The route then passes Port Olímpic and continues alongside Bogatell beach and Mar Bella beach. It finishes at Parc del Fòrum, after a pleasant and almost entirely flat ride by the sea.
3. Monumental route through Barcelona
Approximate distance: 5.9 kilometres
Estimated duration: 23 minutes without stops; between 60 and 90 minutes with stops at the monuments
Difficulty: easy
Type of route: urban and cultural
Start at Plaça de Catalunya and continue along Passeig de Gràcia, where you can admire Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. From there, continue to the Sagrada Família and then head towards the Arc de Triomf. The route finishes in Parc de la Ciutadella, one of Barcelona’s best-known green spaces.
What do you need to know before cycling around Barcelona?
Before exploring Barcelona by bike, it is advisable to familiarise yourself with the regulations and plan your route. The city has an extensive network of cycle lanes. Helmets are compulsory for children under the age of 16, and bicycles must be equipped with a bell and lights at night. Cycling while wearing headphones is also prohibited, bicycles must be parked in designated areas, and access to public transport is subject to certain restrictions.
Where should you stay to discover Barcelona by bike?
Pensión 45 is a great accommodation option in central Barcelona for visitors who want to discover the city by bike. It offers comfort, tranquillity and a welcoming atmosphere, with a location close to Plaça de Catalunya.
Discover Barcelona while staying at Pensión 45 and enjoy a practical and pleasant stay close to the city’s main attractions.