What if you could experience the sensations and emotions of the Tour de France under the Barcelona sun?
Well, it’s possible! The Tour de France will be held on July 4th and 6th to welcome cyclists from all over the world. Yes, this year Barcelona has the honor of hosting the Grand Départ of the Tour.
The 2026 Tour de France will start in Barcelona
In 2026, the Tour de France will begin in Barcelona. This is a first for our Catalan capital and a major event for all of Spain. For a few days, all eyes will be on Catalonia for the start of one of the world’s most famous cycling races.
An exceptional start
The official start of the Tour, called the Grand Départ, will take place on July 4, 2026. While this isn’t the first time the Tour has started in Spain, it is the first time Barcelona will host this event.
The first three stages will take place in the region, showcasing the Catalan landscapes and cities.
The first stage
It will take place on July 4 and will be a team time trial through the streets of Barcelona. This means that riders from the same team will ride together to achieve the best time. A 19 km stage that promises to keep us on the edge of our seats. The route will pass by famous landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia and Montjuïc hill.
Stage Two
It will take place on Sunday, July 5th, and the riders will depart from Tarragona and return to Barcelona. This 182.4 km stage offers breathtaking scenery along the Mediterranean coast.
Stage Three
Finally, this stage will begin in Granollers on July 6th and head into the mountains towards France. This 196 km stage will start in Granollers, north of Barcelona, before finishing in Les Angles.
A big celebration for the City
For Barcelona, hosting the start of the Tour de France is a huge opportunity. The city will welcome thousands of visitors and will be seen by millions of television viewers worldwide.
It’s also a way to showcase its monuments, culture, and atmosphere.
A Spectacular Start to the Tour
With challenging stages right from the beginning, the 2026 Tour de France promises to be very exciting to follow. The departure from Barcelona sets the tone: spectacle, sport and a lot of intensity from the very first days.