Barcelona is packed with iconic sites that attract millions of visitors every year. One of these is Montjuic, the green hill to the west of the city that offers stunning views of the sea and the cityscape. Often prized for its magical fountain and castle, the hill also has a wealth of cultural attractions to offer
Whether you’re an amateur or a keen cyclist, getting to Montjuic by bike will be a unique experience combining sport, discovery and exceptional scenery.
Let Born Bike Tours Barcelona be your guide on this adventure!
Why choose to explore Montjuic by bike?
Cycling to Montjuic allows you to immerse yourself in Barcelona’s history while experiencing the climb to the full.
1. A sporting climb with rewards in store
Montjuic is a hill 173 metres high. The climb can be difficult, but always rewarding. You’ll be rewarded with magnificent views. What’s more, there are several routes to suit all levels. The ascent and descent can take you through very different landscapes, and you can choose according to your level.
2. A journey through history and culture
The hill is considered an open-air cultural centre. It is packed with major historical sites such as the Castle and the MNAC (National Museum of Catalan Art). All these sites are within easy reach, so you can enjoy the fresh air of Montjuic.
3. A natural and soothing setting
Montjuic is above all a large green space in the heart of the city. Here you’ll find numerous gardens and parks that many consider to be havens of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can take a break in the gardens or go for a stroll, offering a complete contrast to the city nearby.
The different routes up Montjuic
1. The classic route: from Plaça d'Espanya
This route is the most popular because it offers a gradual ascent along the hillside. This allows you to warm up gradually, ideal for beginners who want to enjoy the natural air of the hill. On this route, you’ll pass Montjuic Park and its world-famous fountains.
This walk is accessible to everyone, adults and children alike. So it’s ideal for families!
2. The sporting route: the route des châteaux
This route is best suited to experienced cyclists because of its steeper gradients.
It starts at the base of the hill, near the Parc de la Mar Bella. The route climbs straight up to Montjuic Castle. As well as offering spectacular views, this walk also promises to be a thrill. The route ends at the Castle, where you can stop for a visit before continuing on to the gardens on the hill.
3. The multi-purpose route: the Park and the Olympic Stadium
This route offers a more gradual ascent to the Castle. It allows you to discover Montjuic as well as its historic and modern sites. It starts in Plaça d’Espanya, near the MNAC. You’ll then set off to explore the historical, sporting and natural aspects of the hill, not forgetting its natural gems. The route will take you past gardens including the Botanical Gardens and the Olympic Park.
This tour is suitable for people who already have some experience of cycling.
Must-see attractions on Montjuic
- Montjuic Castle: an emblematic feature of the hill, this castle offers unbeatable views of the city and the sea. Considered one of Barcelona’s must-sees, it offers pleasant, leafy walks.
You can also take the opportunity to visit the castle’s military museum.
- MNAC: Barcelona’s National Museum of Catalan Art is undoubtedly one of the city’s best-known museums. Just as important as the Castle, this museum boasts impressive art collections, all housed in a building of majestic architecture. If you don’t want to go inside, stop for a moment to enjoy the splendid view over the city.
- Montjuïc Gardens: these lush green spaces are ideal for a break, a stroll or a picnic. One of the most emblematic is undoubtedly the Laribal Garden, an oriental garden known for its magnificent fountains.
- The Magic Fountain: created for the 1929 International Exhibition, this fountain offers night-time shows of light, water and music to delight young and old alike.
PLEASE NOTE: all the city’s fountains are currently out of service for water conservation reasons.
Tips for cycling up Montjuic
- Choosing the right time: this can be very important, especially in summer when temperatures rise. In such cases, you should opt for an early morning or late afternoon departure, to avoid the summer heat.
- Hydration and comfort: remember to take a full bottle of water with you and hydrate regularly. It’s also important to adjust your bike properly before setting off, so that you can enjoy the climb in complete peace of mind.
- Respect safety rules: it’s very important to respect the rules of the road and to be on your guard for pedestrians. It’s also advisable to wear a helmet (compulsory for young people up to the age of 16).
- Bike hire: if you don’t have your own bike, you can hire one from Born Bike Tours for a day!
- Guided tour: if you’re short of time or don’t want to miss anything about Montjuic, join our Montjuic: Art & Magic bike tour and discover the hill’s most hidden facets!
Discovering Montjuic hill by bike is a must in Barcelona. It’s a great way to combine sport and tourism, while enjoying the fresh air of nature without leaving the city. If you choose to climb by bike rather than by cable car, you can be sure of magnificent views of the city and the sea. What’s more, this activity is accessible to everyone thanks to the many routes available.
So don’t wait any longer and pedal your way to an unforgettable experience on Montjuic!

















