Tour de France 2026: May the best one win!

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.

Why Barcelona Is Falling behind in the Cycling Rankings

Barcelona once enjoyed a strong reputation when it came to cycling mobility.

Discover the historic and cultural city of Barcelona with Born Bike Tours by bicycle.

A few years ago, the city even ranked among the top thirteen in the world. However, in the new Copenhagenize Index 2025, it has dropped to the forty-second position. This is a significant decline, especially considering that in 2017 Barcelona was still ranked eleventh. For a city often cited as a model of urban transformation, this drop is a clear warning sign. Discussions about sustainable transport models are everywhere, but real progress does not always keep pace with official plans.

Factors in the Assessment
In 2019, Barcelona held a solid thirteenth place among the most bicycle friendly cities. Now, the city has slipped into the middle range of the ranking. The evaluation takes into account factors such as the expansion of bike lanes, road safety, urban planning, bike sharing systems, parking options and the share of cycling within overall mobility.

However, the Copenhagenize Index identifies three key elements:

1. reliable and stable funding
2. consistent political direction
3. an administration capable of carrying out projects effectively

In other words, cities that create new plans every year but fail to implement them consistently inevitably fall behind.

Enjoy Valenica by bike with valenciabikes.com

Have a fun day in Valencia with valenciabikes.com

Barcelona Is No Longer Spain’s Top Performer
For many years, Barcelona was the highest ranked Spanish city. This year, the situation has changed. Vitoria Gasteiz now enters the ranking at position twenty seven, while Valencia rises to thirty one. Both cities are now ahead of Barcelona. This clearly shows that the issue is not Spain as a whole, but Barcelona’s own priorities.

Utrecht and Paris Lead the Way
The top position in this year’s Copenhagenize Index goes to Utrecht. The Dutch city has long been a model for its consistent and well planned cycling policies. It offers a dense network of safe routes and treats the bicycle as a central element of daily mobility. As a result, around one third of all trips there are made by bike.

Bike tours offer an immersive way to discover new destinations, combining scenic cycling routes, outdoor adventure, and eco-friendly travel

Paris is also among the major climbers in the current ranking. In recent years, the city has invested heavily in new bike lanes, traffic calming measures and a modern mobility network. The official Plan Vélo shows how a clear political prioritization can lead to a significant boost in just a few years.

Conclusion
The director of Copenhagenize sums it up well. Cycling is no longer considered a secondary issue, but a core component of climate action, public health and overall quality of life. Therefore, cities that understand this work in a structured and long-term manner. Barcelona still has much to learn in this regard and can no longer rely solely on pilot projects.

Discover cultural and historical sites in small groups by bike

UNESCO Sites in Barcelona

La Sagrada Família

Let us begin with Barcelona’s most iconic monument: the Sagrada Família, an unfinished masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, started in 1882. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (only the Nativity Façade and the Crypt), it welcomed 4.8 million visitors in 2024. Often described as a “stone Bible,” it tells the story of Christian faith through an unprecedented blend of Gothic art, Catalan Modernism, and Art Nouveau.

Façades and Towers

Nativity Façade: rich in naturalistic sculptures — trees, animals like turtles (symbols of time) and chameleons (change) — facing east to catch the morning light.
Passion Façade: sober and dramatic, designed by Josep Maria Subirachs, it contrasts with the Nativity Façade through its stark depiction of the crucifixion.
Glory Façade: under construction since 2002, intended as the main entrance, with completion expected by 2034.
Towers: 18 symbolic spires are planned (12 apostles, 4 evangelists, Mary, and Jesus). The tallest, dedicated to Jesus, will reach 172.5 meters in 2026, making it the tallest church in Europe.

Interior: a forest of stone

The interior astonishes with 36 tree-like columns, sculpted from basalt, sandstone, and porphyry, branching out like trunks to form a celestial vault. The central columns represent the Evangelists with their symbols (angel, lion, ox, eagle), carved in red porphyry, supporting the tallest tower.

The stained-glass windows create shifting light: cool tones (blue, green) to the east evoke the Nativity, while warm colors (yellow, red) to the west reference the Passion and Resurrection. The vaulted ceiling, inspired by geometric shapes (hyperboloids, paraboloids), evokes a mystical universe, visually extending the columns.

The Sagrada Família is also an active place of worship. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance and respect the sacred atmosphere.

Other Gaudí Works Listed by UNESCO

All the following sites are part of the “Works of Antoni Gaudí” World Heritage listing:

Parc Güell (1984)

Designed between 1900 and 1914, Parc Güell is one of Gaudí’s most iconic creations. Initially intended as a residential project for the upper class, it became a public park due to its commercial failure. The park spans 17 hectares, of which 12 are UNESCO-protected. Notable features include the mosaic salamander, the serpentine bench decorated with trencadís, and the hypostyle hall supported by 86 columns. The park offers panoramic views of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea.

Casa Batlló (2005)

Located on Passeig de Gràcia, Casa Batlló is a renovation of an existing building carried out by Gaudí between 1904 and 1906. Its undulating façade, mask-like balconies, and bone-like columns earned it the nickname “House of Bones.” Inside, Gaudí designed every detail, from stained glass to furniture and fireplaces. The dragon-back-shaped roof is covered in colorful tiles, and the central chimney is surrounded by ceramic columns.

Casa Milà – La Pedrera (1984)

Built between 1906 and 1912, Casa Milà, nicknamed “La Pedrera” for its resemblance to a stone quarry, is a testament to Gaudí’s architectural innovation. The building features organic forms inspired by nature, with wavy façades and wrought-iron balconies. The rooftop includes sculptural chimneys and offers stunning city views. Inside, there is a museum dedicated to Gaudí and an exhibition space.

Casa Vicens (2015)

Built between 1883 and 1885, Casa Vicens is one of Gaudí’s first major works. Located in the Gràcia neighborhood, it combines oriental and neo-Mudéjar styles. The façade is adorned with red bricks, colorful ceramics, and floral motifs. Inside, Gaudí used natural materials and organic forms to create a harmonious space. The house was restored and opened to the public in 2016, offering insight into the architect’s early career.

Palau Güell (1984)

Built between 1886 and 1888, Palau Güell was an urban residence commissioned by patron Eusebi Güell. Located in the Raval neighborhood, it features neo-Mudéjar elements, horseshoe arches, and ceramic decorations. The interior is richly adorned with carved wood paneling and colorful stained glass. The rooftop includes sculptural chimneys characteristic of Gaudí’s style.

Cripta de la Colonia Güell (2005)

Located in Santa Coloma de Cervelló, the Crypt of the Colònia Güell is an unfinished project by Gaudí, begun in 1898 and partially built between 1908 and 1914. Commissioned by Eusebi Güell for a workers’ colony, the church was intended to include two naves and lateral towers. Although never completed, the crypt includes significant architectural innovations such as catenary arches and hyperbolic paraboloid walls. The interior features trencadís mosaics and colorful stained glass.

The Modernism of Domènech i Montaner

Two modernist masterpieces also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

Palau de la Música Catalana (1905–1908)

Designed for the Orfeó Català and inaugurated on February 9, 1908. Built with a steel structure, colorful stained glass, floral mosaics, and a monumental skylight in the shape of an inverted bell weighing one ton. The concert hall is decorated with 18 mosaic muses and busts of composers (Beethoven, Clavé, etc.), forming a uniquely rich decorative ensemble.

Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau (1901–1930)

A complex of 12 pavilions connected by underground galleries, covered with mosaics and ceramics, and surrounded by gardens. It is one of the world’s largest Art Nouveau ensembles, designed to combine beauty with hospital functionality.

Suggested Itinerary

Sagrada Família – morning visit including façades, interior, towers, and crypt.
Parc Güell – early morning to enjoy without crowds; explore mosaics and panoramic views.
Passeig de Gràcia – admire Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, and Casa Vicens, with optional interior visits.
Palau Güell – discover refined architectural details and the original terrace.
Palau de la Música Catalana – ideal time to attend a concert or take a guided tour.
Hospital de Sant Pau – spend the afternoon among decorative pavilions and peaceful gardens.
Crypt of Colònia Güell – a half-day trip outside Barcelona to deepen the experience.

With nine UNESCO sites, Barcelona reveals itself as a living museum.

Let yourself be carried away by the poetry of the works of Gaudí and Domènech i Montaner. Savor every detail at your own pace and allow the city to move you. Rather than rushing from monument to monument, give yourself the time to truly feel Barcelona.

5 Mega projects transforming Barcelona in 2025 and beyond

Barcelona has never been a city to sit still. Known for its visionary architecture and innovative urban planning, the Catalan capital is once again in the midst of a transformation. From soaring towers to expanded metro lines and greener public spaces, the city is investing billions in projects that aim to improve connectivity, sustainability, and the overall quality of life.

Here are five of the most ambitious projects currently under construction in Barcelona.

1. ✈️ El Prat Airport Expansion – Flying Into the Future

Barcelona–El Prat Airport is undergoing a massive €3.2 billion expansion aimed at increasing its capacity and functionality. The project includes a new satellite terminal, a runway extension, upgraded terminals, and significant environmental compensation through the creation of wetlands.

Expected to be completed by the early 2030s, the expansion will allow the airport to handle up to 70 million passengers per year—solidifying its role as a major European hub.

2. 🏟️ Espai Barça: The New Era of Camp Nou

FC Barcelona is renovating its iconic stadium as part of the Espai Barça project. This ambitious redevelopment will transform Camp Nou into a futuristic 105,000-seat venue—the largest stadium in Europe—with a 360º screen, a massive roof, and modern hospitality spaces.

Meanwhile, a brand-new Palau Blaugrana arena (15,000 seats) is also in the works for basketball and other indoor sports. While the main stadium’s reopening is expected around 2026, the full Espai Barça complex will be finished by 2027.

3. ⛪ La Sagrada Família – The Tower of Jesus Nears Completion

The never-ending masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí is finally approaching its finale. After over 140 years of construction, the Sagrada Família will soon see its tallest feature—the Tower of Jesus—completed in 2025.

Once finished, it will reach a height of 172.5 meters, making it the tallest church building in the world. The full basilica is scheduled for completion in 2026, aligning with the centenary of Gaudí’s death.

4. 🚉 La Sagrera Station – Barcelona’s Future Transit Hub

Imagine a train station so vast it connects metro, AVE high-speed rail, buses, and green spaces all in one place. That’s the vision for La Sagrera, a €2 billion intermodal transportation hub being built in the city’s northeast.

This underground station will be capped with a huge linear park, while the surrounding neighborhoods are being redeveloped with new housing, offices, and public space. Though full completion is a decade away, sections of the project are already in use.

5. 🚇 Metro Line 8 Extension – Connecting the City Core

One of the most practical upgrades in progress is the extension of Metro Line 8 from Plaça Espanya to Gràcia. This long-awaited connection will link several key metro and FGC lines, making cross-city travel easier and faster.

Construction is expected to start in late 2025, with the new segment opening between 2029 and 2030. The goal is a more integrated, efficient, and accessible public transit system for Barcelona residents.

A City in Motion

Barcelona’s ongoing projects aren’t just about concrete and steel—they reflect the city’s vision for a more livable, connected, and forward-thinking urban experience. Whether you’re a local, a digital nomad, or a curious traveler, there’s no doubt that the Barcelona of tomorrow will be even more dynamic than today.

Stay tuned—this skyline is still under construction.

Ride your bike in Poblenou!

A unique district that feels like a coastal and industrial town, Barcelona’s Poblenou is waiting for you! Filled with history, art and open spaces, it is an ideal area for a stroll right next to the city centre. The best way to enjoy it? Cycling. Find here why and what to do.

The good things about the district

A quiet, residential atmosphere

Just a stone’s throw away from the historic city centre, the Poblenou offers a very pleasant, peaceful setting. It is a new, residential district that will give you the chance to see a different side of Barcelona, one shaped by the local population.

An ideal location

Its location is a considerable advantage. Not only is this district close to Barcelona’s historic centre and its emblematic tourist attractions, but it is also right next to the sea. The Poblenou offers around 4km of beach, alternating between harbours, beaches and catering services to satisfy your desires. While everyone is familiar with Barceloneta, the beaches of Poblenou are less popular. If you’re passing through Barcelona, don’t hesitate!

Some very good catering services

Another major advantage of the district is its concentration of shops…

Combine business with pleasure and discover its many bars and restaurants at very affordable prices. In fact, its residential nature makes it easier for you to enjoy ‘residential’ prices.

Our recommendations: the bar Esport, the pizzeria Yaya Cristina, and the xiringuito l’Escribà. Go to the Esport bar for family-style cuisine, the pizzeria for pizzas that live up to your expectations, and the xiringuito for a delicious paella by the sea.

Places to discover

If wandering around aimlessly doesn’t suit you, don’t worry. There are plenty of places to visit in the district!

You’ve probably heard of Las Ramblas de Barcelona, but have you heard of La Rambla del Poblenou? Less well-known than the one from the historic quarter, La Rambla del Poblenou is a charming shopping street with a central pedestrian area.

Discover also many works of street art scattered throughout the neighborhood. For the more curious among you, the Museums of Science and of Design will certainly capture your attention. Finally, the port and the adjacent Olympic Village offer pleasant, open spaces where pedalling will be very pleasant!

Its history: Poblenou through the ages

Before it became the Barcelona district we know today, Poblenou was part of a completely different city: San Marti. Integrated into the Catalan capital in 1897, it still bears the traces of its past.

An industrial district with a Manchester feel

Now a residential area, the Poblenou was originally built and expanded as an industrial district.

Its first buildings date back to the 19th century and were mainly factories. This industrial role, which can still be seen in certain corners of the district, has given it its name. Indeed, Poblenou is the Catalan translation of ‘New Town’. This alludes directly to the dynamics of urbanisation linked to the industrial era and its activities. What is more, it is interesting to note that this name is of popular origins. It began to be used by the neighbours and the workers themselves in the mid-19th century, before being officially adopted in 1897 when the district became part of Barcelona.
It is also worth noting that the district’s nickname, the ‘Catalan Manchester’, is a direct allusion to that period in the district’s history.

Take a stroll around and see if you can spot the remains of this period, will you be able to see beyond the few chimneys rising into the sky?

An olympic shift

While the industrial era was responsible for the construction of the Poblenou, the Olympic Games are responsible for its current urbanisation. When Barcelona hosted the Games in 1992, the city chose Poblenou as the site for its Olympic Village.

Located close to the city centre and just beyond the famous Barceloneta district, the area was restructured to accomadate the competing delegations. Although the ‘village’ aspect is more visible from the air, the harmony of the reddish buildings still conveys that unique residential atmosphere.

Just next door, the Champions Square, where Spanish medallists are honoured, bears witness to the role played by these streets. A little further on, the Church of Abraham, a cosmopolitan place of worship built for the occasion, also stands out.

Finally, end your Olympic walk at the two towers. Once hotels built for the press and celebrities wishing to enjoy the event, these buildings now mark the limit between Poblenou and Barceloneta. If you face them, you’ll be able to admire the Sagrada Familia in the background, while if you turn your back on them, you’ll have a breathtaking view of Barcelona’s beaches.

Whether you’re interested in the area’s industrial or Olympic past, don’t hesitate! Let yourself be surprised. You’ll discover an area that is not only residential but also contrasts and stands out from the rest of the city.

The advantages of cycling for getting around the district

Strolling around the Poblenou is pleasant by any means, but cycling is certainly a very good option if you don’t want to miss anything and get the most out of it.

The benefits of cycling

Like everywhere, the bike is an excellent ally for moving. It allows you to travel large distances easily. It offers you unmatched freedom and speed of movement. Choose your route, departure and arrival times and pedal to reach your favorite points of interest in no time. What better way to discover a new space than by practicing physical activity? You tell us…

Poblenou, a safe and practical area for cycling

Cycling in the Poblenou is a very safe and attractive option. The district’s off-centre location means it is less busy with car traffic, so you can enjoy the many bike lanes with complete peace of mind! Barcelona’s seaside is also a flat area. Far from the climbs of the famous Montjuic mountain, you can easily adopt a leisurely pace here and let the sea breeze carry you along.

°°°

A recent, little-known and charming district of Barcelona, the Poblenou is just waiting for you and your bike! Whether for a day or an afternoon, it is the ideal place to plan an authentic getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Heading for Badalona: a cycling adventure from Barcelona

Are you in Barcelona and in the mood for a nearby getaway? Then get on your trusty steed and head for the charming town of Badalona!
We’ll tell you everything you need to know here.

Why should you visit Badalona?

Located around ten kilometres east of Barcelona, Badalona has (almost) nothing to envy of its Catalan big sister. With its blend of culture and nature, this charming coastal town is sure to win you over! A real hidden gem, Catalonia’s third most populous town is one of the oldest in the region and is full of secrets.

The advantages of going by bike

Accessibility : 35min, easy route

Practicity: freedom of movement (choice of times, easy parking)

Maritime immersion: enjoy the sea breeze and breathtaking views of the coastline

Itinerary

A seaside route along the sea

Start at the Columbus Column and ride along the harbour towards Barceloneta. When you see Barcelona’s legendary beach, continue on your way and join the avenue along the coast. Then pedal towards Port Forum, Maristany and finally Badalona.

What to do?

Cultural break : visites

Badalona Museum: a journey into the Roman past

The Badalona Museum is a must-see in order to understand the history of the town. Located on the archaeological site of ancient Roman Baetulo, it offers you the chance to explore the well-preserved remains of this ancient city. You will for example discover thermae, mosaics and a range of everyday objects that bear witness to life under the Roman Empire.A fascinating immersion in over 2,000 years of history!

The Monastery of Saint Jerome de la Murtra: a haven of peace

Located in the hills of Badalona, the monastery of Saint Jerome de la Murtra is a true Gothic gem. Founded in the 15th century, this serene setting welcomed the Catholic Monarchs after Christopher Columbus discovered America. Its harmonious cloister and natural touch make it an ideal place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Anís del Mono factory: the story of a legendary liqueur

It’s impossible to talk about Badalona without mentioning its famous Anís del Mono factory. Founded in 1868,his iconic distillery produces one of Spain’s best-known aniseed flavours. With its modernist architecture and retro ambience, the tour reveals how this unique-tasting liqueur is made. This experience will delight the lovers of spirits and local traditions!

Take a break for a walk: places to stroll

Parcs

Badalona is not only a city of history and culture, it’s also a haven of greenery on Barcelona’s doorstep. For a relaxing stroll, a family picnic or a sporting outing, here are four not-to-be-missed parks where you can enjoy the great outdoors.

Park de Can Solei i Ca l’Arnús:
historic gardens combining architecture and nature

The Park of Can Solei i Ca l’Arnús is undoubtedly one of the most charming of Badalona. With its beautiful lake, picturesque castle and impressive clock tower, it combines nature and heritage. As an ideal place for a bucolic stroll or a relaxing afternoon, it will appeal to botany enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike.

Montigalà Park: the perfect getaway

If you are looking for a spacious place to relax or do some sport, Parc de Montigalà is the place for you. With its vast lawns, play areas and paths perfect for jogging or cycling, it attracts families and sports enthusiasts in search of the great outdoors.

Millenaire Park : a modern and dynamic area

The Millenaire Parc is a new green space that fits perfectly into Badalona’s urban landscape. Designed as a leisure area for everyone, it has sports pitches, children’s play areas and shady paths ideal for a stroll at the end of the day. A refreshing spot at the heart of the city!

Urban spaces: strolling through the old town

Badalona is much more than a seaside resort; it has a fascinating historic centre where ancient remains, medieval architecture and Catalan modernism meet.

The city centre: a journey through time

Start your stroll in the Plaza de Pompeu Fabra before joining the Rambla of Badalona, an ideal path to stroll by the seaside. Continue along Carrer del Mar, a lively shopping street leading to Plaza de la Vila, the institutional heart of the city.
The old medieval quarter Barrio de Dalt de la Vila reveals the church of Santa Maria, a witness to the local religious history. Underground, the Roman thermae and the house on Calle Lladó are reminders of the time when Badalona was known as Baetulo.

The mark of modernism

Modernist architecture is also very much in evidence, notably in some of the houses in the old town, with their colourful facades and floral ornamentation characteristic of the movement.

The littoral

It’s impossible to visit Badalona without enjoying its Passeig Marítim, the seafront promenade that runs alongside some of the region’s most beautiful beaches.
Badalona’s beaches, such as Platja dels Pescadors or Platja del Cristall, are ideal for relaxing, practising water sports or simply enjoying a paella by the sea.

Are you ready to be seduced by Badalona ?

From its Roman remains to its modernist architecture, from its green parks to its sunny coastline, Badalona is a city with many facets. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast or simply looking to relax by the sea, Badalona is the ideal setting for an authentic getaway just a stone’s throw from Barcelona.

CycleCities in Spain, quality partners!

Discovering a city by bike allows you to see a lot more in less time than you would on foot! So, to help you find places you can trust, where you’ll feel welcome and where cycling is a passion, we’re sharing with you a list of Spanish towns that are members of the Cycle Cities association, a guarantee of quality!

Cycle Cities Association

Cycle Cities is an association of bike hire companies in many European and Asian cities. They are chosen on the basis of quality criteria, enabling us to offer you a network of trusted partners.

Cycle Cities has one partner per city, which also guarantees good relations and working conditions within the association.

Cycle Cities has 7 partners in Spain, so let’s find out more about them!

Cycle Cities in Bilbao

Famous for its Guggenheim Museum, the city also has some great cycling routes. Whether it’s along the sea, the Nervión river or in the city’s parks, spending a day cycling in Bilbao is a must!

Our Cycle Cities member in Bilbao is Tourné Bilbao. It offers a bike hire service as well as guided bike tours! We can guarantee that this is one of the best ways to discover the city and its history in a fun and sporty way!

Cycle Cities in Málaga

Whether you like cycling flat or uphill, or are more interested in cultural, historical or culinary heritage, Malaga has something for everyone. From Mount Gibralfaro and the Alcazaba to the seaside cycle paths that take you past fishermen’s boats and traditional cafés, Malaga is a great city for cycling.

Our Cycle Cities member in Malaga is Malaga Bike Tours & Rentals by Kay Farrell. Since 2008, Malaga Bike Tours has been offering bikes and guided tours to help you discover the city at your own pace and to your heart’s content!

Cycle Cities in Palma de Mallorca

Palma, with its historic centre, cathedral, seafront promenade, royal palace, parks and markets, and 300 days of sunshine a year, is the perfect place to take a bike ride. Every pedal stroke on the island is a breath of fresh air.

If you’d like to give it a go, our Cycle Cities partner is Call&Ride Mallorca. Set up in 2014 by three locals, the company also offers a bike hire service and guided tours. Don’t hesitate: Call and ride!

Cycles Cities in San Sebastián

In San Sebastián, the contrast between sea and mountains is clearly visible. Don’t hesitate to hire a bike and climb to the top of Monte Igueldo. The effort will be rewarded with a magnificent panorama of the city, park and beach!

Our Cycle Cities partner in San Sebastián is Go Local San Sebastian. As the name suggests, the tour guides are local, so you can discover little-known facets of the city and its heritage!

Cycle Cities in Sevilla

Pedalling through the streets of Seville, along the Guadalquivir enjoying views of the Torre del Oro and the lively streets of Triana, the birthplace of flamenco, is a real treat.

To pedal to the rhythm of the Andalusian capital, we suggest you contact Seebybike. They offer a wide range of guided bike tours, so make the most of it!

Cycle Cities in Valencia

Lose yourself in the picturesque streets of beautiful Spanish Valencia by bike. You’ll discover hidden corners with typical restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious paella.

Our Cycle Cities partner in Valencia is Valencia Bikes. Open since 2003, they offer a range of quality guided bike tours, thanks to their expertise and passionate guides.

Cycle Cities in Barcelona

Last but not least, Barcelona! The city of Gaudí, with its breathtaking and varied architecture, its history and heritage, its beach and its mountains, is the perfect playground for the cyclists in you!

In Barcelona, it’s us, Born Bike Tours Barcelona, that the Cycle Cities Association has chosen as its trusted, quality partner! We’re delighted to welcome you to our shop for bike hire and guided bike tours by prior arrangement! We offer 4 different tours, each with a different purpose. Contact us and you’ll have a great day out discovering Barcelona by bike!

So, are you ready to discover these Spanish cities by bike? Three, two, one… Pedal!

Cycling towards a sustainable future: Cycling is the greenest form of transport in Barcelona

Barcelona is renowned not only for its modernist architecture and delicious gastronomy, but also for its commitment to environmental sustainability. With this in mind, cycling is emerging as the most eco-friendly means of transport in Barcelona, offering an environmentally friendly and healthy alternative.

Zero carbon emissions:

The bicycle is powered by human strength, which means that it produces no carbon emissions during use. Unlike motorised vehicles, cycling does not add harmful air pollutants, helping to improve air quality in Barcelona.

Expanding cycle infrastructure :

Barcelona has taken significant steps to promote cycling by investing in modern, safe cycling infrastructure. More and more dedicated bikes lanes have been created, allowing cyclists to travel in complete safety, helping to reduce road accidents and promote peaceful cohabitation between different road users.

Encouraging an active lifestyle:

Cycling in Barcelona offers a double advantage: not only is it environmentally friendly, but it also encourages an active lifestyle. Cycling regularly contributes to physical and mental health, making it a complete means of transport for wellness-minded citizens.

Reducing urban congestion:

Traffic jams and urban congestion are omnipresent problems in many large cities. By choosing to cycle, Barcelona residents are helping to reduce road traffic, freeing up the streets and reducing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with traffic jams.

Accessible and affordable:

Cycling is also an economical and accessible means of transport for most Barcelona residents. By eliminating the costs associated with gas, car maintenance and public transport, residents can make substantial savings while reducing their ecological footprint.

Barcelona resolutely embraces cycling as a sustainable means of transport, offering residents and visitors an environmentally friendly, healthy and economical option. By investing in cycling infrastructure and encouraging the uptake of cycling, the Catalan city is moving towards a future where environmentally-friendly travel becomes the norm. Cycling in Barcelona is not just a mobility choice, it’s a step towards a greener, healthier future for everyone.

Discovering Barcelona by bike

With over 270 kilometers of bike lines, Barcelona has an extensive network of bike lines for getting around by bike. These numerous routes are ideal for discovering the city’s most emblematic spots, such as the Barceloneta promenade, the Born district, Ciutat Vella, Poblenou and the Eixample. Barcelona by bike is very popular with tourists and locals alike.

You can find a map of Barcelona’s bike lines here

SEASIDE

Perfect for all the family, this ride lets you enjoy the sea breeze and sea views for much of the way.

Start at Barceloneta, pass the point at the foot of the Hotel W (Vela) and head towards the Hotel Arts, where you’ll see Barcelona’s most important casino. Along the way, you’ll pass some of Barcelona’s most beautiful beaches. Continue to the Forum area, where you can start your return journey along the same route, or make a loop and head towards the Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Ciutadella.

You can make a diversion to the Columbus Monument at the start of the walk if you want to see this Barcelona landmark.

THE MAIN MONUMENTS

If you only have a few hours to discover Barcelona, get on your bike and admire the city’s most emblematic monuments.

Start in the centre from Barceloneta and head for the Parc de la Ciutadella, which you can visit easily by bike.

Then head to the Arc de Triomf, just next door.

A little further on, head for the Sagrada Familia. Continue along Carrer Provença to Passeig de Gràcia, where you can see La Pedrera (Casa Milà) and La Casa Batlló by architect Antoni Gaudí. You can also admire the Mansana de la Discorde, Casa Amatller by Josep Puig i Cadafalch and Casa Lleo Morera by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

Next stop is the Palau de la Música Catalana, a magnificent auditorium that can be visited during the day but is often in performance in the evening.

Not far away is Barcelona’s magnificent Cathedral, which is not to be missed.

Finish off at the monument to Columbus and return slowly to Barceloneta via the marina.

Want to discover Barcelona? Let us explain the advantages of cycling.

*Discover the Parc de la Ciutadella by bike.*

Born Bike Tours Barcelona is a Catalan cultural tours company created in 2009 with a clear objective: to take advantage of our roots and origins, to combine our knowledge of Barcelona’s history and our passion for the world of cycling and culture.

The human factor is one of our values and we consider it our responsibility to achieve our collective goals with empathy and fidelity.

With 240 kilometres of cycle path, visiting Barcelona by bike allows you to drive to unusual places, emblematic or not yet known, to discover its history or its milestones.

Through these authentic guided tours. Born Bike Tours Barcelona offers you a historical, cultural, economic and sociological point of view.

Why choose cycling as a means of transport ?

Cycling is the fastest means of transport in the city and will allow you to stop regularly without constraints in places where cars do not pass in order to admire the landscape.

In addition, visiting the city by bike will improve your physical and mental health while reducing the stress that road traffic could generate.

These days, we must also take into account the economic factor.

Indeed, a bike does not need fuel to move forward, just the strength of your legs. Thus, you will reduce your carbon footprint, and the planet will thank you!

*A group taking advantage of a sunny day to cycle the Montjuïc.*

The bike is ideal for families !

If you have children, this is the opportunity to offer them a holiday around a pleasant activity that will be perfect to create unforgettable memories.

22-23 October: The Barcelona Architecture Festival reopens its doors!

The city of Barcelona opens the 14th edition of the ***“48h Open Doors” architecture festival*** from 22 to 23 October 2022.

This year’s festival highlights all the disciplines and professionals that make Barcelona’s architecture a collaborative and global work.
The aim is to bring designers, craftsmen, users and architects out of the shadows to share their collaborative design secrets and to raise awareness about these professions that build Barcelona’s environment.

Planning :

Visits to the most emblematic places in Barcelona will take place in all areas of the city.
For example, in the Centre you can visit

THE “APARTAMENT PICASSO”.

This is a complete remodelling of a small, very isolated house into an open flat, where the spaces interact and nothing is designed at random

“NNWALLERY: VALÈNCIA-ROGENT WALL”

On the Carrer de València at the corner of Rogent street, you can find the work of DXTR (Dennis Schuster, Berlin), an internationally renowned urban style artist who combines applications on city walls with advertising campaigns for well-known brands. It will be an interactive mural of over 50 metres in length and 2.5 metres in height.

You can also search for all other exhibitions on the festival website at

https://www.48hopenhousebarcelona.org/els-edificis/

Enjoy your immersion in Barcelona’s architecture!

The Copenhagenize Index

The Copenhagenize Index is the most comprehensive and holistic ranking of cycling cities on Earth. Being a biennial index since 2011 for its 5th edition (in 2019) it has been months of research and work. Creating an inventory of urban cycling around the world is not an easy task.

Why did this index was created?

In early 2011 a discussion started at Copenhagenize Design Co. about which cities are really the best for urban cycling. Working with a large number of cities to help them improve, it was necessary to be able to offer them an international reference.

Initially for internal company use, they soon realized that it was probably useful to make it public but only the Top 20.

How is it calculated?

The Copenhagenize Index awards points to cities for their efforts to re-establish cycling as a feasible, accepted and practical mode of transportation.

Scorecard and parameters

Cityscape parameters (0-4 points)

1. Cycling infrastructure

2. Cycling facilities

3. Traffic calming

Cultural parameters (0-4 points)

4. Gender repair

5. Bicycle modal share

6. Increase in modal share over the past 10 years

7. Safety indicators

8. Image of the bicycle

9. Transport bikes

Ambition parameters (0-4 points)

10. Advocacy

11. Policy

12. Bike sharing

13. Urbanism

If you want more details on all the parameters, please visit their explanatory page.

How to read it?

this picture shows how to read the index

The index of 2019

The last one was published in 2019 and we hope to see the new edition very soon and why not a rise of Barcelona in the ranking.

Benefits of cycling

This is not a novelty that we are fanatics of bicycles. Go walking, take the air, see the city that surrounds us, the landscape, the sea. Mounted on the bike everything seems to have another perspective, we want to tell you the benefits it gives you a walk or to do Bike sport.

image of a blue bike, sea, boat, hotel W

1. A good way to exercise: the bike is a good exercise to work almost all our body and not just the legs. A bike ride makes us do cardio-cardio exercise and strength, especially legs, abdomen, back and arms.

2. Help our posture: Walk or pedal helps improve our posture. People passionate about yoga can go to their bike class. Adopt a sport routine!

3. A transport on time and available immediately: between bottling, pedestrians Parking, everything becomes a chaos and more if you go to the center of Barcelona, which is why the bike is a great allies that facilitates your daily life .

4. Take care of the environment and your leaflet: a car and public transport generate an additional expense per month. You simply move by bike: fast and good for health.

5. A much faster brain: The bike improves the functioning of your brain, influencing cognitive function, mental health and well-being, as has confirmed a study by the University of Oxford. The study, led by Dr. Leyland, investigated the impact of outdoor pedaling. The parameters, the cognitive function and the well-being, were measured before and after the period of use (for 8 weeks, at least three times a week and at least 30 minutes per session) and it was observed that not only The physical impact of cycling improves, but at the level of mental activity, the benefits are more important.

6. Sleeping more, the dream of all: exercise Every day helps to reconcile with sleep, about 20 to 30 minutes of pedal will help you better rest and eliminate the stress of everyday life.

7. Eternal Youth: The increase in blood circulation caused by the pedaling exercise transports the oxygen and nutrients required to epithelial cells more efficiently while eliminating toxins or other waste. Moderate exercise helps to optimize collagen production, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and accelerate the healing process.

8. Take care of your joints: the bike is a less risky sport than run for our joints, and the result is very similar.

9. Improve your performance in any type of sport: many athletes use cycling as a support sport to improve their muscle or respiratory performance. Objective 30 days of bike and see the difference!

10. And finally, the best advantage of cycling is that it will make you happy: Try it because it really works. Stroll, pedal, admire nature, city, beach, beaches, you will see how it changes ideas.

Do you already have your bike ready to travel Barcelona?

To reserve the Tour or rent a bike nothing simpler, contact us
Born Bike Tours Barcelona
📍Carrer de la Marquesa No. 1 08003 Barcelona
50 meters from Barceloneta metro station L (4) Yellow
✉️Info@bornbikebarcelona.com.
🔹www.bornbikebikebarcelona.com.
📲 (+34) 93 319 00 20

Barcelona on your mobile

When we went on vacation, we have all the information on our mobile phones: tickets, maps, recommendations, schedules and addresses. We will present the applications that you can download today so as not to miss anything in Barcelona.

Une image contenant bâtiment, extérieur, terrain, vélo, transport

Barcelona A Butxaca is a mobile application of the Barcelona Municipal Council that offers information, services on culture. And in one click, you can store in a virtual bag all favorite acts or equipment. This allows you to have a quick access to everything.

Tibidabo is an application from the Tibidabo amusement park that allows you to experience many experiences and stay up to date with all the novelties of the park. A range of activities await you in Tibidabo! Check out all shows and entertainment scheduled per day and do not miss anything!

Zoo Barcelona is an application of the Barcelona Zoo allows visitors to know their location in the GPS enclosure.

Puntos de Interés de Barcelona: it is a complete application where you can discover the city and its neighborhoods, you can visit the natural and urban areas, museums and study centers and research and locate on the map of the city.

Literapoli BCN is a game that encourages reading and knowledge of the city. In which each player must locate various geographical points of the city where the action of a book takes place. Once it is geolocated at each location and after solving a test, each player is rewarded with new information and can continue to play.

Do not miss anything about Barcelona with these applications for your mobile.

If you want to know more about the history of Barcelona, follow our social links.
Born Bike Tours Barcelona
📍Carrer de la Marquesa No. 1 08003 Barcelona
50 meters from Barceloneta metro station L (4) Yellow
✉️Info@bornbikebarcelona.com.
🔹www.bornbikebikebarcelona.com.
📲 (+34) 93 319 00 20

Tours of the Tamarita Gardens

The Tamarita gardens belonged to a two-hectare finca of the Craywinckel family, a Belgian aristocratic family that was created in Barcelona in the 18th century. And who at the beginning of the twentieth century was acquired by the entrepreneur Alfredo Mata. There, he built a house surrounded by gardens, whose conception is considered one of the first works of the architect and landscaping Nicolau M. Rubió I Tudurí, who has kept forms and provisions. original.

Une image contenant arbre, extérieur, passage, plante, statue

The gardens are divided into two different areas, one of the most classicism and another one that benefits from the passage of the torrent of the White Fraine to offer a more spontaneous view.

The gardens are full of decorative elements that reinforce their origins of domestic gardens, small ponds with fountain jets, terracotta figures, stone glasses, marble and ceramics converted into fountains, shers ornamental.

When you visit, when you enter, you will see a small pond surrounded by climbing plants. The whole hides one of the garden pavilions which now has social use as headquarters of the neighborhood association and a service building.

In the most classic garden, you will find a parterre (official garden design) of French origin. We find boards and roses, replanted to recover the original appearance of the garden in its last rehabilitation. Then there is a space that makes plazoleta features with an oval source, the place of the four continents, a nymph with the waterfall of the Gruta fountain and the meadow that leads us to the wild part of the garden.

The Tamaite gardens are perfect if you want to visit and admire the different varieties of shapes, statues and flowers.

Walk in the Labyrinth of Horta

Barcelona is a city characterized by many qualities: history, architecture, nature and cycle paths. Neighborhoods are their own characteristic and the beauty of each different.

Une image contenant arbre, extérieur, jour, eau, parc, personnes

Today let’s talk about the Labyrinth of Horta, a park transformed into a museum garden, which takes an architectural and design journey through the duality between neoclassicism and romanticism.

To get to know the park, you will find a Chinese gate, a vestige of an oriental garden which has now disappeared, and continue through the boxwood garden (Buxus sempervirens), a furtive garden that preserves the spirit of the Italian designer, landscaper and gardener Domenico Bagutti., creator of the park commissioned by Antoni Deszanjas, Marquis de Llupià i Alfarràs. From this garden, born of careful pruning, there are paths leading to the temples of Ariadne and Danae, to the domestic garden and also to the romantic garden, which occupies the entire left flank of the park.

An interesting fact is that Sundays are free, you can enter with family, friends or alone and walk through the different parts of the park.

Historical bicycle tour

Today we will show you one of the most interesting place in Barcelona and what it behinds.

The archeological remains excavated and that can be seen today inside the old Born Market show us the history of Barcelona from medieval times until the beginning of the 18th century, when life in this part of the city was suddenly interrupted by the outcome of the War of Succession.

Not all the remains have the same entity nor have they been preserved in the same way. We must keep in mind that the remains preserved before the 13th century were not part of the urban core of Barcelona, although they were related. On the other hand, from the 13th century, the structures onwards the city, as a consequence of its growth.

Despite being an area far from the city of Barcino, the Born area preserves in its subsoil burial from medieval times.

The first archeological remains documented in areas close to the Born date from the low-Imperial period. In this period an extensive necropolis was located, the main nucleus of which was located in what, some centuries later, would be the subsoil of Santa Maria Del Mar. No burials from this period have been located inside the old market, but in the archeological intervention of the Commercial Square in 1991, fourteen were located.

The athletic tower in Barcelona

In our bike tours Barcelona we have climbed the Montjuic mountain where we find the athletic tower built by the architect Santiago Calatrava, between 1989 and 1992, it is one of the best known elements that are part of the so-called Olympic Ring, referring to the whole of facilities that were built and remodeled on the occasion of the Barcelona 92 Olympic Games.

An image containing sky, exterior, exterior object, windmill

Its enormous white and curved silhouette, reminiscent of an Olympic torch celebration, can be seen from many points of the city. Its avant-garde design and original shapes have made it a famous element of Montjuïc and a symbol of Barcelona.

The tower is a clear tribute to the modernist architect Antoni Gaudí. Its promoter was the Telefónica company, which is why it is also known as the Telefónica tower.

A curious fact is that, due to its shape, the tower is also designed to act as a sundial, as the shadow of its central spire is projected on the Plaza de Europa, which is next to it.

In addition to its functionality, its futuristic style of sloping lines and modern materials that evokes a moving image has made Torre Calatrava an architectural landmark in Barcelona.

If you want to discover Barcelona on wheels, don’t miss our tours
Born Bike Tours Barcelona
📍Carrer de la Marquesa Nº 1 08003 Barcelona
A 50 metros estación metro Barceloneta L (4) amarilla
✉️info@bornbikebarcelona.com
🔹www.bornbikebarcelona.com
📲(+34) 93 319 00 20

Walk around the Arch of Triumph by bike

We started a new month and went out to walk the streets of Barcelona in search of new adventures.

Today we will make a tour by bicycle through the Arch of Triumph which was built on the occasion of the Universal Exhibition of 1888, the Arch of Triumph led the way to the main entrance of the fair, in the park of the Ciutadella, which had just opened.

During the last third of the 19th century, the universal expositions were events of enormous social impact, since they allowed everyone to get to know the city that hosted them, as well as the cultural, economic, scientific and industrial potential of each country. In this sense, the Arch of Triumph was not only the access to the Universal Exhibition of 1888, but also the symbolic entry of Barcelone into the modern era.

At the height of the modernist movement in much of Europe, constructions inspired by previous eras were very common: the Neo-Gothic, the Neo-Mudejar in Spain or the Neo-Romanesque were some of the predominant styles.

Following this trend, the architect Josep Vilaseca designed a monument 30 meters high and of classical proportions, but with a very colorful decoration and full of symbolism. Thus, the artists who sculpted the decorative friezes represented, on each of the faces, a theme related to the city: Barcelona welcomes the nations (on the side of Passeig de Sant Joan, work of Josep Reynés), the Distribution of rewards to the participants of the Exhibition (on the side of Passeig de Lluís Comanys, work of Josep Llimona) and the allegories of Industry, Agriculture and Trade, on one side, and of Science and Arts, on the other. The famas (the winged figures of the buttresses) were sculpted by Manuel Fuxà and Pere Carbonell.

Finally, in the curve of the arch, the coat of arms of Barcelona can be seen, flanked by the coats of arms of the remaining 48 Spanish provinces, 24 on each face of the monument.

In our tour in Spanish we arrive at Plaça Sant Felip Neri

Among the narrow walls of the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, we are in the Plaza de Sant Felip Neri, where we see holes in the walls, which originate in 1938, caused by a bombardment by the Francoist side during the war, in the middle of the capture of Barcelona.

image of a building that contain door, lights, windows, born bike tours Barcelona, text

This event caused the death of forty-two people, as can be read on the plaque that commemorates the memory of the victims since 2007. At the time of the bombing, the grounds of the current square were occupied by a medieval cemetery. Little remained after the bomb, which devastated nearby houses and caused some damage, still present, in the church.

Ciutadella Park

We continue with our Tour in Spanish and now we find the Ciutadella Park, being the first park specifically designed as a public park and was built at the end of the 19th century. It is a space widely used for all kinds of recreational and cultural activities. It has more than one hundred plant species, with many hundred-year-old trees and interesting sculptures.

Full of hundred-year-old trees, the Ciutadella Park contains a great diversity of elements: the monumental waterfall, 19th-century buildings now converted into museums, a lake for rowing boats, walks and numerous sculptures. Share space with the zoo.

an image that contain park, nature, people, bikes, born bike tours Barcelona, text — Come and enjoy a memorable experience!

The Barceloneta Tour

We continue with our tours in Spanish and we tour Barcelona by Bike.

An image which contain bikes, people, road, trees, beach tour, born bike tours Barcelona

Until the middle of the 18th century, La Barceloneta was a practically uninhabited area. In 1754 fishermen began to settle in this area of the city due to its proximity to the sea.

Despite having acquired a more modern look, currently La Barceloneta still retains its special charm. Its narrow streets and facades darkened by the salt of the sea have made this area one of the most appreciated in Barcelona, a place with a quiet, maritime and family atmosphere that remains foreign to the big city.

One of the main attractions of the neighborhood are its beaches, the largest, best known and busiest in the city. They have a great atmosphere and excellent services.

If you want to know more about our tours you can stop by our place
Born Bike Tours Barcelona
📍Carrer de la Marquesa Nº 1 08003 Barcelona
At 50 meters Barceloneta metro station L (4) yellow
✉️info@bornbikebarcelona.com
🔹www.bornbikebarcelona.com
📲 (+34) 93 319 00 20

Bicycle repairs and rental in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities to travel by bicycle with more than 200 kilometers of bike lanes, where you can enjoy a walk along the Mediterranean coast, through the Gothic streets or enjoy a day on the Collserolla mountain.

If you are still in doubt about repairing that old bicycle, or renting one to enjoy Barcelona on wheels, we leave you five tips that will help you make that decision.

Enjoy a safer ride

The bicycle is a safe vehicle, you will walk through the city of Barcelona enjoying great views and places, using the safety of the bike lanes.

Easier and simpler

Mobility by bicycle is easier than in other means of transport. Did you know that the bike is faster than the car in short and medium urban distances? Through several door-to-door competitions, with the city center as the destination, it has been found that, in general, the bike is the fastest transport. in addition to being faster in short distances, it is ideal to combine with public transport

Be more sustainable and collaborate with the environment

The bicycle is a key factor in reducing the levels of environmental and noise pollution in cities. An, at the same time, it is the most energy efficient means of transport: it uses twelve times less energy than a car, even if it is full, to move a person over a kilometer, and fifty times less than a car occupied by only one person.

To enjoy more space

A cyclist occupies five times less space than a motorist, whether he is stationary or in motion. This data has very profound implications for the well-being of residents, who can enjoy peaceful, calmer, safer and noise-free spaces.

To always be on the move

Going by bike is one of the most beneficial exercises for health, since during the effort large muscle groups are mobilized. Of practiced regularly it can reduce resting heart and breathing rates.

If you want to know about bike rental or repair you can stop by our store Born Bike Tours Barcelona
📍Carrer de la Marquesa Nº 1 08003 Barcelona
50 meters away from the Barceloneta L (4) yellow metro station
✉️info@bornbikebarcelona.com
🔹www.bornbikebarcelona.com
📲(+34) 93 319 00 20

The Cathedral of Barcelona

Cycling through the streets of the Gothic Quarter, we come across the current Barcelona Cathedral, it is Gothic in style, but it was built on the foundations of an early Christian basilica and a later Romanesque Cathedral. The works began on May 1, 1298 and lasted a century and a half.

It was temporarily finished in 1417 with a simple wall, and it was not until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that the façade that we can see today was built.

On the occasion of the Universal Exhibition of Barcelona (1888), the works were resumed thanks to Manuel Girona i Agrafel and his sons, who were the promoters of said reforms, where the competition for the construction of the façade was called in 1882, establishing as a stylistic criterion to follow the Gothic. It was awarded to Josep Oriol Mestres, titular architect of the cathedral since 1855, who was inspired by the plans made in 1408 by Carles Galtés de Ruan.

Sí quieres saber más sobre la catedral de Barcelona, pregunta por nuestros tours y te contaremos todo lo que sabemos de ella.
📍Carrer de la Marquesa Nº 1 08003 Barcelona
A 50 metros estación metro Barceloneta L (4) amarilla
✉️info@bornbikebarcelona.com
🔹www.bornbikebarcelona.com
📲(+34) 93 319 00 20

Spanish village in Barcelona

El Pueblo Español is a museum that offers contemporary art, architecture, crafts and gastronomy. The site is made up of 117 full-scale buildings, which make up a typically Spanish town with its streets, houses, squares, theater, school, restaurants and artisan workshops.

statue of a woman in blue clothes from Pueblo Espanyol, in Barcelona

It was built for the international exhibition that was held in Barcelona in 1929, an idea promoted by Joseo Puig I Cadafalch (Catalan architect) where they created a small town that brought together the main characteristics of all the towns in Spain. They also worked together with Joseo Puig, Francesc Folguera and Ramon Reventós, and the artists Xavier Nogués and Miquel Utrillo, in order to achieve this exhibition, they made various trips through Spain taking photographs, drawings, observing the styles and creating concepts of the different places. 

Today there are various activities, exhibitions or events.

Tourists can visit it by taking their ticket on the website  : www.poble-espanyol.com 

Our recommendation is to rent a bicycle and tour the mountains of Montjuic, where you will find various monuments, museums and historical buildings.

Free museums in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city full of life and culture, the good thing is that we have free museums so that we can all enjoy them, it is only a matter of knowing the hours and days.

image of a blue bike of Born Bike Tours Barcelona in front of the National Museum of Art of Catalunya

Picasso museum

The museum has a collection of 4,249 works by the Malaga painter Pablo Picasso in the multiple media that he addressed, which is the most complete in the world in works of his youth.

You can enter for free every Thursday from 5:00 p.m., the first Sunday of each month and on February 12 (Santa Eulàlia), May 18 (International Museum Day) and September 24 (La Mercè Day)

www.museupicasso.bcn.cat 

Museum of the History of Catalonia

The museum was created in 1996 by the Government of Catalonia, with the idea of narrating the history of Catalonia.

You can see it for free It can be visited for free during the Sant Jordi and Santa Eulalia festivities, the Museum Day, and the days of the Catalan and Mercè days.

 www.mhcat.cat 

Barcelona Center for Contemporary Culture (CCCB)

Located in the Raval, its main theme is the city and urban culture. It bases its success on quality, a certain eclecticism, attention to a wide range of audiences and a singularity in the way it treats things, and its function is to link the academic world with creation and citizenship.

You can visit it for free on Sundays

www.cccb.org 

Catalonia art museum

A must-see in the city with a tour of works of art from the 10th to the 20th century, highlighting above all its collection of Romanesque art, considered one of the most complete in the world.

It can be visited for free on Saturdays from 3 pm, the first Sunday of the month, Museum Day and Catalonia and Mercè Days. 

www.museunacional.cat

Get your bike ready and enjoy Barcelona

Get your bike ready and enjoy Barcelona

We really like healthy life and the city, that’s why we look for the perfect combination so that you can enjoy this summer of Barcelona by bike.

We carry out repairs and maintenance
We have answers and accessories
Review hardware and adjustments
Washing and greasing
Punctures and wheel centering

That is why we invite you to give life to that stored bicycle and accompany us to visit La Ronda Verda de Barcelona, a circuit that has about 72 kilometers of route and crosses different municipalities such as L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Esplugues de Llobregat, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Montcada I Reixac, Santa Coloma de Gramenet and Sant Adrià de Besòs. There is also a variant that extends the round and incorporates the city of Badalona.

This route can be divided into six sections

Collserola Park: The Collserola Park extends over 8,000 hectares. Forest areas with a great variety of plant formations of valuable biological diversity predominate.
Parque Fluvial del Besòs: This section of the Ronda Verda connects the Parque de Collserola and the Front Marítimo. It has an approximate extension of five kilometers.
Park of the Cordillera de Marina: This natural space is part of the Cordillera Litoral and has a total area of 2,086 hectares. The visitor has the opportunity to envoy Iberian villages, hermitages, monasteries and numerous fountains and recreation areas.
Maritime Front: The Ronda Verda runs along the maritime fronts of Barcelona, Sant Adrià de Besòs and Badalona.
Montjuïc Section: The itinerary in this section of the pool is numerous museums, sports facilities, parks and gardens. The tour has splendid views of the city of Barcelona and its surroundings.
Llobregat Route: This route approaches the Llobregat basin, allowing connections with the river glare, the delta area and the Collserola Park.

A bicycle, a companion

We cheer you to take out that stored bicycle and rediscover the city on wheels, with its more than 200km of bicycle lanes to safely enjoy your ride.

Barcelona is an incredible city for cycling, walking the streets of Barceloneta, getting closer to the Parc de la Ciutadella, walking the wide streets of the Eixample such as Paseo de Gracia or visiting the neighborhoods and meeting friends.

That is why in Born Bike Tours Barcelona we carry out bicycle repairs so that you can enjoy a summer full of adventure, do sports or simply visit Barcelona.

We do review and maintenance so you can go for a walk without worries

Wash and grease so your bike is always ready

We repair punctures and also perform wheel centering

SURPRISE!

Because we are very anxious we give you a preview of our next blog post and we show you some of the routes you can do by bicycle.

From the Barcelona coast to Badalona.

It is a route of approximately ten kilometers, where you can see the entire seafront of the city, very easy to navigate since the entire itinerary is flat and you can surely enjoy incredible views. Starting near the Colón monument, passing by the Wy Hotel through the Forum area where you will find the “Diagonal Mar” shopping center and we will continue passing through the coastline until we reach Badalona.

It is an ideal route to do in the afternoon and end up enjoying the colors of the sunset next to the Mediterranean.

Barcelona is enjoying a short spring, which is perfect to experience by bicycle

February 20th, 2019

Are you taking advantage of these idyllic days in Barcelona?

Photo by Walkerssk in Pixabay.com

For some weeks now, Barcelona and, obviously, some other parts of the territory are rejoicing in some days of idyllic weather, perfect for enjoying the city by bicycle. This is something that “professionally” we call “not a very cold weather, neither a very warm weather”. You will not need a lot of cloth layers in order to feel the warmth of the bicycle exercise, but, even so you will not feel the sticky weather of the summer.

So, you should take advantage of free afternoons and weekends. Enjoy the parks and gardens of the city: Parc de la Ciutadella, Labyrinth of Horta, Montjuïc, Collserola… Practically every district of the city has a natural space. Although, if you are not looking for the refreshing green, you can take advantage of the fact that there are not so many brave swimmers, and go to ride through the Passeig Marítim. La Barceloneta is a neighborhood where, during weekends, it is difficult not to find some kind of activities. And if there are not any of them, the tapas (appetizers) that you can get there will be a marvelous consolation prize.

Even though, if you are the kind of person who prefers going shopping, our suggestion for you is taking advantage of the big network of bike lanes and visiting the nice and great markets of Barcelona. In addition to the big offer, especially talking about food, they are Modernist works of art, so you shouldn’t miss them if you are interested in the architecture of Barcelona.

This weekend you don’t have any excuse, clean the dust off your bike and go out for pedaling through Barcelona!

You can avoid the cold weather with the sofa, blanket and a film or… ¡with a bicycle!

January 21st, 2019

Ok, ok… We also like to take a break and collapse ourselves in the sofa. But let’s never forget that the best way to get rid of the cold from our bodies is riding a bicycle, enjoying the city or some mountain route.

Photo by Luca, Papagnoc in Pixabay

This January has been very “refreshing” in Barcelona, but it hasn’t been serious enough to stop us from keeping pedaling. No matter how much our sofa has been calling us, thanks to the bicycle we have become the heroes of our movies. We have discovered new corners of our incredible, insatiable, traditional and intercultural city. We have pedaled up to our last breath in order to get the best views. And we have met some marvelous people.

Don’t succumb to the trap of falling into the blanket and do this by keeping yourselves active and happy. In addition, it gives to you the break that you need for facing all the daily challenges.

Don’t think more about it. You simply leave the sofa, ride your bicycle and you will suddenly realize that you are having a great time.

Remember, in Barcelona of the year 2019, the cyclists must circulate away from the sidewalks

January 15th, 2019

Some weeks ago we informed you about the new regulation which has been applied this January, month dedicated to the bicycle circulation in Barcelona, so, today, we are going to present a reminder just in case you have forgotten it.

Photo by Claudia, einszweifrei in Pixabay.com

From the very first of this month of January 2019, the cyclists must circulate away from the sidewalks in Barcelona, in order to ride through the almost 1,000km (620 miles) of the city’s bike lane. And, why do you have to circulate away from the sidewalks? Because the cost of riding a bicycle on the sidewalks could be punished with fines of up to €500, so, save yourself this fine and the annoyance following this simple cohabitation rule.

We want to remind you that the only way allowed to circulate on the sidewalk is when it measures a width of more than 5 meters and 3 meters are free (and you haven’t any other alternative or bike lane closer) or if you are younger than 12 (years old) and you are circulating with your own bicycle and accompanied by an adult.

And returning to our wise words: Even if you usually pedal through the streets of Barcelona or because you are visiting this great city, remember, share and obey this regulation. All together we are building a healthier city and a good cohabitation is one of the keys.

The January’s hill is lighter by bicycle

January 8th, 2019

The returning to the routine with some more kilos and less money could be very hard, because of that, the bicycle can be much more helpful than you think.

Photo by Kaique Rocha in pexels.com

This week a lot of people are returning to work, so it will be difficult to avoid the early mornings, the hurry and the work updates. In addition, if everything has gone as it should be these last dates, you have surely gained some weight, at the same time, our pockets and wallets have lost some volume.

So that’s our suggestion: put a bicycle in your life.

When you start to pedal to work every morning you will notice that you aren’t sleepy very quickly. You will avoid traffic jams and you will feel better physically, something that will help your mind to keep a high level during all day.

In addition, the bicycle will help you to burn these extra kilos which Christmas’ nougats have gifted you and without wasting money and saving us up the gym.

Have you been convinced? Be up for the #ToWorkByBike club, everything are benefits for you and your city.

You only can go ahead by bicycle

November 12th, 2018

The number of urban cyclists in Barcelona has an exponential growth thanks to the extension of the bike lane during these last years in Barcelona. The security that these lanes provide is translated in a lot of people who enjoy the advantages of moving around with this very sustainable vehicle.

Photo by Joan Cabotti

Any person who has ridden a bike any time of his/her life will be realized that when you move the pedals backwards it’s useless. The bicycle has been designed for moving forward and if you need to go backwards you will have to do facing it, being fully aware of what you are doing and where we really want to go.

And, why is so interesting this consideration nowadays? Because in our 10 years of experience pedaling through the streets of Barcelona we feel astonished (in the good sense of this word) about how the kilometers of the bike lane in Barcelona have been so extended and, especially, how a lot of urban cyclists have leaped to take advantage of even the last signalized meter of lane.

The bicycle will continue advancing in Barcelona and it is going to do that in a conscious and safe way, transforming the city in a cleaner, more tranquil and more sustainable place each time.

Some tips in order to continue pedaling against the cold weather in Barcelona

2 de noviembre de 2018

This last week, in Barcelona and in Catalonia, the temperatures have suddenly fallen and with this descent the rain has come too. But this doesn’t to be a reason for stopping pedaling in the city.

Photo by Mabel Amber

In Barcelona, as a Mediterranean city, we have a really nice temperature which allows us to pedal without any problems, and if you don’t believe us, ask our neighbors in the north of Europe, where not even the snow can stop them.

For this reason, we shouldn’t stop pedaling during the cold days, because, in addition, with the movement and the sport that we do riding a bicycle, we will again feel the warm sensation that we usually miss. That’s why our first tip is that you should wear different layers, such as an onion, because, at the same time that you are feeling warmer your body will need you to remove some of these clothes layers.

Second tip, you should prepare yourself in order not to be surprised by the rain. Use waterproof clothes (also trousers) and also suitable shoes.

Third tip, something that you always have to keep in mind, whether it’s raining, snowing or it’s a really sunny day: you should keep your bike ready. Clean and greased chain, pumped up wheels (you can deflate a little bit your wheels if it’s raining in order to achieve a better adhesion, but not too much, because you could suffer a puncture), front and back lights and, in addition, it’s interesting to use a mudguard, because we will arrive at our jobs more decently.

If we follow these tips and we keep alert, we even will enjoy the cold and rainy days!

The bicycle as a way of life

October 16th, 2018

Photo by Pere Serrat

Who usually use the bicycle for moving around the city have another point of view about it. Ride one and stir up your life.

The continuous pedaling changes many things. We can assure this because we move constantly around Barcelona by bicycle.

For us the bike is a physical revolution, but also a mental revolution.

That’s physical in the sense of the health exercise as the reward of our work, because of the reduction of the CO² and because the completely change of the city’s view. For us, several noiseless bicycles going through the streets is a present for the eyes and for the ears, especially if we compare it with the motorized vehicles traffic.

But we cannot forget the mental revolution. The exercise and the simplicity of the bicycle release your mind and it allows you to observe around. And that’s a really good exercise to make you reflect and inspire.

If you not agree with us, ask to the people who usually meet every first Friday of the month to ride their bicycles in Barcelona. The next excursion will depart from Arc de Triomf.

Come to the healthiest movement! The pedaling through Barcelona 😉

For the people who keep pedaling under the rain in Barcelona and in any single city

October 9th, 2018

Autumn comes with rain in the city, but for the people who love to ride a bicycle, this is an unimportance challenge, because, finally, the rain cleans and purifies the city. What else can we ask for the people who like to breath clean air?

Photo by ORNELLA BINNI on Unsplash

Dear city cyclists,

Today, this post is for thank you for keeping pedaling this raining days in Barcelona or in any single city. For understanding the importance of this meteorological phenomenon in the city. For keeping calm and patient with the other drivers. And for being alert with the segurity, because this is very important these days.

The rain in Barcelona is not so usual than in other cities, because of that, during the week days, when the traffic jams in the city is normal, the rain could be a nuisance. For this reason, we should keep this though in our mind: the water from rain cleans and purifies the environment because it drags away the damaging particles. And for everyone who breathes the city air daily this is the key.

In addition, if we have the suitable equipment (nothing very especial) and we keep alert, the rain won’t be and impediment to pedal.

Appropriate equipment, waterproof clothes, a footwear which resists rain without problems and all the elements which make you being more visible, especially for the motor vehicles: reflective clothes, the front and the back bicycle lights. A back mudguard will avoid you to arrive at your destiny with your back full of mud.

Get your bicycle ready, you can help to improve adhesion on the road by reducing the tire pressure (a little bit! If not, you will be in danger of getting a flat tire) and be sure that the treads of your tires are well marked. It is also important to maintain the chain clean and lubricated. And, specially (with or without rain), check if your brakes respond quickly.

The rainy days are perfect to show our skills with the bicycle. We are talking about reinforcing your concentration on the road. Brake before a curve and take it slowly. Keep a safety distance with regard to the other vehicles; avoid puddles, marks painted on the road and the multicolour marks that appear on the road (they are car oil).

With these tips, the only thing that we want to repeat again is: thanks for keeping pedaling.

Which characteristics have Born Bike Tours Barcelona for chosing a good bicycle for the city

6th August, 2018

One of the most common questions made by those who have just started their urban cycling is: “What type of bike is the best for the city?” For us, it is important to select a model that will make the coexistence with the traffic in the city easier, so it has to be safe.

1. It should be easy to start and stop

Upon forming part of the traffic of the city, it should be easy to put the feet on the ground when you’re waiting for the traffic light to change.

2. There should be a good acceleration

This is important when you have to move the bicycle to cross and intersection or change lanes.

3. It should be easy to see

It’s important to maintain yourself visible to other users. For this objective, you should have good front and back lights.

4. It should allow you to see the traffic around you

The straighter up the cyclist rides, the easier it is for him to see what is happening around you.

5. The bicycle should be easy to control with one hand

Take into account that the hand signals are extremely important in order to maintain an adequate communication with drivers and other cyclists.

6. There should be an efficient range of speeds

The diversity of the speeds depends on the topography of your city and the distance that you have to go. More important than the number of velocities is the range you have available. If there are many slopes in your city, you need a low range of speeds. The contrary happens in a city that is relatively even.

7. It should be efficient

The back suspension and the common rims in the case of mountain bicycles are not recommended for a city bicycle. Even though this is useful for the mountains, the suspension (especially the rear one) absorbs part of the energy we apply to the pedal. If you plan to use your mountain bicycle in the city, you should make some modifications.

As we have already said, there are a great variety of bicycles. It’s important that you like the bike, that I has the right size and be according to your necessities.

Now you know some of the important things about our bicycles, so, start to pedal!

‘Bicia’t’, a promotional program for going to work by bicycle thanks to the City Hall of Barcelona

February 20th, 2018

‘Bicia’t’ certifies the ‘bicycle friends’ buildings, which favor the bicycle use among their workers and prepares a recommendation guide.

As we have talked about since quite some time ago, Barcelona is working a lot on the sustainable means of transport matter. And, which is one of its preferences? The bicycle, a means of transport without contaminant emissions, which keeps you fit, which adapts itself to your life and gets you into harmony with the environment of your city.

One of the ways that the City Hall has found to promote this means of transport is through rewarding everyone who works in its same line, with the creation of various grants and promotional programs. In this case, we are going to focus on the Bicia’t program of the City Hall of Barcelona in collaboration with BACC -Bicicleta Club de Catalunya-. If you are used to going to go to work by bicycle, find out about the activities of this program, because it could help to add more work mates to your cause.

With Bicia’t, the City Hall certifies the “bicycle friends” buildings and it recommends a necessary remodeling for achieving the highest emblem. In addition, it promotes the bicycle use with free bicycles for hiring, circulation and mechanical training, organized excursions, parking installations and so on.

¿How many reasons do you need to join this movement? The healthy movement of cycling.

Come to go through the beaches of Barcelona, a place of rest also during November and December

November 28th, 2017

Shahariar Lenin

It is normal that, during these dates, we relate the bike routes with the forests and mountains. Although, we love to remember that, during November and December, beaches, less visited than during summer, are the perfect option to ride our bike and find a bit of calm.

Barcelona, as we like to remember, is a sea and mountain city. Just riding your bicycle, you can go from Montjuïc -and its amazing views- to the beach in an easy way.

Why don’t do that during winter?

If during summer the beaches of Barcelona are the meeting point of millions of tourists who visit the city, during November and December months, this coming and going of people becomes calm and tranquility for all the people who dare to go there. The bike lane, parallel to the promenade, goes through all the beaches of the city, a fact that become itself in a perfect route to enjoy the landscape and the sea breeze. We can pedal during a long time since we decide to stop and rest. Then, we can lie down on the sand -of course, remember to take something to wrap you up warm- and focus yourself in the swell sound.

¿Haven’t you feel like to experience something like this? For us, who are very close to the beaches, this is the best you can do for relaxing yourself and disconnect from the frenetic rhythm of these days.

The bicycle: good vibes for the atmosphere in Barcelona

October 10th, 2017

Fotografia de David Marcu – Fuente: Unsplash

Wake up, have a quick breakfast, take the car, wait in the traffic jam, sit in your chair and work, take the car, wait in the traffic jam… go to sleep. Wake up, have a quick breakfast, take the car, wait in the traffic jam, sit in your chair and work, take the car, wait in the traffic jam… go to sleep.

Every now and then, we like to remind you that sometimes our society pushes us towards an unhealthy routine, which is not good for our physical, mental and atmospheric health.

If you break with just one of the elements of this routine, and, of course, it cannot be one of the basic needs, you can achieve great changes in your life. For example, what could we change if we took the bicycle instead of the car?

“You wake up, you dress, you have breakfast and… you take your bicycle; you enjoy the fresh air of the morning and the first sleepy faces; your muscles become more active in the same way that your mind does. And when you get to work you park just in the entrance. You sit in your chair at your desk, but this time you are ready for the next 8 hours”.

We wrote this 2 years ago, and since then, things have changed. Maybe you are one of the nice people who has changed his routine, improving your life and the life of the other people. Or, maybe, you are one of the indecisive person who has seen the creation of a new bike line near your house and now you are contemplating whether or not to go to your work pedaling.

Try it. We are sure that with one week of going to work by bike, you will not be able to return to the old routine.

We love going through Barcelona by bicycle

September 27th, 2017

The new season has been a cause of reflection, because we love riding a bike in Barcelona and here you have some of the reasons

Every season is good

We love summer. Tourism, vacation, beach, tapas… During autumn the sweat is finished, the mountain is really beautiful and we again start with renovated energies. Winter, Christmas holidays, weekend breaks with a bike, the opportunity of getting to know closer places, the warm food after a nice day pedaling… And again spring, discovering gardens and tracks which are blooming, with a scented air that fill our lungs when we are doing exercise.

We improve the good vibes in our city

Mark physical challenges, although they can so easy as going to work by bike, will improve our creativity and productivity when we were working. “Mens sana in corpore sano” -healthy mind in a healthy body-. How couldn’t we feel better, with ourselves and with the other people, after this personal growth?

We improve the environment in Barcelona

For each person added to the pedaling, one exhaust pipe less.

If you are not already decided to pedal through Barcelona, try it, you will not be able to leave it! 😊

Join the Bicycle Fiesta of this year 2017 in Barcelona, pedaling!

June 6th, 2017

This Sunday, the 11^th of June, the Bicycle Fiesta will be celebrated in Barcelona with a pedaling from the center of Barcelona, crossing Sants-Montjuïc and the port, to Poble Nou.

If you want to ride a bike through Barcelona with the local people, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity this Sunday, the 11^th of June, offers. With the bicycle fiesta in Barcelona, streets will be closed for cars, but opened to this excellent means of transport for enjoying this spring day together with the most enthusiastic fans of the bicycle.

If you would like participating in this event, at 9.30 a.m. you should be all ready at Aragó with Roger de Flor street. From this point, you will circulate to the Tarragona Street. From there you will go down to the Espanya Square, and then from Avinguda Paral·lel to Floridablanca Street, until arriving at the center. Although the route won’t finish there, but rather, it will continue to Marina, at this point , you will go down to the sea and then up for going to ride through some streets of Poble Nou. The tour will be finished at the Passeig Lluís Companys, to end up where the great Bicycle Fiesta will take place.

Totally, 12km of enjoyment. So, take a bike and don’t miss this opportunity!

Barcelona in the European Cycling Challenge 2017

May 9th, 2017

Again, we have the opportunity to participate in this great international event, where cities compete for the best one prize: cleaner and healthier cities.

The European City Challenge, although being an international great championship, is not only for elite athletes. Here the winner city is the one who gathers more people as you to pedal for a city free of pollution.

It is not about being the faster, it is about being the most constant one. The winner city will be the one where people have done more kilometers during their daily trips: going to work, to the school, etc. The idea is about replacing the motor vehicles, which we are using daily to move around, and transforming all the smoke in good vibes and healthy exercise.

This is very simple, you only have to sign up and you can do that through the application Naviki.

You can find all the information in the official web: http://www.cyclingchallenge.eu/

You shouldn’t miss it! We are already pedaling in Barcelona.

Why we love our job? Because we enjoy our tours by bike in Barcelona like you

April 25th, 2017

We know that bragging is not nice, but we are as happy with the bike tours as our clients, and one of the best ways to show you this satisfaction is sharing some of the comments that people have given us in the social networks. Some of them are true poets 😊

Beautiful, beautiful is the perfect word to define the tour we had.

Eli was the guide that took us with a map throughout the area of the viewpoint of Barcelona, we visited Montjuic the part where the Olympic games of the year 92′ were made and it was incredible.

I recommend visiting the Miramar Restaurant with a spectacular view towards the sea.

The best tour I had in many years.

Aimad Brown (Facebook)

With only three available hours to visit the city and wishing to see everything possible, we ask at BornBike Tours Barcelona, if organizing a private tour for three people in Italian was possible.

It was a great experience!

A perfect organization, disposition and patience which adapted to our necessities and requests.

An absolutely honest and affordable price for all the pockets.

To a great extent, the merit is for Jordi, our guide. Grazie Giorgio!

It could seem a promotional message, but we enjoyed it very much!

Mille Mille (Facebook)

I rent a bicycle for some days and I received an excellence service, personally from Ernest. This man is a poet and a philosopher from the streets, a troubadour of the history, with a warm and personal service, he never let you go without knowing, in an excellent way, all the things that you can do and where you can go by bike in Barcelona, it is like a personal instruction at every place, with stories of the near and far history of the beautiful Barcelona.

10 points!

Gustavo (TripAdvisor)

This is only a little show of all the flattering comments that people gift us since we start the business. We hope that the translation does justice to what they wanted to express.

We only can say that the thanks are for you, because without these great clients we couldn’t work at easy.

A new example about sustainability associated with the bicycle in Barcelona

February 14th, 2017

We are not tired to repeat that the bicycle is the best means of transport in the city. And here we have the news that confirms this premise, but this time we are not only talking about moving ourselves, we are talking about moving products.

The City Hall of Barcelona, together with the Rezero organization, has promoted the Comerç Verd, Comerç + Sostenible initiative –Green Business, Business + Sustainable. With this initiative, the City Hall pretends to make public and spread a great number of testimonies, who work producing 0 pollution.

The bicycle couldn’t be out of this project. For this reason, we find a couple, Marina and David, who are the owners of Freefood, an alimentary products shop. They base their contribution for improving the environment, in the distribution of these ecologic products with their bicycle. In addition, they make discounts to the clients who go to their shop by this means of transport.

We encourage you to look at the video, where the protagonists of this story tell you the advantages and the importance of the bicycle in the city.

(We are sorry, it is only in Catalan, if you have any doubts, contact us by our social networks).

¿Have you been convinced? Tomorrow, you can be who contribute for a better city.

Present and future of the bicycle in Barcelona

January 11th, 2017

At the beginning of last month, in 30 minuts, a weekly program from the autonomic television of Catalonia, TV3, released a report entitled Torna la bicicleta -The bicycle returns- which talked about the development and the future of this vehicle in the city of Barcelona.

“It is: learn the new rules of the game”, comments Enric Batlle, an architect in Barcelona, who talks about the interaction between bicycle, pedestrians and motor vehicles. This interaction, such as the report shows us, results in a real conflict in Barcelona, especially when a new bike lane is opened.

This piece of informative -which we can find in the Corporació Catalana de Mitjans Audiovisuals web- results in the key for anticipating the importance that the bicycle is obtaining in Barcelona. In addition, they present Copenhagen as an example, a city which, nowadays, could be a reflection of our city -Barcelona- in a few years from now, if we are capable of doing a good transition from motor vehicles to bicycles.

If this city, from Denmark, spent around 30 years to change the citizens’ habits, in order for them to start using the bicycle, nowadays, according to the experts, this transition can be done in 4 years. This number attracts the attention of politicians, who can see one of their electoral points during their government’s period complied with.

Something very interesting about this transition, which is also emphasized in the report, is the fact that around the year 1910, when there was a transition in the streets of Barcelona for incorporating the cars, the discussions were very similar to the debates about bicycles that we have nowadays. Cars also had to make way in the streets and the news about accidents was incessant -numbers much more disproportionate in comparison to the present victims related to bikes-.

Surely, from our point of view, which is not objective, we cannot stop seeing a great number of positive points which are explained about the bicycle. For this reason, we want to encourage everyone to have a look and make their own conclusions.

The bicycle is here to stay, so, the best thing we can do is for everyone to be in agreement.

Which is the evolution of the bike lane in Barcelona?

November 2nd, 2016

Photo by Sergi Larripa

Almost one year ago, we published ‘If we were already enjoying Barcelona, we will do it even more in 2018 with the 308km of finished bike lanes’ and, after these 345 days, the issue of the bike lane in Barcelona is still in the spotlight.

These days, the City Hall is working on the bike lanes of the following streets: Marina, Travessera de Gràcia, Cartagena, Eduard Maristany, Taquígraf Serra and Gelabert and on the connection of Barcelona with Esplugues del Llobregat.

On the other hand, with regard to the streets of Joan Güell, Can Bruixa, Marquès de Sentmenat, La Jota, Múrcia and Numància, the bike lane is working at full capacity.

The Numància street bike lane connects, in both directions, the Plaça de Països Catalans with the Avinguda Diagonal, one axis more than necessary. But since its first use, some weeks ago, there has been a polemic between shop-keepers, drivers of motor vehicles and cyclists. The shop-keepers criticize the lack of space for loading and unloading products; the drivers, basically of cars, complain about lacking the parking lots; and finally, the cyclists are sick of vans and taxis which park on the bike lane itself.

Another point that has also been conflictive these last weeks, is the delay referring to putting the prohibition of the bike circulation on the sidewalks into practice. This month of November this prohibition, which doesn’t allow bicycles to circulate on the sidewalks with a width of less than 4,75 meters, and with a minimum of 3 meters of free terraces for bars -although this does not affect children younger than 12 and people who ride the bike between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.- had to become effective. For the moment, this regulation will not become effective until next year, because the City Hall considers that we are still lacking infrastructures which make the bike lanes safer for the bike circulation.

All these changes have again opened up the discussion between cyclists and drivers. The first ones ask for more safety, the other ones are reticent to losing space. But, in our opinion, if we want a city with less pollution and at the service of people and not of cars, it is essential to improve the condition of those who work for this better future.

Autumn is back again and we don’t want you to stop pedaling around the city

October 11th, 2016

Photo by Lauren Ellis

Although the rain can be a bit annoying, the autumn’s temperature is perfect for circulating around the city by bicycle and for taking advantage of the weekends for doing excursions. The only thing that you need to keep in mind is to follow some safety tips which we want to remind you about.

You always have to be a prepared person

You should always take a comfortable raincoat with you (there are some of them that you can use that over your trousers) and a good footwear for circulating on bicycle, especially, and for any other occasion where you could be surprised by a rainstorm. So, keep it in a comfortable backpack and take it everywhere.

Pay more attention to the safety rules

When it is raining, inside cars people use to lose vision, for this reason it is even more important for you to have front and back bike lights, put emphasis on your safety signs and be sure that the other drivers pay attention to your next maneuver. Even though all these things seem a lot of bother, but if you drive a car or another vehicle, surely, you will have the same problems.

And, of course, don’t forget your helmet at home!

Photo by Briana Blum

Improve your adhesion to the road to the maximum, avoid slipping!

When it is raining, it is the only occasion where we can reduce the pressure of our wheels (only a little bit, because you could get a flat tire). It is also important to keep in mind that the zebra crossings and the other painted signs on the road could be very slippery, so try to avoid crossing them directly or if you can’t avoid it, cross them very slowly. Sometimes the cars lose oil on the road and this is very dangerous too. When it is raining, you can identify the oil stains easily, they are multicolor marks that appear on the road.

As you can imagine, neither is it advisable to go through zones with mud, unless you want to arrive at the first meeting of the morning with your whole back decorated.

If you keep these three tips in mind, you will enjoy one of the best seasons for doing sport or for going from one place to another avoiding sweating.

Enjoy the autumn in Barcelona or any other city!

The importance of traveling on bicycle for the future of Barcelona

May 2nd, 2016

A big city with more than 1,600,000 of people sharing streets with a big number of tourists, a fact that makes Barcelona a very complex space from different perspectives, among others, the mobility and the environment.

Barcelona is a big city in continuous movement, which adapts itself to the new times. Every day, people talk more about the importance of improving the streets’ mobility for a better coexistence among pedestrians, motorized vehicles and bicycles. They are working from municipal politics, such as the extension of the bike lane net, or from the citizens’ debates, where all the uncomfortable issues about security in the road system are put on the table.

Little by little, this work has been transformed into a bigger sensibility, especially, from the population, who continuously trusts the bicycle more for being the faster, cheaper and, very important, non-polluting means of transport.

The ecology involves the whole bicycle world and it is the key for the future of cities, and for this reason, there are a lot of initiatives such as the Muzzicycles, bicycles with a frame fabricated from recycled PET materials (the same materials used for making plastic bottles), an innovation which is 100% ecologic and has a very comfortable design.

It is very important, if we are already moving pedaling, that we educate and make ourselves aware of the culture of the good coexistence at the road circulation spaces. And if we are not yet moving by bicycle, we should depart from this very point.