The Routard Guide in the spotlight!

What is the Guide du Routard ?

The Guide du Routard is a popular French travel guidebook for independent travellers. It provides practical information on accommodation, restaurants, transport and places to visit, which you can usually find at affordable prices. The tone is friendly, sometimes humorous, and the advice is generally based on real-life experiences. It covers many destinations around the world and is updated regularly.

Creation of Le Routard and how does it work ?

Le Routard is a famous collection of French travel guides, created in 1973 by Philippe Gloaguen and Michel Duval. The first wanted to offer an alternative to traditional guidebooks, with practical advice on travelling on a budget. Inspired by his own travel experiences, he wanted to help young people discover the world in a free and authentic way, outside the tourist circuits. The guidebook quickly established itself as a reference for those who prefer to travel independently, freely and economically.

Le Routard is based on an authentic approach to travel. The authors travel anonymously to test accommodation, restaurants, means of transport and sites to visit. This guarantees a certain independence of spirit and genuine sincerity in the advice given.

Today, Le Routard covers more than 150 destinations around the world. As well as paper guidebooks, it has a website offering up-to-date content, discussion forums, user reviews and booking services. It remains true to its original spirit: helping travellers to enjoy authentic experiences, far from the beaten track.

How to be included in Le Routard ?

The criteria for inclusion in the Routard are not yet known. To be listed, a request must be made by email or post, specifying the recommended establishment. The person in charge of the survey will visit the establishment on their next trip to the country or region in question, completely anonymously, in order to decide whether or not to include the establishment in the next guide.Once the new guide has been produced and if they are recommended in it, establishments can purchase a ‘Recommended by Routard’ plaque and sticker from CLAD Conseil.

Le Routard in Barcelona, the Catalan capital reveals its secrets

Barcelona is a vibrant, artistic and sunny city, ideal for curious travellers eager to discover new things. Thanks to the Routard, you can explore the Catalan capital in an authentic way, far from the overly touristy itineraries. The guide invites you to lose yourself in the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, admire the modernist facades of Passeig de Gràcia, or enjoy a sunset from the heights of Parc Güell.

On the cultural side, the Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, is a must-see, as are the Casa Batlló and the Palau de la Música Catalana.

Market lovers will love a stop at La Boqueria, near the Ramblas, or the much less touristy Mercat de Sant Antoni. For a nature break, a stroll along the Barceloneta seafront or a climb up to Montjuïc Castle offers a breath of fresh air and an unbeatable view of the city.

The Montjuïc district, on top of a hill, offers a beautiful green escape with its gardens, Olympic site and magnificent views over the city and the sea. Le Routard strongly recommends a visit to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), housed in the impressive Palau Nacional. This museum holds a remarkable collection of Romanesque, Gothic and modern art, representative of the richness of Catalan culture.

With its useful tips and reliable addresses, Le Routard allows you to experience Barcelona intensely, soaking up its unique energy and warm atmosphere.

Born Bike Barcelona is once again featured in the Guide du Routard. Since 2021 and for the third year running, our company has been winning over travellers with its warm welcome, local commitment and original routes. Located between the Barceloneta and Born districts, the team offers tours in several languages, accessible to all, to discover Barcelona in a different way, with its historic streets, sunny beaches and modernist masterpieces. A real must for those who want to combine culture, freedom and soft mobility.

Montserrat: a natural and spiritual getaway

Located just 30 kilometres west of the Catalan capital, Montserrat stands out for its unusual combination of nature, spirituality and breathtaking views.

The Montserrat mountain range, which means ‘cut mountain’ in Catalan, is famous for its spectacular views and its Benedictine abbey, among other things.

Its beauty and charm attract thousands of visitors every year who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city on a day trip.

If you too are looking for peace and quiet or nature and adventure during your stay in Barcelona, this article will help you organise your trip to Montserrat.

How do I get there from Barcelona?

The Montserrat mountain range can be reached in a number of ways, depending on your preferences and budget.

By train

Getting to Montserrat by train seems to be the easiest and most affordable way.
Every day, there are trains departing from Plaça Espanya to get you to the mountain quickly. Several lines serve several stops in the massif.

The most traditional route is to take the R5 towards Monistrol de Montserrat, which takes around an hour. You can then choose between taking the cable car or the cog railway to the summit.

The cog railway, known as the Cremallera de Montserrat, is an experience in itself. As well as being an unusual means of transport, this train allows you to enjoy the mountain scenery of the massif at a leisurely pace.
The cable car, or Aeri de Montserrat, is also a strategic choice if you want to take in the heavenly views of Montserrat.

By car

If you’re looking for more freedom and want to personalise your excursion as much as possible, then hiring a car seems like the best option for you.
Using this means of transport, you can reach the mountain range in around 45 minutes via the C-58 motorway and then the A-2.
There are several car parks on site where you can park close to the abbey or the hiking trails.
The major advantage of this choice of transport is certainly the flexibility of timetables. By travelling to Montserrat by car, you can arrive before the first trains and leave after the last, thus avoiding the crowds.

Guided tours

There are many travel agencies that organise day trips from Barcelona to Montserrat.
So if you prefer guided tours, group tours or private tours, you’ll have no trouble finding an agency that will take you to the mountain.
These excursions usually include return transport, a local guide and sometimes a guided tour of the abbey.
What’s more, by choosing to leave the organisation to an agency, you’ll take the burden of logistics off your shoulders and be able to enjoy the experience without worry.

By bike

For experienced cyclists, it’s entirely possible to cycle to Montserrat. Although the experience may seem exhilarating, it’s important to remember that it’s a demanding journey from Barcelona. The sometimes steep gradients make it a major sporting challenge for cycling enthusiasts.
What’s more, along the way you’ll have the chance to enjoy the Catalan countryside and stop off at some of the most typical villages in the Spanish Autonomous Community.
On the way back, you can also take the cable car or the train to relax after this adrenalin-fuelled day.

What to see in Montserrat

The stunning beauty of the Montserrat mountain range attracts a huge number of visitors. Not only that, it is also one of Catalonia’s most important religious pilgrimages, combining exceptional natural beauty, history and culture.

Montserrat Abbey

This 9th-century Benedictine abbey is the spiritual centre of the massif. It houses the Moreneta, the Black Madonna of Montserrat, in the form of a wooden statue.
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to meditate, pray or simply enjoy its architecture and serene atmosphere, Montserrat Abbey will be just what you’re looking for.
You can, of course, visit it from the inside. If you’re lucky, you’ll also be able to hear the monks sing, which makes for a fascinating musical experience.

Hiking trails

Montserrat can be considered a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. You’ll find plenty of trails offering spectacular views over the valley and the Mediterranean Sea.
We have put together a selection of the two most interesting trails in Montserrat:

The path to Sant Jeroni: this is a viewpoint culminating at an altitude of 1,236 metres, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
The Creu de Sant Miquel path: this is the shortest and easiest path, offering a leisurely stroll with splendid views.

In addition to this selection, there are many other signposted and safe hiking trails.
If you’d like to take one of these walks, don’t forget to bring water and good walking shoes.

Rock formations

One of the most striking features of the massif is its rock formations, which have taken on distinctive shapes.
There are unique formations in the shape of pines, ridges and peaks, all the result of erosion.
These ‘conglomerates’ are a distinctive feature of Montserrat, making the massif unique in the world.
If you want to see these formations, the cable car platform offers a good vantage point.

The Montserrat Museum

This museum, located near the Abbey, boasts a large collection of religious art, as well as works by famous artists such as El Greco, Picasso and Dali.

Panoramic views

Montserrat is first and foremost an exceptional natural site with spectacular views and grandiose landscapes. It is therefore a visual paradise for photography enthusiasts.

Practical tips for your visit

Prepare for the crowds: Montserrat is a very popular destination, especially in summer. So make sure you leave early enough to avoid the crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes: when hiking, it’s important to wear walking shoes. Even if you don’t want to go hiking, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as the paths can be rough.
Bring water and snacks: during the summer, temperatures can rise very quickly and the trails can be demanding. So remember to take water and snacks with you.
Check train and cable car timetables: timetables can vary, so it’s important to plan your journey well, especially the return journey.

If you’re looking for a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, Montserrat is the place for you. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the site as well as its spiritual wealth and history.
This destination is ideal for a day trip from Barcelona. It offers a wide choice of activities, so whether you’re a keen hiker, a nature lover or a believer, the massif will satisfy all your expectations.
So don’t wait any longer, and set off now on an adventure to discover Catalan nature!

When Barcelona is written on the ground

Did you know that every day we walk on some of Barcelona’s little gems? Barcelona’s cobblestones all have a story to tell, and are emblematic of the city’s history. Some cobblestones have become real stars, even in souvenir stores. On mugs, canvas bags, postcards, jewelry, key rings and company logos, Barcelona’s “flower” has become the symbol of the Catalan capital.

Cobblestones in the L'Eixample district

From the mid-19th century onwards, Barcelona began building a new district, l’Eixample, or “the extension” in Catalan. When the first buildings appeared, the streets had not yet been laid out. Most of the time, they look more like dirt paths, sometimes covered with gravel to “bind” everything together. As you can imagine, when it rained, these streets were slippery and became unbearable for Barcelonans. In those days, therefore, when those heavy rains came, the streets were transformed into streams of mud that tumbled down the mountain to the sea. Just like Barcelona’s Rambla, which was built to prevent flooding and drain water from the mountains to the sea.

In l’Eixample, each homeowner was responsible for laying out the 2.50 meters of sidewalk in front of his or her building, while the rest was left in the ground for tree planting. Each owner let his or her imagination run wild, choosing cobblestones made of Portland cement, sand and water, similar to those used in bourgeois apartments. The result was a wide variety of patterns and textures on the ground, until the municipality intervened to standardize these pavers.

They then imposed two patterns that have become the majority in Barcelona, because they are practical and pleasant to walk on: the four-square tablet and the Barcelona “flower”.

In the footsteps of Gaudi

On the passeig de Gràcia, and only there, you’ll find other cobblestones, hexagonal this time, with a rather original design. If you walk down this beautiful Barcelona avenue, you’ll be treading on a work by Gaudí!

These cobblestones represent a seabed, with an ammonite (crustacean), a starfish and seaweed.

Barcelonans love these cobblestones, and especially the puzzle they form.

The latest paving stones to hit the headlines are those covering part of Avenida Diagonal, from Passeig de Gràcia to Plaça Francesc Macià. These new paving stones were installed in 2015, causing quite a controversy: the design, featuring a raised plane tree leaf, quickly proved to be slippery and unpleasant on the feet.

Added to this was the fact that just 6 months after installation, many of the pavers had to be replaced because they had already broken.

The “wave” cobblestones of the Rambla

The cobblestones of Barcelona’s Rambla are much more than just a floor covering. They are the visual and cultural signature of this emblematic avenue, which runs 1.1 km from Plaça de Catalunya to Port Vell. Every year, some 700 million tourists stroll along this avenue.

La Rambla is paved mainly with grey and black flagstones, forming an undulating pattern that accompanies the flow of passers-by. This design recalls the ceaseless movement of waves and the vibrant energy of Barcelona. This choice is not insignificant: it reflects the city’s maritime history and its openness to the Mediterranean.

Miró's mosaic: a tribute to Catalan art

In the heart of La Rambla, near the Gran Teatre del Liceu, stands a work of art that sometimes goes unnoticed by tourists: the circular mosaic designed by Joan Miró in 1976.

Made of ceramic tiles, it features the colorful geometric shapes characteristic of the artist’s style. This homage to Barcelona embodies Miró’s playful, surrealist spirit and symbolizes the link between art and public space.

A thoroughfare steeped in history

The cobblestones of La Rambla have witnessed many historic events. This avenue, once a simple waterway diverted to enlarge the city, has become a central point in Barcelona’s life. From the Industrial Revolution to political demonstrations and popular festivals, the Rambla has always been a gathering place. Today, the Rambla continues to evolve, with periodic renovations to preserve its character while adapting to contemporary needs. Despite mass tourism and urban change, the original paving, and in particular Miró’s mosaic, remains a symbol of Barcelona’s identity. So, to walk along the Rambla is to tread on ground steeped in history and art, where each paving stone tells a story of Barcelona’s past and present.

Learn more about Barcelona’s history with Itinera Plus and BornBike Barcelona!

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.

Winter Escape: Your February Holiday in Barcelona

Looking for ideas for your future February vacation in Barcelona, or simply to find out about great things to do in our beautiful city? You’ve come to the right place!

Here we present you with the must-see must-sees to feast your eyes on, as well as temporary activities to do during the February vacations!

Places of worship:

Discover the Sagrada Familia:

This famous church, whose construction began in 1882, is now one of Barcelona’s defining landmarks. It is world-famous and visited by millions of people every year, so why not you?

You’ll discover a building full of history that will dazzle young and old alike, with its many towers and three facades depicting the different stages in the life of Jesus Christ.

Part of this heritage site was built by the famous architect Gaudi, and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005.

Come and see this monument in our “Historical & Modernist Tour” to find out all about this magnificent heritage of Barcelona.

The hidden gem: Sant Pau del Camp church:

Located in the Raval district, this 12th-century Romanesque church is one of the city’s oldest. Its simplicity and uncluttered architecture, with medieval elements and ancient frescoes, make it a place of calm and beauty, often ignored by the tourist crowds.

Natural landscapes:

Visit MontJuic:

This famous hill, 173 metres high, offers breathtaking views of the whole of Barcelona. You’ll catch a glimpse of the Sagrada Familia, the Mediterranean Sea and many other Barcelona highlights.

If you wish, you can explore the Montjuïc Castle and immerse yourself in its exhibitions on a wide range of subjects: the Mount’s biodiversity, Franco’s dictatorship and the castle’s history.

Tibidabo summit:

This 500-metre-high mountain offers a view of Barcelona. Several monuments have been built here, including a small amusement park, a church and an observatory. If you like walking, you can get there on foot via the footpaths provided. For those with less time or who don’t want to go on foot, we recommend taking the funicular, private transport or public transport.

Relax on Barcelona's beaches:

Even in February, you can enjoy a picnic or a rest on one of the city’s many beautiful beaches. After a day wandering around Barcelona, what could be better than a moment of idleness, sipping a drink on one of the terraces or sitting on the golden sands of Barcelona’s beaches?

The hidden gem: Parc del Turó de la Rovira (Bunkers del Carmel)

Like Tibidabo, this site offers spectacular panoramic views of Barcelona, but without the crowds. It’s a former bunker from the Spanish Civil War, now a popular spot for relaxation and picnics. This park is ideal for sunsets.

The markets:

Stroll through the alleys of the Boqueria market:

This market on Barcelona’s Rambla offers an explosion of flavors, colors and aromas from all over the world. With over 2,500 square meters and 300 stands, you’ll be able to sample all kinds of products: fruit and vegetables, fish and seafood, cheeses, cold meats, pastries, spices, etc. The market is open from 8am to 8:30pm, Monday to Saturday, so you’ll have plenty of time to discover it on your Barcelona vacation.

The hidden gem: the Mercat de Sant Antoni :

This little-known but absolutely magnificent market will introduce you to fresh local produce. The market building, built at the end of the 19th century, has recently been renovated and offers a beautiful combination of modern and traditional styles, with its wrought-iron structure and large arcades. On Sundays, it transforms into a book market: perfect for book lovers of all kinds.

Architect Gaudi:

Admire Gaudi's houses:

If you’re a lover of art and architecture, you’ll love the houses built by the architect Gaudi. Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, both located on Passeig de Gràcia, will introduce you to the world of Gaudi, both built in the early 20th century. You can admire these houses all day long, and even part of the night, as they are illuminated.

To discover Gaudí’s first house, Casa Vicens, built between 1883 and 1889, head for Carrer de les Carolines, in the same direction as Casa Milà and Casa Batlló.

Gaudi's hidden gem: La Crypt de la Colònia Güell:

Located in Santa Coloma de Cervelló, some 20 minutes from central Barcelona, this crypt is often overlooked by tourists, making it a peaceful and authentic place to visit.

It is an unfinished project by Gaudí, commissioned by Eusebi Güell for the workers of his textile colony. Although it was never completed, the crypt is considered a laboratory of ideas where Gaudí experimented with techniques he later applied to the Sagrada Família.

Local gastronomy:

Tasting tapas in local restaurants:

How can you come to Barcelona and not try tapas? Tapas are small portions of dish or appetizer, typical of Spanish cuisine, and can be served hot or cold. There are many different types to suit all tastes: with cheese, fish, chicken or vegetables. Tapas bars can be found on every street in Barcelona, but to enjoy an authentic and more affordable taste experience, we recommend moving away from the tourist hotspots

The Gothic Quarter:

Explore the Gothic Quarter:

Even in winter, strolling through Barcelona’s medieval streets is a pleasure. You can visit Barcelona’s Basilica and Plaça del Rei. You’ll also be able to enter Barcelona’s many souvenir and clothing stores.

This district's hidden gem: Festa de Santa Eulàlia:

From February 9 to 12, 2025, Barcelona celebrates its co-patron saint, Saint Eulalia, with parades, castells (human towers) and traditional dance performances. The streets of the Gothic Quarter come alive with activities for all ages.

Museums:

Visit Barcelona's many museums:

If you love art, you can visit the Picasso Museum, where you’ll discover the artist’s early works. There’s also the Joan Miró Foundation: come and admire Miró’s modern and surrealist works. The National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) is renowned for its romantic frescoes and panoramic views over the city.

The hidden gem: The Banksy Museum:

Who is the most famous anonymous artist of our time? Banksy, of course! Come and discover his art in this exhibition featuring a hundred of his works.

Local culture:

Enjoy Barcelona's nightlife:

The city combines partying, culture and gastronomy to give you unforgettable evenings! Enjoy tapas bars, aperitifs and cocktail bars. For the more festive among you, you can dance the night away in the discos. Shows, flamenco and night-time events are also on offer in the city. Take a look at what’s happening when you visit! Cabs and the metro are available all night long, so you can enjoy your evening without worrying about getting home

Visit the city by bike with Born Bike Barcelona:

Come and rent bikes for the day or take a guided tour lasting several hours to learn all the secrets of Barcelona. We offer a wide range of tours to suit every taste. Don’t hesitate to join us on a tour of our beautiful city!

The hidden gem: Barcelona Carnival:

From February 27 to March 5, 2025, the city comes alive with colorful parades, extravagant costumes and festivities in various neighborhoods, including Sitges, renowned for its spectacular carnival.

We hope this article has inspired you to plan your next trip and discover all that Barcelona has to offer. With its unique architecture, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and sunny beaches, this city has it all. So don’t wait any longer: come and experience Barcelona and let yourself be carried away by its incomparable energy. See you soon in Barcelona!

Cycling to Montjuic: an unforgettable experience!

Barcelona is packed with iconic sites that attract millions of visitors every year. One of these is Montjuic, the green hill to the west of the city that offers stunning views of the sea and the cityscape. Often prized for its magical fountain and castle, the hill also has a wealth of cultural attractions to offer

Whether you’re an amateur or a keen cyclist, getting to Montjuic by bike will be a unique experience combining sport, discovery and exceptional scenery.

Let Born Bike Tours Barcelona be your guide on this adventure!

Why choose to explore Montjuic by bike?

Cycling to Montjuic allows you to immerse yourself in Barcelona’s history while experiencing the climb to the full.

1. A sporting climb with rewards in store

Montjuic is a hill 173 metres high. The climb can be difficult, but always rewarding. You’ll be rewarded with magnificent views. What’s more, there are several routes to suit all levels. The ascent and descent can take you through very different landscapes, and you can choose according to your level.

2. A journey through history and culture

The hill is considered an open-air cultural centre. It is packed with major historical sites such as the Castle and the MNAC (National Museum of Catalan Art). All these sites are within easy reach, so you can enjoy the fresh air of Montjuic.

3. A natural and soothing setting

Montjuic is above all a large green space in the heart of the city. Here you’ll find numerous gardens and parks that many consider to be havens of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can take a break in the gardens or go for a stroll, offering a complete contrast to the city nearby.

The different routes up Montjuic

1. The classic route: from Plaça d'Espanya

This route is the most popular because it offers a gradual ascent along the hillside. This allows you to warm up gradually, ideal for beginners who want to enjoy the natural air of the hill. On this route, you’ll pass Montjuic Park and its world-famous fountains.

This walk is accessible to everyone, adults and children alike. So it’s ideal for families!

2. The sporting route: the route des châteaux

This route is best suited to experienced cyclists because of its steeper gradients.

It starts at the base of the hill, near the Parc de la Mar Bella. The route climbs straight up to Montjuic Castle. As well as offering spectacular views, this walk also promises to be a thrill. The route ends at the Castle, where you can stop for a visit before continuing on to the gardens on the hill.

3. The multi-purpose route: the Park and the Olympic Stadium

This route offers a more gradual ascent to the Castle. It allows you to discover Montjuic as well as its historic and modern sites. It starts in Plaça d’Espanya, near the MNAC. You’ll then set off to explore the historical, sporting and natural aspects of the hill, not forgetting its natural gems. The route will take you past gardens including the Botanical Gardens and the Olympic Park.

This tour is suitable for people who already have some experience of cycling.

Must-see attractions on Montjuic

Montjuic Castle: an emblematic feature of the hill, this castle offers unbeatable views of the city and the sea. Considered one of Barcelona’s must-sees, it offers pleasant, leafy walks.

You can also take the opportunity to visit the castle’s military museum.

MNAC: Barcelona’s National Museum of Catalan Art is undoubtedly one of the city’s best-known museums. Just as important as the Castle, this museum boasts impressive art collections, all housed in a building of majestic architecture. If you don’t want to go inside, stop for a moment to enjoy the splendid view over the city.

Montjuïc Gardens: these lush green spaces are ideal for a break, a stroll or a picnic. One of the most emblematic is undoubtedly the Laribal Garden, an oriental garden known for its magnificent fountains.

The Magic Fountain: created for the 1929 International Exhibition, this fountain offers night-time shows of light, water and music to delight young and old alike.

PLEASE NOTE: all the city’s fountains are currently out of service for water conservation reasons.

Tips for cycling up Montjuic

Choosing the right time: this can be very important, especially in summer when temperatures rise. In such cases, you should opt for an early morning or late afternoon departure, to avoid the summer heat.

Hydration and comfort: remember to take a full bottle of water with you and hydrate regularly. It’s also important to adjust your bike properly before setting off, so that you can enjoy the climb in complete peace of mind.

Respect safety rules: it’s very important to respect the rules of the road and to be on your guard for pedestrians. It’s also advisable to wear a helmet (compulsory for young people up to the age of 16).

Bike hire: if you don’t have your own bike, you can hire one from Born Bike Tours for a day!
Guided tour: if you’re short of time or don’t want to miss anything about Montjuic, join our Montjuic: Art & Magic bike tour and discover the hill’s most hidden facets!

Discovering Montjuic hill by bike is a must in Barcelona. It’s a great way to combine sport and tourism, while enjoying the fresh air of nature without leaving the city. If you choose to climb by bike rather than by cable car, you can be sure of magnificent views of the city and the sea. What’s more, this activity is accessible to everyone thanks to the many routes available.

So don’t wait any longer and pedal your way to an unforgettable experience on Montjuic!

Born Bike Tours Barcelona takes you on a tour of the 10 biggest cycling events in the world

The Tour de France

The Tour de France is a cycling competition that first saw the light of day in 1903 and is played out in several men’s stages across France. The race passes through a number of different towns and sometimes even neighbouring countries. For example: the Tour de France 2026 starts in Barcelona! Don’t hesitate to come and hire your bike from Born Bike Tours Barcelona to take part, in your own way, in the start of the famous competition! The Tour de France takes place every year. It is made up of 176 cyclists divided into 22 teams of 8 who line up at the start. The Tour de France is known the world over and is televised in 190 countries.

The Giro d'Italia

The Giro d’Italia, also known as the Giro d’Italia, is a cycling competition that first saw the light of day in 1909. Like the Tour de France, it is a cycling competition made up of various stages across Italy. It is considered to be the second most important cycling competition after the Tour de France. To date, 17 nations have taken part in the Giro d’Italia.

The Vuelta a España

The Vuelta a España, also known as the Tour of Spain, is a cycling competition that first saw the light of day in 1935. It is the third most important cycling event in the world. It is a three-week competition, held in the spring until 1994 and then at the end of August from 1995. This change of period was made so that the race would be held further apart in the year from the Giro d’Italia. Although the route varies with each edition, the race is made up of around twenty stages totalling some 3,000 km, several time trials, a crossing of the Pyrenees and the traditional finish in the streets of Madrid. Around twenty teams take part in the Tour of Spain.

The Paris-Roubaix race

Paris-Roubaix, also known as “The North’s Hell”, is one of the oldest cycle races, having been created in 1896. This Flemish classic is contested every year in March or April. The Paris-Roubaix race covers 259.7 kilometres and features 175 cyclists from 60 different countries.

Tour of Flanders

The Tour of Flanders, also known as “De Ronde”, was created in 1913 on the idea of Léon van den Haute. It is a cycling road race that takes place every year in Belgium. Reserved for professionals, the event takes place at the beginning of April in Flanders and has been one of the most important Flanders classics for many years. The Tour of Flanders features a total of around 175 cyclists from many different countries.

The Cape Epic

The Cape Epic was created in 2014. It is a two-person mountain bike race that takes place every year in South Africa. The race has been accredited by the International Cycling Union. Teams must race together throughout the 8-day competition, which covers almost 700 kilometres. The special feature of this race is that it is also open to fans. Fans are entered into a draw to win a place.

The Quebrantahuesos

The Quebrantahuesos International Cycling Tour is an international amateur cycling event. It starts and finishes in Sabiñáni, Spain. The Quebrantahuesos can accommodate up to 9,000 participants. The event also has a little sister, the Treparriscos, which can accommodate up to 2,500 participants. Both races are benchmarks in Europe and Spain. The race is open to amateurs and former professionals alike, with or without a licence, as it is not an official event.

L'Étape du tour

The Tour Stage is a race that allows amateur cyclists to experience a stage of the Tour de France. This stage is based on the actual route taken by the riders of the French event. This event attracts participants of all levels who want to test their endurance on the legendary roads of the Tour de France. The Tour stage covers 138km of road, with a cumulative climb of over 4,600 metres. The event can accommodate between 10,000 and 20,000 amateur cyclists ready for a unique experience.

The Down Under Tour

The Tour Down Under is an international professional cycling race held in Australia. Organised for the first time in 1999, since 2008 it has been the first round on the calendar of the UCI ProTour, now the World Tour. There are 20 teams, including 18 top division teams and the top 2 teams in the 2nd division are automatically invited to take part in this 679.4-kilometre tour of Australia.

The World Naked Bike Ride

The World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR) is an international event. The first edition took place in Spain in 2001. It is an international bike ride in which participants plan, meet and ride together en masse on human-powered means of transport, in order to “deliver a vision of a cleaner, safer and more body-positive world”. The World Naked Bike Ride is a race that can be done by bike, on foot, and so on. Surprisingly, the ride can also be done without clothes.

Now you know all about the 10 most important cycling events in the world! If you’d like to start training now to take part in one of them, we recommend you come and hire your bikes from Born Bike Tours Barcelona for a good start to your physical preparation!