Cycling in Barcelona: Know the Rules of the Road

by ,

As bikes are both a sustainable and speedy way of getting around, it’s no surprise that new cycle routes are popping up all over the city. The mental health benefits of breezing through Barna are second to none and it can be an inexpensive way of both commuting and exploring. We recommend escaping the dark corridors of the metro and spending some time outdoors. We’ve compiled a list of the essential rules to make sure you don’t get caught out!

The Hard and Fast Rules

  1. It’s key to remember that bicycles, just like cars and motos, are subject to the general road regulations as outlined by the DGT.
  2. You can’t listen to music, or anything for that matter. Only the hustle and bustle of the city for Barcelona’s bikers. Doing so could result in a €200 fine.
  3. Don’t call a friend either, using your phone while cycling can also earn you a €200 fine. 
  4. While a helmet is not essential, a bell is. Don’t get caught out or you may have an €80 fine heading your way. 
  5. If you want to go for a night-time cycle, you have to attach a white headlight, a red rear light and reflectors. Failure to do so can set you back €200.
  6. It won't come as a surprise that wheelies, riding with no hands and zigzagging between vehicles are all illegal in Barcelona.
  7. Standardized bike trailers and extra seats have got the green light. You can pedal your child around Barcelona as long as they are under the age of seven and wearing a helmet. 
  8. Remember to attach your bike to an anchor point in a safe location. No trees, traffic lights, benches, bins, other people’s doorways, etc. If you do, you risk having it confiscated. The city has designated bicycle parking areas throughout the city.
  9. Don’t booze and bike. Riding while intoxicated (or high!) is a fineable offense of up to €500.
  10. Travel lightly. You’re not allowed to carry items that make moving difficult or restrict your vision.
  11. Don’t go on the sidewalks or in areas reserved for pedestrians. If you do, you can be fined at least €60. Use the designated cycle lanes where possible.
  12. Take note of the signs and watch your speed, you know the drill. The maximum speed in a cycle lane is 30 kilometers per hour. There’s a possible €500 fine for anyone that cycles dangerously, so be civilized.

Recommendations 

  • While riding in the city you don’t have to wear a helmet if you are over the age of 16. That said, a helmet is strongly advised as traffic can be hectic. Also, if you’re planning to do any cycling beyond Barcelona, it's worth noting that a helmet is required when riding outside of urban areas.
  • With a reputation as a pick-pockets' playground, it’s no secret that bikes are at risk of being stolen in Barcelona. It goes without saying that you will need a bike lock, it’s recommended to use two for maximum security.
  • The authorities also highly recommend taking out a civil liability insurance policy, alongside an insurance policy against vehicle theft.
  • Keep your bike in top condition—check the tire pressure, steering and brakes. You’ll thank us later.

Public Transport

You can combine cycling with public transport, however be sure you know the rules for each public transport system. As long as there’s enough space, you can always take your bike on the train or tram but be aware that if it gets too crowded you may be asked to leave. Because of limited space, only foldable bikes are allowed on the city’s buses.

When it comes to the metro, your bike can board with you on weekdays only during designated times: 5:00-7:00, 9:30-17:00 and 20:30 until the metro closes (essentially, avoiding peak travel times). During the months of July and August any time is okay, and the same goes for holidays and weekends.

Cycling Lanes

Barcelona offers a network of over 200 kilometers of cycling lanes. They can be found on sidewalks in clearly demarcated lanes either for use in both directions or one way. When bike lanes are located on the sidewalk pedestrians have the right of way.

Bike lanes on the road can also be either for use in both directions or one way and are clearly indicated by lanes painted on the asphalt and signage. For cycle lanes located in the street, cyclists have right of way over pedestrians.

When riding in areas that have no designated cycling lanes, cycling is permitted on the roads. Riders must stay in the lane closest to the sidewalk on the right-hand side of the road, however keep in mind that use of the bus lane is prohibited unless otherwise indicated. 

Other Specially Adapted Areas for Cyclists

Designated pedestrian areas are streets in which there is a single-level road surface where cars and cyclists are limited to a speed of either 10 kilometers per hour or 20 kilometers per hour as indicated by the signage. Pedestrians have right of way but bikers have priority over cars. In these areas cyclists are permitted to travel in either direction.

Bicycle streets are traffic-calmed streets that encourage cycling. There is a 30 kilometer-per-hour speed limit and cyclists must go with the traffic flow (no riding in the wrong direction!). Again, bikes have priority over motor vehicles but not over pedestrians on these streets.

Cycling is permitted in parks and green areas, but make way for pedestrians and stay off of the grass or any areas with vegetation.

The Greenway

Intertwined with the city bike network is the greenway, or Ronda Verda, a 72 kilometer path encircling the city that links green spaces and points of cultural interest along the way. You can join the route at any point; you’ll know you’ve found the Ronda Verda when you see the classic green markings on the cycle lane.

Now you’re all set to get on two wheels!

Published July 19, 2022, updated March 28, 2023.