Set up as an ancient Roman colony before staking its claim in the Kingdom of Aragon, Barcelona has a depth of history harking back to the 5th century. Today, its rich cultural heritage, wealth of art galleries, dynamic design scene and fresh Catalan cuisine draws in 5.5 million tourists per year, ranking it as the most visited city in Europe.

Reaching heights of 31°C in August, late spring and summer are the most popular times to visit. However, Barcelona continues to enjoy a warm Mediterranean climate well into autumn and its winters are mild, making this an appealing destination year-round.

A multitude of festas occur throughout the year, ranging from the live music festivals that commandeer Barceloneta beach during summer to the annual La Mercè celebration in September. Catalonia’s largest festival, it showcases the province’s rich food and wine, seasoned with a sprinkling of history, in a four-day series of colourful parades, concerts, fireworks and correfocs, or traditional ‘fire runs’.

Scattered among Barcelona’s busy streets and markets are several World Heritage buildings, including famed architect Antoni Gaudí’s Cassa Mila in the old-meets-new Eixample district, the surreal Park Güell in the north of the city, and impressive architectural feats by modernist Catalan local, Lluís DomènIch i Montaner.

Which side of the road?
In Spain, please drive on the right side of the road.

Country driving laws

•  Mobile phones may not be used at all whilst driving
• Do not use headphones when driving (except hearing aids)
• Dipped headlights must be used in poor daylight visibility
• Always use indicators, you will be fined for not using indicators when needed
• Cyclists have right of way, at all times

Speed limits
All speed signs will be in km/h.
For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:

•  Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
•  Rural areas: 90 km/h (55 mph)
•  Motorways: 120 km/h (74 mph)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Child safety / Seatbelt laws

•  It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt
• Children aged under 12 and less than 135 cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size
• Children aged under 12 are not allowed to sit in the front seat

Please note - It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.
If you want to learn more about driving in Barcelona, see the full Spain Road Rules guide.

Once you’ve indulged in the city’s thrills, Catalonia’s rural treasures are easily accessible with a hire car from Barcelona. The dramatic Montserrat mountain range lies an hour outside the city and just 1,236 m above sea level. Seeking a challenge? Hike up to the sacred Benedictine Monastery Santa Maria de Montserrat atop one of its peaks. It’s considered to be the area’s most important pilgrimage site and remains a popular place of worship for Benedictine monks and locals.

Enticing oenophiles is the rolling wine country that encircles Barcelona. Encompassing many Cava houses, journey out into the 300,000 hectares of vineyards and farmland to discover the many traditional barrel-lined bodegas in the vicinity.

Girona is an easy day trip from Barcelona, approximately 62 miles north of Barcelona up the AP-7. This beautifully preserved medieval city is packed with interesting historical sights, a web of narrow streets and an awe-inspiring Cathedral that dominates the skyline. Uncover a plethora of museums, restaurants, independent shops and charming little nooks.

A string of whitewashed seaside towns are all within comfortable driving distance from Barcelona. Vibrant Sitges, known for its annual carnival in early spring, and the tranquil fishing villages of Cadaqués and Roses, make good destinations for a quiet swim and sunbathe without the crowds that throng on Barceloneta.

Hire a car in Barcelona to make the most of the spectacular countryside, sleepy villages and pretty beaches surrounding Catalonia’s cosmopolitan capital.

What is Barcelona known for?

The glittering coastal city of Barcelona is known for its magnificent Modernist architecture, long sandy beaches, vibrant neighbourhoods, lively nightlife and world-class gastronomy — all of which attract visitors from around the globe. It is also famous for its exceptional football team, FC Barcelona – one of the best teams in the world.

In which region of Spain is Barcelona located?

Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, a region in the north-east of Spain. The city is nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Collserola mountains

What's the nearest beach in Barcelona?

Barcelona has several beaches within the city. The closest beaches to the city centre are those in the neighbourhood of Barceloneta. Other popular beaches in Barcelona include Nova Icaria, Bogatell and Mar Bella.

Do I need a hire car in Barcelona?

Hiring a car is arguably the best way to see this part of Spain. Not only will it help you make the most of all Barcelona to offer, but you can also hit the road and discover the spectacular landscapes of surrounding Catalonia.

What do you need to shift? Our van rental fleet spans small hire vans, perfect for that weekend DIY project; medium vans, well suited to hauling rolls of carpet, heavy floor tiles, or moving the kids to university; and large vans to accommodate some or all of your worldly goods.