Car Hire - Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)

Barcelona is one of Spain's most celebrated cities, sitting on the northeast Mediterranean coast in the region of Catalonia. It's a place that balances a vibrant urban energy with a relaxed coastal feel. The city is known for its distinctive architecture, lively neighbourhoods, and a strong local culture that extends well beyond the city limits. Whether you're visiting for a short break or planning a longer road trip through the region, Barcelona makes an excellent base.

Barcelona-El Prat Airport sits just south of the city, with straightforward road access that connects quickly to Barcelona's main routes. From there, you can travel north along the Costa Brava, head inland towards the Pyrenees, or follow the coast south towards Tarragona and the Costa Daurada. Public transport can get you into the city centre, but it won't take you to quieter coastal towns, rural villages, or mountain scenery. A hire car changes that. If you're travelling with family, a 7-seater people carrier or a 9-seater people carrier offers extra comfort and luggage space. For those heading into hillier terrain, an SUV is a practical choice. If you prefer an automatic car, options are available to suit different needs and group sizes.

Nearby attractions

The region around Barcelona has a lot to offer travellers with a hire car.

Montserrat is a striking mountain range located inland from Barcelona. The serrated rock formations are dramatic and unusual, and the hilltop monastery draws visitors from across Spain and beyond. There are walking trails of varying difficulty, and the views over Catalonia on a clear day are well worth the drive.

Sitges is a relaxed coastal town south of Barcelona with a well-preserved old town, a long seafront promenade, and sandy beaches. It has a lively arts scene and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a popular day trip. The drive along the coast is straightforward and pleasant.

Girona is a historic city north of Barcelona with a well-intact medieval quarter. The old town sits on a hillside above the River Onyar, with colourful houses reflected in the water below. It's a compact city, easy to explore on foot once you've arrived.

Catalonia is a region with a strong identity, a rich culinary tradition, and landscapes that shift from coastline to mountain within a short drive. It rewards those who take the time to explore beyond the city.