If you're planning a trip to Barcelona or have just arrived, you may be wondering if Uber is available in this lively, vibrant city. As someone who has lived in Barcelona for over six years, I can share my firsthand experience with getting around, including the reality of Uber's availability and some great alternatives to consider.

Can You Get Ubers in Barcelona?

No, Uber is not available in Barcelona in the traditional way you might expect. Due to local regulations and the strong influence of the local taxi association, Uber's standard rideshare service doesn't operate in the city. But don’t worry—there are plenty of reliable alternatives that make getting around just as easy, including taxis, other ride-hailing apps, and efficient public transportation.

Uber Alternatives in Barcelona

Is There Something Like Uber in Barcelona?

Even though Uber isn’t available, Barcelona has several rideshare alternatives that provide a similar experience with the added benefit of being fully legal and in compliance with local regulations. Here are the main ones:

1. Cabify

Cabify is my go-to app when I need the convenience of a rideshare service. Cabify is popular, reliable, and the closest alternative to Uber. It offers a very similar app-based experience, allowing you to book rides at your convenience. Cabify cars are licensed as private hire vehicles (similar to Uber's approach in many other countries) and are typically newer, clean, and offer a higher level of comfort compared to standard taxis. You get the price upfront, which makes budgeting easier, and their customer service is reliable.

• Availability: Widely available throughout the city, with quick response times in most areas.

• Pricing: Competitive with taxis, and often better during peak hours because Cabify doesn’t implement surge pricing in the same way.

• Safety: I’ve always felt safe using Cabify, and the app allows you to track your ride and share your route in real time.

2. Bolt

Bolt is another excellent Uber alternative that has been growing rapidly in Barcelona. It works similarly to Cabify, allowing you to book a ride through the app, with the fare calculated upfront.

• Availability: Expanding, but sometimes it may be slightly less available compared to Cabify, especially during peak times.

• Pricing: Often more competitive, especially during non-peak hours, making it a good budget-friendly alternative.

• Additional Features: The Bolt app is very user-friendly and straightforward, perfect for travelers and residents alike.

1. Freenow

FREENOW is a versatile app that allows you to book both taxis and private cars, giving you flexibility based on your preferences and budget. It is especially useful if you need to get a taxi quickly, as it connects you with the nearest available driver.

• Availability: Highly available throughout Barcelona since it integrates with the city’s large network of taxis.

• Pricing: Follows the standard taxi rates when you choose a taxi. Prices for private cars can be more expensive depending on demand.

• Convenience: This is a good option if you’re looking for the reliability of a traditional taxi but want the ease of booking through an app.

Other Ways to Get Around in Barcelona

Barcelona’s transportation system is well-designed and efficient, making it easy to explore the city:

• Metro and Bus: Barcelona's metro system is fast, clean, and highly efficient. Buses are also widely available, and both the metro and buses use the same ticket system. I highly recommend getting a T-10 card, which gives you 10 rides across metro, bus, and tram networks at a discounted rate. It's an affordable way to navigate the city and explore its many neighborhoods.

• Trains (Rodalies): The Rodalies trains connect Barcelona with nearby cities and attractions, and as of 2024, travel on Rodalies trains is free. This is an ideal way to explore areas outside the city without additional costs.

• Walking: One of the greatest things about Barcelona is how walkable it is. If you’re staying in the city center, many attractions are just a short walk away. From the historic Gothic Quarter to the modernist charm of Eixample, you can easily explore the best of Barcelona on foot.

• Taxis: Taxis are abundant in Barcelona, and you can easily find one by hailing it from the street or heading to a taxi rank. Taxis are a convenient option for late-night travel or when you have lots of luggage.

Renting a Car in Barcelona

If you want the freedom to explore Barcelona and the surrounding areas at your own pace, renting a car might be the best option. While driving in the city center can be challenging due to narrow streets and traffic, renting a car is an excellent idea for day trips to places like Montserrat, Costa Brava, or the vineyards of Penedès.

I personally recommend using DiscoverCars to find the best rental deals in Barcelona. DiscoverCars is a comparison website that allows you to easily browse through different car rental companies and find the one that suits your needs at the best price. The platform is user-friendly, and you can see all the options available, including insurance coverage and pickup locations.

• Convenience: You can pick up rental cars at Barcelona Airport or in various locations throughout the city.

• Pricing: Prices are generally competitive, and using a comparison tool like DiscoverCars ensures that you get the best value for your trip.

• Exploring Beyond Barcelona: Renting a car is ideal if you plan to explore destinations beyond Barcelona that aren't as accessible by public transport.

Uber Alternative for Barcelona: My Recommendation

Barcelona has plenty of options to suit your transportation needs, whether you prefer rideshare services like Cabify and Bolt, want to rely on the excellent public transit system, or simply enjoy walking around the beautiful streets. If you're staying centrally, walking and using the metro will likely be your main modes of transport, but for longer trips or late at night, a Cabify or a taxi is the way to go.

If you're planning day trips beyond the city, renting a car with DiscoverCars is a fantastic option that will give you the freedom to explore Catalonia at your leisure. The key is flexibility—sometimes the metro is the fastest, sometimes walking is the most scenic, and sometimes you just want the convenience of a comfortable ride home after a long day of exploring.

Whatever your preference, Barcelona makes getting around easy and enjoyable, allowing you to experience all that this amazing city has to offer!