posted by Vacation Home Rentals on Jul 13
By no means do you need a car to discover Barcelona, no matter where you’ve opted for your accommodation in Barcelona . The public transport system in the city is so good that there is really no purpose for one. The metro system is one of the best in Europe with regular stops allowing you to alight close to the attractions of your choice. However, if you absolutely have to have your car in the city, there are a few parking options you should know of.
Safety should always be the first thing on your mind before leaving your car. A rolled down window or door slightly ajar could be all the encouragement a would-be thief needs. So, don’t get careless, make sure all your doors are closed and the windows are rolled right up to the top. If you have a safety device, such as a steering wheel lock, ensure it is in place. As a double deterrent, always try to park somewhere with CCTV.
For short-term parking, there are lots of places to choose from. Prices per hour start from around €2. The cheapest parking is on offer at B:SM car parks, which have the lowest hourly rates. There are three B:SM parks situated just outside the city. They allow you to park your car at a low price before getting on a bus to take you into the city centre.
For a longer term parking option, you should try to get your hands on the P-Month Card. It costs €41 and entitles you to park for 12 hours a day, Monday to Saturday in three different lots. These are the Placa del Forum, Sant Genis Vale d’Hebron and Rius i Taulet Fira.
For those who want to park their car for up to eight days there is another B:SM card. The P-8 day card will allow you to park for up to eight consecutive days in the Barcelona Nord Bus Station Car Park for only €75.
This car park is one of the best positioned in the city. As well as being on the main route for buses, it is right next to a metro station. This means that, even if you aren’t moving the car, you can check how it is within minutes from town. This takes away the inconvenience of having to find parking while you’re trying to enjoy a holiday.
One thing you have to remember, however, is that this card is only for continuous parking for 8 days. If you leave before the eight days is up, then the card is cancelled.
Camper vans are popular with people who come to Barcelona while journeying around Europe. Even these people can find somewhere to park for a few days. The Fourm car park provides all the space and security they need for just €17 per day.
Even in the unlikely circumstance that all other car parks are full, the airport is an option. It is the biggest car park in the city, with 12,000 spaces in total, so there should never be a shortage. Prices start from €18 per day for the first four days and €15 after that. A week’s stay will cost you around €115.
One last thing to remember before you decide to take the car is that it is going to cost you money. This price should be factored into your holiday costs before you leave. The last thing you want is to have to leave the city early because you can’t afford car parking.
While it is advisable that you come to Barcelona ‘car-less’, if you absolutely need personal transport, there are many car parks. You don’t have to worry about where you leave your car, there are lots all over the city. You’ll find that, on the whole, parking is reasonably priced and public transport is always close to hand. The only thing you have to make sure is that you take cost into account before you leave.
