In addition to having one of the greatest race tracks in Europe, Barcelona is a wonderful city to spend a few days exploring, today we share a few practical travel tips for a great Barcelona Grand Prix weekend:
WHERE TO STAY
If you are travelling to the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona for a weekend of thrilling races, the best option is to stay in the city, as you can easily travel to the track in Montmeló by train and taxi.
Staying in Barcelona city centre allows you to enjoy its vibrant atmosphere, great restaurants and bars in the evenings; and even spend some time sightseeing during the day if you have enough time.
If you are into sea swimming you can even head to the Barceloneta Beach for a dip in the Med.
WHAT TO DO IN BARCELONA
As the Catalan saying goes: ‘Qui no ha vist Barcelona, no ha vist cosa bona’, if you haven’t seen Barcelona you haven’t seen anything good.
If you have time to explore this fantastic city here are some suggestions of what not to miss in Barcelona:
GAUDI’S BARCELONA
Local Modernist architect Antoni Gaudi has given the city its most iconic buildings and top of the list is the Sagrada Familia, his best known work and ultimate masterpiece. He dedicated over 40 years to this project, which is still to be finished.
Parc Güell and Casa Milà – La Pedrera are two other unmissable spaces designed in the brilliant mind of Gaudi. Parc Guell is the city’s greatest green spaces with stunning panoramic views of the city and dotted with sculptures; while the spectacular Casa Milà on Passeig de Gràcia was built for the wealthy Milà family with its undulating facade, roof terrace and sculpture garden in the heart of the city.
LA RAMBLA AND GOTHIC QUARTER
Walk the famous Rambla all the way down to the harbour and don’t miss the Gothic Quarter, Barrio Gòtic, the city’s oldest neighbourhood and historic heart of the city.
Along the Rambla, make sure you stop at the Boqueria Food market for a taste of the local gastronomy of Barcelona, Catalonia and beyond.
BARCELONETA BEACH
Barcelona’s city beach is a cool spot for people watching, sea swimming or just a stroll by the sea.
PARC DE MONTJUIC
For a bit of Spanish Grand Prix history head to another park: Parc de Montjuic, home of the Spanish Grand Prix between 1969 and 1975. Take the cable car for great panoramic views of Barcelona.
CAMP NOU
If you are football fan, a visit to Camp Nou should definitely be on your list.
GETTING AROUND BARCELONA AND MONTMELO
Travelling from Barcelona El Prat airport to the city is really easy, either by bus or train.
If you are travelling with us, we recommend you take the train to Barcelona-Sants Station, as our hotel is located a short 10 minute walk from Sants. If you are not in the mood for walking, you can take the Metro Line 3 for two stops to Les Corts stop which is right by the hotel.
Once in Barcelona, the metro is the best way to get around the city for sightseeing and will take you nearly anywhere you’d like to be.
Getting to the track from Barcelona city centre is relatively easy. Just take the Renfe R2 or R2 Nord line, and get off at the Montmeló stop. The trip from central Barcelona to Montmeló should take around 40 minutes and tickets cost about €5 return.
Once in Montmeló, we would recommend taking a taxi, particularly on hot weather. Alternatively you can take a local bus or walk to the circuit in 30 minutes approximately. There’s a shuttle bus from the centre of Montmeló to the circuit (tickets cost around 2 EUR each way), about 10 minutes’ walk from the train station. It will drop you off near turn 1, around 10 minutes’ walk from entrance Gate 5.
If you are in Barcelona for a few days, it might be worth getting the Hola Barcelona travel card for convenience and unlimited travel on public transport.
YOUR DAY AT THE TRACK
The focus should be on being comfortable at the track, although that is not to say you can’t be stylish! Smart casual is the dress code.
Comfortable shoes and clothes, as well as sun protection such as hat, sunglasses and sun screen, are definitely a must. Always check the forecast before travelling so you can pack accordingly. A small umbrella might be also a good idea.
Bring some food and snacks, as well as a refillable glass water bottle to keep hydrated; and bear in mind glass is not allowed into the track.
Other essential items you shouldn’t forget: your tickets! and your camera (or additional power for your smart phone in case it runs out of battery).
Make sure you get there with plenty of time so you can pick your seats.
BOOK YOUR BARCELONA GRAND PRIX TRIP
Our Barcelona Grand Prix 2024 tour departs on 21st June, find all details and/or book your place here: BARCELONA GRAND PRIX 2024 TOUR.
Schedule may be subject to change, you can keep up to date checking the official Formula 1 website: BARCELONA GRAND PRIX TIMETABLE.
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