Which Cable Car Is Better in Barcelona?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona and looking for an exciting way to capture panoramic views of the city, a cable car ride is a must-do activity. Barcelona boasts two cable car options – the Montjuic Cable Car and the Port Cable Car – each with its charm, highlights, and drawbacks.

So which one should you choose? Read on to find out.

Montjuic Cable Car

The Montjuic Cable Car takes you on a 750-meter journey from the base of Montjuic Hill to its summit, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city’s skyline, Mediterranean Sea, and landmarks like La Sagrada Familia. The ride takes about ten minutes each way and operates every day from 10 am to 7 pm (extended hours in summer).

Highlights

  • The Montjuic Castle: At the end of your cable car ride, you’ll arrive at the historic Montjuic Castle – an impressive fortress built in the 17th century that served as a military prison during Franco’s regime.
  • Panoramic Views: The Montjuic Hill is one of the highest points in Barcelona, offering breathtaking views over the city’s port and coastline.
  • Olympic Stadium: You can take a short walk from the cable car station to visit the Olympic Stadium used during Barcelona’s Summer Olympics in 1992.

Drawbacks

  • The Price: Compared to other attractions in Barcelona, the Montjuic Cable Car is relatively expensive, with tickets costing around €13 for adults and €7 for children.
  • Long Queues: During peak season or weekends, be prepared to wait in line for up to an hour.

Port Cable Car

The Port Cable Car takes you on a 1,300-meter journey from the beachfront to the Montjuic Hill, passing over the city’s harbor and providing a unique perspective of its maritime life. The ride takes about ten minutes each way and operates every day from 11 am to 7 pm (extended hours in summer).

  • The Beach: The cable car station is located near the Barceloneta Beach – one of the city’s most popular beaches with golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
  • Maritime Views: As you soar above the harbor, you’ll get to see iconic landmarks like the Columbus Monument, Maremagnum shopping center, and Port Vell Marina.
  • The Castle: Once you reach Montjuic Hill, you can take a walk to visit the Montjuic Castle and enjoy its stunning views.
  • The Price: Like the Montjuic Cable Car, tickets for the Port Cable Car are relatively expensive, costing around €16 for adults and €11 for children.
  • Shorter Ride: While longer than Montjuic Cable Car’s journey, Port Cable Car’s ride lasts only ten minutes each way.

Conclusion

So which cable car is better in Barcelona? Both have their highlights and drawbacks.

If you’re looking for panoramic views of Barcelona’s skyline and landmarks or interested in visiting Olympic Stadium or Montjuic Castle, choose the Montjuic Cable Car. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy maritime views of Barcelona’s harbor or spend time at its famous beach before reaching Montjuic Hill’s summit by foot or cable car, go for the Port Cable Car. Whichever you choose, we’re sure it’ll be a memorable experience.