Situated just 15 kilometres (9 miles) from the vibrant heart of Barcelona, El Prat Airport (BCN) is your gateway to Spain's Catalonia region. Known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and lively beachside atmosphere, Barcelona offers a mix of historical landmarks and modern charm. The airport features modern terminals with seamless baggage handling, spacious lounges, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a stress-free start to your journey. Major European cities such as stylish French capital Paris, the capital of the United Kingdom historic London, and Rome with its ancient monuments are just a short flight away, making El Prat a hub for both local and international travellers. Collecting a hire car here is the perfect way to explore Barcelona and its surroundings. As you leave the airport, you'll find yourself driving along palm-lined avenues, with the iconic Montjuïc hill and its castle coming into view. Once in the city, marvel at Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Head to the Gothic Quarter for narrow medieval streets, or venture to the Barceloneta district for sunny beaches and seafood restaurants. You could even embark on a road trip of the whole of sun-kissed Spain!

Barcelona, Spain’s cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, is a city where history, modernity, and natural beauty come together. Driving through Barcelona offers a unique opportunity to explore its vibrant streets, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems at your own pace. The city is known for its well-maintained road network, though navigating through its bustling avenues and narrow streets can be a challenge, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Nonetheless, with careful planning, driving in artsy Barcelona opens up countless breathtaking scenic and soul-stirring cultural experiences. Start your journey by driving along the Avinguda Diagonal, one of Barcelona’s buzzing thoroughfares, which cuts diagonally across the city. This wide avenue offers views of some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the striking Torre Glòries and the lush Tibidabo Mountain. From the Avinguda Diagonal, you can quickly access the iconic Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. While parking can be difficult around this area, the view from the car’s window is well worth it, offering a glimpse of Gaudí’s imaginative architecture and the surrounding vibrant neighbourhoods. For those wishing to take in more of Barcelona’s architectural wonders, driving along the Eixample district will bring you past the Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera), two of Gaudí’s most famous works. The wide, tree-lined streets of Eixample are perfect for a leisurely drive, with ample parking in nearby garages, making it easy to stop and explore on foot. Barcelona is also a city of green spaces, and driving allows you to easily access many of the city’s parks and gardens. Head towards Parc Guell, another Gaudí creation, where you’ll find a blend of natural beauty and whimsical architecture. The park’s colourful mosaics and panoramic views of the city make it a must-see destination. Parc de la Ciutadella, a historic park close to the city centre, offers peaceful lakes, a grand fountain, and expansive lawns perfect for relaxation. Additionally, driving along Barcelona’s beachfront promenade reveals stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. A drive along Avinguda del Litoral will bring you to Barceloneta Beach, where you can park and take a walk along the sand. The city’s diverse neighbourhoods, such as El Raval and Gràcia, provide opportunities for cultural exploration. While driving through these areas, you’ll encounter vibrant street art, local cafes, and unique boutiques. The people of Barcelona add to the city’s charm, offering warm hospitality and a lively, creative atmosphere that is evident as you pass through its districts.