Although you could probably make it to all the sites on your Barcelona itinerary on foot, there’s definitely something to be said for exploring the city like a local and getting your own set of wheels. The wind in your hair as you cruise through the narrow Spanish streets, the rumble of the road beneath your feet as you take in the daily life of the city, exploring Barcelona on a scooter is a whole different experience. But if you’re new to Barcelona, you may have some reservations about how and where to rent a scooter. But don’t let that deter you from having the perfect experience on your journey through the heart of Catalonia. With this guide, you’ll learn everything about how to rent a scooter, where to go on your scooter, and everything else you need to know to take your self-guided motor tour through the city.
Why should I rent a scooter?
There’s a certain type of freedom gained when renting a scooter and taking yourself wherever your heart desires. Sightseeing on a scooter gives you the power to easily zip from one landmark to the next, and frees up time in your schedule to divert from the beaten path and enjoy a nice lunch at a cafe with a few cups of espresso after your meal. Renting a scooter is easy and inexpensive, and gives you access to a more authentic experience of any foreign city you might find yourself in. Plus, there’s the simple fact that riding a scooter is just plain FUN. The way your scooter responds when you twist the throttle, weaving through traffic with the wind tickling your face. Riding a scooter no matter where you are, but especially in Barcelona, is guaranteed to give you goosebumps.
Where can I rent a scooter in Barcelona?
As soon as you step into the beautiful city of Barcelona, you’ll notice that there’s no shortage of places to rent a scooter or motorbike. But with all these options, how do you know which one to go with? To rent a 125cc Suzuki Address 110 for 24 hours, some charge 35 euros, which is as good as it gets in the city of Barcelona. If you don’t think you need that much power, you can rent a 50cc Kymco Agility for 24 hours for 25 euros.
Do I need a license to drive in Barcelona?
If you’re an EU citizen and you have your license, you don’t have to worry about a thing if you want to rent a scooter in Barcelona. However, for potential drivers who are NOT EU citizens, you may be required to obtain an International Drivers License. In the case of US citizens, you are supposed to get an International Drivers License BEFORE you arrive in Spain. The application process is typically quite easy, but it is best to take care of it as far before your trip as you can to ensure that you’ll have no problem when it’s actually time to hop on a scooter. You can find the application here.
In reality, many tourists in Barcelona drive without an International Drivers License. Many rental shops do not require one of these licenses and oftentimes the police will accept a US drivers license. But you are putting yourself at risk of legal trouble if you choose to drive without an International Drivers License. And while that risk is small, it’s still better to be safe than sorry.
Where should I go in Barcelona?
In terms of places to go sightseeing, Barcelona is FULL of them. But the place to start your journey by scooter is at theBasilica of the Sagrada Familia located on Carrer de Mallorca. This is probably the most impressive religious site in Barcelona and an architectural wonder to behold.
Then it’s time to make your way to the Palace of Catalan Music, one of the most representative sites of Catalan culture in all of Barcelona and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Here you’ll see mesmerizing modernist architecture that’ll nearly bring you to tears and learn from experienced tour guides who will enlighten you to the rich history of this site.
But when you’re done there, head on over to Mercat de la Boqueria, the most famous market in Barcelona. Here you’ll discover the reason that people all over the world rave about Spanish food. Soak up the smell of fresh fish and charcuterie filling the bustling streets, and gaze upon a wide selection of some of the best street food in the entire world.
At night, take a ride over to the Magic Fountain, where the illuminated water streams make for an unforgettable light show and an all-around magical atmosphere. If you’re traveling with your significant other, this is a site you can’t afford to miss.
What else do I need to know?
In terms of other things you need to know if you plan on exploring Barcelona by scooter, these should pretty much sum it up:
- If you have little experience riding a scooter, don’t try to be a speed demon the first time you try it. Drive safe, respect the rules of the road, and take care of yourself.
- Before you rent a scooter in Barcelona, make sure you check the insurance clause in the rental agreement. This could save you a TON of money if you end up damaging the scooter.
- Barcelona is based on a grid street system, which makes it super easy to navigate. But if you do end up getting lost on your scooter adventure, don’t be afraid to ask a local!
Overall, if you plan on taking a trip to Barcelona, renting a scooter is one of the best moves you can make. So don’t be afraid to hop on and experience the city like a local!
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