Getting Around Barcelona
Written by: Zoe Jackson
Major: Journalism
Location: Barcelona
Barcelona’s public transportation system is easily one of my favorite parts of living here. After years of school in Kalamazoo, and growing up in the Detroit area, I am not accustomed to much — or any — public transportation at all. When I travel, I always make sure to rely on trains, trams or buses. Public transit saves money, helps the environment and is the best way to explore (or get lost!) in an unfamiliar city. I have found this to be true for living abroad as well. Available options in Barcelona include the metro, bus and tram, though I use the metro most often. I am a twenty minute walk from my university, but when my workshop-style classes are held elsewhere, I typically take the train. My neighborhood has groceries, mercados and a couple of food places that are in walking distance. But the train is necessary to get to any of Barcelona’s busier areas with more things to do. Knowing the necessity of the metro, my program suggested three month unlimited train tickets. At a discounted student rate of about $120, they are significantly cheaper than relying on cabs, for example. During the week, the metro runs until midnight, until 2 a.m. on Friday, and all night on Saturday. It’s great to be able to rely on the schedule of this relatively safe train system. Sure, I really do miss my car. I can’t escape to take a drive and scream along to my music when I’ve had a tough day. But I have found peace on the train too, at off hours when locals and tourists alike aren’t in a rush. I pop my earbuds in, and it's not much different. I can take a moment to sit in a quiet public square, generally found above metro stations. For those riding the Barcelona metro for the first time, my advice is to enjoy the convenience. But don’t forget to remain vigilant — the city’s infamous pickpockets often target people on the metro, especially tourists and those who look unsure about where they are going. Keep your belongings close, and enjoy the ride.
Categories: Navigation, Barcelona, Journalism