Visiting Barcelona for Seniors

The city of Barcelona not only attracts youths and middle-aged people, but also senior citizens. In this article, ShBarcelona offers the latter group a few tips for a successful stay in Barcelona.

Find the perfect place to stay

ShBarcelona has many adapted properties; think about verifying whether your chosen accommodation is situated in an apartment with a lift and access ramp if necessary, or else look out for apartments situated on the planta baja (ground floor).

Public transportation

Another important consideration is public transportation. It will make your life much easier if you choose an apartment or hotel located close to a bus or metro station.

Metro: Barcelona‘s metro service is especially well planned, allowing you to get almost anywhere in the city in a quick and inexpensive way.

Bus: The bus is equally practical but services are not so frequent.

Taxi: If you take a taxi, bear in mind that if you pre-book a journey, the counter should not start until you get into the vehicle, as the driver cannot charge you for the journey from his position to yours.

Touristic bus: a little more comfortable than the public bus service if you wish to see the sights by road, the Bus Turístic allows you to travel easily from one place to another.

There are a number of means of transportation adapted for those with limited mobility. You can find more information about it  here.

In the centre, the narrow streets are best explored on foot, as this will enable you to discover the true charm of the city. If you find yourself in a difficult hilly area, such as Montjuïc, you can hire a wheelchair. The walkways are adapted to wheelchairs thanks to the dropped curbs at pedestrian crossings. We would advise you to check your itinerary to avoid the steepest climbs. For example: if you want to go to Park Güell, exit at Vallcarca station rather than Lesseps, which is the next station on metro L3 towards Trinitat Nova. This will give you access to a downward-sloping path instead of having to climb up to the park.

Related article: Barcelona Museum Pass – Articket Barcelona

Reduced entry rates

If you are 65 or over, you can benefit from reduced entry fees at many tourist sites Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló and Park Güell. On the other hand, certain other cultural sites such as Casa Milà (La Pedrera) do not offer reduced tariffs to seniors.

Avoid the summer months

It can get very hot in Barcelona during the months of July and August. The air humidity also contributes to a feeling of oppressive heat. This can become unbearable and it is important to rehydrate regularly. We suggest that you pay Barcelona a visit mid-season or even in winter when it still tends to be pleasantly sunny.

Related article: 10 monuments you have to see in Barcelona

Ideas for visits

A classic but easy walk consists of strolling along the coast via the Passeig Marítim; breathing the sea air has many health benefits.

As mentioned previously, you can take a nice, pleasureful walk on the hill of Montjuïc. Preferably ascend the heights via funicular (from Paral.lel metro station), by bus or by taxi in order to avoid a steep climb.

Barcelona is situated at the heart of a region with a rich cultural heritage. You can walk in the footsteps of Dalí, discover traditional villages, explore the beaches of Sitges, for example, or perhaps visit the vineyards of Tarragona.

The city of Gaudí is also a city where music holds an important place. If you visit during the spring, you can enjoy the Musica als Parcs, a series of free concerts held in the parks and green spaces of Barcelona. There is also the stunning Palau de la Musica, the perfect place to experience a concert in a splendid setting (one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world).

You now have a great starting point for planning your visit to our beautiful city of Barcelona. Do not hesitate to explore our short and medium-term rentals for your stay in the city. ShBarcelona wishes you an excellent trip!