Bus Turístic routes: which to take and why
Two routes split the city between them: the red heads south and east, the blue north and uphill. They cross at Plaça de Catalunya, so one ticket covers both — though there is rarely time for both in a day.
Red Route
Plaça de Catalunya → Arc de Triomf
Passing
- Passeig de Gràcia
- Plaça d’Espanya
- Montjuïc Olympic ring
- Fòrum
- Sagrada Família
Service note: The Torre Glòries – 22@ stop is suspended; the alternative is on Carrer Badajoz, 160.
Blue Route
Plaça de Catalunya → FC Barcelona stadium
Passing
- Passeig de Gràcia
- Park Güell
- Tibidabo
- Pedralbes
Service note: The FC Barcelona stop is affected on match days.
How to choose
If it is your first day and you want the Sagrada Família from outside, Montjuïc and the waterfront, take the red. If Park Güell, the views from Tibidabo and the upper city appeal more, take the blue.
With a 24-hour ticket, pick one and get off at three or four stops. Attempting both full loops is about 4 hours sitting on a bus, which is precisely the opposite of what you wanted.
Check the notices before you head for the stop.
This service moves stops fairly often: roadworks, matches at the Camp Nou, races and parades. Some stops are suspended permanently with an alternative a few streets away. Not a serious problem, but a pointless wait if you do not know.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the red and blue routes?
The red covers the south and east: Montjuïc, Plaça d’Espanya, Sagrada Família and the Fòrum. The blue covers the north and west: Park Güell, Tibidabo, Pedralbes and the FC Barcelona stadium.
Can I switch routes on the same ticket?
Yes. The ticket covers every route for the hours you bought, and both meet at Plaça de Catalunya, which is where you change.
Which route goes past the Sagrada Família?
The red one. The blue does not pass it, so if that is your target for the day, take the red.
Which route goes to Park Güell?
The blue one. Bear in mind that entry to the Park Güell monumental zone is paid separately and worth booking ahead.
Are any stops out of service?
The Torre Glòries – 22@ stop is suspended; the alternative is on Carrer Badajoz, 160. The FC Barcelona stop is affected on match days.
Checked 22 October 2026. Sources: barcelonabusturistic.cat (routes and service notices)