Introduction
You arrive in Barcelona, get off the plane at El Prat or disembark at the port and the first thing you think is: what card should I buy to get around by metro and bus without having to spend too much?
The answer depends on how many days you will stay, how many trips you will make and whether you are traveling alone, as a couple or with your family. In this guide you will find the main transport cards in 2025, their official prices and practical examples so you can choose the one that best suits your trip.
The most common cards for tourists in Barcelona in 2025 are: Hola BCN! (2 to 5 days unlimited), T-Casual (10 trips), T-Familiar (8 shared trips) and T-Usual (monthly). The best one depends on your stay and the number of daily trips.
Main transportation cards for tourists in 2025
What it is: unlimited travel pass for 2, 3, 4 or 5 consecutive days on the integrated network.
Prices (zone 1):
- 2 days (48 h): 18,10 € 18,10
- 3 days (72 h): 26,30 € 26,30
- 4 days (96 h): 34,40 € 34,40
- 5 days (120 h): 42,10 €.
Advantages: unlimited travel, including subway and train to the airport within zone 1.
Ideal for: tourists who plan to use public transportation several times a day.
Source: TMB Barcelona
What it is: 10-trip card.
Price zone 1: 12,55 €.
Limitation: single person (cannot be shared).
Important note: not valid for the subway from the airport.
Source: TMB
What it is: 8 shareable trips card.
Price zone 1: 11,05 €.
Ideal for: couples or families who will make few trips.
Source: ATM
What it is: Unlimited monthly subscription in zone 1.
Price zone 1: 22,00 € (50% discount in 2025).
Ideal for: long stays (one month) or intensive use.
Source: TMB
Quick card comparison (2025)
| Card | Duration / uses | Price zone 1 | Includes Airport | Ideal for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hello BCN! | 2-5 days unlimited | 18,10 € - 42,10 € | Yes | Tourists who move around a lot on a daily basis |
| T-Casual | 10 trips | 12,55 € | No | Single travelers with one-way trips |
| T-Familiar | 8 carpooling | 11,05 € | No | Couples or families with few trips |
| T-Usual | 30 days unlimited | 22,00 € | No | Long-term stays or students |
Practical example
If you make 4 trips per day for 3 days (12 trips):
- With T-Casual (10 trips): 12,55 € + extra ticket.
- With Hola BCN! (3 days): 26,30 €, unlimited (including airport).
If you arrive via El Prat and plan to move around a lot, Hola BCN! is usually more profitable.
Important: if you are traveling in a group of 3 or more people, a cab or private transfer can be cheaper than several cards, in addition to avoiding transfers and waiting with luggage.
For long trips with luggage, children or late flights, a private transfer with EasyTaxiBarcelona avoids transfers and takes you directly to your hotel.
Tips for choosing the best card
- Short stays (2-5 days): Hola BCN! is the most practical.
- Travel as a couple or family with few trips: T-Familiar.
- Tourist only with moderate use: T-Casual.
- Long-term stays (one month or more): T-Usual.
- More than 2 people traveling together: sometimes a cab or private transfer is more cost-effective.
- Transfers with luggage, family or early morning flights: consider a private transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Does the T-Casual work for the airport subway?
- No, only the Hola BCN! or a special ticket allows you to use the metro line from the airport.
- Can I share the T-Casual with my partner?
- No, the T-Casual is a single person. For sharing, there is the T-Family.
- Where can I buy these cards?
- In subway machines, train stations, kiosks and online at TMB Barcelona.
- Can I use the cards on all transportation?
- Yes, by subway, bus, streetcar and commuter trains within the contracted area.
Conclusion
Choosing the right card depends on your stay and your travel style: the Hola BCN! for unlimited travel, the T-Casual and T-Familiar for one-off trips, and the T-Usual for longer stays.
Remember that for transfers with luggage, children or directly from the airport, the most comfortable option is still a private transfer with EasyTaxiBarcelona: no waiting, closed price and door to door.
