Many West Mediterranean cruise holidays begin and end in Barcelona cruise port; if they don’t, they will likely stop there for a day. It is currently the largest cruise port in the Mediterranean, one of the reasons why the port of Barcelona is important; it is also one of the world’s biggest and busiest harbours.
For cruise guests stopping in Barcelona cruise port and wondering what to do in Barcelona on port days, there is so much choice. As a UNESCO-recognised city, it is the 4th most visited European destination.
Therefore, we recommend planning your day in advance to make the most of this incredible place. Below, we share our guide to Barcelona cruise terminal and the best activities by Barcelona cruise port to help get you started.
Where do cruise ships dock in Barcelona, Spain?
Barcelona cruise port has two main wharves where ships can dock. Moll Adossat (its name in Catalan), also known as Muelle Adosado (in Spanish) or Palacruceros when referring to the area, is home to Barcelona’s main cruise terminals. Cruise ships also dock at the WTC Port by the World Trade Centre building.
Moll Adossat
Most cruise ships dock at one of Moll Adossat terminals, A-D. These are located 2 miles from Plaça Colon, which is at the start of the main tourist area boulevard, La Rambla.
In 2018, a new cruise terminal was opened at Moll Adossat for Carnival Corporation cruise ships. Named the Helix Cruise Centre, it has the capacity for Carnival’s largest cruise ships to dock.
At Moll Adossat, Barcelona cruise port, there are four large, modern terminal buildings. Within these, you will find plenty of facilities, including currency exchange, cafes, WCs, shops and taxis.
However, as this Barcelona cruise terminal is typically used for embarkation and disembarkation at the start and end of a cruise, rather than for port days, there is no official tourist information centre here.
WTC Port
Smaller cruise ships, such as those belonging to cruise lines like Silversea, Azamara Cruises or Regent Seven Seas Cruises, can dock at the North or South cruise terminals at the WTC Port.
Docking here is convenient for passengers as some of the main attractions are within walking distance. However, as there is only space for three ships, sometimes these smaller ships need to dock at Moll Adossat.
New MSC Cruise Terminal
Plans are underway for MSC Cruises to have an exclusive terminal at Barcelona’s cruise port also. Its construction began in June 2021, with plans to open in 2024.
How far is Barcelona from the cruise port?
The main area many visitors to Barcelona tend to visit first is La Rambla. For cruise guests docking at the WTC port and wondering how to get to Barcelona from the cruise port, it is very easy. Plaça Colon, at the start of La Rambla, is within walking distance, less than half a mile away.
As mentioned briefly above, when cruise ships dock at Moll Adossat, the distance from this part of Barcelona cruise port to the city centre is a bit further, at around 2 miles.
If you don’t have luggage and feel up for a walk, getting from Moll Adossat Barcelona cruise port to the city centre on foot is an option. To do so, you’ll need to cross over the bridge, and the coastal road, then head inland.
If the distance from Barcelona cruise port to the city centre means walking is too much, and you’re wondering how to get to Barcelona from the cruise port using public transport, then there is a good bus service.
The circular T3 port-bus, also known as the Cruisebus, runs from all of Barcelona’s cruise port terminals to Plaça Colon and is accessible for wheelchair users. Return fares are €4.00.
Taxis are also available to take you from Barcelona cruise port to the city centre. However, there is an official charge of just over €3.00 for them to enter the port area, on top of the taxi fare. Therefore, with the Cruisebus service being so good, taxis may not be the best option.
Is there anything near Barcelona cruise port?
Barcelona is a vibrant city with a fascinating history and culture alongside a modern, dynamic outlook. Therefore, there are many options when deciding what to do in Barcelona on port days.
La Rambla
La Rambla is a great place to start when looking for what to do in Barcelona cruise port. This lively street, dotted with street performers and artists, is mainly pedestrianised and runs through the heart of the city. It is a hub for shopping and restaurants and draws tourists from all around.
The Picasso Museum
One of the best activities by Barcelona’s cruise port is the Picasso Museum. As arguably Spain’s most famous modern artist, Picasso created some intriguing paintings that are worth seeing even if you are not an art enthusiast. This museum showcases his eclectic art throughout the various stages of his career.
Mercat de la Boqueria
If you love to get to know a city through its food, you should definitely add Mercat de la Boqueria to your list of what to do near Barcelona cruise port. Situated just off La Rambla, the market showcases rows and rows of stalls selling all sorts of Spanish produce, from authentic tapas and cured meats to fresh fruit.
Montjuïc Castle
One hundred seventy-three metres above sea level on the summit of Montjuïc Mountain stands Montjuïc Castle. Built in the 17th century, it was an important military fortress that now offers visitors insight into Barcelona’s history and outstanding panoramic views of the city.
La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia is probably Barcelona’s most iconic landmark. Designed by architect Antoni Gaudi, its Gothic style is magnificent. Construction of this Roman Catholic Church began in 1882.
When Gaudi died in 1926, it was incomplete. One hundred forty years later, it is thought to be in its final years of construction with an estimated completion date of 2026.
La Sagrada Familia is around 4.5km from Barcelona’s cruise terminal. Still, when you are deciding what to do in Barcelona on port days, it is undoubtedly a highlight that should be a part of your visit.
