Barcelona is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, famous for its breathtaking architecture, lively beaches, and rich culture. Whether you’re walking around the Gothic Quarter, watching a football game at Camp Nou, or visiting Montjuïc, ease of transportation is important. Luckily, Barcelona has a great taxi system that’s safe, efficient, and reasonably priced compared to other major European cities.
If you’re in town and wondering how to hail a taxi in Barcelona, this guide has everything you need: taxi apps, phone numbers, hailing tips on the street, and insider advice for a hassle-free experience.
Mastering Taxis in Barcelona
It’s easy to recognize a Barcelona taxi: they are black with yellow doors and roofs. All official taxis have a license and a green light on top when they are available. They operate under regulated tariffs, so you don’t have to fear being cheated as long as you use official services.
Taxis are available 24/7 throughout the city. However, during late nights, weekends, or rainy weather (especially during peak hours), it might sometimes be a bit difficult to get one immediately. That’s where knowing your alternatives to book or call a taxi becomes helpful.
1. Taxi Apps: The Modern and Easiest Way
One of the simplest ways to order a taxi in Barcelona today is through an app. Several apps allow you to reserve taxis from your smartphone, much like services such as Uber (which operates differently in Barcelona).
Best Taxi Apps in Barcelona:
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Taxxilo (Taxxilo.com):
This is Barcelona’s leading taxi app. It connects you to official, licensed taxis and lets you book immediately, schedule a ride in advance, and pay through the app. You can even choose a larger vehicle if you’re traveling in a group (Contact us). -
AMB Taxi Barcelona App:
Officially endorsed by the Metropolitan Taxi Institute, this app enables you to order a taxi, estimate your fare in advance, and track how long it will take for your driver to arrive. -
TaxiClick:
Another trusted app commonly used in Spain. It offers options such as advance booking, online payment, and the ability to make special requests (e.g., larger cars, English-speaking drivers).
These apps are compatible with both Android and iOS devices. They are particularly convenient if you’re not very familiar with Spanish or Catalan, as everything can be handled through the app.
2. Calling a Taxi by Phone
If you prefer the traditional method or don’t have internet access, you can also call a taxi directly by phone.
Here are some of the main taxi service phone numbers in Barcelona:
- Taxxilo (Contact us): +34 602 644 484
(Private Taxi and Shuttle Services to Hotels and Destinations)(Premium Airport Transfers)
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Taxi Ecològic: +34 932 783 000
(Specializes in eco-friendly, hybrid taxis.) -
BarnaTaxi: +34 933 222 222
(One of the largest fleets in the city.) -
Radio Taxi 033: +34 933 033 033
(Reliable and operates 24/7.) -
Servitaxi: +34 933 300 300
(Another major operator serving the entire Barcelona Metropolitan Area.)
When you call, it’s useful to know some basic Spanish phrases, but most operators in tourist-heavy areas understand basic English.
3. Street Hailing: A Classic Option
In Barcelona, you can easily hail a taxi directly from the street if the green light on top is lit, indicating it’s available. Simply wave your hand, and the driver will stop if there’s a safe place to pull over.
Good locations to hail a taxi include:
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Outside prominent tourist sites (such as Sagrada Familia, La Rambla, or Passeig de Gràcia)
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Outside major plazas (Plaça de Catalunya, Plaça d’Espanya)
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Outside hotels, shopping malls, and train stations
If you’re at a major transport hub like the airport, Sants Train Station, or a cruise terminal, follow the signs to the designated official taxi ranks where taxis line up.
4. Key Tips When Taking Taxis in Barcelona
Payment Methods:
All taxis are required to accept credit and debit cards. Still, it’s best to confirm at the start of your ride, especially if you intend to pay by card.
Rates:
Taxi services are metered. The starting fare typically ranges from €2.25 to €2.50, with additional charges for late-night pickups or trips to the airport. Look for the sticker posted on the taxi window showing official rates.
Tipping:
Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip (5–10%) is appreciated for good service.
Language:
Most taxi drivers speak Spanish, and some also speak basic English. If you’re heading to a lesser-known address, it’s smart to have it written down.
Airport Taxi Tip:
When traveling to or from Barcelona-El Prat Airport, there is a €4.50 surcharge added to the meter fare. Airport taxis are plentiful and strictly regulated, making them a safe option.
5. Alternatives: Taxxilo and Other Ride-Hailing Services
Taxxilo (Contact us): +34 602 644 484
Uber does operate in Barcelona, but not in the traditional way it does in other countries. Uber collaborates with authorized taxi drivers in Barcelona, meaning you are essentially reserving a licensed taxi using the Uber app — not a private car.
Other ride-hailing services such as Taxxilo also offer private rides similar to Uber, but due to local regulations, you must reserve your ride at least 15 minutes in advance.
Conclusion
Booking a taxi in Barcelona is easy once you understand your options. Whether you prefer the convenience of an app, the security of a phone call, or the spontaneity of flagging one down from the street, taxis are a safe and efficient way to move around the city.
Apps like Free Now make the process simple, while traditional call-in services remain reliable. The next time you need quick transportation after a sunny day at the beach or a late-night dinner in El Born, you’ll be able to call a ride like a true Barcelona local — and enjoy everything this incredible city has to offer, hassle-free!
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