One of the world’s biggest cruise ports is merely functional but, once off the ship, this city is a marvel. Who doesn’t? You’ll find mega-ships, small luxury ships and everything in between, from just about every cruise line, docking here. Many are sailing western Mediterranean cruise itineraries (Spain, France, Italy and Malta) but others are on wider Mediterranean journeys, or perhaps about to head northwards along Europe’s Atlantic coastline.
Framed in biscuit-brown hills and fronted by a work-a-day harbour, Barcelona doesn’t supply a glamorous cruise arrival, though you’ll be able to spot the twisted spires of Sagrada Familia cathedral pronging the sky. The city keeps its considerable charms well hidden from the waterfront. Ships dock under the lump of Montjuic, a 213-metre hill of green open spaces, gardens, museums, a castle and Olympic stadium.
Barcelona has for several years been at war with over-tourism and pollution, and in late 2023 closed its World Trade Centre pier, used by smaller ships and conveniently located at the end of La Rambla promenade. All ships now dock at Moll d’Adossat, a 30-minute shuttle-bus ride to the city centre. It has four busy, undistinguished terminal buildings where you won’t want to linger.
Barcelona is the biggest homeport hub in the Mediterranean, so many travellers will start or end their cruise here – and often both. You’ll most certainly want to stay for a couple of days. Sofitel Barcelona Skipper sits on uncrowde.