Taxis in Barcelona: Overview

For taxi lovers, Barcelona can truly feel like heaven on earth. More than 11,000 taxis operate across the Barcelona Metropolitan Area, offering modern, regulated, and reliable services. Compared to many other major European cities, taxi fares in Barcelona are considered quite affordable.

Taxi ranks are scattered throughout the city, and hailing a cab from the street is usually easy. While Barcelona’s public transport network is efficient, taxis remain the most convenient option during bad weather, late at night, after a night out, or when time is limited.

Official Barcelona taxis are black and yellow. If the green light on the roof sign is on, the taxi is available. Simply flag one down and enjoy a comfortable door-to-door ride.

Barcelona Taxi Fares

Barcelona taxis are metered. The final fare consists of an initial charge plus a per-kilometer rate, with possible surcharges depending on time, location, or special dates.

Taxi fares are divided into tariffs:

  • Tariff 1 (Weekdays, 08:00–20:00):
    Initial fare: 2.60€
    Price per km: 1.27€
  • Tariff 2 (Nights, weekends, holidays):
    Initial fare: 2.60€
    Price per km: 1.56€

The exact amount to be paid is always the one shown on the taximeter at the end of the journey.

Our Tip: If you pre-book a taxi via an app, fares may differ from standard street taxis.

Payment Methods

Taxi fares can be paid in cash or by credit/debit card. Although all taxis should have a POS terminal, technical issues may occur. Therefore, carrying some cash is recommended.

Drivers are legally required to have change for up to 20€. Contactless payments are often accepted as well.

How to Hire a Taxi in Barcelona

Barcelona has more than 200 official taxi stands, located near major attractions, shopping areas, theaters, and transport hubs. The safest way to take a taxi is from a taxi rank, boarding the first vehicle in line.

You can also hail a taxi on the street by raising your hand. Make sure the green roof light is on. Additionally, taxis can be booked by phone, SMS, or via popular taxi apps such as Free Now or Join Up Taxi.

How to Distinguish Official Barcelona Taxis

Official Barcelona taxis can be identified by the following features:

  • Black and yellow exterior
  • Roof sign with green light when available
  • Visible taximeter inside the vehicle
  • Driver ID and taxi license displayed
  • Fare and surcharge sticker on the rear window

Barcelona Taxis to Barcelona El Prat Airport

Taxis provide fast and comfortable transfers between Barcelona city center and El Prat Airport. A typical ride takes around 25 minutes and costs approximately 35€–40€.

Airport rides are subject to:

  • Minimum fare: 21€
  • Airport surcharge: 4.50€

Useful Information about Barcelona Taxis

  • Always check that the taximeter is reset and running when entering the taxi.
  • Ask for a receipt at the end of the ride.
  • All fares and surcharges must be displayed on the rear window.
  • The 4.50€ surcharge also applies to cruise port transfers.
  • Rides from major stations may include a 2.50€ supplement.
  • On special nights (23–24/6, 24–25–31/12, 1/1), an extra 3.50€ applies.
  • Trips outside the Metropolitan Area follow different fare tables.
  • 8-passenger taxis are available with a 4.50€ supplement (pre-booking required).
  • Wheelchair-accessible taxis are available upon request.
  • No extra charge applies for wheelchairs or strollers.
  • Toll fees are added to the final fare.
  • Taxis cannot be hailed near an official taxi rank.
  • Tipping is optional but appreciated.