Located in Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona Zoo is one of the city’s top family-friendly attractions, home to over 2,000 animals. Its central location makes it easy to access via public transport, taxi, or walking. Whether you're traveling from the city center, the airport, or nearby attractions, here’s how to reach Barcelona Zoo conveniently.
Where is Barcelona Zoo located?
You’ll find Barcelona Zoo inside Parc de la Ciutadella, close to the city’s historic center.
Address: Parc de la Ciutadella, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Landmark: Near Arc de Triomf and Estació de França
For the fastest and most convenient way to reach Barcelona Zoo, public transport is the best option. Here’s what you need to know:
How to reach Barcelona Zoo
By public transport
- Metro: Take Metro Line L1 (Red Line) and get off at Arc de Triomf Station.
From there, it’s a 7-minute walk to the zoo entrance.
Alternatively: Take Metro Line L4 (Yellow Line) to Ciutadella | Vila Olímpica Station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk through Parc de la Ciutadella.
- Bus: Routes 39, 40, 42, 51, 92, 141, H14, and V21 stop at Parc de la Ciutadella.
Walking distance: 2-5 minutes from the bus stop to the zoo entrance.
- Tram: Take Tram Line T4 to Wellington Station. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to the zoo.
🚕 By taxi/car
Popular ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Cabify, and Free Now operate in Barcelona.
Expect a fare of approximately €10-€15 from the city center.
Driving directions
- If driving from Plaça de Catalunya, take Passeig de Picasso and enter Parc de la Ciutadella.
- Expect a 10-minute drive (3km).
- Traffic Warning: The area around Ciutadella Park has limited vehicle access, so parking nearby is recommended.
🚗🅿️ Parking near Barcelona Zoo
If you’re driving, here are the nearest parking options:
- On-site parking: Not available at Barcelona Zoo.
- Nearest parking lots:
BSM Wellington-Zoo Parking - 5-minute walk, approx. €2.50/hour.
Parking Ciutadella - 7-minute walk, approx. €2/hour.
- Street parking: Limited, metered, and subject to Barcelona’s Green and Blue Zones.
- Accessible parking: Available near Passeig de Picasso.
👣 On foot
If you're near Gothic Quarter or Barceloneta Beach, you can walk to Barcelona Zoo in 10-15 minutes. Along the way, you can see:
- Arc de Triomf– One of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks.
- Parc de la Ciutadella – A beautiful green space with fountains and sculptures.
- El Born District – A historic neighborhood with lively streets and cafes.
🚲 By bike
- Bike rentals: Available at Bicing stations near Passeig de Picasso.
- Bike parking: Designated racks are located near the zoo entrance.
🚌 Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours
Several Hop-on Hop-off bus tours stop near Barcelona Zoo, making it an easy and scenic way to reach the attraction.
- HOHO Tour Operator: Barcelona Bus Turístic
- Stop name: Parc de la Ciutadella / Zoo
- Walking Distance: 2 minutes from Barcelona Zoo
From major transport hubs
- From Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
- The fastest option is the Aerobús to Plaça de Catalunya, then transfer to Metro Line L1 (Red Line) to Arc de Triomf. Total travel time: 45 minutes.
- A taxi ride takes around 25 minutes and costs approximately €30-€35.
- From Barcelona Sants Train Station:
- The best option is Metro Line L3 (Green Line) to Catalunya Station, then transfer to Metro Line L1 (Red Line) to Arc de Triomf. Travel time: 20 minutes.
- If walking, it’s about a 45-minute stroll through Passeig de Sant Joan.
Recommended tickets to Barcelona Zoo
Things to do near Barcelona Zoo
- A stunning park featuring gardens, fountains, and the Catalan Parliament.
- Tip: Rent a rowboat for a relaxing time on the park’s lake.
- A beautiful red-brick arch that serves as a gateway to Ciutadella Park.
- Tip: Perfect for photos, especially at sunset.
- A fascinating museum built over medieval ruins.
- Tip: Free entrance to the main hall, guided tours available.
- One of Barcelona’s best beaches, just a 15-minute walk away.
- Tip: Grab some tapas at a beachside chiringuito (bar).
- A must-visit for art lovers, housing one of the world’s best Picasso collections.
- Tip: Visit on Thursday afternoons for free entry.
Frequently asked questions
The fastest way is by Metro Line L1 to Arc de Triomf, while buses and trams also provide easy access.
There is no on-site parking, but nearby garages like B:SM Wellington-Zoo Parking are available.
Approximately 2 km (10 minutes by metro or 20 minutes on foot) from Plaça de Catalunya.
Yes, Barcelona Zoo is fully accessible, with ramps, paved pathways, and accessible restrooms.
Public transport is the easiest and cheapest way to reach Barcelona Zoo, but taxis and Hop-on Hop-off buses offer convenience.
