Barcelona Port Cable Car: The Beach Cable Car to Montjuic

Barcelona is a sight for sore eyes and one way to take advantage is via the port cable car.

Known as the Transbordador Aeri del Port in Catalan, this unmatched perspective of Barcelona is a great way to combine some thrills with a visit to epic Montjuic.

The cable car from the beach to the mountain just might take your trip to new heights.

The Port Vell Cable Car: A Gondola in Barcelona

The name ‘port’ conjures up images of gritty industry, so I prefer calling this the beach cable car because it connects the seaside with the top of Barcelona’s highest point: Montjuic.

Cutting across the city’s horizon, the port cable car is a bit like flying over the rooftops of the Barcelona cityscape – Peter Pan style.

Upon stepping into the cable car in the Barceloneta area, you’ll feel the excitement build as you slowly ascend, offering a panoramic view of Barcelona’s magnificent landscape.

The journey provides a breathtaking vista of the city’s iconic landmarks, including La Rambla, Sagrada Familia, Mount Tibidabo, and Barcelona’s top beaches.

A Warning: Don’t Confuse the Old Port Cable Car with the Montjuic Cable Car

It’s really easy to confuse the Transbordador cable car with another popular attraction – the Montjuic Cable Car, aka the Teleferico de Montjuïc.

In fact, I’ve done it myself while trying to help tourists out! But keep in mind that while both offer spectacular views, they serve different routes.

The Teleferico de Montjuïc operates on Montjuïc mountain itself, offering a shorter ride in a four-person car. It transports passengers from the Estaciò Funicular on Avenida Miramar to Montjuïc Castle.

Can’t tell the difference between the port cable car and Montjuic cable car? Just remember the port cars are red.

If you’re looking to explore the mountain’s peak and the beautiful castle in depth, the Teleferico de Montjuïc is your ride.

Port Cable Car (Transbordador Aeri del Port)

That said, if you’re more of an adrenaline junkie or someone seeking a unique perspective of Barcelona, the Transbordador cable car is a must on any Barcelona itinerary.

However, a word of caution: this journey is not for the faint-hearted.

The adventure begins with an elevator ride to the top of the cable car tower, a thrilling experience in itself. As you embark on this aerial journey, you’ll be treated to views of the city only found at Park Guell.

The entire ride lasts about seven minutes, offering a slightly bumpy yet secure experience. Midway, the cable car passes through the central tower, the Torre de Jaume I, before continuing its journey.

View After the Cable Car from the Beach

Reaching the top of Montjuic with this Barcelona gondola, you’re greeted with a panoramic view of the city.

The Costa i Llobera Gardens at the Torre de Miramar on Montjuïc mountain is a serene spot to soak in the harbour’s beauty. The gardens, adorned with statues and gravel footpaths, offer a tranquil space to relax and enjoy the view.

Here, coin-operated telescopes are available for those keen on a closer look at the city’s landmarks.

You’re also free to go check out the Fundació Joan Miró, Poble Espanyol, the Olympic torch monument, and more.

Is the Port Cable Car Worth It?

The Transbordador Aeri del Port cable car, despite its age and slightly worn-out appearance, remains one of the most exhilarating ways to view Barcelona.

It seamlessly links two of the city’s prime locations – the beach and Montjuïc. The experience, combined with the stunning views, makes it an unmissable attraction.

If I’m visiting Montjuic and I wanna get back to the city with a bang, ideally to go to the beach or explore the seafood restaurants in Barceloneta – I’m taking it every time.

Also, if I’m looking to visit Montjuic with a special experience in between (the normal metro/funicular to get there is boring – and has no views as it’s underground) I’ll splurge on some return tickets if guests are in town.

Again though, if you don’t like heights I would think of other best things to do in Barcelona first 😉

Old Port Cable Car Prices

A single ticket for this Barcelona gondola costs €12.50:

Return tickets from the beach to Montjuic and back again are priced at €20.00.

Children aged 6 and below can travel for free.

How to Get to the Port Cable Car

Reaching the Port Cable Car is relatively easy.

The nearest Barcelona metro is Barceloneta (Yellow Line, L4). A 15-minute walk from the metro station, with the harbor on your right, will lead you directly to the cable car tower.

Address: Passeig Don Joan Borbó Comte Barcelona S/N, 08039 Barcelona, Spain.

Port Cable Car Stops Map

Operating Hours For Barcelona Port Cable Car

The operating hours vary depending on the month, with special timings during Barcelona winter months.

Here’s the latest old port cable hour hours:

• January 1st to February 28th: 11:00 am to 5:30 pm
• March 1st to May 31st: 10:30 am to 7:00 pm
• June 1st to September 11th: 10:30 am to 8:00 pm
• September 12th to October 30th: 10:30 am to 7:00 pm
• October 31st to December 31st: 11:00 am to 5:30 pm

The Transbordador Aeri del Port is closed on Christmas in Barcelona.

Barcelona Port Cable Car FAQ

• Where do you catch the cable car in Barcelona?

  The Montjuïc Cable Car is caught at Avinguda de Miramar, 30, 08038 Barcelona while the Port Cable Car is caught at Passeig Don Joan Borbó Comte Barcelona S/N, 08039 Barcelona, Spain.

• Which cable car is better in Barcelona?

  The port cable car is better than the Montjuic Cable car as it offers a longer ride, a higher up perch, and generally shows more of the city – the Montjuic cable car is more for exploring the mountainside.

• Are there 2 different cable cars in Barcelona?

  Yes, there are two different cable cars in Barcelona: the Port Cable Car (red cars, goes between the beach and top of Montjuic) and the Montjuic Cable Car (silver cars, operating only on Montjuic mountain).

Still Looking at the Teleferic del Port?

Call it the Transbordador Aeri del Port, the Old Port Cable Car, the Teleferic del Port – or whatever name you want – this cable car stands out as a unique adventure in the city.

It should strongly be considered on any Barcelona holiday.

Already taken the cable car from Montjuic to the beach? Let me know how it went in the comments.