Three hours on two wheels — Ciutadella, the beach, and Port Vell, bike included.

The city opens up once you leave the walking pace behind. We meet at the Arc de Triomf, fit bikes, and ride through Parc de la Ciutadella into Barceloneta, along the seafront to Port Vell, and back along the wide lanes locals actually use. Stops are short — a fountain, a viewpoint, a cold drink — so you cover more of Barcelona than a walk ever could without feeling rushed. Three hours, bike and helmet included, mostly flat cycle lanes. Bring water and sunscreen.