As a means of transportation for sightseeing in Barcelona, we previously introduced Donkey Republic’s bike sharing service, but this time we’ll introduce the comfortable electric-assist “Bolt E-Bike.” In the hilly city of Barcelona, it should become a powerful ally to make sightseeing more enjoyable.
What is Bolt E-Bike?
Bolt E-Bike, familiar with its green body
Bolt is widely known as a ride-hailing service app primarily operating in Europe. While it offers services similar to Uber, it also provides micromobility services such as bike sharing and scooters in some cities.
However, these services are limited to specific areas, and you cannot check available services just by downloading the app. The rental options for bikes and scooters are displayed on the app only when you’re actually located in a service area. Barcelona is one of the few cities where you can use Bolt’s E-Bike service.
Features of Bolt E-Bike
The biggest feature of Bolt E-Bike is that all bikes come with electric assist. Barcelona has a north-south slope, and especially when moving to northern areas, there are many steep hills, but the electric assist can significantly reduce physical strain.
Equipped with high-performance electric assist, the ride quality is excellent
Starting and accelerating are smooth, allowing comfortable travel even when tired from sightseeing. Battery levels can also be checked on the app, providing peace of mind for long-distance travel.
Another notable point is the comfortable ride quality. The saddle uses hydraulic cushioning, which appropriately absorbs vibrations even on cobblestones and uneven roads common in the old town area.
The tires are also wider for higher stability, and the brakes work well. Lights are standard equipment, so riding at dusk is also safe. The ability to reduce fatigue during long sightseeing sessions is a major benefit for tourists.
Usage Method and Pricing System
Getting Started Procedure
Bolt E-Bike uses a fixed bike port rental and return system. This is similar to bike sharing systems in many countries. When starting, you scan the QR code of a bike parked at a port to begin your ride.
Search for the nearest bike port from the current location area map
After scanning, the bike’s lock is automatically released, and you can immediately start riding. The app shows the number of available bikes around your current location and battery levels, allowing you to choose the optimal bike according to your destination.
Scan the QR code on the bike to start your ride
Pricing Plans
The pricing structure is as follows:
• Single Ride (pay-per-use): Base fee 1 euro + 0.25 euros per minute
• Day Pass: From 6.49 euros
For example, for 30 minutes of use:
Base fee 1 euro + (0.25 euros × 30 minutes) = 8.5 euros. While suitable for short-distance use, fees can become expensive for long-term use, so caution is needed, such as utilizing the Day Pass.
Return Precautions
Returns must be made at designated ports. Especially in city areas, no-parking zones are established, and violating these results in an additional fine of 30 euros, so caution is required.
Return ports usually already have several Bolt E-Bikes parked, so they’re easily recognizable at a glance
Available return ports can be checked on the app’s map, and real-time availability is also shown. However, ports near popular tourist destinations tend to fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to search for return locations with plenty of time.
Areas marked with “P” on the map are return-enabled ports, and red-colored areas are no-parking zones, so absolutely do not return bikes there!
How to Use with Donkey Republic
For sightseeing in relatively flat areas or when you want to move efficiently while keeping costs down, the previously introduced Donkey Republic is recommended. The pricing of 5 euros for 6 hours is especially cost-effective for long sightseeing sessions. Also, the high flexibility of return locations increases the freedom of your sightseeing plans.
On the other hand, Bolt E-Bike is recommended for the following cases:
• Travel to tourist destinations with elevation differences, such as Park Güell
• Sightseeing for those concerned about physical stamina
• Travel in the old town area with many cobblestones
• Efficient short-term travel
The advantage of Bolt E-Bike is that electric assist and comfortable ride quality allow you to enjoy sightseeing itself more. Especially for summer sightseeing, the ability to reduce physical exhaustion has great value.
Hybrid Usage
Using a combination of Donkey Republic and Bolt E-Bike according to your daily sightseeing plan is one approach. You can balance cost and comfort by using Donkey Republic for sightseeing in flat areas and switching to Bolt E-Bike for hilly sections.
For example, using Donkey Republic for morning city sightseeing and Bolt E-Bike for afternoon access to Park Güell would be an effective combination.
Summary
Bolt E-Bike is a transportation method that makes Barcelona sightseeing more enjoyable with electric assist and comfortable ride quality. While the cost is slightly higher, it’s certainly worth the value. This service is especially strongly recommended when you want to reduce physical strain or for sightseeing routes with elevation differences.
However, sufficient attention is needed regarding return restrictions and pricing systems. By checking usage routes and return port locations in advance and using the service systematically, more efficient sightseeing becomes possible. By using it in combination with Donkey Republic according to situations, you can achieve more fulfilling Barcelona sightseeing.
For other Barcelona-specific precautions and traffic conditions when cycling, please refer to our previous article for detailed explanations.
