Guide to ferries and bike transfer in Spain

Are you planning a trip in Spain and want your bike with you? No problem! All ferries operating in Spain can transfer your bike! Explore our guide about bike transfer on ferries in Spain, read travel regulations and see vacation tips, to plan the perfect trip with Ferryhopper.

Person walking up the stairs holding a bicycle on a ferry

Can I take my bike on a ferry in Spain?

You can travel with your bike on most, if not all, ferries in Spain. All major ferry companies serving routes in Spain are equipped with bike racks or hooks. 

You can easily transfer your bike on ferries from mainland Spain to the Canary Islands and the Balearic archipelago, selecting the relevant fare when booking your tickets. 

Small catamarans or high-speed ferries operating between the Spanish islands may have stricter rules regarding bringing bikes on board. Make sure that you check the company’s rules for the specific route before planning your itinerary.

Traveling with a bike as a foot passenger

Passengers traveling with bicycles typically check in at the same time as other foot passengers. For safety reasons, they get off their bikes and push their bicycles up the same vehicle ramp as that used by cars. 

Stewards will then give bikers instructions. Once on board, passengers will be directed where to leave and lock their bicycle for the crossing. It may be attached to the floor, a wall or a railing for the crossing and must remain in the garage for the entire duration of the trip. Once the bike is secured they may follow the rest of the passengers up to the passenger decks.

A bicycle chained to a red bike rail

Traveling with a bike attached to a vehicle

Most people who travel by ferry with bikes simply strap them in racks or boxes to their cars, caravans or motorhomes. This means that they can travel by car and by bicycle to any destination. 

Electric bicycles are permitted to travel and have the same processes as for traditional bicycles.

How much is it to travel by ferry with my bike in Spain?

There are different fares to travel with your bike by ferry in Spain. Most ferry companies, such as Balearia, GNV, Trasmed, and Grimaldi allow passengers to bring a bike with them free of charge. Others, such as Corsica Ferries, Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas, charge an additional fee. Normally, the additional cost of traveling with a bike is between €7-€16. 

The cost of transporting bikes on a vehicle is also straightforward; while booking a ferry ticket, travelers only need to include any attached racks or boxes in the height and length of their vehicle. 

Keep in mind that on most ferries you need to declare your bike when booking a ticket, regardless of the fare.

A ferry docked at a port with vehicle ramp lowered

Is Spain bicycle friendly?

There are many fantastic places to cycle in Spain. The country has invested a lot in cycling infrastructure, with bike paths and splendid parks in numerous cities, even islands. No matter what your preferred terrain, Spain has something to offer for every cyclist.

What are the best destinations for cycling vacation in Spain?

Mallorca, Menorca and Tenerife are three of the best cycling destinations in Spain, thanks to their favorable climatic conditions and their picturesque routes and trails. If you wish to enjoy perfect cycling holidays, these islands are great as they offer plenty of space for exploration, amazing natural landscapes and spectacular views. 

Tip: have a look at our complete guide to cycling vacation in the Canary Islands and cycling vacation in the Balearic Islands.

People participating in a cycling race in Mallorca

Cycling rules in Spain

• You must have and use one white light pointing straight forward and one red light pointing straight back between sunset and sunrise.
• Your bicycle needs a rear reflector. Wearing reflective clothing is also required, but only between sunset and sunrise, on interurban highways, in low visibility conditions or in tunnels.
• It is required that your bike be equipped with a bell.
• Wearing a bike helmet is mandatory outside urban areas. 
• You are also not allowed to ride while listening to music through headphones or earbuds.
• Everyone must drive and ride a bicycle on the right side of the road in Spain.

A blue bicycle sign on the right side of a road in Spain

Where to book ferry tickets for Spain?

On Ferryhopper, you can easily book cheap ferry tickets for Spain in just a few clicks! Check our Map of ferries, compare ferry companies, routes, and schedules, and plan your trip with confidence.

Good to know: have a look at the latest ferry schedules for Spain to start planning your next vacation!