Child seats and the law
In Spain, children under 135cm normally need a child seat. Licensed taxis are exempt on city roads, where children can ride in the back without one. For safety, many parents still prefer a proper child seat, especially for babies and on faster roads like the airport run.
How to get a taxi with a child seat
Pre-book: Many taxi and transfer companies can fit child seats if you ask when you book.
Bring your own: A lightweight travel car seat or booster can be fitted in any taxi.
Hire one: Baby equipment hire companies can deliver car seats to the airport or your hotel.
Child seats: Most taxis don’t carry them. Pre-book one or bring your own.
The law: In the city, children can travel in the back of a licensed taxi without a car seat.
Book ahead: Use a taxi app or pre-book for early flights and child seats.
Space: Ask for a larger taxi if you have a pushchair and luggage.
Hailing and booking taxis
You can hail a taxi when the green light on the roof is on, find one at a taxi rank, or book through an app. FREENOW, Cabify and Uber all let you book licensed Barcelona taxis and show the fare before you ride. Fares are metered, with small supplements for the airport and some late-night journeys.
Larger taxis
If you’re travelling with a pushchair, lots of luggage or more than four people, book a larger taxi or people carrier in advance.
Cabify, Uber and child seats
Cabify has a “Cabify Kids” option with one child seat fitted, for children over 9kg, for a small extra charge. It doesn’t cover babies under 9kg or a second child, so for babies or two children a pre-booked transfer with the right seats is better. Barcelona’s rules on app-booked private cars are changing, and in the city Cabify and Uber mostly send licensed taxis. Check the app for the latest options.
