jolts

We're thinking of spending a day in the wine areas around Barcelona and would like to rent a car to get to some of the out-of-the-way places. How feasible is it to rent a car from one of the downtown rental offices?

Dukey1

Completely feasible IMO. What is your concern? Traffic? directions? Costs vs. an airport rental (which would cost more if only because you have to get out there and back). Are you staying at a hotel in town? Are you concerned about getting to and from the in-town rental office? Opening and closing times?

Robert2533

Whatever you decide, if you head down to the Priorat, you'll need reservations in advance, that is if you can even find some of the bodegas. Many of the wineries are not located along the main roadways and you'd be better off with a guided tour.

jolts

Thanks for your advice Dukey1. My biggest concern is traffic which, I hear, can be pretty congested. I would rent from the airport but there's a pretty stiff airport fee attached. On the other hand, I have also heard that dealing with down town offices can be more difficult. Robert2535, I have looked at tours but they all seem bland and expensive. Can you suggest any tours that will take you beyond the Big Cavas?

Robert2533

There are no Big Cavas in the Priorat. They're located in the Penedes, closer to Barcelona. If you wanted to do the Priorat (Tarragona), then you can stop by the tourist office in Falset for information on visiting some of the wineries in the area (www.visitpriorat.com). Tours offered by the tourist office are quite good, Rachel knows most of the wine makers in the Priorat.

If you wanted to do a tour into the Penedes from Barcelona, without a car, check with Spanish Trails to see what they have available for your dates (http://spanish-trails.com).

The Avis office at Corcega, 293/295 is probably the easiest one to pick up a car and get out of the city. You can return the car to the airport and take the bus.

jolts

Many thanks for your advice. We will rent from Avis at Corcego.