Navigating Barcelona Online

Before going to Barcelona last week, I did some quick research on what to do and how to get around.  I was amazed at what I found and the ease of such discovery.  Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona's website has information on various picturesque city routes complete with detailed maps as well as relevant transit and site details.  For instance, the Gaudi route page has a map of all relevant historical sites and links directly to information on nearby transit options. Having the information together in one place encourages people, especially visitors, to take advantage of the ease of transit as opposed to driving.

TMB's website also offers a comprehensive trip planner.  In addition to any transfers, the trip planner lists the number of stops on each relevant line or route as well as the waiting time and estimated walking time between places and transit.  Also, and even more impressively, you can select not only to view the transit route via 2D and also 3D! 

While I didn't chose to take the metro from the airport to downtown (sleepless for 36 hours and a very heavy bag deterred my efforts), it was nice to know that I had options and could easily navigate the city.  Web technology can definitely take trip planning to another level. 

When planning a trip, whether here in the DC region or somewhere else, what information would/do you find most helpful? 

Carly Nider, Arlington Transportation Partners

Image Credit: Travel DK