Cars: rentals and the low-emission zone
Inside Barcelona a car is a hindrance: narrow streets, expensive parking and a low-emission zone with camera fines. Outside the city, it's sometimes the key to the Costa Brava.
The LEZ, seriously
The low-emission zone restricts the oldest vehicles on high-pollution days, with camera enforcement. If you rent, the car will be modern and you'll be fine — but check the sticker.
Parking costs what it costs
Surface blue zones charge by time and central underground lots charge capital-city rates. Many hotels have no parking of their own: ask before renting any car.
When renting does pay
For the Costa Brava, Priorat wine country or villages at your own pace. Rent in the city or at the airport, leave the center as soon as you can and return the car before coming back in: the city is made for feet, metro and bikes.