In this guide of Barcelona airport transfers, we’ll help tourists to find out what are the best options to get to the city from Barcelona Airport, Spain. Let’s start discovering the airport of Barcelona El-Prat.
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Barcelona Airport
Barcelona–El Prat Airport, commonly known as Barcelona Airport, is an international airport located about 12 km southwest of the city center of Barcelona, Spain. It is the second-busiest airport in Spain and serves as a hub for several airlines, including Vueling and Level.
The airport offers flights to destinations around the world, with the most popular routes including London, Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. Some of the most popular airlines operating at Barcelona Airport include Ryanair, Vueling, Air Europa, Eurowings, EasyJet, Iberia, British Airways, and Lufthansa.
Barcelona Airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), which are connected by a shuttle bus. T1 is the newer and larger terminal, serving mainly international flights, while T2 serves mostly low-cost airlines and domestic flights.
Barcelona airport transfers are available in both T1 and T2 airport terminals, where bus and taxi transfer points are visible from the entrance of the terminals.
The airport offers a range of services and facilities, including shops, restaurants, cafes, and duty-free stores. Passengers can also access free Wi-Fi throughout the airport and there are several lounges available for those with access. Additionally, the airport provides easy access to the city center via public transportation, including buses and trains.
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Barcelona Airport transfer options
Here are available transportation and transfer options from Barcelona Airport, along with their approximate prices:
Aerobús
Aerobús is one of the convenient options for Barcelona airport transfer. This is a shuttle bus service that connects the airport with the city center. It departs every 5-10 minutes and stops at various locations in the city. The fare is around €5.90 for a one-way ticket. You can get Aerobus Barcelona tickets online here.
Aerobús is a shuttle bus service that provides a convenient and affordable way to get from Barcelona Airport to the city center. The service operates every day of the year, with buses departing from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 every 5-10 minutes.
Aerobús offers several stops in the city center, including Plaça Espanya, Gran Via-Urgell, and Plaça Catalunya, making it easy to reach many popular destinations. The journey time is around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Tickets for Aerobús can be purchased online in advance or at ticket vending machines located at the airport and bus stops. The fare for a one-way ticket is around €5.90, and return tickets are also available for a discounted price.
The buses are modern and comfortable, with air conditioning and plenty of space for luggage. The service is also wheelchair accessible and provides free Wi-Fi onboard.
Traveling inside Spain?Browse the price list and calendar of cheap flights from Madrid to Barcelona in any season |
Train
The R2 Nord train line connects the airport to several locations in the city and surrounding areas. A single ticket costs around €4.20.
The R2 Nord train is a commuter train line that connects Barcelona Airport with several locations in the city and surrounding areas. It operates from early morning until late at night, with trains departing every 30 minutes or so.
The R2 Nord line runs from Barcelona Airport to the city center, with stops at popular destinations such as Sants Station and Passeig de Gracia. It also connects to other train lines that run to nearby towns and cities, making it a convenient option for those traveling to destinations beyond Barcelona.
A single ticket for the R2 Nord train costs around €4.20, and can be purchased at ticket vending machines located in the airport and train stations. The train is generally considered a comfortable and reliable way to travel, with air-conditioned cars and plenty of seating available.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available at the airport and can take you directly to your destination. The fare from the airport to the city center by taxi is approximately €30-€35, depending on the time of day and traffic.
Taxis are a common mode of transportation in Barcelona, with taxi ranks located at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of Barcelona Airport. Taxis in Barcelona are easily recognizable by their black and yellow color scheme and illuminated green light on the roof when available.
The fare from Barcelona Airport to the city center is approximately €30-€35, depending on the time of day and traffic. Additional fees may apply for things like baggage or travel on public holidays. It’s always a good idea to ask for an estimate before getting into a taxi, and to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Uber is not currently available in Barcelona, but there are several other ride-hailing apps that operate in the city, including Cabify and Free Now. These apps work similarly to Uber, allowing you to book a ride and pay through the app.
Metro
The metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. The L9 Sud line is a perfect option for Barcelona airport transfer and connects the airport to the city center, and a single ticket costs around €5.
Barcelona Metro is a rapid transit system that provides a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. It consists of 12 lines and over 160 stations, with trains running from early morning until late at night.
The L9 Sud line connects Barcelona Airport with the city center, making it a popular choice for travelers looking for a quick and easy way to get to their destination. A single ticket for the metro costs around €2.40 and can be purchased at vending machines located in the stations.
The metro is generally considered a safe and efficient way to travel, with trains running frequently and on time. The system is also wheelchair accessible, with lifts and ramps available at many stations.
Bus
There are several bus routes that connect the airport to various locations in the city, with fares starting at around €2.20.
Barcelona has an extensive bus network and several tram lines, providing plenty of options for getting around the city. A single ticket for these services costs around €2.20 and can be used interchangeably with the metro.
TMB is the main public transport operator in Catalonia.
Private Transfers
Private transfer services in Barcelona provide a convenient and comfortable way to get to your destination. Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and the distance traveled, but typically start at around €40 for a one-way transfer.
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Private transfers and other transfer options with online booking
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Note that prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific service provider and other factors. It’s always a good idea to check prices and availability ahead of time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Barcelona city bus routes
Barcelona has an extensive bus network that covers the city and its surrounding areas. Here are some popular bus routes to help you navigate the city:
- Route 24: This bus route takes you from the city center to Park Güell, a beautiful park with stunning views over the city. Along the way, you’ll pass by some of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks, including La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.
- Route 39: This route takes you to the famous Camp Nou, home of the FC Barcelona football team. It also stops at the Plaça d’Espanya, where you can see the Magic Fountain and the National Art Museum of Catalonia.
- Route 92: This scenic route takes you along the coast from the Olympic Village to the charming seaside town of Badalona. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and pass by some of Barcelona’s best beaches.
- Route 116: This bus route takes you up to the Tibidabo amusement park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the mountain. Along the way, you’ll pass by the beautiful Parc de la Collserola.
- Route H16: This bus route takes you to the famous Montserrat Monastery, located about an hour outside of Barcelona. The monastery is home to a famous statue of the Virgin Mary and offers stunning views over the surrounding mountains.
Key facts about Barcelona
- Currency: Barcelona uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. ATMs and currency exchange offices are widely available throughout the city.
- Exchange Points: Barcelona has several exchange points where you can easily exchange foreign currency. The most popular ones are located in tourist areas such as Las Ramblas, Passeig de Gracia and Placa Catalunya.
- Languages: The official languages of Barcelona are Spanish and Catalan. English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
- Air travel and airfare prices: Airfare prices to Barcelona can vary depending on the season and departure city, but there are plenty of affordable options for travelers looking to visit this vibrant Spanish city. For example, a round-trip flight from London to Barcelona can start from as low as £40 with budget airlines such as Ryanair or EasyJet. A flight from Paris to Barcelona can also be found at a reasonable price, with round-trip tickets starting from €50 with airlines like Vueling or Transavia.
For those traveling from further afield, a round-trip flight from Berlin to Barcelona can start from €70 with airlines like Eurowings or Ryanair. With a variety of airlines and routes available, travelers can easily find a flight to suit their budget and schedule. - Inter-city bus routes: Barcelona serves as a hub for travel throughout Spain and Portugal. There are several popular bus routes from Barcelona to destinations such as Valencia, Malaga, Bilbao, Madrid, and Lisbon. See the ticket options for the Barcelona-Madrid bus coach on this page.
- Weather: Barcelona enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when temperatures are comfortable and the crowds are thinner.
- Attractions: Barcelona is home to several world-renowned attractions, including the iconic Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Gothic Quarter and Casa Batllo. Other popular sites include Montserrat Mountain, Tibidabo Amusement Park and the Magic Fountain of Montjuic. See the guide for a self-guided walking tour in Barcelona
- Museums: Barcelona has a wealth of museums, with highlights including the Picasso Museum, Joan Miro Foundation, National Art Museum of Catalonia, and the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA).
- Shops: Barcelona is a shopper’s paradise, with a mix of high-end boutiques, trendy fashion shops, and local markets. The most famous shopping street is Passeig de Gracia, while the historic La Boqueria market is a must-visit for foodies. Find more useful information on shopping in Barcelona.
- Hotels: Barcelona offers a diverse selection of hotels to accommodate all kinds of travelers. From luxury hotels with breathtaking views of the city and coastal line to budget-friendly options for backpackers, Barcelona is ready to provide hundreds of the best options. Visitors can choose to stay in the heart of the city or in quieter neighborhoods outside of the bustling center. Many hotels in Barcelona also reflect the city’s unique culture and architecture, with designs ranging from traditional Gothic to modern and contemporary. See the list of popular hotels in Barcelona.
- Food: Barcelona is famous for its cuisine, with traditional Spanish dishes such as tapas, paella, and seafood, as well as Catalan specialties like calcots and crema catalana. The city has a thriving food scene, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, local tapas bars, and trendy cafes. Find ideas for delicious food in Barcelona here.
If you are looking for the best way to buy airfares, then explore our guide for finding cheap air tickets by using various techniques and tools that are available on the web.
Barcelona City Pass
Explore all attractions of Barcelona with a City Pass – from exciting Camp Nou, to a brewery tour and many other attractions entrance tickets with one pass. See Barcelona City Pass options here.
Why you should book Barcelona airport transfer in advance?
Booking an airport transfer in Barcelona in advance can provide several benefits for travelers, including:
- Convenience: By booking a Barcelona airport transfer in advance, you can avoid the hassle of trying to find a taxi or public transportation upon arrival. You can relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about navigating the unfamiliar streets of a new city.
- Time-saving: Pre-booking an airport transfer allows you to plan your trip more efficiently. The driver will be waiting for you at the airport when you arrive, so you can avoid waiting in line for a taxi or trying to figure out the public transportation system.
- Cost-effective: Booking an airport transfer in advance can save you money, especially if you are traveling with a group. Many companies offer discounts for group bookings, and you can avoid the risk of getting overcharged by unscrupulous taxi drivers.
- Safety: Pre-booking an airport transfer can ensure that you are picked up by a reputable and licensed driver. This can provide added peace of mind, especially if you are traveling alone or in an unfamiliar city.
- Flexibility: By pre-booking an airport transfer, you can choose the type of vehicle that best suits your needs, whether it’s a private car, shuttle, or luxury limousine. You can also choose the time and location of your pick-up, giving you more flexibility in your travel plans.
