Which Barcelona Airport Is Best?

By Alice Nichols

Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is a top tourist destination in Europe. With its stunning architecture, rich culture, and beautiful beaches, it attracts millions of visitors every year.

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which airport to fly into. Let’s take a closer look at the two main airports serving the city: Barcelona El Prat Airport and Girona-Costa Brava Airport.

Barcelona El Prat Airport

If you’re looking for convenience and accessibility, Barcelona El Prat Airport is your best bet. Located just 12 kilometers southwest of Barcelona’s city center, this airport is well-connected to the city by various transportation options.

Transportation:

  • Train: The RENFE train service connects the airport to different parts of Barcelona and other major cities in Spain.
  • Metro: The L9 Sud metro line provides a direct connection between the airport terminals and the city center.
  • Bus: The Aerobus shuttle service operates between the airport and major locations in Barcelona, including Plaça de Catalunya and Plaça d’Espanya.

Amenities:

Barcelona El Prat Airport offers a wide range of amenities to make your travel experience comfortable:

  • Duty-free shops
  • Restaurants and cafes
  • Lounges
  • Wi-Fi access
  • Currency exchange

Girona-Costa Brava Airport

If you’re on a budget and don’t mind traveling a bit further, Girona-Costa Brava Airport can be a viable option. While it’s located approximately 100 kilometers northeast of Barcelona, it offers some advantages.

  • Bus: Several bus companies operate services between the airport and Barcelona city center. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Train: You can take a bus from the airport to Girona train station and then catch a train to Barcelona. The total travel time is around 2 hours.

Girona-Costa Brava Airport may not have as many amenities as Barcelona El Prat Airport, but it still offers the following facilities:

  • Duty-free shops
  • Cafeteria
  • Car rental services

Conclusion

In summary, if you prioritize convenience and want to minimize travel time, Barcelona El Prat Airport is the best choice. It’s well-connected to the city center through various transportation options and offers a wide range of amenities.

On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind spending extra time traveling from the airport to Barcelona, Girona-Costa Brava Airport can be a cost-effective option.

No matter which airport you choose, both offer easy access to the beautiful city of Barcelona and all its attractions. Happy travels!