When planning a trip to Barcelona, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is which airport is closest to the city. Barcelona is served by two main airports: Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Girona-Costa Brava Airport. Let’s take a closer look at both options to help you make an informed decision.
Barcelona-El Prat Airport
Barcelona-El Prat Airport, also known as Aeropuerto Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat, is the primary international airport serving the city of Barcelona. It is located just 12 kilometers southwest of the city center, making it the closest airport to Barcelona.
If you choose to fly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport, you’ll have several transportation options available to reach the city center:
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminals. The journey from the airport to the city center takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Airport Shuttle Bus: The Aerobus provides a convenient and affordable transportation option.
It operates between the airport and various locations in Barcelona, including Plaça de Catalunya and Plaça d’Espanya.
- Train: The RENFE train service connects Terminal 2 of the airport with several stations in Barcelona, including Sants Estació and Passeig de Gràcia. The journey time is around 20-25 minutes.
Girona-Costa Brava Airport
Girona-Costa Brava Airport, located approximately 103 kilometers northeast of Barcelona, is another option for travelers heading to the city. Although it is further away compared to Barcelona-El Prat Airport, Girona-Costa Brava Airport is often used by low-cost airlines.
If you decide to fly into Girona-Costa Brava Airport, keep in mind that you’ll need to plan additional travel time to reach Barcelona:
- Bus: Several bus companies operate regular services between the airport and Barcelona’s Estació del Nord bus station. The journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside the airport terminals. The journey from Girona-Costa Brava Airport to Barcelona takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Which Airport Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice of airport depends on various factors such as flight availability, cost, and convenience. If you prioritize proximity and quick access to the city center, Barcelona-El Prat Airport is your best bet. However, if you find a significantly cheaper flight that lands at Girona-Costa Brava Airport, you can still make it work by factoring in additional travel time.
In conclusion, while Barcelona-El Prat Airport is the closest option to the city center, Girona-Costa Brava Airport can be a viable alternative if budget airlines offer attractive fares. Consider your priorities and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.