Barcelona, the vibrant city in Spain, is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. As a major tourist destination and a bustling hub for business travelers, it’s no surprise that Barcelona has multiple airports to accommodate the increasing number of visitors each year.
How many airports are there in Barcelona?
Barcelona is served by a total of two airports: Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) and Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO). Let’s take a closer look at each airport:
1. Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
Barcelona-El Prat Airport, commonly referred to as El Prat Airport, is the main international airport serving the city of Barcelona. It is located approximately 12 kilometers southwest of the city center.
This modern airport consists of two terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2). Terminal 1 is the largest terminal and handles most international flights, while Terminal 2 mainly serves regional and low-cost carriers.
The facilities at Barcelona-El Prat Airport are top-notch. Travelers can enjoy a wide range of amenities including duty-free shops, restaurants offering local and international cuisine, lounges for premium passengers, currency exchange services, and car rental counters.
2. Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO)
Girona-Costa Brava Airport is located approximately 103 kilometers northeast of Barcelona. While not directly in Barcelona itself, it serves as an alternative airport for travelers visiting the region.
This airport mainly caters to low-cost carriers and charter flights. It offers convenient access to popular destinations such as Girona, Costa Brava, and the Pyrenees mountains.
Although smaller in size compared to Barcelona-El Prat Airport, Girona-Costa Brava Airport provides essential services including car rental facilities, restaurants, and duty-free shops.
Traveling between the airports and the city center
Both Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Girona-Costa Brava Airport offer various transportation options to reach the city center:
- Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN):
- The Aerobus shuttle service provides a direct connection between the airport and Plaça de Catalunya in the city center.
- The RENFE train station at Terminal 2 offers train services to several destinations within Barcelona and beyond.
- Taxis are readily available outside both terminals.
- Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO):
- The Barcelona Bus service operates regular buses between Girona-Costa Brava Airport and Estació del Nord bus station in Barcelona.
- Taxis are available outside the airport terminal building.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Barcelona is served by two airports: Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) and Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO). While Barcelona-El Prat is the main international airport conveniently located near the city center, Girona-Costa Brava serves as an alternative option for travelers. Both airports provide a range of facilities and transportation options to ensure a smooth journey for visitors exploring this vibrant Spanish city.