If you’re heading to Barcelona, one of the first things you might be wondering is how much it costs to get from the airport to the city center. Fortunately, there are a few options available that won’t break the bank.
By Metro
One of the most popular ways to get from Barcelona Airport (also known as El Prat) to the city center is by metro. The metro in Barcelona is clean, efficient, and affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of a single metro ticket from Barcelona Airport to the city center (Zone 1) is €4.60. However, if you plan on using public transportation frequently during your stay in Barcelona, it might be worth getting a T-10 card instead.
A T-10 card costs €10.20 and allows for ten separate journeys on public transportation (including metro, bus, and tram). This means that each journey works out at just over €1 – a significant saving compared to buying individual tickets.
How Do I Buy Tickets?
Tickets can be purchased from machines located in the airport terminal or at any metro station. The machines have an English language option, making it easy for non-Spanish speakers to navigate.
When purchasing your ticket, make sure to select Zone 1 (or whichever zone your final destination falls in) before paying.
Other Options
While taking the metro is by far the cheapest option for getting from Barcelona Airport to the city center, there are other options available if you prefer not to take public transportation.
Taxi
A taxi from Barcelona Airport to the city center will cost around €30-€35 depending on traffic and your final destination. While this is more expensive than taking the metro or bus, it may be a good option if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a group.
Aerobus
The Aerobus is a shuttle bus service that runs between Barcelona Airport and the city center. Tickets cost €5.90 one way or €10.20 for a round trip ticket, making it slightly more expensive than the metro.
However, the Aerobus is a good option if you’re staying in one of the central tourist areas like Plaça de Catalunya or Passeig de Gràcia, as it has specific stops in these locations.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an affordable way to get from Barcelona Airport to the city center, taking the metro is your best bet. With tickets costing just €4.60 (or even less if you opt for a T-10 card), it’s by far the cheapest option available.
That being said, there are other options available if you prefer not to take public transportation or are traveling with a lot of luggage. Whether you choose to take a taxi or shuttle bus like the Aerobus, make sure to factor in the extra cost when planning your trip budget.