Barcelona, the vibrant city in Spain, is a major hub for travelers from around the world. When planning a trip to Barcelona, it’s important to know about the different airports that serve the city. Barcelona is primarily served by two main airports – Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Girona-Costa Brava Airport – each offering its own unique advantages.
Barcelona-El Prat Airport
The Barcelona-El Prat Airport, commonly known as El Prat, is the main international airport serving Barcelona. It is located just 12 kilometers southwest of the city center. El Prat is one of the busiest airports in Europe and offers numerous domestic and international flights.
If you are flying into Barcelona from another European city or from outside Europe, chances are you will land at El Prat. The airport has excellent connectivity with various transportation options to reach the city center quickly and conveniently.
- Terminals: El Prat has two terminals – Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2). T1 is used for most major airlines, while T2 serves low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet.
- Amenities: The airport boasts a wide range of amenities including shops, restaurants, currency exchange services, car rental facilities, VIP lounges, and more.
- Transportation: From El Prat, you can easily reach the city center by train or bus. The Aerobus service offers a direct connection between the airport and Plaça de Catalunya in the heart of Barcelona.
Girona-Costa Brava Airport
Girona-Costa Brava Airport is located approximately 100 kilometers northeast of Barcelona. Although it is further away from the city than El Prat, Girona Airport serves as an alternative for travelers seeking budget-friendly options.
This airport is particularly popular among travelers flying with low-cost airlines like Ryanair. Girona Airport offers a hassle-free experience, often with shorter queues and less congestion compared to El Prat.
- Terminals: Girona Airport has a single terminal building serving all flights.
- Amenities: While smaller in size compared to El Prat, Girona Airport still provides essential amenities such as shops, cafes, car rental services, and more.
- Transportation: To reach Barcelona from Girona Airport, you can take a direct bus operated by Sagalés. The journey takes approximately one hour and forty minutes.
Choosing the Right Airport
When deciding which airport to fly into or out of for your Barcelona trip, consider factors such as flight availability, cost, convenience, and proximity to your final destination in the city.
If you are looking for more flight options or have specific preferences for airlines, El Prat Airport offers a wider range of choices. On the other hand, if you are on a budget or prefer a less crowded airport experience, Girona-Costa Brava can be an excellent alternative.
No matter which airport you choose, both El Prat and Girona-Costa Brava provide convenient access to the captivating city of Barcelona and its amazing attractions. So pack your bags and get ready for an incredible adventure!