Whether you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time or returning, navigating from Barcelona El-Prat Airport (BCN) to the city center can seem like a hassle. Fortunately, there are several transport options available that suit different budgets, time frames, and travel preferences. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the ways to get from the airport to the heart of the city, including the Aerobus, metro, train, taxi, and private transfers.
Quick Facts
- Aerobus: The most popular option, costing €6.75 for a 35-minute ride to Plaça Catalunya, with buses departing every 5-20 minutes.
- Metro (Line L9 Sud): Affordable at €5.15, with a travel time of 30-35 minutes, connecting the airport to various metro lines in Barcelona.
- Train (R2 Nord): Costs €4.60 and reaches central locations like Barcelona Sants in just 25 minutes.
- Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Fastest option at 20-25 minutes, with fares ranging from €30-35.
- Private Transfers: Ideal for groups, starting at €40, with personalized, door-to-door service.
How do I get from Barcelona El-Prat Airport to the city center?
To get from Barcelona El-Prat Airport to the city center, you can take the Aerobus for €6.75, which runs every 5-20 minutes and reaches Plaça Catalunya in around 35 minutes. Other options include the metro for €5.15 (30-35 minutes), the R2 Nord train for €4.60 (25 minutes), or a taxi for approximately €30-35 (20-25 minutes). Each option varies in price and convenience depending on your travel needs.
Airport in Barcelona El-Prat
Barcelona El-Prat Airport (BCN) is the main airport in the Barcelona city, with a range of ground transportation options available for travelers.
The airport is located approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the city center and serves both domestic and international flights, with airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling, and Iberia operating regular services to and from the airport. The airport has two terminal buildings with a range of facilities for passengers, including restaurants, cafes, and shops.
All Airport Transport Options
1. Aerobus: The Most Convenient Option
The Aerobus is a dedicated shuttle service running between Barcelona-El Prat Airport and the city center, making it one of the most popular and convenient options. It offers direct routes to key destinations like Plaça Catalunya and Plaça Espanya, running frequently throughout the day.
No Regrets Booking Advice
- Cost: A one-way ticket costs €6.75, while a round-trip ticket is €11.65. Children under four travel for free.
- Route: The Aerobus has two lines: A1 (Terminal 1) and A2 (Terminal 2), both stopping at major points like Plaça Espanya, Gran Via-Urgell, and Plaça Catalunya. The journey typically takes about 35 minutes.
- Frequency: Buses depart every 5-20 minutes, depending on the time of day. Operating hours are from 5:00 AM to 1:05 AM, so it covers most travel times.
- Tip: Tickets can be bought online or at ticket machines at the airport and main city stops. Booking in advance can save time, especially during peak hours.
The Aerobus is perfect for those who want a fast, reliable, and direct option to get into the city center without hassle.
2. Metro: Line L9 Sud
If you’re looking for a slightly cheaper option and don’t mind transferring lines, the Barcelona Metro is a great choice. Line L9 Sud connects Barcelona-El Prat Airport to the city and allows you to transfer to other metro lines for a more customized route to your final destination.
- Cost: A single metro ticket from the airport costs €5.15. If you’re planning multiple trips, consider a Hola Barcelona travel card, which offers unlimited rides.
- Route: Line L9 Sud links the airport to major stations such as Torrassa, Collblanc, and Zona Universitària, where you can switch to other lines like L1 and L3 to reach central Barcelona.
- Travel Time: The journey takes about 30-35 minutes, depending on your final destination.
- Tip: Metro tickets for the airport are more expensive than regular city rides, but they offer an affordable alternative to the Aerobus.
This option is ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind navigating transfers to reach their final destination.
3. Train: Rodalies R2 Nord Line
For a more scenic ride with fewer transfers, the Rodalies R2 Nord train connects Barcelona-El Prat Airport to key city stations like Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, and El Clot-Aragó. It’s an excellent choice for travelers heading directly to these central locations.
No Regrets Booking Advice
- Cost: A single ticket costs €4.60, and tickets can be purchased at the train station within the airport.
- Frequency: Trains depart every 30 minutes throughout the day.
- Travel Time: It takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Barcelona Sants, making this the fastest public transport option from the airport.
- Tip: If your accommodation is near one of these key stations, the train offers a direct and fast route with fewer transfers.
The Rodalies R2 Nord train is great for those who want a fast and affordable ride directly to the city’s major train stations.
4. Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services (Uber, Cabify)
If you’re looking for the most convenient and fastest option, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Cabify are available directly outside the airport terminals. They offer door-to-door service and are ideal for travelers with heavy luggage or in need of a more personalized experience.
- Cost: A taxi ride to the city center costs approximately €30-35, depending on traffic and your exact location. Uber and Cabify often offer similar pricing but may vary based on demand.
- Travel Time: Taxis and ride-sharing services take about 20-25 minutes to reach the city center, making them the fastest option available.
- Tip: Taxis in Barcelona have fixed airport fares, so you won’t need to worry about overcharges. Ride-sharing services may have dynamic pricing during peak hours.
This option is perfect for those who prioritize comfort and speed, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with extra luggage.
5. Private Transfers
For travelers who want a stress-free, comfortable experience, private transfers are an excellent option. These transfers are pre-booked and offer door-to-door service, making them ideal for families, groups, or those traveling with a lot of luggage.
- Cost: Prices for private transfers typically start at €40 and vary based on the service provider and vehicle size.
- Convenience: You can book a private transfer in advance, and the driver will meet you at the airport with a sign, helping you avoid any wait times.
- Travel Time: Similar to taxis, private transfers take about 20-25 minutes to reach the city center.
- Tip: Many companies offer premium vehicles or larger vans for groups, making this an ideal option for special occasions or larger parties.
If comfort and convenience are your priorities, private transfers offer a luxurious way to travel without the stress of public transport.
6. Other Transport Options: Night Bus and Public Bus Line 46
For late arrivals or those looking for the cheapest transport, the N16, N17, and N18 night buses and Bus Line 46 offer affordable alternatives.
- Night Bus: Operates after midnight and costs €2.55. It stops at major locations but takes longer (around 45-60 minutes).
- Public Bus Line 46: The cheapest option at €2.55, but with more stops and longer travel times (about 40-55 minutes).
These options are great for travelers arriving outside regular operating hours or those on a tight budget.
FAQs
What is the fastest way to get from Barcelona El-Prat Airport to the city center?
The fastest way to get from Barcelona El-Prat Airport to the city center is by taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber, which take about 20-25 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the airport and typically cost between €30-35, depending on traffic.
How much does the Aerobus cost from Barcelona Airport to the city center?
A one-way Aerobus ticket costs €6.75, and a round-trip ticket costs €11.65. The Aerobus is a convenient shuttle service that runs every 5-20 minutes and takes around 35 minutes to reach Plaça Catalunya in the city center.
Where can I catch the Aerobus at Barcelona El-Prat Airport?
You can catch the Aerobus at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of Barcelona El-Prat Airport. Look for signs directing you to the Aerobus stops outside the arrivals terminal. The Aerobus offers routes to central Barcelona, including major stops like Plaça Espanya and Plaça Catalunya.
How long does it take to travel from Barcelona Airport to the city center by metro?
Traveling by metro from Barcelona El-Prat Airport to the city center takes around 30-35 minutes. You can take Metro Line L9 Sud, which connects the airport to several important stations in Barcelona. The fare is €5.15 for a one-way trip.
What is the cheapest way to get from Barcelona Airport to the city center?
The cheapest option is the Rodalies R2 Nord train, which costs €4.60. The train runs every 30 minutes and takes about 25 minutes to reach central stations like Barcelona Sants or Passeig de Gràcia.
How often does the Aerobus run from Barcelona Airport?
The Aerobus runs every 5-20 minutes, depending on the time of day. Service starts at 5:00 AM and continues until 1:05 AM, making it a frequent and reliable option for airport transfers to the city center.
Will taxis from Barcelona Airport accept credit cards?
Yes, most taxis at Barcelona El-Prat Airport accept credit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm with the driver before starting your journey. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify also accept credit card payments through the app.
How do I get to Barcelona city center at night from the airport?
At night, you can use the night buses (N16, N17, N18) or take a taxi. The night buses operate after midnight and cost €2.55. Alternatively, taxis are available 24/7 and take about 20-25 minutes, with fares around €30-35.
Where does the R2 Nord train stop in Barcelona?
The R2 Nord train stops at major stations including Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, and El Clot-Aragó. It’s an efficient option for reaching central locations from Barcelona El-Prat Airport and costs €4.60 per trip.
Why should I book a private transfer from Barcelona Airport?
Booking a private transfer offers door-to-door service, making it ideal for travelers who want convenience, especially families or groups. Prices typically start from €40, and it provides a hassle-free experience without waiting for public transport or taxis.
Conclusion
No matter your budget or time constraints, there’s a perfect transport option from Barcelona El-Prat Airport to the city center. The Aerobus offers fast, direct service, while the metro and train are great for budget travelers. For those seeking convenience, taxis, ride-sharing, and private transfers provide door-to-door comfort.
Private & Shared Shuttles
If you are a group or a family with kids or having lots of luggage with you, than we highly recommend you to take private shuttle transfers for your hotel as they offer a fixed rate, comfortable and safe transfer that include meet-and-greet airport pickups and luggage assistance to your hotel from the airports or vice versa.
- Pre-book a private transfer, and a professional driver will be ready to greet you at the airport, ensuring a smooth journey from/to Barcelona Airport.
- Enjoy a comfortable and private ride without any interruptions or detours.
- Private transfers offer flexibility in terms of departure times, allowing you to customize your journey according to your specific needs.
- This option is ideal for individuals or groups with heavy luggage, families with children, or anyone looking for a stress-free and convenient transfer experience.
Check out and book your transfer from the below best and cheapest options
