Barcelona airport transfers from El Prat
The best transfer from El Prat depends on your terminal and the location of your accommodation. Aerobús is straightforward for Plaça de Catalunya, while the airport train is useful for Sants and Passeig de Gràcia. Metro line L9 Sud requires a change for most central neighborhoods. Check your terminal before choosing a route, especially if you intend to use the train.
The airports
- Barcelona El Prat (BCN)
- about 15 km southwest, usually 30 to 60 minutes
Every way from the airport to Barcelona
| How | Airport | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| BusAerobús | BCN | about 35 minutes to Plaça de Catalunya, traffic permitting | Stays near Plaça de Catalunya or Plaça d'Espanya |
| TrainR2 Nord | BCN | about 20 minutes to Sants or 30 minutes to Passeig de Gràcia | Sants and the central Eixample |
| MetroL9 Sud | BCN | allow about 50 to 70 minutes to central neighborhoods | Accommodation near a convenient metro connection |
| TaxiOfficial airport taxi | BCN | about 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic | Luggage, groups and an address away from major stops |
How each one works
Bus: Aerobús
Follow signs to the Aerobús stop outside your terminal. Choose A1 for Terminal 1 or A2 for Terminal 2 when returning to the airport. Services run to Plaça de Catalunya via Plaça d'Espanya. Buy a ticket through the official website or a designated sales point.
Train: R2 Nord
The airport railway station serves Terminal 2. From Terminal 1, take the free terminal shuttle first. R2 Nord serves Barcelona Sants and Passeig de Gràcia. Buy a valid ticket at the station and check the destination display before boarding.
Metro: L9 Sud
Both terminals have L9 Sud stations. Change at Torrassa for L1 or Collblanc for L5 to reach many central destinations. Buy a ticket valid for the airport metro stations from the machines. Check ticket conditions, since a T-casual does not cover these airport metro entries.
Taxi: Official airport taxi
Join the official taxi queue outside your terminal and give the driver your accommodation's full address. Official Barcelona taxis are black and yellow. Payment is made in the vehicle; check the displayed airport conditions and ask for a receipt.
Arriving late or leaving early
For a late arrival, check the official Aerobús timetable or use the airport taxi rank. Do not assume the train or metro runs throughout the night. For an early departure, confirm your airline's terminal and allow time for check-in and security as well as the journey.
Before you land
- Check your flight's terminal before leaving the city, since the Aerobús routes and the train reach different terminal stops.
- Keep your airport ticket separate from your city transport plans, and check which services your chosen travel pass covers.
- Allow extra time from the Gothic Quarter or El Born, where your accommodation may require a walk from the nearest vehicle stop.
Barcelona airport transfers from El Prat
Which transfer is easiest for Plaça de Catalunya?
Aerobús runs directly to Plaça de Catalunya from both terminals. It avoids the changes needed on the airport metro, although road traffic can extend the journey.
Can I catch the airport train at Terminal 1?
The train station is at Terminal 2. From Terminal 1, use the free terminal shuttle and allow time for the transfer before reaching the station.
Does a T-casual cover the airport metro?
A T-casual is not valid for entry or exit at the L9 Sud airport stations. Check the official transport site for airport tickets and other valid passes.
What should I use after a late flight?
Check Aerobús departures for your arrival time, or take an official taxi from the terminal rank. Train and metro operating hours need checking separately.