Panorama shot of Barcelona airport, with sign and part of an aeroplane tail

Barcelona Airport to City Travel Options

Best way to get to Barcelona from the airport? Your guide to the easiest, cheapest options from BCN (El Prat) to Barcelona city centre.
By Jo Cooke

Our guide for getting into the city from Barcelona Airport

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You won’t want to waste any time getting stuck into Barcelona’s best sights....Picture yourself enjoying sensational shopping, tapas treats and spectacular Gaudi architecture - all nestled between the sea and the magnificent Montserrat mountains. How to get there with the minimum of hassle? Here are a few helpful options for the best way to get to Barcelona from the airport.

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Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) International Airport (more commonly known as El Prat) is a convenient 10 miles from the city centre, so around 40 minutes by most modes of transport. Remember however that there are two terminals, T1 and T2, with different departure points depending on which way you choose to travel. But don’t panic - we’ll explain all your airport to Barcelona travel options.

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Shuttle bus from Barcelona airport

Aerobus, the Barcelona Airport Shuttle, is a fast and easy way to get to the city, running every ten minutes, all year round. In just 35 minutes it can whisk you directly to Plaça de Catalunya for just a few Euro. Good news - there’s even on-board wi-fi!

Don’t forget though that there’s an Aerobus for each Terminal - A1 from T1 and A2 from T2 (you’ll need to remember the right one for the return). Both make stops at three convenient city locations: Plaça d’Espanya, Gran Via-Urgell and Plaça Universitat, though it’s worth noting that the stops on the outward and return routes are not the same. Instead you can hop on board for the return leg at either Plaça de Catalunya, Sepulveda-Urgell or Plaça d’Espanya.

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It’s probably a good idea to buy your ticket online in advance. Once the outward journey is validated at the airport, the return ticket is valid for up to two weeks. You can also pick up a ticket at ATMs in both Terminals 1 and 2 - or onboard the bus, though change is not always given.

You’ll find the Terminal 1 Aerobus stop a floor lower than the arrivals hall. Simply walk to the bottom of the arrivals terminal and turn left towards the ramp that leads down to the stop. For Terminal 2 the Aerobus stop is located on the right as you leave the arrivals hall in the area nearest to T2a and T2b.

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Train from Barcelona airport

The train, operated by Renfe, is the cheapest way to get to Barcelona from the airport and can have you in reach of the action in around 25 minutes. Happily, the station is just three minutes’ walk from Terminal 2. Should you fly into Terminal 1 you’ll first need to take the free shuttle bus which connects the two terminals - it’s green so you can’t miss it!

Climb aboard a train on the R2 North line, departing every 30 minutes, and speed directly to the two city centre stops; Maybe you’ll head directly to Passeig de Gràcia, famous for its shopping and home to Gaudi masterpieces Casa Battlo and La Pedrera. Or Barcelona Sants (or Sants Estació - the main station) where you can connect to high-speed trains to other parts of Spain. At either stop you can switch to the metro to reach other parts of the city.

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Tickets are available at ticket offices and vending machines. You could also pick up a Hola BCN! Public transport card which is valid for all journeys on Barcelona’s public transport network for as many days as you choose.

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Metro from Barcelona airport

Hopping onto the Metro from the airport to the city centre is another convenient and affordable option, taking around 30 minutes.
Look out for the distinctive red and white Metro signs located at the exit of both T1 and T2 terminals and grab your ticket at a vending machine, which also supply BCN public transport cards.

There are 15 stops on the L9 line from the airport though, depending on where you want to go in the city, you may need to change. Change at Torrassa to take the red line linking to Universitat or Catalonia Square. Or change at Collblanc for the blue line towards Diagonal or Sagrada Familia.

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Bus from Barcelona airport

If bus travel is your bag, you’ll be wanting bus 46, which runs every 20 minutes from both Terminals 1 and 2. Look out for the TMB logo (Transport Metropolitans de Barcelona manages the buses in the city.) Another economical choice, the bus takes around half an hour to deposit you at Plaça d’Espanya, home of Barcelona’s famous Magic Fountains and perfectly placed for the Montjüic cable car.
Buy your tickets on the bus, where you can also choose a Hola BCN! public transport card.

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How to get from Barcelona airport at night

If your flight gets in late, don’t despair - the night bus is stll a good way (in fact the only way) to reach the city centre. It departs every 20 minutes from 9.55PM to 4.45AM
You’ll need N17 from Terminal T1 or N16 from Terminal T2 (with a number N18 also laid on when there is especially heavy traffic)
The N16 (and N18) bus stops are found at the exits of terminals T2a, T2b and T2c. You’ll find the N17 (and N18) bus stop at the exit of Terminal 1 on the left of the flight exit.

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Taxi from Barcelona airport

Unsurprisingly the easiest and fastest way to hit the city is to jump in a taxi from the airport. If you are a family or a group it needn’t even be too expensive. Taxis in Barcelona are efficient and well-organised; they’re easy to see (black and yellow) and easy to find at the exit of Terminals T1 and T2.
Be aware that there is no standard rate from the airport to the city centre but you can expect to pay around 30€-35€ for the 20-25 minute ride. The minimum fare from the airport is 20€ (which includes the mandatory airport entry & exit fees). So even if you are travelling to an address close to the airport you’ll pay a minimum of 20€. There is an additional night rate for passengers travelling between 8PM and 8AM.

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Chauffeur from Barcelona airport

If you really want to start in style - and waste no time - why not consider booking a driver in a private or shared car, which again could prove more economical than you may imagine? You’ll have the reassurance of knowing that you have a ride waiting, whatever time your plane arrives - and you have a ride direct to your hotel door or other Barcelona destination.

We hope that's helped you plan your journey and wish you happy travels. Remember if you’re looking to sightsee and save then Go City is always the right way to go!

Jo Cooke
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Barceloneta Beach

You there! Are you planning your trip to Barcelona? If so, you're in luck. There's so much to do and see in the sunny city; there'll never be a dull moment. However, if you're looking to take a break from all the food, culture, and exploring, why not take a stroll to the beach? Barcelona has some great beaches, but its best-known has to be Barceloneta. And why is that? Well, because there are so many things to do there! What things, you ask? Well, read on, and we'll tell you just that. Here's our guide to the best things to do in Barceloneta. Relax Barceloneta is a beach, so, of course, you'll be free to lay a towel down and soak up some sweet sun. At nearly 1,400ft in length, you're sure to find a spot too. It is worth noting that Barceloneta is known to be on the livelier side of Barcelona's beaches, so if you're hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, it might be worth taking some headphones and heading there earlier in the day. That way, you're likely to get the best spot too. Also worth saying that the beach has pretty good wifi throughout if you want to get gramming or watch an episode or two on the sand. However, if you are looking to engage in things of a more lively nature... Nightlife Yes, Barceloneta has a party side too. Groups of party-seekers will often put on some tunes, open some cold drinks, and celebrate through to the early hours. Surely one of them will welcome you with open arms. So, if you've an itch for good times, be sure to check out the beach's goings-on. It may well be scratched. Just remember to stay hydrated, so you don't feel too bad the following day. Cool off with a drink Speaking of nightlife, you'll find a healthy heaping of it at the many bars that line the horizon like a boozy, enticing mirage. They're sure to offer little nibbles to keep you going, but you'll really want a refreshing cocktail to cool off. You can even get it to go and take it to your towel, so you can sip in the sun. It doesn't get much better than that, does it? Sample the local cuisine As well as the many bars that dot the beachside, you'll also find plenty of restaurants and pop-ups to satisfy your hunger. Expect a healthy helping of seafood with Mediterranean tapas, paired with a delicious red wine. Or, just go out on a traditional paella. After a day of beaching or simply exploring the area surrounding Barceloneta, what better way to refuel? Spain's cuisine is known worldwide for its healthiness and heartiness, so what's stopping you? Get active As the water is right there, why not try out some ocean activities while you're at Barceloneta? There's usually windsurfing , kitesurfing and bodyboarding on offer, and if you're an enthusiast, feel free to bring your own gear and go your own way. Or, if you'd rather keep your feet firmly on the dry land, you'll find volleyball nets to strut your stuff, beach tennis, ping pong and even an entire area for gymnastics! The perfect answer if you've had a few too many delicious cocktails during your stay! Go exploring Barceloneta isn't just the beach's name; it's also the name of the seaside town surrounding it. For centuries, Barceloneta was a fishing village that brought a lot of seafood into the Catalan capital. The village itself supposedly inspired the great author Cervantes; the fight between the titular Don Quixote and the Knight takes place in a fishing village eerily similar to Barceloneta. Take a stroll into the town, and you'll be mesmerized by the colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and beautiful flora. Head in during the evening to see local patrons eating, drinking, and enjoying the ambiance. Why not join them for a few? Take a walk Given the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, why not simply take a stroll to drink it all in? There's plenty of sand to wander, and even more sights await you past the beach. For the culturally-minded, there's L'Estel Ferit, a fantastic sculpture that translates to 'the wounded shooting star'. Quite the sight, even in a city full of interesting architecture and art. Speaking of architecture, you can even wander to W Barcelona, a fin-shaped marvel designed by Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill. Part hotel, part rooftop bar, it definitely deserves a look-in if you're partial to a rooftop cocktail or two! Get historical Speaking of things to do in Barceloneta, the beach hides many things beyond its golden sand. Check out Port Vell and gaze upon the myriad yachts and boats that line the coast. You might not be able to afford one, but you can certainly look at them and pretend. Alternatively, you'll also find Museu d'Historia de Catalunya here. The museum, which charts the history of Catalonia, will give you an insight into the history, culture, and politics of Barcelona and the surrounding area throughout time. And when we say throughout time, we mean all time. Beginning in the Palaeolithic era, all the way through to the present day, you'll learn a lot. Then, end your visit with the amazing views from the museum's terrace! And that's our list of the best things to do at Barceloneta beach! Be sure to pack some sunscreen and enough spending money to make the most of your visit! Are you looking for more suggestions to make your trip to Barcelona one to remember? We've got you covered. Why not check out some of the other beaches the city has to offer? Or, get your Gaudi on with the best walking tours for fans of the trailblazing architect. Alternatively, try out one of the many art galleries and museums commemorating Spain's rich culture. And finally, are you spending the weekend in Barcelona? Here's our guide to making the most of your short stay. Until next time!
Dom Bewley
mar bella
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Best Beaches in Barcelona

Ah, Barcelona. The Count City. One of Europe's premier places for great food, sunny weather, and a whole heap of culture. And, of course, a tourist's paradise. There's so much to see and do all across the city you might be overwhelmed. After a day of shopping, eating, and culture-absorbing, you might need a nice rest. Or, maybe you're looking for a little sun-soaked thrill? No matter your desires, you'll find it all, and more, at the beach! Golden sand, clear blue sea, and a sky to match. Just thinking about it is enough to give you goose pimples. So, if you're heading to beautiful Barcelona for a short or longer-term stay, you'll want to know which beaches are the best. Well, you're in luck. We've researched the best beaches in Barcelona, so you don't have to. Read on, and discover which is right for you. Featuring: Barceloneta Mar Bella Sant Sebastia Nova Icaria Bogatell Barceloneta Barcelona's most famous beach, and the jewel in the city's sandy crown, Barceloneta holds that title with good reason. Golden sand as far as the eye can see. Well, nearly 1400ft of it, at least. Named after the eponymous fishing area where it resides, Barceloneta is truly one for the excitable, thrill-seeking tourist. Whether it's parties past sunset, a great assortment of seafood right on your 'towelstep', or a little seaside shopping, Barceloneta's got you covered. It's undoubtedly the most lively of the beaches on this list. And, given its renown worldwide, will likely be the busiest too. However, for those of you looking to add a little spice to your sandy stay, it's easily one of the best beaches in Barcelona. There are watersports, more bars than we can count, and other entertainment that'll excite you throughout the day and into the early hours. Mar Bella Let's switch gears for a moment. If Barceloneta's vibe is a little much and you're looking to really relax, then Mar Bella is for you. Known as the quietest beach in the city, it's relatively free from the tourist trappings of other beaches. You won't find bars and parties here. Just calm, peaceful beaches with calm and relaxed people. Of course, that doesn't mean all you'll be doing is lying down and soaking up rays. There's windsurfing and kayaking on offer for you daredevils out there. It's also worth noting that it's a nudist beach. Now, that doesn't mean you have to go in your birthday suit, but it does mean that other people probably will. But hey, it's the 21st Century. Good for them. And you, if that's your thing. Sant Sebastia However, if you're looking for something that treads the line between vibey Barceloneta and the zen-like Mar Bella, never fear. Sant Sebastia is here, and it's one of the best beaches in Barcelona! Often considered the Saint-Tropez of Spain, Sant Sebastia has many of Barceloneta's best bits; the bars, the food, and the activities, but with a fraction of the people. There are sea sports to take part in, boats to relax on, and an entire ocean to swim beneath. You can even do your best Hasselhoff impression and join one of the many volleyball games you'll find. Smash that ball, yeah! Now that's volleyball! But like Mar Bella, it's definitely more laid back, so much so that, like Mar Bella, it also accommodates nudists. So, just be aware that there'll likely be some skin on show. Nova Icaria Now, the above beaches might not be for everyone. If you're planning to bring the kids with you, perhaps a more clothes-friendly environment will stop any awkward staring or comments. Anything but the staring and comments. Well, Barcelona's got another great beach just for you. Nova Icaria is perfect for families, with a mix of kid-friendly activities like volleyball and water sports, and a nice mix of places to eat and grab a drink to cool off. Plus, if the sand, sun, and sea aren't enough to keep their curious minds busy, Barcelona Zoo is just a short walk from the beach. There are hundreds of animals to meet, a reptile house filled with exotic species, and the African Savannah section where your little ones can mingle with giraffes, gazelle, and elephants. What more could a child, and a tired adult, want? Bogatell And, finally, for those of you looking for a more grown-up version of Nova Icaria, look no further than Bogatell beach. Firstly, it's a beach, so expect sand, lounging in the sand, and the chance to tan your pale, vitamin d-starved body. There are also plenty of activities to participate in, from ping-pong to volleyball. All that, and nary a whippersnapper in sight. Bogatell has a higher average age than the other beaches. Perfect for the more mature of you, whether in mind or body. Bogatell is classed as a Blue-Flag Beach, meaning it takes a sustainable approach to its shoreline. For the layman, including us, that means it's cleaner. And, as you'd expect from a Blue-Flag beach with a rubber-stamped body of water, Bogatell has some of the best watersports activities in Barcelona. Windsurfing, kitesurfing, actual surfing, and much, much more. And, after all the action - or inaction - there's a wealth of bars and restaurants just a short walk away. They're sure to quench your thirst or satisfy your well-earned hunger. Or, if you just need to cool down, go grab an ice cream at one of the pop-ups along the beach. And those were just some of the best beaches in Barcelona. No matter what vibe you're looking for, there's sure to be the perfect beach for you. And, if you're looking for more things to do while you're in the scintillating city, why not add a little culture? Barcelona has a wide variety of art galleries to peruse, and museums to fill the brain to the brim. If you need a break from the sun, why not try some indoor activities? Taking that special someone on your trip? We've got perfect couple's activities just for you.
Dom Bewley
View over Park Güell at sunset
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Barcelona in February

When planning your trip to Barcelona, you’d be forgiven for not considering visiting in winter. With the city seeing its peak levels of tourism in the summer months, it only seems right to follow suit and experience the city in its warmest and most bustling period. But should you happen to take a chance on Barcelona in February and brave the slightly cooler and possibly wetter weather, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised by what the city has to offer. Not only will you be able to experience a more authentic side to the Catalan metropolis without having to fight the summer crowds, but you’ll also get the chance to observe some of the region’s most hotly-anticipated cultural events. Tourism in February If you happen to visit Barcelona any time outside of the summer period, you’ll very quickly notice a huge difference in the overall feel of the city. In the wake of or lead-up to the peak tourist season, the city sees far lower numbers of visitors. This is especially true in the late winter months, when even the additional mini waves of Christmas have all run dry. In the absence of peak visitor numbers, you’ll find Barcelona far less crowded, and that can make a whole lot of difference for your trip. You’ll have the opportunity to visit just about any of the city’s key attractions without having to battle crowds, and most of the time you should even be able to book admission the very same day. What’s more, you’re likely to get the pick of the litter in terms of flights and accommodation, along with some pretty hefty discounts to boot. While it may not be the perfect weather for taking a dip in the Mediterranean, with temperatures typically falling between the low-40s and high-50s, this could be the prime time to plan your dream Barcelona itinerary. Explore the likes of the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Montjuïc and the Barcelona Zoo in their quietest and most authentic state. Barcelona Carnival We promised you near-zero crowds throughout Barcelona in February. Well, that may not be strictly true for the whole month. While most tourists may indeed be waiting for the summer months to pay a visit, the locals come out in force for a week in mid-February to celebrate Carnival. In the lead-up to lent, when families would traditionally begin fasting to tribute the final sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the city indulges in a week of lavish eating, drinking and partying. The celebration begins with Dijous Gras, or Fat Thursday. As per its double-entendre name, this is a day full of indulgence in mighty communal feasts filled with greasy, fatty foods. Head to any independent bakery or café, and you’ll likely find traditional treats such as coca de llardons (a flat wheat pastry) and botifarra d’ou (pork and egg sausage). Sometime over the weekend, often on the Saturday, the Carnival King will then arrive among the traditional carnival parade before making his grand speech to commence the rest of the festivities. This is a huge event in which many locals and tourists alike will gather to hear the King poke fun at the year’s most poignant events. Throughout the Carnival period, you’ll find countless street parties and events to join where you’ll be able to indulge in your fill of festive foods and alcohol. Most attendees typically dress up in costume, often as celebrities, famous characters or animals. If you’re really looking to party, you can easily grab yourself a costume from a number of stores in the city center. Llum Festival February also offers up one of the most highly anticipated events on Barcelona’s cultural calendar. For three nights a year, the Poblenou district offers up an almost unparalleled light show for the Llum Festival, using many of the district’s most iconic buildings as a canvas on which to project various different stunning art displays. Should you find yourself exploring the trendy bars, cafés and retailers throughout this district in the evening, you’ll be treated by all manner of spectacles. Highlighting the skills of both local and A-list artists, installations can be anything from neon walkways to immersive 3D illusions to entire buildings animated by light. Chinese New Year While the Lunar New Year may occasionally fall in January, it most often takes place in February. Just about every major European city will offer some form of celebration, but some go above and beyond to offer something truly special. Barcelona is one such location, as it has adapted its Chinese New Year celebrations to incorporate both traditional Chinese and Catalan symbolism and culture. A procession of dancers, musicians, martial artists, human towers, Chinese dragons and Catalan giants typically makes its way through some of the city’s major streets, eventually ending in a grand performance at its final destination. To accompany the celebration, you’ll also find a number of smaller events and displays taking place throughout the city. Many streets are taken over by vendors selling all manner of traditional treats and gifts, and you can often find a number of cultural workshops offering everything from language classes to art to cookery. Wrapping Up Whether you’re a more budget-minded traveler looking for the cheapest and quietest time to experience the heart of Catalonia or a fiend for parties and festivities, visiting Barcelona in February can be incredibly rewarding. Minimal crowds, cheaper accommodation rates and some of Catalonia’s most exciting cultural events are but a few of the treats you can expect from a visit throughout this period. Grab yourself a plane ticket and make sure to pack for the weather, and see what Barcelona’s winter really has to offer.
Robert Heaney

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