The vibrant metropolitan area, along with the well-preserved historical remnants of Barcelona attracts a multitude of tourists. To cater to the needs of tourists and business travellers, the city is served by numerous airports, all with different services and facilities. From international hubs to smaller regional ones, airports in Barcelona ensure convenient connectivity and amazing infrastructure. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, understanding the city’s airports can help you plan a smoother journey.
Major Airports In Barcelona
Here are the 3 major airports in Barcelona, offering a range of international and domestic flights, catering to various travel needs:
1. Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
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Only 15 km from the city, lies the Barcelona El Prat Airport. Managed by AENA, it is the second busiest airport in Spain attending to a large number of international tourists each day. It provides them a wide assortment of places to shop and dine at the airport. While the first terminal is meant for international flights, the second caters to interstate flights. Numerous trains, buses, and taxis make travelling to and from the airport very convenient.
Terminals: 2 terminals, T1 is for International flights and T2 is for low-cost and interstate flights
Available Facilities: Duty-free shops, cafes, VIP lounges, free Wi-Fi, baggage storage, ATMs, accessibility services
2. Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO)
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This airport is smaller than the El Prat Airport but can still be a good option for international tourists. It provides charter flights and is only 90 km northeast of the heart of Barcelona. In addition, this airport is more convenient for tourists on a budget wanting to visit Costa Brava. Although there are fewer services at this airport, tourists can still enjoy basic amenities for a more comfortable experience as this airport is usually less crowded as compared to the other ones. Shuttle buses to Barcelona’s city centre are also available for the well-being and comfort of the travellers.
Terminals: A single terminal which serves charter and budget airlines
Available Facilities: Basic amenities like duty-free shops, cafes, car rentals, free Wi-Fi
3. Reus Airport (REU)
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Located near Tarragona, Reus Airport is roughly 100 kilometres away from the beautiful city of Barcelona. The airport’s main focus is the servicing of holidays. This includes charter and low-cost airlines for the comfort of locals and travellers from all around the world. It is commonly used by tourists flying to the Costa Dorada beaches or PortAventura World. Even though Reus is smaller than Barcelona Airport, it still has basic facilities like cafes and car rentals plus one small duty-free shop. In addition to buses, tourists can take taxis to Barcelona, which can also be more relaxed and less busy than flying directly into the city.
Terminals: A single terminal which caters to holiday and budget airlines
Available Facilities: Cafes, car rentals, a small duty-free shop, basic travel services
Where To Stay
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This place has plenty of places to stay after you have boarded from any of the airports in Barcelona. Those seeking a premium experience will enjoy hotels in Eixample and Infamous Passeig de Gracia which have exquisite views of the city. Affordable hotels and hostels are also available in parts like El Raval and Poble Sec. Alternatively, you can book a place in the Gothic Quarter with an abundance of history and great nightlife. Airbnb apartments are also available to tourists in large quantities. Because of summer and other crowded seasons, pre-booking is advised to get the best rates and guarantee comfort in the city.
Where To Eat
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Barcelona is a food lover’s dream where tourists can savour local Catalan dishes alongside international cuisines. To try native foods, La Boqueria Market is a great place to go. The ancient Gothic area and El Born district have plenty of tapas bars and coffee shops. The city boasts several Michelin-star restaurants and fine diners. Make sure to try the local delicacies like paella and churros with hot chocolate, or tapas. Food trucks are quite popular for street vending, serving a variety of snacks. Don’t forget to book tables in advance at the frequently visited restaurants to soak in the city’s energetic food scene.
Best Time To Visit
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The best seasons to visit Barcelona are the spring, from April to June, and the fall, between September and November. Temperatures during those times are favourable for sightseeing and other outdoor recreational activities. During summer, the city is significantly more congested, so the rest of the year allows tourists to enjoy the attractions at their own pace. In Barcelona, the summer months (July and August) are bustling with tourists, making it the most active season. The winter months are cold but great for tourists on a budget. They can avail of lower rates for hotels and travel with fewer crowds.
Barcelona boasts an awe-inspiring blend of historical, cultural, and modern elements, which make it a breathtaking city. Whether you are exploring the beautiful golden beaches, or indulging in some local tapas, airports in Barcelona ensure that every traveller has a unique experience. Make sure you plan for the best travel dates to maximize the most out of your visit. Are you planning to visit Barcelona any time soon? If so, then get started with Trip XL and get ready for the trip of a lifetime in Barcelona!
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