Arriving in Barcelona, it’s easy to either get excited about everything that’s new or overwhelmed because it’s nothing that’s familiar. The last thing you want is to not know how to get from the airport to the city. After living in Barcelona for over two years, I’ve found countless ways to get between the two that are easy and not too expensive. I’ve broken down the different ways and provided you when you could use each. Of course it’ll come down to your preferences and your budget.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and visit places most tourists never see, grab my Barcelona Off the Beaten Path Guide.
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Barcelona Airport to City Center
Public Transportation (Train and Metro)
My preferred way of getting to and from the airport is with the RENFE train (R2N). It’s located only in Terminal 2, so the low cost terminal, but there is a free bus that takes you between both terminals. It’s great for if you’re flying with only a carry on. It stops at Sants, Passeig de Gracia, Clot and Sant Andreu, all stops in Barcelona city. You can easily transfer to the many metro lines from these stations. A one way ticket costs 4,60€ which is why I prefer purchasing the T-casual for 11,35€ and 10 trips total.
Many visitors consider the Metro option seeing as in many cities that’s usually the safe, go to option. Personally, I don’t recommend this option because it takes a long time and if you’re staying in the city center, you’ll definitely have to transfer. It’s inconvenient due to the amount of stairs, elevators, and walking you’ll have to do with all your luggage. You can get the metro from both Terminals 1 and 2, it’s the orange L9 Sud line. It costs 4,50€ one way and you cannot use the T-Casual ticket for this line. Meaning you will have to purchase the special ticket each time for each direction.
Airport Bus
Aerobus is one of the most popular ways of getting from the Barcelona airport to the city. It’s pretty cost effective and direct with very few stops to get you where you have to go. For one way, it’s 5,90€ and 10,20€ for a round trip (only good for two weeks from date of purchase).
Taxi
The most common way to get from the airport to the city center is always via taxi. It’s also one of the most expensive. If you do have a lot of luggage and friends to split the cost with, it’s not the worst option. It’s direct and quick, especially if you’re low on time with lots on your itinerary.
Private transfer
If private transfer is more your thing, then check out this one. They have a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours beforehand to get a full refund. There is a reserve now, pay later option so you don’t have to fork over any funds until you’re fully sure. They have drivers who speak English, Spanish, and Catalan, depending on your preference. Reserve today!
Have you used any of these methods to get from the Barcelona airport to the city? Let me know about them in the comments if you have!
Barcelona Day Trip Options
If you’re looking for a fun day trip outside of Barcelona, check out my Tortosa post with what to do, especially if you’re on a budget! If you’re looking for even more day trip options, check out these 12!
Make sure to grab my Barcelona Off the Beaten Guide with tips on places to visit that aren’t just the typical touristy spots.
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