Skip to main content

Barcelona · Airport Transfer

How to Get from Barcelona Airport to the City Centre

Barcelona skyline with Sagrada Familia

Barcelona has one main airport, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, located about 15 kilometres from the city centre. The airport is well connected by train, metro, bus, and taxi. Each option varies in price, speed, and convenience depending on where you are staying. The guide below explains the best transport options so you can choose what suits your trip.

Quick Transport Options

Fastest option
Aerobús
Best budget option
Train from Terminal 2
Most convenient option
Taxi or private transfer
Best for late arrivals
Taxi

Transport Options in Detail

Aerobús

Best for: Fast and direct airport transfers.

The Aerobús is one of the most popular ways to travel between Barcelona Airport and the city centre. It runs frequently from both terminals and stops at key locations including Plaça de Catalunya. Buses run every 5 to 10 minutes during the day.

~€7.90 one way ~35 minutes

Train (R2 Nord Line)

Best for: Budget travellers heading to central areas.

The RENFE R2 Nord train runs from Terminal 2 to several central stations including Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, and El Clot. If arriving at Terminal 1, a free shuttle bus connects the terminals. One of the cheapest ways to get into the city.

~€4 to €5 ~25 minutes

Metro (Line L9 Sud)

Best for: Connections across the city.

The metro connects both airport terminals to Barcelona's wider metro network. Line L9 Sud runs from the airport to stations where you can change to other lines. Note that it requires at least one transfer to reach central areas such as Plaça de Catalunya.

~€5.50 Varies with transfers

Taxi

Best for: Door-to-door convenience.

Taxis are available outside both terminals and offer a direct route to your accommodation. This option is ideal if you have luggage or arrive late at night.

€30 to €40 20 to 30 minutes

Private Transfer

Best for: A smooth arrival experience.

Private transfers can be booked in advance and include a driver waiting at arrivals. More expensive than taxis but offers convenience and peace of mind. Can be pre-arranged before you land.

€40 to €60+ 20 to 35 minutes

Local Bus (TMB Bus 46 / Night Bus)

Best for: Very budget-friendly travel.

Local buses connect the airport with different parts of the city. Bus 46 runs during the day, while night buses operate after midnight. The cheapest option, but travel times are longer and routes may be less convenient for visitors.

~€2 to €3 45 to 60 minutes

Local Tips for Airport Transfers in Barcelona

Sort the essentials before your trip: ···

Plan with the Genie

Plan your Barcelona trip

Magic Travel Genie creates personalised Barcelona itineraries with accommodation suggestions, hidden gems, and optimised daily routes.

Plan my Barcelona tripTry your first trip free

We use cookies to ensure the website functions properly, improve performance, and provide relevant content.

You can accept all cookies, reject non-essential cookies, or customise your preferences. For more information, please read our Cookie Policy.