Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is the main entry point for travelers arriving in the city. It's located just 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the city center, so it's easy to access. There are plenty of ways to get from the airport to downtown Barcelona. You can choose between private transfers, taxis, and budget-friendly options like buses, trains, and the metro.
What Transport Options are There from BCN to Barcelona?
If you're arriving at Barcelona-El Prat Airport, you'll find plenty of transportation options ranging from private rides to cheaper options like buses. To help you compare, here’s a quick breakdown of the main transport options based on key factors like time, cost, frequency, and convenience.
| Transport Mode | Time | Price | Frequency | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | 25-30 minutes | From €40 (private), €24.18 (shared) | On-demand, pre-booked | Door-to-door service. Prices vary by company and vehicle type. Some offer extras like child seats or luggage assistance. Ideal for groups or families. |
| Taxi | 20-25 minutes | €30-40 | Always available outside terminals | Licensed taxis are easy to find, but fares can fluctuate due to traffic, time of day, or luggage. Use licensed taxi apps to avoid scams. |
| Aerobus (Shuttle) | 35 minutes | €9.75 one way, €14.65 return | Every 5-10 minutes (may vary by time/day) | Direct route from T1 and T2 to Plaça Catalunya, with stops at Plaça Espanya, Gran Via-Urgell, and Plaça Universitat. Luggage space and Wi-Fi available. |
| Train (RENFE R2) | 30 minutes | €5.50 | Every 30 minutes | Departs from T2B. T1 passengers take a free shuttle to T2. Stops at Estació Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, and Barcelona-Sants. Cheap but requires transfer. |
| Metro (L9 Sud) | 32 minutes | €5.50 | Every 7 minutes | L9 Sud line doesn’t connect directly from T1. Requires a free shuttle. Good for passengers staying near metro stations. Transfers needed for central areas. |
| Bus (Line 46) | 30-35 minutes | €4.60 | Every 20 minutes | Budget-friendly, but can get crowded during peak hours. Stops at Plaça Espanya, Gran Via, and Plaça Catalunya. Great for light luggage. |
| Night Bus (N17) | 30-40 minutes | €5.50 | Every 20 minutes (10:00 pm - 5:00 am) | Replaced N16/N17 lines. Operates between the airport and central locations. Ideal for late-night arrivals. Stops at Plaça Espanya and Gran Via. |
1. Aerobus – The Official Shuttle Bus
The Aerobus is one of the most convenient and fast ways to travel from Barcelona-El Prat Airport to the city center. It has a direct connection between both airport terminals (T1 and T2) and Plaça Catalunya.
This shuttle bus service runs all year round. The Aerobus has spacious seating and dedicated luggage racks. It also has Wi-Fi onboard.
First bus departs at 5:35 am, and the last bus leaves at 1:05 am for Terminal 1 and at 1:00am for Terminal 2.
How Does Aeorbus Work?
There are two different Aerobus lines: A1 and A2. Both lines run from the airport to the city center, but they serve different terminals.
Aerobus A1 departs from Terminal 1 (T1).
Aerobus A2 departs from Terminal 2 (T2).
Make sure to board the correct line, especially for your return trip, as A1 and A2 only serve their designated terminals.
How to Buy Aerobus Tickets?
There are several ways to purchase Aerobus tickets both online and offline. You can purchase tickets at ATMs that are located in both terminals or directly on the bus.
However, we recommend purchasing the tickets online in advance on their official website.
Note: If purchasing onboard, be sure to have small change as drivers won’t accept bills larger than €20. Children under 4 travel for free. Return tickets are valid for two weeks after the first journey.
2. Train (RENFE R2 Nord Line)
Ad Meskens, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The RENFE R2 Nord Line is one of the most affordable ways to travel from Barcelona-El Prat Airport to the city center. It connects Terminal 2 (T2) to key stations in Barcelona, such as Estació Sants and Passeig de Gràcia.
However, the train only departs from Terminal 2. If you arrive at Terminal 1 (T1), you will need to take a free shuttle to Terminal 2 to catch the train.
How Does the RENFE R2 Nord Work?
The RENFE R2 Nord line departs from Terminal 2B. The train stops at major stations such as:
Estació Sants - the main train station in Barcelona, perfect for connections to other trains or long-distance travel.
Passeig de Gràcia - a central location, close to many popular tourist spots.
El Clot-Aragó - a station in the northeastern part of the city.
If you arrive at Terminal 1, make sure to take the free shuttle to Terminal 2 to access the train.
How to Buy Train Tickets?
You can purchase tickets at vending machines or ticket offices at the train station in Terminal 2B. You can also use the Hola BCN! public transport card, which includes unlimited travel on public transport, including the airport train.
Note: The first train departs from the airport at 5:42 am, and the last one at 11:38 pm. Trains run every 30 minutes. If traveling from Passeig de Gràcia back to the airport, the first train departs at 5:08 am, and the last train leaves at 11:07 pm.
3. Metro (L9 Sud Line)
The L9 Sud metro line connects Barcelona-El Prat Airport with Barcelona’s metro network. It’s an affordable option for getting to the city center, though it requires transfers to reach central locations. The metro runs from both Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2).
How Does the Metro Work?
The L9 Sud line does not take you directly to the heart of the city. Passengers need to transfer at key interchange stations:
Torrassa - Transfer to the Red Line (L1) for destinations like Plaça Catalunya or Plaça Espanya.
Collblanc - Transfer to the Blue Line (L5) for connections to Diagonal, Sagrada Familia - and other central areas.
The metro stations at T1 and T2 are well signposted, and you'll find ticket machines at each terminal.
How to Buy Metro Tickets?
Tickets are available at the vending machines located in the metro stations at both terminals. Alternatively, you can purchase the Hola BCN! public transport card, which covers unlimited rides on all metro, bus, and train lines within the city, including the airport metro.
Note: The first metro departs at 5:00 am, and the last one leaves at midnight. On Fridays, the metro runs until 2:00 am, and it operates 24 hours on Saturdays. You’ll need to transfer to reach central locations like Plaça Catalunya or Sagrada Familia.
4. City Buses (Line 46, Night Bus N17)
The city buses is a budget-friendly way to travel from Barcelona-El Prat Airport to the city center. The Line 46 (daytime) and the Night Bus N17 (for late-night arrivals) are affordable transfers, though they are slower due to multiple stops.
Both day and night buses stop at major locations like Plaça Espanya, Gran Via, and Plaça Catalunya.
How Do the City Buses Work?
Line 46 (Day Bus)
Line 46 connects Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2) with Plaça Espanya. It operates from 5:30 am to 11:50 pm, making it a good option for travelers during the day. However, it can get crowded during peak hours and makes frequent stops, so it’s better suited for those with light luggage or more time.
Night Bus N17 (Night Service)
For late-night arrivals, the N17 bus provides service between Terminal 1 (T1) and the city center, with stops at Plaça Espanya, Gran Via, and Plaça Catalunya. The N17 runs from 10:00 pm to 5:00 am every 20 minutes. This bus has replaced the previous N18 service, combining the routes for both terminals into a single service.
How to Buy Bus Tickets?
Bus tickets can be purchased onboard, or you can use a T-Casual or Hola BCN! public transport card for a more convenient option. Keep in mind that bus drivers may not provide change for large bills, so it’s best to have smaller denominations.
Note: Line 46 is an economical option but may not be ideal if you’re in a hurry, as it makes several stops before reaching the city center. The night bus is the only public transport option during late hours, so they may be crowded at times.
5. Taxi Services
Taking a taxi from Barcelona-El Prat Airport is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach the city center. Taxis provide a direct, door-to-door service, making them a great option for travelers with lots of luggage or those who want to avoid the hassle of public transport.
How Do Taxi Services Work?
Barcelona’s official taxis are easy to spot with their distinctive black and yellow colors and green availability light on the roof. Taxi stands are located just outside the arrivals area of Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), and taxis are always available.
The fare is metered, starting at a minimum of €20 for airport pickups. Depending on the terminal, the fare to the city center usually ranges from €30 to €40. However, fares can increase due to factors such as:
How to Avoid Taxi Scams
To avoid overcharging or taxi scams, always use official taxi stands at the airport or a trusted ride-hailing app. Licensed taxis will always use a meter, and the fare breakdown will be visible inside the taxi.
Note: Taxi surcharges apply for airport pickups, luggage, and late-night or weekend trips. Taxis are available 24/7.
6. Private Transfers
Private transfers offer a comfortable, stress-free way to get from Barcelona-El Prat Airport to the city center. With a pre-booked service, a driver will meet you at the arrivals area and take you directly to your destination.
How Do Private Transfers Work?
Private transfer services can be booked online through various platforms or directly with transfer companies. Popular options include services like Welcome Pickups, Suntransfers, and other reputable websites. Prices typically start around €40, depending on the company and vehicle type. This option is ideal for groups, families, or travelers with a lot of luggage who want convenience and door-to-door service.
7. Car Rentals
Renting a car from Barcelona-El Prat Airport gives you complete flexibility and independence during your stay. Several car rental companies operate at both Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), so it’s easy to pick up a vehicle upon arrival.
How Do Car Rentals Work?
Car rentals can be booked online in advance or at the airport upon arrival. Major companies like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt have desks at the airport. Rental prices vary depending on the car type and rental duration.
Conclusion
There are many options for transferring from Barcelona Airport to the city center. Choose according to your needs and budget. If you're traveling during peak times or holiday periods, it’s a good idea to pre-book your Aerobus or private transfer to avoid long waits.
For travelers with a lot of luggage, taxis or private transfers provide the most convenience, as public transport can get crowded, particularly during rush hours. If your flight arrives late at night, the N17 night bus or a taxi will be your best options, since other services have limited availability during these hours.
For those planning to use public transport frequently during their stay, consider getting the Hola BCN! card, which offers unlimited travel on Barcelona’s buses, trains, and metro lines, and can save you both time and money.
To make the most of your time in this stunning city, be sure to check out our website for more detailed guides on transportation guides, itineraries, hidden gems, top food spots, and unique experiences in Barcelona.
