HellBooking
Find the best flight deals to Barcelona with ease
Barcelona-El Prat Airport Guide
Barcelona is primarily served by Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), Spain's second-largest airport located just 12 km from the city center.
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
BCN
Location: 12 km southwest of Barcelona city center
Best for: International flights, European connections, Mediterranean travel
Transport: Aerobús, metro, trains, taxis, rental cars
Airlines: Vueling, Iberia, Ryanair, major European carriers
Terminals: Terminal 1 (main) and Terminal 2 (low-cost & regional)
Alternative Airports Near Barcelona
- Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO): 90km north, served by Ryanair and other low-cost carriers
- Reus Airport (REU): 95km south, seasonal flights mainly for Costa Dorada tourists
- Lleida-Alguaire Airport (ILD): 150km west, limited domestic flights
Best Time to Book Flights to Barcelona
When to Book for the Best Prices
- Book European flights 1-3 months in advance for optimal pricing
- For intercontinental flights, book 3-5 months ahead
- For peak season (June-August), book 4-6 months in advance
- Consider flying on weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) for lower fares
- Set price alerts to monitor fare changes for your preferred travel dates
- Be flexible with your travel dates by 2-3 days to find better deals
Best Time to Visit Barcelona
- Spring (April-June): Pleasant weather, blooming parks, moderate crowds
- Summer (July-August): Hot temperatures, beach season, highest prices and crowds
- Fall (September-October): Mild weather, grape harvest, cultural events
- Winter (November-March): Cool temperatures, Christmas markets, lowest prices
Airlines That Fly to Barcelona
Barcelona is a major European destination served by numerous international and low-cost airlines.
Major International Airlines
- Vueling (Spanish low-cost carrier with extensive European network)
- Iberia (Spain's flag carrier with global connections)
- Ryanair (Europe's largest low-cost carrier)
- British Airways (Multiple daily flights from London)
- Lufthansa (Connections from German hubs)
- Air France (Connections from Paris and beyond)
- KLM (Connections from Amsterdam)
- Delta Air Lines (Direct flights from US cities)
- United Airlines (Direct flights from US hubs)
Low-Cost and Regional Airlines
- easyJet (Extensive European network from Barcelona)
- Norwegian (Selected long-haul and European routes)
- Eurowings (German low-cost carrier)
- Transavia (Dutch low-cost carrier)
- Volotea (Spanish low-cost carrier focusing on domestic routes)
Barcelona Flight Travel Tips
Before You Fly
- Check Schengen Area visa requirements based on your nationality
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay
- Consider travel insurance for flight delays or cancellations
- Download airline apps for mobile boarding passes
- Check baggage allowances and fees for your specific airline
- Pre-book airport transfers or research public transport options
At Barcelona-El Prat Airport
- Arrive at least 2 hours before European flights, 3 hours for intercontinental
- Have boarding passes and travel documents ready
- Use the efficient Aerobús service to Plaça Catalunya in 35 minutes
- Take advantage of airport facilities including lounges and shopping
- Use the free WiFi available throughout the airport
- Be prepared for security checks and passport control
Barcelona-Specific Travel Tips
- Avoid flying during major events like Mobile World Congress (February/March) for lower prices
- Consider the shoulder seasons (April-June, September-October) for best weather and fewer crowds
- Research Barcelona's excellent public transportation including metro, buses, and trains
- Learn basic Spanish or Catalan phrases for easier communication
- Be aware of pickpockets in tourist areas and on public transport
- Book popular attractions like Sagrada Familia in advance
Frequently Asked Questions About Barcelona Flights
How far is Barcelona Airport from the city center?
Barcelona-El Prat Airport is located approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) southwest of the city center. The Aerobús takes about 35 minutes to Plaça Catalunya.
What is the cheapest month to fly to Barcelona?
January and February typically offer the lowest airfares to Barcelona, as these are the cooler months with fewer tourists.
How early should I arrive at Barcelona Airport for international flights?
For intercontinental flights, arrive at least 3 hours before departure. For European flights, 2 hours is usually sufficient.
Which airlines offer direct flights to Barcelona from the US?
Delta, United, and American Airlines offer direct flights from various US cities including New York, Miami, Chicago, and Philadelphia.
What is the best way to get from Barcelona Airport to the city center?
The Aerobús is the most convenient option, taking 35 minutes to Plaça Catalunya. The metro (L9 Sud) and trains (R2 Nord) are also good alternatives.
Is there a shuttle between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Barcelona Airport?
Yes, a free shuttle bus operates between T1 and T2 every 5-7 minutes, taking approximately 10-15 minutes.
What is the flight time from London to Barcelona?
The flight from London to Barcelona takes approximately 2 hours.
Do I need to speak Spanish in Barcelona?
While Spanish is widely spoken, the local language is Catalan. However, most people in tourist areas speak English, and you can manage with basic Spanish or English phrases.