Metro line L9 Sud runs directly from Barcelona-El Prat Airport. Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have their own metro stations for line L9 Sud (Aeroport T1 & Aeroport T2).
How much does the metro cost from the airport?
Important: Standard metro tickets in Barcelona (single ticket, T-Casual 10-ride card) are NOT valid for travel to or from the airport.
You will need the separate Airport Ticket.
Price 2025: €11.40 (return ticket)
This special ticket is required for travelling between the airport and the city.
Alternative to the Airport Ticket
For visitors, there is a good alternative to the expensive Airport Ticket: the Hola Barcelona Travel Card (Hola BCN)
If you plan to use public transport during your stay in Barcelona, the Hola Barcelona Travel Card is a highly recommended option. This travel pass is valid for 2 to 5 days and offers unlimited travel on all public transport – including the airport metro line.
Our tip: Buy the Hola BCN Travel Card online in advance
The Hola BCN Card is valid on metro line L9 Sud, which means the airport transfer is already included — no need to buy the Airport Ticket.
👉 Go directly to the provider
➡️ More information and tips on the Hola Barcelona Travel Card can be found here.
Hola Barcelona Travel Card – Prices (2025)
2 days / 48h: €18.10 (€9.05 per day)
3 days / 72h: €26.30 (€8.77 per day)
4 days / 96h: €34.40 (€8.60 per day)
5 days / 120h: €42.10 (€8.40 per day)
How long does the metro take to reach the city centre?
- Metro line L9 Sud does not go directly into the city centre. With just one transfer, however, you can easily reach major destinations such as La Rambla, Plaça Catalunya, or Sagrada Família.
- To the main transfer stations, Torrassa or Collblanc, the journey takes about 30 minutes.
- Including the transfer, you will reach Plaça de Catalunya in roughly 50 minutes.
With the Hola BCN Card, the airport transfer is included.
Taking the RENFE R2 Nord Train to the City Centre
Barcelona-El Prat Airport has its own railway station called Aeroport, located at Terminal 2B.
Transfer by train: the fastest way to the city centre
The train is the fastest public transport option from the airport. The R2 Nord line travels from the airport to Barcelona-Sants (the main station) in just 20 minutes, without changing trains.
Other central stops include Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona El Clot, and Sant Andreu Comtal.
How much does the train cost from the airport?
A single ticket costs €4.90 (2025).
Please note: This ticket is valid only for the train and does not include onward travel by metro or bus.
The R2 Nord train offers you a fast transfer option from the airport to Barcelona city centre without changing trains.
If you plan to use public transport in Barcelona, the Hola Barcelona Travel Card may be an interesting option for you — it also covers the train from the airport.
👉Go directly to the provider
➡️ More information about the airport train connection can be found here.
Aerobús A1 & A2 – Airport Shuttle Bus
The Aerobús is a dedicated airport shuttle bus that travels directly (no transfers) between Barcelona-El Prat Airport and the city centre.
- A1: Terminal 1 → City Centre
- A2: Terminal 2 → City Centre
Both lines stop at central locations such as Plaça Catalunya and Plaça Espanya.
How long does the Aerobús take?
The journey from the airport to Plaça Catalunya takes around 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Buses operate every 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the time of day and terminal.
Online tickets save time and help you avoid queues. Upon arrival, you simply board the Aerobús and go.
➡️ More detailed information about the Aerobús transfer is available in this Airport Guide.
The Aerobús takes you directly from the airport to the city centre without any changes.
Taking a Taxi from the Airport to the City Centre
In addition to public transport, you can, of course, take a taxi directly to your hotel or destination.
Taxi ranks are located outside the arrivals areas at both terminals.
Barcelona’s official taxis are black and yellow. Depending on traffic and time of day, the trip takes between 25 and 45 minutes.
Minimum fare from the airport (2025): €21
Typical fare to the city centre: €30–40
➡️ More details on taxi transfers can be found in this Airport Guide.
There are taxis waiting for passengers 24/7 at the airport.
Alternative to Taxis: Pre-booked Shuttle Services
Instead of taking a taxi, you can also book a private shuttle service.
Advantages of a private shuttle service:
- The price is fixed in advance — no surprises.
- You can choose the type of vehicle (e.g., vans for families or groups).
- No queues — you avoid the often long taxi lines at the airport.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ 2025
What is the most convenient way to get from El Prat Airport to Barcelona city center?
El Prat airport is just 14 kilometers from the city center. Therefore, getting to and from the airport is uncomplicated in most cases. There are good connections to Barcelona’s public transport system.
In our Airport Guide you will find the various transfer options (train, Aerobús, taxi, metro, …), with current prices (2025) and journey times.
What is the price of a taxi from Barcelona Airport to the city center?
There is no fixed price for taking a taxi from El Prat airport to the center of Barcelona. However, there is a minimum fare. This is currently (2025) €21 for a taxi ride from the airport.
However, you cannot get into the city center for €21. For the journey to the city center, you should calculate with 30 – 40 euros.
For more up-to-date information and tips, please visit our website.
Is there a metro stop at Barcelona-El Prat Airport?
Since 2016, El Prat Airport has been connected to the Barcelona metro network. There is a dedicated stop for the metro line “L9 Sud” in Terminal 1 (inside the building) and in Terminal 2 (outside the building). Both stops are well signposted in the airport.
For more up-to-date information and tips, please visit our website.
Last update: December 10, 2025