Fast &
Easy:
No success –
no costs
Satisfied customers speak for us
Safe and confidential
Barcelona-El Prat Airport: The Gateway to Catalonia
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is Spain’s second-largest airport and one of the most important hubs in Southern Europe. Located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Barcelona’s city center, it serves as a key transport hub for both domestic and international flights. With its modern infrastructure and proximity to the vibrant metropolis, it is a crucial gateway for both tourists and business travelers.
Opened in 1918, Barcelona Airport is one of the oldest airports in Spain. Originally used for military purposes, it was soon repurposed for civil aviation. Over the past decades, the airport has undergone major expansions and modernizations. The opening of the new Terminal T1 in 2009 significantly increased the airport’s capacity to over 50 million passengers per year.
An Important Hub for Airlines and Destinations
Barcelona Airport is a major hub for both domestic and international airlines, including Iberia, Vueling, Ryanair, and Lufthansa. It offers connections to numerous destinations:
- Domestic flights: Madrid, Seville, Palma de Mallorca, and Bilbao.
- European flights: Regular connections to London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, and Berlin.
- Long-haul flights: Destinations such as New York, Dubai, Buenos Aires, Tokyo, and Singapore.
Airport Layout: Two Main Terminals
Barcelona-El Prat Airport consists of two terminals, T1 and T2:
- T1: The larger and more modern terminal, handling most international flights.
- T2: Primarily used by low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet.
Services and Facilities for Travelers
Passengers benefit from a wide range of services, including:
- Shopping & Dining: Numerous duty-free shops, boutiques, and restaurants featuring Catalan specialties.
- Lounges: Exclusive areas for business-class passengers and priority customers.
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the airport.
- Family-friendly services: Children’s play areas and baby-changing facilities.
Special Features of Barcelona Airport
- Observation Decks: Ideal for aviation enthusiasts who want to watch planes take off and land.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The airport is increasingly investing in eco-friendly technologies and measures to reduce its carbon footprint.
- Cultural Connection: The airport regularly hosts exhibitions and cultural events showcasing Catalan art and traditions.
What Are My Rights in Case of a Flight Delay or Cancellation at Barcelona-El Prat Airport?
Flight issues can be frustrating, but did you know that you may be entitled to compensation if your flight is delayed or canceled at Barcelona-El Prat Airport? Thanks to the EU Passenger Rights Regulation, your claims are clearly defined and can be quite substantial:
- Compensation between € 250 and € 600, depending on the flight distance.
- Applies for delays of 3 hours or more, flight cancellations, overbooking, or missed connections.
- The compensation amount is independent of the ticket price.
- You have up to 3 years to claim your rights.
With our support, enforcing your compensation is quick and hassle-free. Use our free compensation calculator to check whether you’re eligible for a payout.
Check here free of charge and without obligation whether you are entitled to compensation
Check your compensation claim online in just 2 minutes
How Should I Proceed in Case of a Flight Delay or Cancellation at Barcelona-El Prat Airport?
Checklist for Flight Delays or Cancellations at Barcelona-El Prat Airport
Step | Description | Tip |
Obtain written confirmation | Obtain written confirmation from the airline of the reason for the delay or cancellation. | Ask for documentation directly at the airline’s service desk. |
Collect evidence | Save photos, tickets, boarding passes, receipts for additional expenses and any vouchers. | Also keep screenshots of display boards or emails from the airline. |
Secure supplies | Take advantage of catering or accommodation offers from the airline in the event of longer delays. | If necessary, request vouchers for food and drinks. |
Check compensation | Use our online claim calculator to work out how much money you are entitled to in the event of a delay or cancellation. | The calculator determines your possible compensation amount quickly and without obligation. |
Make a claim | Leave the enforcement of your compensation claims to us. | Sit back and relax while we take care of the formalities. |
With this step-by-step guide, you can stay on top of the situation and make the best out of it! 🚀
Under What Conditions Am I Entitled to Compensation for a Delay or Flight Cancellation at Barcelona-El Prat Airport?
Are you wondering what conditions apply for compensation in case of flight issues at Barcelona-El Prat Airport? The EU Passenger Rights Regulation clearly defines these rules and protects your rights as a passenger.
You are entitled to compensation if:
Must always apply | |
Flight departs/arrives in the EU | Your flight departs from the EU or arrives in the EU with an EU airline. |
Airline is responsible | The airline is responsible for the delay or cancellation (e.g., no extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather). |
Flight date within the last 3 years | The flight took place no more than 3 years ago. |
In case of delay, cancellation, overbooking, or missed connection, the following must also apply:
Reason for claim | Description |
Delay | Your flight arrives at its destination with a delay of 3 hours or more. |
Cancellation | The airline informs you of the flight cancellation less than 14 days before departure. |
Overbooking | The flight is overbooked and you cannot find a seat on board. |
Missed connecting flight | Your connecting flight departs without you and you arrive at your final destination 3 or more hours late. |
The amount of your compensation is only about the flight distance – not the price you paid for your ticket:
Flight distance | Compensation | Examples |
Short-haul (up to 1.500 km) | 250 € | z. B. Hamburg – München |
Medium-haul (up to 3.500 km) | 400 € | z. B. München – Athen |
Long-haul (over 3.500 km) | 600 € | z. B. Franfurt – New York |
Use our free compensation calculator to quickly check how much money you are entitled to. If your claim is successfully enforced, you will receive your compensation minus a success fee of 22% plus VAT.
Don’t miss out on your rights – we’re here to fight for you!
What Are My Rights During Long Waiting Times at Barcelona-El Prat Airport?
Waiting times at Barcelona-El Prat Airport can be frustrating, but did you know that in case of a flight delay or cancellation, you are entitled to extensive care services? The EU Passenger Rights Regulation clearly defines your entitlements and protects you as a passenger.
Your care entitlements at Barcelona-El Prat Airport:
Flight distance | Care services |
Short-haul flights (up to 1,500 km) | Free meals and drinks after 2 hours of waiting time. |
Medium-haul flights (1,500–3,500 km) | Entitlement to care services after 3 hours of waiting time. |
Long-haul flights (over 3,500 km) | These services are available after 4 hours of waiting time. |
Overbooking | You receive care services immediately, with no waiting time. |
What Services Are You Entitled To?
- Free meals and drinks
- Communication: Two phone calls, emails, or faxes
Barcelona-El Prat Airport offers a variety of amenities such as restaurants, lounges, and services to make your waiting time as comfortable as possible. Actively claim your rights and request your care services directly from the airline.
What Can I Do If My Flight Is Canceled Due to a Strike at Barcelona-El Prat Airport?
Has your flight from Barcelona-El Prat Airport been canceled due to a strike? Don’t worry – as a passenger, you have rights that protect and support you. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation clearly defines what you are entitled to.
Your Rights in Case of Flight Cancellations Due to a Strike:
- Check Your Flight Status:
- Make sure your flight is actually affected by the cancellations.
- Alternative Transport or Refund:
- You have the right to be rebooked on an alternative flight or
- Receive a refund for your ticket.
- Compensation for Airline-Internal Strikes:
- If the strike was caused by the airline itself and does not qualify as an extraordinary circumstance, you may also be entitled to compensation.
Additional Services:
While waiting for a replacement flight or further information, you may be eligible for care services, depending on the waiting time, including:
- Free meals and drinks
- Accommodation for longer delays
- Transport to and from the hotel
What Should You Do?
Contact your airline immediately for information on rebooking, ticket refunds, or available care services. Barcelona-El Prat Airport also offers numerous services to make your waiting time as comfortable as possible.
Use our support to claim your compensation quickly and easily. With us, you stay relaxed – even during unexpected flight cancellations! ✈️
Am I Entitled to Compensation for a Flight Delay or Cancellation Due to a Strike at Barcelona-El Prat Airport?
A flight cancellation or a delay of more than three hours due to a strike at Barcelona-El Prat Airport can be frustrating for travelers. However, your rights depend on who caused the strike.
When Are You Entitled to Compensation?
- Airline-Internal Strike: If the strike is caused by the airline’s own staff, you are entitled to:
- Compensation under the EU Passenger Rights Regulation
- A refund of your ticket price or alternative transportation
- Care services, such as meals, refreshments, or accommodation if necessary.
- Extraordinary Circumstances: Strikes outside the airline’s control, such as airport staff strikes, are considered extraordinary circumstances. Unfortunately, in these cases, no compensation is granted.
What Are You Still Entitled To?
Even in extraordinary circumstances, you have the right to basic care at Barcelona-El Prat Airport, including:
- Free meals and drinks
- Accommodation for longer waiting times
- Transportation to and from the accommodation, if necessary.
Our Tip:
Check your flight status and use our online compensation calculator to quickly determine if you are eligible for a payout. With us, you can claim your rights easily and stress-free! ✈️
How to Reach Barcelona-El Prat Airport Comfortably and Stress-Free?
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is well connected to the city and surrounding areas. Here are the best and most stress-free ways to get there:
- By Train (Renfe R2 Nord) 🚆
- Route: The R2 Nord train line connects the airport (Aeroport station, near Terminal T2) with Barcelona Sants Station and key stops like Passeig de Gràcia and El Clot-Aragó.
- Travel time: ~20 minutes to Barcelona Sants.
- Schedule: Trains run every 30 minutes.
- Tickets: From €4.60 (cheaper with a multi-trip ticket like T-Casual).
- Note: Travelers at Terminal T1 can take a free shuttle bus to the train station.
- By Metro (L9 Sud) 🚇
- Route: The L9 Sud metro line connects both terminals (T1 and T2) with stops including Zona Universitària and Torrassa.
- Travel time: 30–40 minutes, depending on your destination.
- Tickets:
- A regular public transport ticket (T-Casual) is not valid due to the airport’s special fare zone.
- A single ticket costs ~€5.15.
- Features: Step-free access, optimized for travelers with luggage.
- By Aerobús 🚌
- Route: This express shuttle bus connects both terminals directly with Plaça Catalunya, stopping at Plaça Espanya and Gran Via.
- Travel time: ~35 minutes.
- Schedule:
- Runs every 5–10 minutes.
- Operating hours: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM daily.
- Tickets:
- One-way: €6.75
- Round-trip: €11.65
- Features: Spacious luggage areas and fast Wi-Fi onboard.
- By Taxi 🚖
- Travel time: ~20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Cost: ~€30–35, depending on your destination and luggage.
- Availability: 24/7 outside the terminals.
- Tip: Official taxis are black with yellow doors – beware of unlicensed drivers.
- By Ride-Sharing Services (Uber, Cabify, Bolt) 🚗
- Travel time: Similar to taxis (20–30 minutes).
- Cost: Slightly cheaper than taxis, around €25–30.
- Advantage: Fixed prices are shown in the app before booking.
- By Car 🚘
- Route: The airport is easily accessible via highway C-31 and ring road B-22.
- Parking options:
- Short-term & long-term parking near the terminals.
- Cost: From €20 per day (cheaper with online booking).
Best Option for You?
✅ Budget-friendly: Train (R2 Nord) and Metro (L9 Sud) offer cheap and reliable connections.
✅ Most comfortable: Aerobús is best for luggage-heavy travelers with a direct route to the city center.
✅ Most flexible: Taxis and ride-sharing services are ideal for late arrivals or quick trips.
How to Get to Barcelona Airport Using Public Transport?
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is well connected by public transport. Here are the best options:
- By Train (Renfe R2 Nord) 🚆
- Route: The R2 Nord train line connects the airport (Aeroport station near Terminal T2) with central stations such as Passeig de Gràcia, Sants Estació, and El Clot-Aragó.
- Travel time:
- From Sants Station: ~20 minutes.
- From Passeig de Gràcia: ~25 minutes.
- Schedule: Trains run every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
- Tickets:
- Single ticket: ~€4.60.
- Multi-trip ticket (T-Casual, ~€11.35 for 10 rides) is a cheaper option.
- Note: If you’re at Terminal T1, take the free shuttle bus to the train station at Terminal T2.
- By Metro (L9 Sud) 🚇
- Route: The L9 Sud metro line connects Terminals T1 and T2 with the city, stopping at Zona Universitària, Torrassa, and Can Tries-Gornal.
- Travel time: ~30–40 minutes from Zona Universitària.
- Schedule:
- Daily: 5:00 AM – midnight.
- Fridays: Until 2:00 AM.
- Saturdays: 24-hour service.
- Tickets:
- Single ticket: ~€5.15 (airport fare zone).
- T-Casual is NOT valid for this journey.
- Features: Step-free access and luggage-friendly design.
- By Aerobús 🚌
- Route: The Aerobús connects Terminals T1 & T2 directly to the city center (Plaça Catalunya), stopping at Plaça Espanya and Gran Via.
- Travel time: ~35 minutes.
- Schedule:
- Runs every 5–10 minutes from 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM.
- Tickets:
- One-way: €6.75.
- Round-trip: €11.65 (valid for 15 days).
- Features: Spacious luggage storage and free Wi-Fi
- By Bus 🚌
- Bus Line 46: A budget-friendly option connecting the airport to Plaça Espanya.
- Travel time: ~40 minutes.
- Tickets: €2.40 (T-Casual valid).
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes.
- Night Bus N17: Ideal for late-night arrivals and departures.
- Travel time: ~40 minutes.
- Schedule: 12:30 AM – 5:00 AM.
- By Taxi 🚖
- Travel time: ~20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Cost: €30–35 to the city center.
- Availability: 24/7 outside the terminals.
- Tip: Official taxis are black with yellow doors – avoid unlicensed drivers.
Best Option for You?
✅ Cheapest: Train (R2 Nord) or Bus 46 – reliable and affordable.
✅ Fastest & most convenient: Aerobús – direct, with luggage space and free Wi-Fi.
✅ Most flexible: Taxis – great if you have heavy luggage or arrive late at night.
How to Drive to Barcelona Airport and Where to Park?
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is easily accessible by car and offers various short-term and long-term parking options. Here’s everything you need to know:
Driving to the Airport 🚗
Navigation Addresses
- Terminal T1: 08820 El Prat de Llobregat, Barcelona
- Terminal T2: 08820 El Prat de Llobregat, Barcelona
Highways & Roads
- From Barcelona: Take Highway C-31 (toward Castelldefels) and follow signs for Terminal T1 or T2.
- From other cities: Take Highway AP-7, then merge onto C-31 or B-22, which leads directly to the airport.
Driving Time
- From Barcelona city center: 15–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Parking Options at Barcelona Airport 🅿️
The airport offers various parking facilities near both terminals. Here’s an overview:
- Parking Garages P1 & P2
- Location:
- P1: Directly at Terminal T1.
- P2: Near Terminal T2, divided into P2 A, B, and C.
- Usage: Short-term and long-term parking.
- Distance: Just a few minutes’ walk from the terminals.
- Prices:
- Short-term: From €3.60 per hour.
- Long-term: From €20 per day.
- Long-Term Parking 🚍
- Location: Further from the terminals, but with a free shuttle service.
- Prices: From €8–10 per day (cheaper with online booking).
- Best for: Longer trips & budget-conscious travelers.
- Express Parking 🚖
- Location: Directly in front of Terminals T1 & T2.
- Usage: Ideal for pick-ups and drop-offs.
- Prices:
- First 15 minutes: Free.
- After 15 minutes: From €1 per minute.
- Premium Parking 🌟
- Location: Right in front of Terminals T1 & T2, offering priority access to the terminal.
- Prices: From €30 per day.
- Best for: Travelers looking for maximum convenience and proximity.
- Low-Cost Parking 💰
- Location: A bit further from the airport, but includes a shuttle service.
- Prices: From €5 per day (cheaper with online booking).
- Best for: Budget travelers or long-term parking.
Online Parking Reservation
- You can book your parking spot online to secure availability and get discounted rates.
- After booking, you’ll receive a QR code for entry and exit scanning.
Electric Vehicles ⚡
- Charging stations are available in P1 and P2 for electric cars.
Tips for Stress-Free Parking 🏁
✅ Arrive early: If traveling during rush hours (morning & holidays), allow extra time for parking.
✅ Reserve in advance: Online reservations save time & money.
✅ Plan for shuttles: If using long-term or low-cost parking, factor in shuttle transfer time.
When Should I Arrive at Barcelona Airport?
To ensure a smooth and stress-free departure from Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), follow these recommended guidelines:
General Recommendations
- Domestic flights (Spain): Arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure.
- International flights (within Europe): Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
- Long-haul flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure, especially for flights to the USA, Asia, or South America.
Check-in & Baggage Drop
- Hand luggage only: If you have already checked in online and are traveling with just carry-on luggage, arriving 60 minutes before departure is usually sufficient.
- With checked baggage: Plan at least 90–120 minutes as baggage drop counters close 40–60 minutes before departure, depending on the airline.
Security Control
- Security checks usually take 15–30 minutes, but waiting times may be longer during peak hours (mornings, evenings, and holidays).
- Tip: The airport offers a Fast Track Security option (available for a fee or priority passengers) to reduce waiting times.
Special Considerations for Low-Cost Airlines
- Budget airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling, and EasyJet often close their check-in and baggage drop earlier. It’s best to arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
Recommendations for Families or Groups
- If you’re traveling with children or in a larger group, it’s best to arrive at least 2 hours before departure to allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and any unexpected delays.
Additional Tips
✅ Check check-in times: Find the exact requirements in your booking confirmation or on your airline’s website.
✅ Plan your journey in advance: If traveling by public transport or car, allow extra time during rush hours.
✅ Have travel documents ready: Keep your passport/ID, boarding pass, and any required documents easily accessible to speed up the process.
How to Get from Barcelona Airport to the City Center?
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is well-connected to the city. Here are the best options for a comfortable and stress-free journey to central Barcelona:
- By Aerobús 🚌 (Fastest & Most Comfortable)
- Route: The Aerobús connects both terminals (T1 & T2) directly to Plaça Catalunya, with stops at Plaça Espanya, Gran Via/Urgell, and Plaça Universitat.
- Travel time: ~35 minutes to Plaça Catalunya.
- Schedule: Runs every 5–10 minutes, daily from 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM.
- Tickets:
- One-way: €6.75
- Round-trip: €11.65 (return valid for 15 days)
- Features: Luggage-friendly, air-conditioned, free Wi-Fi onboard.
- By Metro (L9 Sud) 🚇 (Good for Light Travelers)
- Route: The L9 Sud metro line connects both terminals to the city, stopping at key stations like Zona Universitària, Torrassa, and Can Tries-Gornal.
- Travel time: 30–40 minutes, depending on the destination.
- Tickets:
- Single ticket: €5.15 (airport special fare zone).
- T-Casual ticket is NOT valid.
- Features: Barrier-free access, ideal for light travelers.
- By Train (Renfe R2 Nord) 🚆 (Best Budget Option)
- Route: The R2 Nord train line connects Terminal T2 (Aeroport Station) with major stations like Sants Estació, Passeig de Gràcia, and El Clot-Aragó.
- Travel time:
- Sants Estació: ~20 minutes.
- Passeig de Gràcia: ~25 minutes.
- Schedule: Runs every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM – 11:30 PM.
- Tickets:
- Single ticket: €4.60.
- T-Casual ticket (10 rides for ~€11.35) is valid.
- Note: If arriving at Terminal T1, take the free shuttle bus to the train station at Terminal T2.
- By Taxi 🚖 (Most Convenient)
- Travel time: 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Cost: ~€30–35, depending on the destination and luggage.
- Availability: 24/7 outside the terminals.
- Features: Comfortable, great for heavy luggage.
- Tip: Official taxis are black with yellow doors – avoid unlicensed drivers.
- By Ride-Sharing Services (Uber, Bolt, Cabify) 🚗
- Travel time: 20–30 minutes, similar to taxis.
- Cost: ~€25–30.
- Booking: Via app with fixed prices before booking.
- By Bus 🚌 (Cheapest but Slowest)
- Bus Line 46:
- Route: Connects the airport to Plaça Espanya.
- Travel time: ~40 minutes.
- Tickets: From €2.40 (T-Casual valid).
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes.
- Night Bus N17:
- Route: Connects the airport to the city center for late-night arrivals.
- Travel time: ~40 minutes.
- Schedule: 12:30 AM – 5:00 AM.
Best Option for You?
✅ Budget-friendly: Train (R2 Nord) or Bus 46 – cheapest & reliable.
✅ Fast & direct: Aerobús – ideal for a quick and easy transfer.
✅ Most flexible: Taxis or ride-sharing services – great for late arrivals or travelers with heavy luggage.
Additional Travel Tips
✅ Buy tickets in advance: Use the Aerobús app or airport ticket machines to save time.
✅ Plan extra time: Especially during rush hours or public transport delays.
✅ Consider your luggage: If you have a lot of baggage, Aerobús or taxis are the best options.
Hotels and Accommodation Near Barcelona Airport
Here is a list of hotels near Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), including descriptions and price estimates:
- Barcelona Airport Hotel
- Location: ~1.6 km from the airport, in El Prat de Llobregat.
- Description: A modern 4-star hotel offering spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a free airport shuttle. On-site restaurant and bar available.
- Price: From €100 per night.
- Best for: Travelers looking for comfort and proximity to the airport.
- Hotel Ciutat del Prat
- Location: ~1.9 km from the airport, in El Prat de Llobregat.
- Description: An elegant 4-star hotel with stylish rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness area, and a free airport shuttle. Includes a restaurant and bar.
- Price: From €115 per night.
- Best for: Business travelers or short stays with premium comfort.
- ibis Barcelona Aeropuerto Viladecans
- Location: ~3 km from the airport, in Viladecans.
- Description: A budget-friendly hotel featuring simple, modern rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Price: From €69 per night.
- Best for: Short stays or budget travelers.
- Sleep & Fly Barcelona
- Location: Inside the airport (Terminal 1).
- Description: A convenient hotel for passengers with early or late flights, offering comfortable rooms with all basic amenities.
- Price: From €120 per night.
- Best for: Maximum proximity to the terminal.
- Tryp Barcelona Aeropuerto Hotel
- Location: ~2 km from the airport.
- Description: A modern 4-star hotel with well-equipped rooms, a fitness area, and a free airport shuttle. Also features an on-site restaurant and bar.
- Price: From €110 per night.
- Best for: Layovers or travelers seeking a comfortable stay with good service.
- Centre Esplai Hostel
- Location: ~3 km from the airport, in El Prat de Llobregat.
- Description: A budget accommodation with dormitory and private rooms, ideal for backpackers and cost-conscious travelers. Breakfast is often included.
- Price: From €30 per night.
- Best for: Affordable stays with shared and private room options.
Note:
Prices may vary depending on the booking date, availability, and season. It is recommended to check availability directly on hotel websites or booking platforms.