19/02/2016
The Costa Brava, or 'Wild Coast', is a captivating stretch of coastline in Catalonia, Spain, famed for its rugged cliffs, pristine sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and vibrant resorts. Running from Blanes, just sixty kilometres northeast of Barcelona, all the way to the French border, it's consistently one of Spain's most popular holiday destinations. With its glorious weather and delectable local cuisine, it's no wonder so many UK travellers flock to its shores each year.
While Girona Costa Brava Airport (GRO) might seem like the most obvious gateway, given its name and proximity, Barcelona Airport (BCN) often proves to be the more practical choice for international visitors, especially those from the UK. BCN is significantly larger, boasts a wider array of flight connections, and frequently offers more competitive fares, particularly outside the peak summer season. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through all the viable transfer options from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava, helping you make the most informed decision for your journey.
Understanding Your Gateway: Barcelona Airport (BCN)
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is one of Spain's busiest international airports, serving as a major hub for flights across Europe and beyond. Its extensive network of airlines and frequent flight schedules make it an attractive entry point for many looking to explore Catalonia, including the beautiful Costa Brava. Despite being further south than Girona Airport, the sheer volume of flights into BCN often means better flight times and more competitive pricing for UK travellers.
The airport has two main terminals, Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), with a free shuttle bus connecting them. When planning your onward travel, it's useful to know which terminal your flight arrives into, although most public transport options are well-connected to both, either directly or via the shuttle.
The Costa Brava: A Coastal Gem Awaiting Discovery
Before diving into the logistics of your journey, let's briefly appreciate the destination itself. The Costa Brava truly lives up to its name, offering a diverse landscape that ranges from the bustling beaches of Lloret de Mar and Platja d’Aro to the tranquil coves of Begur and Cadaqués. It's a region where ancient history meets modern tourism, where you can explore medieval towns, indulge in world-class gastronomy, and relax on some of Europe's most beautiful beaches. Your transfer from Barcelona Airport is simply the first step towards an unforgettable Spanish adventure.
By Train: A Journey with Connections
While the allure of a direct train whisking you from the airport to your coastal haven is strong, it's important to note that there are no direct train services from Barcelona Airport (BCN) straight to the heart of the Costa Brava. However, don't despair! Train travel remains a viable and often scenic option, albeit one that requires a change or two. The Costa Brava's only train stations are located at its southern tip in Blanes and further north in Portbou.
Your journey by train from Barcelona Airport typically involves a first leg on the R2 Nord regional service. This train departs from Terminal 2 (T2) and will take you to Barcelona Sants train station in approximately twenty minutes, with departures every half an hour. If your flight lands at Terminal 1 (T1), a free shuttle bus connects you to T2, running every five minutes and taking about fifteen minutes.
From Barcelona Sants, you have a couple of main routes depending on your final destination along the Costa Brava:
- Via Girona or Figueres: High-speed AVE and AVANT trains run frequently from Barcelona Sants to Girona and Figueres Vilafant train stations. Girona is about a forty-minute journey, while Figueres Vilafant takes approximately fifty-five minutes. Both cities are significant travel hubs with excellent bus connections to various Costa Brava resorts. The bus station in Girona is conveniently located right next to the train station, a mere couple of minutes' walk. For Figueres, you'll need a short fifteen-minute bus ride from Vilafant station to the main bus station.
- Via Blanes: If your destination is further south, such as Blanes, Lloret de Mar, or Tossa de Mar, the R1 regional train is your best bet. To catch this, you'll first take the R2 Nord from Barcelona Airport (T2) to Barcelona el Clot station. Here, you'll change to the R1 line, which runs along the coast to Blanes from platform 4. Buses to Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar are timed to meet these trains at Blanes train station, offering a seamless onward connection.
Tickets for high-speed trains can be purchased online from the RENFE website up to two months in advance, often at a slightly cheaper rate if booked early. For regional trains, tickets are not available online, but you can purchase a combined ticket at the airport train station, covering both your train and onward bus journey, which can be slightly more economical than buying them separately.
The main advantage of choosing the train, especially when combined with a local bus, is the increased frequency of services compared to intercity buses, particularly outside the peak holiday season. Furthermore, some of the smaller, more charming towns and villages on the Costa Brava don't have direct bus services, so a train-bus combination might be necessary anyway.
Train Routes Overview from Barcelona Airport
| Destination Type | Route from BCN Airport (T2) | Approx. Total Travel Time (excl. final bus) | Key Connections |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Costa Brava (e.g., Cadaqués, Roses) | R2 Nord to Barcelona Sants, then AVE/AVANT to Girona or Figueres Vilafant | ~1 hr 15 min - 1 hr 30 min | Bus connections from Girona/Figueres train stations |
| Southern Costa Brava (e.g., Blanes, Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar) | R2 Nord to Barcelona el Clot, then R1 to Blanes | ~1 hr 45 min - 2 hrs | Bus connections from Blanes train station |
By Bus: Direct Routes and Hubs
For those who prefer a more direct route, albeit one that might take a little longer due to multiple stops, buses offer another reliable option from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava. While direct bus services from the airport exist, they are generally not as frequent as train services, especially during the off-peak season.
A common strategy for bus travel is to first take a taxi or public transport from the airport to Barcelona Nord bus station. This is Barcelona’s main bus station and serves as a central hub for routes to the Costa Brava, offering a far greater number of departures and destinations than directly from the airport. Conveniently, most, if not all, of the buses that depart from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava also make a stop at Barcelona Nord.
The primary bus companies operating services to the Costa Brava are SARFA and SAGALÉS. It’s crucial to check their respective timetables for the exact dates of your visit, as the number of daily departures can vary significantly depending on the time of year, sometimes reducing to only one or two buses per day in low season.
From Barcelona Airport, buses to Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar are available from Terminal 2. For other destinations, or if you prefer more frequent options, heading to Barcelona Nord is advisable. At Barcelona Airport Terminal 1, bus departures typically occur from bays seven to twelve.
Major Bus Companies and Destinations from Barcelona Nord / Airport
| Bus Company | Key Destinations on Costa Brava |
|---|---|
| SARFA | Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar, Platja d’Aro, Palamós, Palafrugell, Begur, Pals, L’Escala, Empuriabrava, Roses, Cadaqués, El Port de la Selva |
| SAGALÉS | Blanes |
Bus travel can be a cost-effective way to reach the Costa Brava, but be prepared for potentially longer journey times compared to trains or direct transfers, given the nature of the routes and the number of stops.
For many travellers, especially those with luggage, families, or simply seeking a more relaxed start to their holiday, direct transfers offer unparalleled convenience. These options minimise changes and waiting times, getting you to your destination with minimal fuss.
Shared Transfers: The Moventis Solution
A fantastic compromise between public transport affordability and private transfer ease is a shared transfer service. Local transport company Moventis operates a direct shared transfer service from Barcelona Airport to many of the main resorts on the Costa Brava. This service, typically only slightly more expensive than a regular public bus, offers several key advantages:
- Flexible Schedule: Unlike fixed bus timetables, Moventis schedules transfers to align with their customers' arrival times.
- Direct to Town: The service goes directly to the town where you are staying, with fewer or no intermediate stops.
- Hotel Drop-off: You are often dropped off directly outside your hotel or at a very nearby designated point, eliminating the need for further local transport upon arrival.
When booking, you simply provide your flight details and hotel name. Upon arrival at Barcelona Airport, you'll be met by a Moventis staff member (identifiable by their orange uniforms) who will guide you to your vehicle. They adapt their vehicle type based on demand, using luxury coaches during peak times and comfortable, air-conditioned minibuses during quieter periods.
Moventis currently runs shared transfers to popular destinations including Calella, Lloret de Mar, Salou, and Tossa de Mar.
Private Taxis and Pre-booked Transfers
For the ultimate in comfort, flexibility, and door-to-door service, private taxis and pre-booked transfers are the top choice. These options ensure a seamless journey from the moment you land to your accommodation.
Airport Taxis: Taxi ranks are readily available at both Barcelona Airport terminals, and you'll find plenty of vehicles no matter your arrival time. Most standard taxis can accommodate up to four people, while larger minivan-style taxis are available for up to six passengers and their luggage. Barcelona taxis are metered, and the fare will include additional fees for airport pickups, extra passengers beyond four, and additional luggage. As a rough guide, expect to pay between €150 and €200 for a journey from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava, though this can vary significantly based on your exact destination, time of day, and traffic conditions. Most Barcelona taxis accept major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted), but it's always wise to confirm with the driver before setting off.
Pre-booked Private Transfers: If you prefer to have someone waiting specifically for you, and to have the cost fixed upfront, pre-arranging a private transfer is highly recommended. Companies like Book Taxi Barcelona offer this service, where you pay a fixed fare via PayPal or credit card in advance. Your driver will track your flight, meet you in the arrivals area with a board displaying your name, and take you directly to your destination. This eliminates any potential queues or uncertainty upon arrival.
For a truly personalised and often more affordable option, consider specialist transfer providers like Costa Brava Taxi. They stand out for their competitive rates, which can be up to 30% cheaper than other providers. Costa Brava Taxi offers comprehensive services, including cheap airport transfers from Barcelona, Girona, and even Perpignan airports, alongside affordable taxi rides throughout the entire Costa Brava region. Their extensive fleet of over 65 vehicles, encompassing taxis, vans, minibuses, and buses, caters to every need – from individual rides to large group transfers, including bus trips to the Pyrenees or shopping excursions to Barcelona. Beyond standard transfers, they provide unique, customer-focused services such as hospital trips with language support, wheelchair transport, and the secure transport of sports equipment, making them an incredibly versatile and reliable choice for international visitors.
The Freedom of the Open Road: Renting a Car
While public transport options are available on the Costa Brava, they are not always frequent, and exploring the region’s hidden coves, smaller towns, and picturesque villages often requires travelling via larger hubs like Girona or Figueres. For those who value independence and the freedom to explore at their own pace, renting a car is an excellent choice.
The drive from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava typically takes around an hour and a half, though this will vary depending on your specific destination and traffic conditions. The main route involves taking the AP7 motorway towards Girona, which was previously a toll road but is now free. When planning your route, services like ViaMichelin are invaluable, as they not only suggest the best routes but also provide estimates for fuel costs.
Keep in mind that most car rental companies charge an additional fee for airport pickups. It can often be more economical to pick up your rented car from their offices in downtown Barcelona, especially if you plan to spend some time in the city before heading to the coast. Always compare prices online before making your decision.
Choosing Your Ideal Transfer: A Comparative Overview
With a variety of options available, selecting the best way to get from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava depends largely on your priorities: budget, comfort, speed, and flexibility. Here’s a comparative overview to help you decide:
| Option | Pros | Cons | Approx. Cost (EUR) | Convenience Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train + Bus | Often frequent, can be scenic, avoids traffic, good for budget travellers. | Requires multiple changes, can be complex with luggage, limited direct stations on Costa Brava. | €15-€30 | Moderate |
| Bus (Public) | Generally affordable, direct services from airport (limited), more options from Barcelona Nord. | Less frequent than trains, longer journey times due to multiple stops, may require transfer to Barcelona Nord. | €10-€25 | Moderate |
| Shared Transfer (Moventis) | Direct to resort/hotel, flexible schedule, good compromise between cost and convenience. | Not available for all destinations, might involve short waits for other passengers. | €30-€50 | High |
| Taxi (Airport) | Readily available, direct door-to-door, suitable for small groups/families. | Most expensive option, cost can vary with traffic/time of day. | €150-€200+ | Very High |
| Private Transfer (e.g., Costa Brava Taxi) | Fixed pre-paid fare, meet-and-greet, direct door-to-door, tailored to your schedule, excellent for groups or specific needs (wheelchair, sports equipment). Often more competitive pricing. | Higher cost than public transport. | €100-€180+ (depending on provider/vehicle) | Exceptional |
| Rental Car | Ultimate flexibility for exploration, ideal for visiting remote areas. | Driving in unfamiliar territory, parking challenges, fuel costs, potential airport pickup fees. | Variable (daily rate + fuel + insurance + tolls/fees) | High (for exploration) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which airport serves the Costa Brava best?
While Girona Costa Brava Airport (GRO) is closer and purpose-built for the region, Barcelona Airport (BCN) is often more convenient due to its larger size, greater number of flights, and competitive fares, especially outside of peak season. For UK travellers, flights into BCN are often more accessible.
Are there direct trains from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava?
No, there are no direct trains from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava. Train journeys typically involve at least one change, either at Barcelona Sants or Barcelona el Clot, before connecting to a regional or high-speed service towards Girona, Figueres, or Blanes. From these train stations, you'll then need to take a local bus or taxi to your final destination on the coast.
How much does a taxi from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava cost?
A metered taxi from Barcelona Airport to the Costa Brava can typically cost anywhere from €150 to €200, depending on your exact destination, the time of day, and traffic conditions. This price will include standard airport pickup fees and charges for additional passengers or luggage.
Is it easy to get around the Costa Brava without a car?
It is possible to get around the main towns and resorts of the Costa Brava using public buses, but services can be infrequent, especially to smaller villages or beaches. For full exploration and the freedom to discover hidden gems, a rental car is highly recommended. Otherwise, you might find yourself relying on taxis or organised excursions for some destinations.
What makes Costa Brava Taxi a good choice for transfers?
Costa Brava Taxi offers a compelling combination of affordability and comprehensive service. They provide transfers up to 30% cheaper than many competitors, boast a large fleet of vehicles for all group sizes (taxis, vans, minibuses, buses), and offer specialised services like hospital trips with language support, wheelchair transport, and sports equipment carriage. They are a reliable, customer-focused option for a smooth journey.
Conclusion
Getting from Barcelona Airport to the stunning Costa Brava is a straightforward process, thanks to a comprehensive range of transport options. Whether you prioritise affordability, convenience, or the flexibility of exploring at your own pace, there's a solution tailored to your needs. From the intricate network of trains and buses to the comfort of shared or private transfers, including the excellent services offered by Costa Brava Taxi, and the independence of a rental car, your journey to Spain's 'Wild Coast' can be as smooth and enjoyable as your holiday itself. Choose the option that best suits your travel style, and prepare for an unforgettable experience on the beautiful Costa Brava!
If you want to read more articles similar to Barcelona Airport to Costa Brava: Your UK Guide, you can visit the Travel category.