07/03/2019
Embarking on a sun-soaked escape to Lloret de Mar, one of the Costa Brava's most alluring destinations, is an exciting prospect for any traveller. Situated just 80 kilometres from Barcelona and 40 kilometres from Girona, this vibrant coastal town promises stunning beaches, hidden coves, and a delightful Mediterranean climate. While the allure of Lloret de Mar is undeniable, navigating your way there from Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) requires a little planning. For many, the idea of a train journey offers a relaxing and scenic start to their holiday. This comprehensive guide will meticulously break down how to reach Lloret de Mar from Barcelona Airport by train, alongside exploring other convenient transport options to ensure your arrival is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Understanding the transport landscape is key to a successful journey. Lloret de Mar, despite its popularity, does not boast its own train station. This crucial detail often surprises visitors, but it simply means your train adventure will involve a short, seamless connection via bus. The nearest train station is located in the neighbouring town of Blanes, approximately 7 kilometres away. This arrangement forms the core of any train-based travel plan to Lloret de Mar.
The Train Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide from Barcelona Airport
For those arriving at Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) and wishing to travel by train, the journey unfolds in two primary stages. The first leg involves getting from the airport to a major train hub in Barcelona, and the second is the direct train to Blanes.
- Step 1: Barcelona Airport (BCN) to Barcelona Sants Station
Upon arrival at Barcelona El Prat Airport, your initial task is to reach Barcelona Sants Estació (Sants Station), which is a major transport interchange in the city. You can do this by taking the R2 Nord commuter train line directly from the airport's T2 terminal. If you arrive at T1, a free shuttle bus service connects you to T2, where the train station is located. These trains are frequent, running approximately every 30 minutes, and the journey to Sants takes around 20-25 minutes. It's a comfortable and efficient way to get into the city centre, setting the stage for your onward journey. - Step 2: Barcelona Sants Station to Blanes
Once you arrive at Barcelona Sants Estació, you'll need to transfer to a different commuter train line that runs directly to Blanes. These trains are part of the Rodalies de Catalunya network, specifically the R1 line (though sometimes referred to as 'Cercanías'). Trains from Sants to Blanes are regular, typically departing every half hour, ensuring you won't have a long wait. The train journey from Barcelona Sants to Blanes is scenic, winding its way along the coast for much of the approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes duration. You'll pass through charming coastal towns, offering glimpses of the Mediterranean sea and the beautiful Catalan landscape.
Connecting from Blanes to Lloret de Mar
Upon arrival at Blanes train station, your train journey concludes, but your trip to Lloret de Mar is not yet complete. As Lloret de Mar does not have its own station, a short bus ride bridges the gap. Directly outside Blanes train station, you will find a bus stop with services to Lloret de Mar centre. These buses are well-timed to coincide with train arrivals, making the transfer straightforward. The bus journey from Blanes to Lloret de Mar is quick and efficient, usually taking around 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. Bus schedules between these two coastal towns vary by season and day of the week, but they generally run frequently, often twice an hour, ensuring minimal waiting time. For precise timings, it's advisable to check the Autocars Pujol website.
Train Travel from Central Barcelona to Lloret de Mar
If you've spent some time exploring the vibrant city of Barcelona before heading to Lloret de Mar, you can also catch the train to Blanes from several central Barcelona stations. These include Sants Estació, Plaça Catalunya, Arc de Triomf, and El Clot-Aragó. The journey from any of these stations to Blanes follows the same R1 line and takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, providing a convenient option for those departing from the heart of Barcelona.
Train Travel from Girona to Lloret de Mar
While the primary focus is on Barcelona Airport, it's worth noting the train option from Girona. If you happen to be in Girona and prefer train travel, the route to Lloret de Mar is a bit more indirect. You would need to take a train from Girona towards Barcelona Sants and make a transfer at Maçanet-Massanes. From Maçanet-Massanes, you would then catch another train towards Hospitalet de Llobregat, which will take you to Blanes. Due to the potential waiting time for transfers at Maçanet-Massanes (which can vary significantly depending on the season, day, and time), the total journey duration can range from one to two hours. Once in Blanes, the final step is to take the direct bus to Lloret de Mar, as described previously. For train schedules from Girona, consult the Renfe website.
Other Convenient Ways to Reach Lloret de Mar
While the train-and-bus combination offers a reliable and often scenic option, it's important to consider other modes of transport that might better suit your travel preferences, budget, or timeline.
By Bus: The Direct Route
For many travellers, the bus offers the most straightforward and often most budget-friendly way to reach Lloret de Mar directly from Barcelona Airport. This option eliminates the need for transfers between trains and buses, making it particularly appealing for those with luggage or a desire for simplicity.
- From Barcelona Airport (BCN): The Moventis bus company operates direct services from Barcelona El Prat Airport to Lloret de Mar. These buses are comfortable and provide a direct link to the heart of Lloret de Mar, with convenient stops at Fenals, Pescadors, and the main bus station in the town centre. This is often cited as the quickest public transport option, with journey times typically around 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- From Girona: If you're travelling from Girona, the Sagalés bus company provides excellent connections to Lloret de Mar from Girona's bus station, which is conveniently located directly opposite the AVE (high-speed train) and regular train stations. Buses depart frequently, every 30 to 45 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour.
For up-to-date schedules and to purchase tickets, it is highly recommended to visit the official websites of Moventis or Sagalés.
By Car: Flexibility on the Costa Brava
Renting a car offers the ultimate flexibility for exploring the Costa Brava at your own pace, and it's a popular choice for families or those planning day trips. The road network to Lloret de Mar is generally good.
- From Barcelona: The most recommended route from Barcelona is to take the AP-7 motorway in the direction of Girona. You should take exit 9A towards Vidreres to join the C-35, and then connect to the C-63, which leads directly to Lloret de Mar. An alternative, though less recommended during peak season due to potential traffic queues, is the C-32 coastal road.
- From Girona: From Girona, the best option is to take the A-2 motorway towards Barcelona, then merge onto the C-35 before joining the C-63 towards Lloret de Mar.
Driving provides the freedom to stop at picturesque viewpoints or explore hidden gems along the coast, making it an excellent choice for an adventurous holiday.
By Taxi: Speed and Comfort
For those prioritising speed, convenience, and premium comfort, a taxi is an excellent choice, albeit the least economical. If you want to arrive at your accommodation as quickly and effortlessly as possible, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer is your best bet. Lloret de Mar boasts a fleet of over 40 taxis, including vehicles ranging from 4 to 7 seats, and options adapted for passengers with disabilities. While you can typically find taxis readily available at Barcelona Airport, it's often advisable to contact a local Lloret de Mar taxi service, such as Taxi Lloret, in advance of your arrival. This allows you to inquire about approximate prices and potentially pre-book your transfer, ensuring a smooth pick-up and direct journey to your destination.
Comparison of Transport Options from Barcelona Airport to Lloret de Mar
| Transport Mode | Estimated Journey Time | Approximate Cost (one-way) | Convenience Level | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train + Bus | Approx. 2 hours (BCN Airport to Lloret) | Moderate (€10-€15) | Medium | Scenic, relatively affordable, good for avoiding road traffic. |
| Direct Bus (Moventis) | Approx. 1 hour 30 mins - 2 hours | Low (€12-€15) | High | Direct, no transfers, often the quickest public transport. |
| Car Rental | Approx. 1 hour 15 mins - 1 hour 45 mins | Varies (rental + fuel + tolls) | High | Ultimate flexibility, freedom to explore, good for groups/families. |
| Taxi/Private Transfer | Approx. 1 hour 15 mins | High (€130-€180+) | Very High | Door-to-door, fastest, most comfortable, ideal for luggage. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Lloret de Mar airport nearby?
No, Lloret de Mar does not have its own airport. The closest major international airport is Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN), which is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes away by road. Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO) is closer, but BCN is the main hub for international flights.
Can I get a direct train to Lloret de Mar?
No, Lloret de Mar does not have a train station. The closest train station is in Blanes, about 7 kilometres away. All train journeys to Lloret de Mar require a final bus connection from Blanes.
What's the cheapest way to get from Barcelona Airport to Lloret de Mar?
Generally, the direct bus service (Moventis) from Barcelona Airport is the most cost-effective and convenient public transport option. The train-and-bus combination is similarly priced but involves more transfers.
What's the fastest way to get to Lloret de Mar from Barcelona Airport?
The fastest way is typically by taxi or private transfer, offering a direct, non-stop journey that usually takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The direct bus service is the fastest public transport option.
How long does the train journey take from Barcelona Airport to Lloret de Mar?
The total journey time by train and then bus from Barcelona Airport to Lloret de Mar is approximately 2 hours. This includes the train ride from the airport to Barcelona Sants, the train from Sants to Blanes, and the final bus connection from Blanes to Lloret de Mar.
Where can I check train and bus schedules for my journey?
For train schedules (Rodalies/Renfe trains), you should consult the official Renfe website. For bus schedules between Blanes and Lloret de Mar, check the Autocars Pujol website. For direct bus services from Barcelona Airport or Girona, refer to the Moventis and Sagalés official websites, respectively.
Embarking on your journey to Lloret de Mar from Barcelona Airport offers a variety of transport choices, each with its own benefits. Whether you opt for the scenic and somewhat traditional train-and-bus route, the convenience of a direct bus, the well-prepared independence of a rental car, or the swift luxury of a taxi, careful planning ensures a smooth start to your Costa Brava adventure. Remember to check current schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to guarantee a hassle-free experience. Enjoy your trip to the beautiful coastal paradise of Lloret de Mar!
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