15/07/2022
When arriving at Barcelona Airport (BCN), whether for business or leisure, knowing your transport options to your accommodation is paramount. For many, the Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo is a popular choice, and understanding how to reach it efficiently will set the tone for a stress-free visit. This article will delve into the various services available, focusing on the practicalities of getting from the airport to this specific hotel, and offering insights into journey times, costs, and alternative routes.
Direct Services and Key Operators
The primary question for travellers is often about the companies operating the routes. While specific taxi companies aren't always advertised for individual routes, licensed Barcelona taxis are readily available at the airport. These are a convenient, albeit often more expensive, option for direct door-to-door service. You'll recognise them by their distinctive black and yellow livery. They operate on a metered fare system, with surcharges for airport pick-ups and late-night travel.
For public transport, the Àrea Metropolitana de Barcelona (AMB) is a key operator. They run a comprehensive bus network, and a relevant service for travellers heading towards the Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo is the bus route that connects Barcelona Airport's Terminal 2B (T2B) with the Gran Via - Plaça Espanya area. This is a crucial interchange point for many onward journeys into the city.
Journey from BCN to Gran Via - Pl Espanya
The AMB operates a bus service from Aeropuerto de Barcelona T2B Bus Urbano. This service runs with considerable frequency, typically every 30 minutes, making it a reliable option if you're arriving at T2. The journey to Gran Via - Plaça Espanya is a significant leg of the trip. Plaça Espanya is a major transport hub in Barcelona, offering connections to metro lines and further bus routes that can take you closer to your final destination at the Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo.
Reaching Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo from Plaça Espanya
Once you alight at Gran Via - Plaça Espanya, you'll need to make your way to the Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo. The hotel is located in the Poble Sec neighbourhood, relatively close to Plaça Espanya. Depending on your luggage and preference, you have a few choices:
- Metro: The Plaça Espanya metro station is served by lines L1 and L3. Line L3 (the green line) is particularly useful as it has a station at Paral·lel, which is within walking distance of the hotel, or you could even take Line L1 one stop to Urquinaona and change to L3 towards Zafra, alighting at Paral·lel. The journey by metro is quick and cost-effective.
- Bus: There are likely local bus routes that pass closer to the hotel from Plaça Espanya. Consulting a local transport app or information board at the station will provide the most up-to-date routes.
- Taxi: A short taxi ride from Plaça Espanya to the hotel is also an option if you prefer not to navigate public transport with luggage.
- Walking: For those who enjoy a stroll and have light luggage, the hotel is within a walkable distance of Plaça Espanya, approximately 15-20 minutes.
Alternative Routes and Considerations
The information provided also mentions a route to Melia Barcelona Sky 4* Sup, which, while not your target hotel, highlights the general transport network. The mention of a 31-minute journey with tickets costing €2-€3 suggests a direct or very efficient route, possibly a dedicated airport bus or a metro connection. The longer route via multiple stops indicates the flexibility and interconnectedness of Barcelona's public transport system. For the Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo, the most common and practical public transport method from the airport involves the AMB bus to Plaça Espanya, followed by a short metro or walk.
Taxi vs. Public Transport: A Comparison
When choosing between a taxi and public transport, several factors come into play:
| Factor | Taxi | Public Transport (Bus/Metro) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher (metered fare, airport surcharge) | Lower (single ticket or travel card) |
| Convenience | Door-to-door, direct, no transfers | Requires navigating stations, potential transfers, walking |
| Time | Potentially faster in low traffic, but susceptible to congestion | Consistent journey time, unaffected by road traffic (metro), but can be slower with transfers |
| Luggage | Easier with large amounts of luggage | Can be challenging with excessive luggage, especially during peak hours |
| Frequency | Available on demand | Scheduled services, frequency varies by route |
Understanding Fares and Tickets
For public transport, single tickets are available, but if you plan on using public transport extensively during your stay, consider purchasing a multi-trip card like the T-Casual or a Hola Barcelona Travel Card. These can offer significant savings. The €2-€3 fare mentioned for the Melia Barcelona Sky route is typical for a single bus journey within the city's transport network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the most cost-effective way to get from Barcelona Airport (BCN) to Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo?
The most cost-effective method is typically using the AMB bus from T2B to Plaça Espanya, followed by the metro (Line L3 to Paral·lel) or a walk to the hotel.
Q2: How long does the journey take by public transport?
The journey from the airport to Plaça Espanya by bus can take approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The subsequent metro or walk to the hotel will add another 10-20 minutes, bringing the total estimated travel time to around 40-60 minutes, excluding waiting times.
Q3: Can I get a taxi directly from Barcelona Airport to the hotel?
Yes, licensed taxis are readily available at all terminals of Barcelona Airport. This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option.
Q4: Which airport terminal should I arrive at for the bus service?
The AMB bus service mentioned departs from Barcelona Airport Terminal 2B (T2B).
Q5: Are there any direct bus services from the airport to near the Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo?
While the AMB bus goes to Plaça Espanya, which is close, there isn't a single bus that goes directly from the airport to the hotel's doorstep. You will likely need to make a connection.
Conclusion
Navigating your way from Barcelona Airport (BCN) to the Innside by Meliá Barcelona Apolo is a straightforward process with multiple viable options. The AMB bus service to Plaça Espanya offers a balance of cost and efficiency, serving as the primary public transport link. From Plaça Espanya, the metro or a short walk provides easy access to the hotel. For those prioritising speed and directness, a licensed taxi is always available. Whichever method you choose, understanding these options ensures a smooth start to your Barcelona experience.
If you want to read more articles similar to Navigating Barcelona: Airport to Innside Apolo, you can visit the Transport category.