19/02/2024
Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO) serves as a bustling gateway, welcoming approximately three million passengers annually. Its strategic location, just 12 kilometres from the vibrant city of Girona, makes it a popular choice for travellers heading to the Costa Brava and beyond. With such a significant volume of visitors, robust transportation links are essential. While you'll find a variety of options including buses, taxis, and private car services readily available, many travellers inquire about train connections, especially given the convenience and sustainability train travel often offers.
However, it's crucial to understand a key detail right from the start: there is no direct train network located at Girona Airport itself. This often surprises first-time visitors who might expect a direct rail link to such a busy international hub. Instead, the nearest and most convenient train station is situated in the heart of Girona city, known simply as Girona station. This station serves as a vital hub, connecting travellers not only to Barcelona city centre but also to a host of other fascinating destinations across Spain and Europe, including Figueres, Madrid, and Montpellier.
- Connecting from Girona Airport to Girona Train Station
- Exploring Train Travel from Girona Station
- Girona City Centre: A Hub for Transport
- Comparing Your Journey Options
- Frequently Asked Questions About Getting to/from Girona Airport and Train Travel
- Is there a direct train from Girona Airport?
- How far is Girona train station from the airport?
- How much does a taxi cost from Girona Airport to the train station?
- How long is the train journey from Girona to Barcelona?
- Can I pre-book my transport from Girona Airport to the train station?
- What are the operating hours for taxis at Girona Airport?
- Can I buy train tickets at Girona station?
- Conclusion
Connecting from Girona Airport to Girona Train Station
Given the absence of a direct train service from the airport, the primary method for reaching Girona station is via road transport. Fortunately, this process is straightforward and efficient, offering a couple of reliable options to suit your preferences and budget.
Taxis: Your Direct Link to the Station
Taxis offer the most immediate and convenient way to get from Girona Airport to Girona station. They are readily available at all times, typically waiting just outside the main terminal building. Even during peak hours, you’ll usually find a good supply of cabs. Should you need assistance, free phones are often provided at the airport information desk, or you can simply ask airport staff who will be happy to call one for you.
The journey from Girona Airport to the city's train station is approximately 12 kilometres and takes around 16 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost for this taxi ride is about €20. While this adds an additional cost to your overall train journey, it provides a hassle-free and direct transfer, especially if you're travelling with luggage or in a group.
Pre-Booked Transfers: A Seamless Start
For those who prefer to have everything organised in advance, booking a Girona airport transfer is an exceptionally smart option. This service allows you to arrange your transport online before you even land, providing peace of mind and eliminating any potential stress upon arrival. When you book a private transfer, you typically receive full details online, including a password or reference number and precise instructions on where you will meet your driver. This ensures a seamless journey from the moment you step out of the terminal, with a dedicated driver waiting to whisk you directly to Girona station or your desired destination in the city.
Exploring Train Travel from Girona Station
Once you've arrived at Girona station, a world of rail travel opens up. This central hub is well-connected and offers a comfortable and often cost-effective way to explore Catalonia and beyond. The train station is conveniently located next to the main bus station, making it a central transport nexus for the city.
Train Connections and Destinations
From Girona station, you can access a wide array of destinations. The high-speed rail network connects Girona directly to Barcelona Sants station in less than an hour, with services running frequently throughout the day. This makes Girona an easy day trip from Barcelona or an excellent base for exploring the region.
Beyond Barcelona, Girona station is a gateway to other significant Spanish cities like Figueres (home to the Dalí Theatre-Museum) and even the capital, Madrid. International connections are also available, with trains extending into France, reaching cities such as Montpellier, Marseille, Lyon, and even Paris. This extensive network makes train travel from Girona an attractive option for both domestic and international travellers seeking to explore Europe comfortably.
Fares and Frequency
Train fares from Girona station vary depending on the type of train (local or high-speed) and your destination. Prices typically range from €6.00 to €15.00 for journeys to nearby major cities like Barcelona. For the popular route to Barcelona, trains depart frequently, often every 30 minutes, ensuring you won't have long to wait. The journey itself usually lasts around an hour, making it a quick and efficient way to travel between the two cities.
Booking Your Train Tickets
It is highly recommended to book your train tickets in advance, especially for high-speed routes, to secure the best fares. Last-minute tickets can be significantly more expensive. You can check fares and timetables online via the official Spanish railway website (Renfe) or through third-party platforms like Omio.com, which can be particularly useful for international travellers. While high-speed options offer speed and comfort, local trains are also available for certain routes, though they take longer (e.g., 1.5-2.5 hours for the Barcelona route) and might be slightly cheaper if booked last minute.
Girona City Centre: A Hub for Transport
Girona city centre is compact and easily navigable. The main train station is centrally located, making it accessible from various parts of the city. As mentioned, the bus station is conveniently situated right next to the train station, offering further connectivity to towns and cities within the Girona province, including Figueres, and even direct bus services to Barcelona Airport (El Prat).
For those planning to explore Girona city itself, most of the main sights are within easy walking distance of the train and bus stations. The city is largely flat, making it ideal for walking. However, local bus services and taxis are also readily available for those who prefer not to walk or need to reach specific locations quickly.
Comparing Your Journey Options
To help you decide the best way to connect with train travel from Girona Airport, here's a brief comparison of the initial leg of your journey:
| Option | Description | Approx. Cost (from Airport) | Approx. Time (Airport to Girona Station) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | Direct pick-up outside terminal, private ride to Girona Station. | €20 | 16 minutes | High (door-to-door, on demand) |
| Pre-booked Private Transfer | Pre-arranged pick-up, driver waiting, comfortable ride to Girona Station. | Varies (often similar to taxi or slightly higher) | 16 minutes | Very High (stress-free, guaranteed) |
| Bus (Indirect) | Bus from Airport to Girona Bus Station (next to train station). | Approx. €2.75 | Approx. 25-30 minutes | Medium (most budget-friendly, but less direct than taxi) |
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting to/from Girona Airport and Train Travel
To further assist your travel planning, here are answers to some common questions:
Is there a direct train from Girona Airport?
No, there is no direct train station at Girona Airport. The nearest train station is Girona station, located in the city centre of Girona, approximately 12 km away.
How far is Girona train station from the airport?
Girona train station is approximately 12 kilometres (about 7.5 miles) from Girona Airport. The journey by road typically takes around 16 minutes.
How much does a taxi cost from Girona Airport to the train station?
A taxi from Girona Airport to Girona train station costs approximately €20.
How long is the train journey from Girona to Barcelona?
The high-speed train journey from Girona station to Barcelona Sants station typically takes around 40 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific service.
Can I pre-book my transport from Girona Airport to the train station?
Yes, you can pre-book private airport transfers online. This is a recommended option for a hassle-free and guaranteed transfer, with details provided for meeting your driver upon arrival.
What are the operating hours for taxis at Girona Airport?
Taxis are generally available 24/7 outside the main terminal building at Girona Airport, catering to all flight arrivals and departures.
Can I buy train tickets at Girona station?
Yes, you can purchase train tickets directly at Girona station. However, for high-speed services, it's advisable to book in advance online to secure better fares and ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
Conclusion
While Girona Airport does not boast its own train station, connecting to the extensive Spanish and European rail network is straightforward and efficient. By utilising the readily available taxi services or opting for pre-booked transfers from the airport, you can quickly reach Girona station. From there, you're just a comfortable train ride away from major cities like Barcelona, or a host of other captivating destinations across the continent. Planning your journey in advance, especially for train tickets, will ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience, making your trip to or from Girona as convenient as possible.
If you want to read more articles similar to Navigating Girona Airport: Your Guide to Train Travel, you can visit the Transport category.