21/11/2017
Navigating your arrival at Perpignan Airport (PGF) and making your way to the city's central station is a straightforward affair, thanks to the efficient transport links available. Whether you're seeking the quickest journey or the most economical option, understanding your choices will ensure a smooth transition from air to rail. This guide will break down the primary methods of transport, focusing on the highly recommended taxi service and the reliable bus connections, offering insights into timings, costs, and practical tips for a hassle-free experience.
The Speedy Taxi Option
For those prioritising speed and directness, a taxi is undoubtedly the fastest way to get from Perpignan Airport (PGF) to Perpignan Station. The journey is remarkably short, typically taking just about 7 minutes to complete. This efficiency makes it an ideal choice, especially if you're short on time or have a tight connection to catch. The cost for this convenience generally falls between €17 and €21, a reasonable price for such a swift and door-to-door service. Taxis are readily available at the airport, usually located just outside the arrivals area. Simply follow the signs for taxi ranks. It's advisable to ensure your taxi is officially licensed. The short distance means that traffic is rarely a significant issue, further contributing to the reliability of this transport method.
The Direct Bus Service
Perpignan Airport is well-served by a direct bus service that connects passengers to the main train station, known as Gare SNCF. This is a popular and cost-effective alternative to taxis. The buses operate on an hourly basis, ensuring that there's usually a service available shortly after your flight lands. Crucially, these buses run every day, offering consistent connectivity. The bus stop at Perpignan Airport is conveniently located outside the arrivals hall. Upon disembarking and collecting your luggage, you'll find the bus stop a short walk away. Tickets for the bus can be purchased directly from the bus driver, making the process simple and accessible. The journey by bus from the airport to the station takes slightly longer than a taxi, typically between 15 to 20 minutes. This duration can vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific stop you alight at. The fare for this service is a modest €4.50. It's worth noting that the bus usually makes two stops: one at the main bus station and a subsequent one at the train station, which is only a few minutes further. Key Information for Bus Travel:* Operator: Courriers Catalans * Frequency: Hourly * Operating Days: Every day * Departure Point: Outside arrivals hall at Perpignan Airport * Arrival Point: Gare SNCF (Perpignan Station) * Journey Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes * Fare: €4.50 * Ticket Purchase: From the bus driver
Understanding Perpignan Airport (PGF)
Perpignan Airport, also known as Llabanère Airport or officially Perpignan-Rivesaltes Airport, is a relatively small airport located in southern France. It handles around 400,000 passengers annually and primarily serves the city of Perpignan and the surrounding Pyrénées-Orientales region. The airport is situated just 5 kilometres (approximately 3 miles) from the city centre, making all transport options highly convenient. The airport features a single terminal building, which, while compact, is equipped with essential facilities. The arrivals hall is on the ground floor, with departures typically managed from the upper level. The layout is intuitive, with arrivals and departures sections clearly separated. The entire terminal covers about 1,700 square meters, making it easy to navigate.
Connecting from the Station
Once you arrive at Perpignan Station (Gare de Perpignan), you have a gateway to numerous onward travel possibilities. The station is a hub for both national and regional rail services. You can catch high-speed TGV trains to major French cities like Paris and Lille, as well as international destinations such as Brussels. Additionally, local TER services connect you to nearby towns and cities, and night train services offer travel to destinations including Montpellier, Narbonne, Nîmes, Avignon, and Cerbère. The main bus station is also located very close to the train station, allowing for seamless transfers to local bus routes that serve the city of Perpignan, or longer-distance coaches to regional towns.
Alternative Bus Services
While the direct service to the station is the most relevant for arriving passengers, it's worth noting that other bus routes operate from Perpignan Airport. For instance, there's a service that travels to Baixas, a village west of the airport. This bus departs from a stop opposite the airport car park and has timetables and route maps displayed.
Purchasing Bus Tickets and Timetables
Tickets for the airport bus service are conveniently purchased directly from the driver. If you plan to make a return journey to the airport, it's wise to obtain a timetable, known in French as an ‘Horaire Navette Aéroport’. You can also inquire about the departure point for buses heading back to the airport from the train station. For passengers planning frequent bus travel within Perpignan, consider purchasing weekly or monthly travel passes, which can offer significant savings compared to single fares. Booklets of ten tickets are also often available with a small discount. For annual subscriptions, arrangements would need to be made at the bus station.
Important Considerations for Departures
When planning your return journey to the airport from the city, be mindful of check-in times, especially for international flights. While buses departing from the railway station are generally timed to coincide with flight departures, they may only allow for an hour or less for check-in. If your flight requires a two-hour check-in window, it would be prudent to catch an earlier bus or consider alternative transport like a taxi.
Contact and Further Information
For the most up-to-date information regarding Perpignan bus services, you can visit the official bus company's website, which is typically operated by Veolia Transdev (http://www.veoliatransdev.com). Alternatively, you can contact the airport directly for assistance. The airport's telephone number is +33 4 68 52 60 70.
Comparison of Transport Options
To help you decide, here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Taxi | Direct Bus Service |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Fastest (approx. 7 mins) | Fast (approx. 15-20 mins) |
| Cost | Higher (€17 - €21) | Lower (€4.50) |
| Convenience | Direct, door-to-door | Regular service, easy ticket purchase |
| Frequency | On demand | Hourly, aligned with flight arrivals |
| Luggage | Ample space | Generally good space, but can be busy |
| Best For | Speed, directness, comfort | Budget-conscious travellers, regular schedules |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the quickest way to get from Perpignan Airport to the train station?A1: The quickest way is by taxi, taking approximately 7 minutes. Q2: How much does a taxi from Perpignan Airport to the station cost?A2: A taxi typically costs between €17 and €21. Q3: Is there a direct bus from Perpignan Airport to the station?A3: Yes, there is a direct bus service that runs hourly and operates every day. Q4: Where is the bus stop at Perpignan Airport?A4: The bus stop is located outside the arrivals hall. Q5: How long does the bus journey take?A5: The bus journey takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Q6: How much does the bus ticket cost?A6: The bus ticket costs €4.50. Q7: Where can I buy bus tickets?A7: Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver. Q8: What are the transport options from Perpignan Station onwards?A8: From Perpignan Station, you can access TGV, TER, and night train services, as well as local and regional buses from the adjacent bus station. In conclusion, whether you opt for the swift convenience of a taxi or the economical efficiency of the direct bus, reaching Perpignan Station from Perpignan Airport (PGF) is a simple and well-managed process. Both options provide reliable connections, ensuring your journey into the heart of Perpignan or onwards to further destinations begins smoothly.
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