Unlocking Barcelona Airport

If you are traveling to Spain, Your journey starts from the heart of Barcelona-el-prat airport also known as Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) for short. Barcelona-el-prat airport is the main airport serving Barcelona and Catalonia! BCN is a modern hub that is facilitated with the world's top-notch services and facilities. it is the second largest busiest airport in Spain. The airport was renamed by the central government of Spain in honor of the first Catalan president under the current Spanish Constitution, Josep Tarradellas. Get ready to wander BCN with our essential guide!

History of Barcelona-El Prat Airport

Barcelona-El Prat Airport has a great history dating from 1918 when it was first established as a basic aerodrome. During the initial days, the airport served mainly for postal services, military services, and pilot training. The commercial flight of the barcelona airport happened in 1927 with Iberia Airlines marking the Madrid-Barcelona route. From 20 th century onwards the airport has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate the upcoming traffic. The construction of Terminal 2 later happened in 1992 to welcome the visitors for the Barcelona Summer Olympics, and the opening of Terminal 1 in 2009 to further boost capacity and service quality. Later in 2019, the airport was renamed Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport in honor of the former President of the Generalitat of Catalonia, Josep Tarradellas.

Airport Size and Usage

Barcelona Airport consists of 2 Terminals, which is Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 spanning over 25 square kilometers which are subdivided into T2A, T2B, and T2C. The airport can hold 52 million passengers annually and that is how it became one of the second busiest airports in Spain after the Madrid-Barajas Airport. Barcelona Airport mainly deals with its busiest months from June to September, coinciding with the peak tourist season in Barcelona.

Arrival at the Airport

1. Terminals:

Barcelona Airport owns 2 Terminals, including Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 handles most of the international flights and a few domestic flights. While Terminal 2 is divided into T2A, T2B, and T2C is mainly operating low-cost carriers and domestic flights. Also, make sure to check your flight details to know which terminal you’ll be headed.

2. Immigration and Customs:

After knowing the Terminal follow the signs toward the immigration control. If you are a non-European passenger, you'll need a pass through the border control where the passport will be subjected to a checking. Make sure that you have all the necessary documents needed for immigration including the boarding pass and visa. After the immigration process, you can head to the baggage claim. If you have anything to declare, use the red channel and if you don't have anything to declare, just head to the green channel in the customs.

3. Ground Transportation:

Barcelona Airport offers a wide range of transportation options for travelers to reach the city center. Aerobus is a convenient shuttle bus service that operates every 5-10 minutes, connecting both terminals with the city center. Metros are easily available and Line L9 Sud connects the airport with the city's metro network. In both terminals, you can spot the metro stations. If you are opting for the train, the Renfe R2 Nord line connects Terminal 2 with Barcelona Sants and other key stations in the city. If you want to explore all by yourself you can find the car rentals at both terminals offering a wide range of vehicles.

Departure from the Airport

1. Checking In:

We would suggest you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your domestic flights and 3 hours before an international flight. You can spot the check-in desks for most of the airlines which are located in the main departure halls of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Also, you can make use of the self-service kiosks or online check-in facilities to save your precious time. Use the designated bag drop counters to drop your luggage after your check-in procedures.

2. Security Screening:

After your check-in procedures, proceed to the security screening area. Get ready to unpack your bags if laptops, liquids, and metal items are there in your carry bags. Make sure that your liquids are in containers of 100ml or less and should be placed in a clear plastic container.

3. Duty-Free Shopping and Dining:

Once you pass the security, you can find a wide range of duty-free shops, boutiques, and dining corners. For duty-free stores, you can visit Aldeasa from which you can purchase cosmetics to spirits. Opt for World Duty which specializes in perfumes, cosmetics, and luxury items. If you are a fashion freak you can go for Adolfo Domínguez, known for stylish Spanish fashion, and Desigual for vibrant and colorful patterns. For the technophiles, Tech & Fly offers the latest gadgets and accessories. Purchase souvenirs from La Casa del Libro as a memoir from your Barcelona trip. The shop offers a great selection of books and gift items. Coming to the dining options, Cafetería Medas offers quick coffee and snacks. Go for Lizarran for some finger-licking traditional Spanish tapas. Also for those who are craving fast food options, Burger King is there to the rescue!

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Check for the "Airport Free Wi-Fi AENA" network make use of the free Wi-Fi available at the airport and stay connected with your loved ones. Try to learn a few Catalan and Spanish Phrases which are known as the official language. But English is widely used by the airport staff. BCN is giving comprehensive assistance to passengers with reduced mobility. If you are looking for currency exchange, ATMs and Currency Exchange offices are available in both terminals.

Bon Voyage from Barcelona!

This is your complete guide before reaching Barcelona! With this guide in your hand, navigating Barcelona airport is a breeze! From analyzing the airport terminals to exploring the activities, you can fly into BCN confidently! So relax, and enjoy the amenities BCN offers you, Happy Journey!

FAQs

Q: Is the Barcelona airport big?

A: Yes, Barcelona airport is the second largest airport in Spain.

Q: Is Barcelona airport far from the city?

A: Barcelona airport also known as BCN is 10 miles away from the city centre.

Q: Which is the main airport in Barcelona?

A: Barcelona-El Prat Airport is the main airport located in barcelona.

Q: What is the official name of Barcelona Airport?

A: The official name is Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, but it's commonly known as Barcelona-El Prat Airport. The code is BCN.

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