Discover Barcelona Airport with the freedom of a rental car from Barcelona Airport
Barcelona Airport, also known as El Prat Airport, is Spain's second busiest airport after Madrid. Handling more than 50 million passengers annually, this modern airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Its extensive facilities and convenient location make it an important hub for both national and international flights.
How to get from Barcelona Airport to Barcelona
Barcelona Airport is just 15 kilometres southwest of Barcelona city centre. With your rental car, you can quickly drive into town via the C-31 or C-32; the drive takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. On the way, you will pass the Delta del Llobregat Natural Park, a beautiful wetland area where you can spot numerous bird species. Before you know it, you are right in the heart of Barcelona.
Continue to Valencia and Zaragoza
From Barcelona Airport, you can easily drive on to other major cities such as Valencia and Zaragoza. Valencia is about 350 kilometres to the south and can be reached via the AP-7, a toll road that runs along the beautiful coast of the Costa Dorada and Costa del Azahar. The drive takes about 3.5 hours. Heading north-west, you will reach Zaragoza in about 3 hours via the AP-2 and AP-7, a route of about 300 kilometres. Along the way, you will enjoy the diverse landscape of Catalonia and Aragon, with vast fields and hilly areas.
5 Highlights within driving distance from Barcelona Airport
- Montserrat: Visit the monastery of Montserrat, located high in the mountains overlooking the Catalan region. Explore the monastery itself and hike through the rugged mountain landscape with its distinctive rock formations.
- Sitges: This coastal town combines a historic centre full of boutiques and old churches with beautiful beaches along a long promenade. Perfect for a day by the sea with plenty of great cafés and restaurants.
- Tarragona: Explore the Roman ruins of this historic city, including the amphitheatre located right by the sea. The narrow streets and squares give a lively character to this well-preserved city.
- Girona: Stroll through Girona's medieval streets and admire the colourful houses along the river Onyar. Visit the impressive cathedral and explore the old Jewish quarter.
- Costa Brava: Drive along the beautiful coastline and stop in villages with their traditional look and bright blue bays. The coastal route offers numerous spots for a quiet beach break and beautiful views.
Road network in Spain
The road network in Spain is generally good and consists of modern motorways and well-maintained main roads. The toll roads (‘Autopistas’) are often quiet and in excellent condition, while the free highways (‘Autovías’) can be busier. In rural areas, you may encounter narrower roads and sharp bends. Note that in mountainous areas, roads can be steep and winding, so drive carefully.
Recommended car rental category from Barcelona Airport
For travelling in Spain, a compact car is often sufficient if you mainly drive in cities like Barcelona. But if you plan to head into the mountains, such as to Montserrat, a car with a bit more power may be handy. Consider a comfortable mid-range car or an SUV for extra space and ease of driving on longer distances. Of course, in the sunny regions, a convertible is also a nice option to enjoy the nice weather.
Best travel time to visit Spain
Spain in an attractive destination all year round, but the best travel time is from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During this period, you will enjoy pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Avoid the hottest months of July and August if you don't like extreme heat.
Eating and drinking in Spain
Spain is known for its rich culinary traditions. Be sure to try tapas, small snacks such as patatas bravas and calamares. Paella, a rice dish with seafood or meat, is a must in the Valencia region. Don't forget to try the famous ham ‘Jamón Ibérico’. In terms of drinks, sangria is a popular choice, as is cava, the Spanish sparkling wine. Note: do not get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.
Useful words and phrases about car rental in Spanish
- Traffic light - Semáforo
- Breakdown - Avería
- Curve - Curva
- Car key - Llave del coche
- Car park - Aparcamiento
- Which car is for me? - ¿Cuál es mi coche?
- Here you have my driving license. - Aquí tiene mi permiso de conducir.
- Does petrol or diesel go in my car? - ¿Mi coche usa gasolina o diésel?
- Where is the nearest petrol station? - ¿Dónde está la gasolinera más cercana?
- Where do I leave my car when my holiday is over? - ¿Dónde debo dejar el coche al finalizar mis vacaciones?