Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)

Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is the primary international airport serving Barcelona, Catalonia, and is one of the busiest airports in Europe. Located in the municipality of El Prat de Llobregat, approximately 12 kilometers southwest of Barcelona's city center, it serves as a crucial gateway for tourism and business in the region. Travelers can access the airport via a well-connected network that includes the Aerobús express bus service to Plaça de Catalunya, the L9 Sud metro line, the R2 Nord suburban train line, and an abundance of taxis and ride-sharing services.

The airport's history dates back to 1916, with the first major airfield established in 1918. It underwent significant expansion and modernization for the 1992 Summer Olympics, which transformed it into a modern international hub. In 2019, it was officially renamed to honor Josep Tarradellas, the first president of the Generalitat de Catalunya after the Francoist dictatorship. This history reflects its long-standing importance to the economic and cultural development of the region.

Barcelona-El Prat is a major operational base for airlines like Vueling and a focus city for others including Ryanair and Iberia. It handles a high volume of domestic, European, and intercontinental flights, connecting Barcelona to destinations across the globe. Annually, it serves tens of millions of passengers, placing it among Europe's top-tier airports for traffic. The airport consists of two main terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2). T1, the newer and larger facility, handles most major international and full-service carriers. T2, which is composed of three interconnected sections (T2A, T2B, and T2C), primarily serves low-cost and charter airlines. Both terminals are equipped with a full range of traveler amenities, including duty-free shopping, diverse restaurants and cafes, VIP lounges, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic or Schengen-area flights and three hours for all other international departures. A free, 24-hour shuttle bus connects T1 and T2, with a journey time of 10-15 minutes, a critical detail for those with connecting flights between terminals. It is also important to note that the R2 Nord train station is located at T2, while the L9 Sud metro has stops at both T1 and T2. The Aerobús offers a direct and frequent connection from both terminals to the city center, making it a popular choice for visitors.