Review: Aerobus, Barcelona, Spain

Among the varied ways to travel from Barcelona´s El Prat International Airport to the center of the city, there are multiple trains, buses and cabs that make the seven-mile journey. The fastest, most direct and most cost-conscious option may be the Aerobus, a direct 30- to 35-minute straight shot to the centrally located Plaça Catalunya, with three other quick stops along the way.

Upon arrival at El Prat’s Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, follow the signs to the bus depot where powder-blue buses stamped with the giant Aerobus logo will be waiting. From Terminal 1, buses depart every five minutes during peak hours, and from Terminal 2, buses depart every 10 minutes.

Tickets can be purchased either with a credit card at the self-service booth next to the bus stop or by cash directly to the driver. A one-way ticket costs €5.90, but a return ticket costs €10.20 and is valid for 15 days. If a return ticket is purchased, hold onto the ticket, as you will need to present it when you board to return to the airport.

Once on board, passengers can enjoy free WiFi access, free city maps and a pleasant rush of air conditioning. Small television screens display helpful information about Barcelona including any special events that are in town, the daily weather forecast and the city’s best attractions.

Depending on road traffic, the seamless trip into Barcelona takes between 30 and 35 minutes with drop-offs at Plaça d’Espanya, Gran Via-Urgell, Plaça Universitat and finally, Plaça Catalunya.

The Aerobus is not the cheapest method to access the city, but it is definitely the best options for direct travel for a price much lower than cabs.