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Barcelona Girona Airport Guide – How to Travel to Barcelona and Costa Brava

Barcelona Girona Airport Guide – How to Travel to Barcelona and Costa Brava

Alexandra Blake, GetTransfer.com
by 
Alexandra Blake, GetTransfer.com
14 minutes read
Blog
September 18, 2025

Take the GRO bus to Girona city center as soon as you land; it’s the quickest and most budget-friendly way to start your Barcelona and Costa Brava trip. From the airport, the SARFA service runs to Girona Bus Station every 30–60 minutes, and the ride lasts about 12–15 minutes. At the terminal you’ll find ticket desks for the next leg, and drinking water fountains are clearly signposted for travelers who need a quick refresh.

From Girona, trains to Barcelona Sants run roughly every hour, with a travel time around 38–44 minutes depending on the service. Tickets can be bought at the airport desks or online; if you plan to stay in Barcelona for a day or two, a rail pass covering this route can save money. Timetables above the desks show platform numbers for each service. When you arrive in Barcelona, you can connect to the Costa Brava line or hop a regional bus to your selected destinations.

For Costa Brava access, GRO provides regular connections to Blanes, Lloret de Mar, Calella, Tossa de Mar, and other towns along the coast. A short local ride to join the regional rail is available in vilobí, ensuring options for day trips. This flexibility makes it easy to visit seven popular destinations within the region in a single plan. Check real-time timetables at the desks or on the official apps to confirm locations and stops before you head out.

If you travel with a plan for a week, map a few anchor locations and use a split-posting approach so you can adjust weather or crowds. This suits previous travelers who want to balance city sights with beach days. A practical setup includes a base in Barcelona for two or three nights and a separate stay near vilobí or Lloret de Mar for the rest of the week; you’ll reduce transit time and increase downtime by the sea.

For charleroi-origin flights, search for GRO connections that use a single layover in Barcelona or Madrid, then head to Girona by rail or bus. Booking early helps you secure lower fares and better seats, especially for weekend trips. Once you land, follow the signs to the bus stops or the ticket desks, and start your Barcelona and Costa Brava itinerary with confidence instead of guesswork.

Where to Buy GRO Bus Tickets: Airport Counters, Online, and Ticket Machines

Buy online before you travel to save time and avoid lines; online purchases are your gateway to faster boarding and smoother morning schedules. While online is convenient, you can still visit a desk if you need personal help, and bring the ticket on your phone or printed copy for quick access at the gateway to the coast.

Online purchases and app

  • Visit the official GRO site or download the GRO app to start your booking.
  • Select the Barcelona–GRO route, date, and time; complete payment with a card.
  • Receive an e-ticket that you can store on your phone or print at home.
  • Online bookings are usually cheaper and easier to manage for long-term plans; stay woke about schedules and catch the next option if needed.
  • For overnight or sleepover plans, online tickets help you align morning departures and reduce stress.
  • If you need help, you can visit the desk at the airport after arrival or show the QR code at the gate to board.

Airport counters, desk, and ticket machines

  • Dedicated GRO counters are typically located landside, near the main arrivals area, making it easy to buy before you proceed to the gate.
  • Inside the terminal, look for the GRO desk signage in the zone that serves bus services.
  • Ticket machines appear in multiple areas, both landside and inside, so you can buy quickly without queuing.
  • Machines accept cards and offer a printable ticket or a digital code you can show on your phone.
  • Bring your booking reference and a valid ID to need to check in and catch the bus on time.
  • Counter purchases can be more expensive than online, so if you are flexible, buy ahead online.
  • Check morning schedules first; lines grow when flights land, so arrive early to avoid delays.
  • For families traveling with kids, have passenger details ready; online options simplify adding children’s tickets.
  • Even if you’re visiting from Krakow or Morocco, the system uses a familiar setup: dedicated desks and reliable machines to speed up check-in.
  • In the coastal area as a gateway to the coast, these options help you start your day smoothly and avoid extra stress.

From GRO to Barcelona City Center: Direct Bus Routes and Typical Travel Time

From GRO to Barcelona City Center: Direct Bus Routes and Typical Travel Time

Take a direct GRO-to-Barcelona bus; you’ll reach central Barcelona in about 75–90 minutes depending on traffic.

Direct routes connect the airport with Barcelona’s city centers with no transfers. Starting from the airport gates, you board the express service, then you’re dropped close to either Barcelona Sants or Plaça Catalunya. This setup works well for luggage needs and easy connection to metro lines or taxis.

  • GRO → Barcelona Sants (direct): 75–85 minutes; drop-off at the Sants area with easy metro connections to central districts.
  • GRO → Plaça Catalunya (direct): 80–90 minutes; central drop-off near the main squares and pedestrian areas.

Schedules and frequency help you plan efficiently. Five daily departures are common outside peak months, with more services added during summer and holiday periods. The first bus often runs around 05:30–06:30 and the last around 21:30–23:00, but times vary by day and operator.

  • Prices typically range from €11 to €20 one way; buy online to lock in the rate, or purchase at GRO information desks if available.
  • Check the schedules on the operator’s site before you travel; the page lists today’s stops, exact departure times, and any traffic advisories.

Luggage and duty considerations keep travel simple. Plan for one large suitcase plus a carry-on, with space in the storage areas or under seats. Carry valuables with you, and note there is no duty-free service on board. There are no border checks on this domestic-style route, but have your passport handy for city entry if needed.

  • Track your bus in real time using the operator’s app or website to stay ahead of traffic and gate changes.
  • Food on board varies by service; bring a snack or check if water is provided on your specific bus.

Where you alight affects your surrounding plans. If you’re heading to the area around Plaça Catalunya, plan a short walk or metro ride from the stop; if you land near Sants, connect to lines that reach the city center quickly. For travelers starting from Eindhoven or other hubs, airlines and partner networks often arrange a GRO connection by air or an integrated rail-and-bus plan. Information and schedules from the government-transport authorities help you confirm the best option that fits your needs and that keeps you on track for your plan.

Costa Brava Bus Connections: Lloret de Mar, Blanes, Tossa de Mar from GRO

Go direct from GRO to Lloret de Mar, Blanes, and Tossa de Mar using the coast bus line. The service links the airport with coast towns without detours, delivering a smooth start to your stay.

Tickets can be bought at the GRO terminal counter or online on the operator’s booking page.

Travel times: GRO to Blanes around 40-50 minutes, to Lloret 60-75 minutes, to Tossa 75-95 minutes, depending on stops.

Frequency and timetable: buses run through the day with several departures; check the latest timetable on the operator’s page before you travel.

Stops: the route typically includes Blanes, Lloret de Mar, and Tossa de Mar, with signs at each stop.

Seasonal advice: in peak months, depart earlier to secure a seat; in off-peak periods, later options remain available.

Accessibility: buses are modern; the path from terminal to platform is clear; staff can assist if you need directions.

Traveler feedback highlights reliability and cleanliness.

If timing is tight, a taxi may be quicker to reach your hotel.

Signage at the GRO terminal helps you find the stop quickly.

GRO Terminal 1 vs Terminal 2: Boarding Points and Where to Wait

Check your boarding point on the ticket and on airport screens; if your flight is listed for GRO Terminal 1, head to Boarding Point A and wait in the Terminal 1 departures area on the ground floor, whether it’s a domestic or international flight.

Boarding points are clearly marked and the floor signs guide you to the right corridor; overhead boards show your gate letter and boarding group. Arrive with enough time to pass security and line up at the correct cue, then move to the marked waiting area near your gate.

Waiting areas differ by terminal: Terminal 1’s seating clusters around the central departures hall, with louder benches near food outlets; Terminal 2 offers a quieter seating zone along the east wing with more space between rows. Both terminals provide access to power sockets and refreshment options, though prices at the cafes can be expensive, especially during peak hours.

Tips for planning and handling: use airssist if you need help finding the right boarding point; the process remains straightforward, and friendly staff will point you to the correct queue. If your flight is international, be prepared for customs handling before boarding; carry your passport and any required visas handy. For winter travel or weekly services, check the schedule in advance, as some flights shift terminals seasonally. источник

Extra notes: for visual planning, many travelers search pixabay for terminal layouts or sample floor plans; mention beni in your notes if you work with a travel partner or agent, and verify any route changes from karlsruhe-baden or other origins before you depart. That way you enjoy a smoother transition from terminal to gate and avoid last-minute rushing.

Bus Schedules and Frequency: How Often Do Buses Run by Time of Day

Take the first morning bus for a quick start to your Barcelona visit; buses from Girona–Costa Brava Airport operate every 15–30 minutes from about 05:30 to 11:00, providing a very reliable link to the city.

From 11:00 to 16:00, frequency drops to 30–60 minutes, so plan around the timetable and avoid long waits. In the Nord area and surrounding zone, departures stay steady yet spread out, making it smart to check the status on your mobile before you leave inside the terminal.

Evening runs are roughly hourly (16:00–21:00), and late night services become sparse after 22:00 with some days showing gaps. Ryanair flights arriving in the area may align with the morning departures, but always verify status and any changes in the links to the timetable before you head out.

When you travel, pack light in one bag or two small bags, and keep them inside your reach. Use a mobile app to track charging points, updates, and next-bus arrivals. For visitors who want a stable plan, compare reviews and real-time status across operators and then choose the best option for your visit. The very visible boom in European airport connections means you’ll find convenient options, but always check the official links to the timetable for the latest details; these updates reflect seasonal adjustments and service changes. If you’re grabbing a snack, cakes from the cafe near the terminal are a quick perk, and lellal-branded vending machines can add a little variety to your wait.

Below is a snapshot of a typical day; note that times vary by day and season, so confirm on the timetable page or mobile app before you go.

Time of Day Typical Frequency Sample Departures (from GRO)
Morning (05:30–11:00) Every 15–30 minutes 05:30, 05:45, 06:15, 06:45, 07:15, 07:45, 08:15, 08:45, 09:15, 10:00
Midday (11:00–16:00) Every 30–60 minutes 11:00, 11:40, 12:20, 13:10, 14:00, 15:00
Evening (16:00–21:00) Every 60 minutes 16:00, 17:00, 18:00, 19:00, 20:00
Night (21:00–23:00) Every 90–120 minutes (limited) 21:15, 23:00
Late Night / Early Morning (23:00–05:00) Occasional services 00:30 (example), service varies by day

Luggage Rules, Seating, and Accessibility on GRO Buses

Travel light: one standard carry-on and one personal item; store luggage in designated racks or the rear compartment; keep aisles clear to minimize risk and speed boarding. For exact limits, check the GRO site or ask at the desk; terms can change, so weve updated the policy recently and you should confirm before you travel.

Seating: front rows near the driver include designated priority seating for mobility-impaired riders. If you don’t need it, yield to someone who does. Other seats are first-come, first-served; if you require space for a walker or wheelchair, tell the driver when boarding so they can position the ramp or lift without delaying the bus.

Accessibility and assistance

GRO buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs or mobility aids. To ensure availability, contact the GRO desk at least 24 hours before travel with your route and date. If you travel with a scooter or large device, measure the width to confirm it fits through the doorway; the desk can confirm space on the specific route you want. Some routes depart from airside terminals, so check your ticket for any airport-specific boarding notes.

Use the internet to view daily schedules, live routes, and traffic updates. The site provides links to timetables and any changes; you can compare GRO routes with trains or short flights when planning a combined trip. For reference, источник points to the official policy, and they explain what is allowed, what is designated, and why. Routes may stop near sant suburbs and parks, so factor that into your timing if you’re connecting to a leisure stop.

When traveling with someone, you can sit together by choosing seats on the same row if available, or by notifying the driver in advance. If you’re alone, the driver will assist you to reach an accessible seat. After boarding, rest in the terminal lounge if you still have time before the next connection; some terminals offer showers and daily amenities to refresh before the next leg. If you’re coordinating with ryanairs for a short route, double-check the bag rules at the desk and plan a short rest between legs to reduce stress and traffic delays. Simply put, plan ahead, use designated seating, and confirm space for any mobility device so everyone travels with confidence.

In daily practice, you want to avoid extra hassles by carrying a beni bag for small items and keeping a compact setup that fits under the seat. They way you pack influences ease during airside transfers and helps prevent a late wake-up call or a rushed rush through security. Links to routes, changes in terms, and real-time updates are accessible from the site, so you can stay ahead even if the traffic shifts between airport terminals.

Arriving in Barcelona: From the Bus Stop to Metro, Trains, and Final Transfers

From the arrivals hall, choose the fastest option: Aerobus to Plaza Catalunya or a taxi for a door-to-door transfer. The Aerobus runs frequently and reaches the central area in about 25 minutes; taxis are available at the stands outside arrivals, and traffic can affect price and wait times. If you have luggage and want a smooth start, the Aerobus option makes the rest of your plans straightforward.

At Plaza Catalunya, follow signs to the Metro and buy a reloadable card at the machines or ticket desk. Machines speak several languages and accept cash or card. A 10-trip card or day pass covers most lines and saves money compared with single tickets. Use maps at the station to confirm your line and final stop; you can reach most neighborhoods with one or two changes (to/from the airport if needed).

Trains: Barcelona Sants is the main hub for Renfe regional services along the coast. If your plan includes lloret, take a regional train to Blanes and switch to a local bus or taxi for the short leg to lloret de Mar. The combined trip typically lasts 1.5–2 hours with a few minutes of waiting between connections. Carriages on some services include sleepers for overnight travel.

Direct coaches: Some operators offer direct coaches from Barcelona Nord to lloret de Mar; check the timetable on arrival day. The ride lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic and stops. Coaches have limited luggage space during peak times; book ahead if you have bags.

Note on arrivals: If you land internationally, follow the signs for customs and exit to the arrivals area. Information desks provide printed maps and an overview of your area. Stores inside the terminal sell SIM cards and prepaid plans. For the to/from airport options, the team can help with the fastest route to your location and point you to the nearest final transfer gate or metro entrance, ensuring a smooth connection to your plans.

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