We have collated some helpful information on travelling to Barcelona, as well as getting around the city when you arrive.
Whichever option you choose, getting to the W Barcelona is straightforward, and our team will be able to assist with any travel questions you may have.
Getting to Barcelona by flight
Barcelona is served primarily by Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN), located about 17 km (11 miles) from the city centre and the W Barcelona. The airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), which is divided into three areas (T2A, T2B and T2C).
Two additional airports in Catalonia also serve the region:
- Reus Airport (REU) – approx. 100 km from Barcelona
- Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO) – approx. 100 km from Barcelona
Onward Travel from Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)
Onward Travel from Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)
By Taxi
- From Terminal 1: ~30–35 minutes, approx. €50
- From Terminal 2 (T2A, T2B, T2C): ~25–30 minutes, approx. €35
By Uber
- Fares range from €35–€50 depending on time and traffic
By Aerobus (Express Bus)
- Direct service to Plaça Espanya or Plaça de Catalunya
- From T1: take the A1 Aerobus (every 10 mins, 05:35–01:05)
- From T2: take the A2 Aerobus (every 10 mins, 05:35–01:00)
- Journey time: ~30–35 minutes
- Tickets: €7 (single), €15 (return, valid 15 days). Buy from machines at T2 or directly from the driver (cash only).
By Metro
- Both T1 and T2 are connected to Line 9 (L9).
- Change at Torrassa (red line) for Plaça Universitat / Plaça de Catalunya, or Collblanc (blue line) for Diagonal / Sagrada Familia.
- Tickets available at machines in stations or online via the Hola BCN card.
By Train (RENFE)
- From T2 (between T2A and T2B): trains to Barcelona Sants or Passeig de Gràcia (connect to metro).
- Journey time: ~25 minutes, tickets ~€5.
- If arriving at T1, take the free airport shuttle to T2 first.
By Car
- Car hire is available at T1 and T2B.
Onward travel from other Airports in Catalonia
From Reus Airport (REU) to Barcelona
- Taxi: ~1 hr 30 mins, approx. €175 (metered fare, depending on traffic)
- Bus: ~1 hr 30 mins, approx. €20 one way (services run throughout the day)
From Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO) to Barcelona
- Bus (Sagales): ~1 hr 30 mins to Estació d’Autobusos Barcelona Nord (main bus station). Return fare approx. €30.
From Barcelona Train Stations to the W Barcelona
1. From Barcelona Sants Station
- Taxi: Quickest option — around 11 minutes, approx. €15–19.
- Subway (Metro): Take Line L3 from Sants Estació to Drassanes, then walk to the hotel. Total time about 45–50 minutes, approx. €3.
2. From Passeig de Gràcia Station
- Subway: Walk to a L4 metro stop or take the tram to Barceloneta, then switch to the metro or walk (approx. 24 minutes, about €3).
- Taxi: Fast and direct — around 7 minutes, costing approximately €11–13
Travelling to Barcelona by car
If you plan to drive to the conference, please contact the W Barcelona Concierge on the hotel's main telephone number +34 93 295 30 00 for full details on on-site car parking arrangements. There is a daily charge of €30, with electric car charging stations available and complimentary valet parking.
Getting around Barcelona
If you and/or your travelling companion would like to explore the beautiful city of Barcelona while visiting for the conference, we’ve gathered some helpful tips to make getting around simple and enjoyable. From the clean and efficient metro and bus network (including a handy night-bus service) to eco-friendly options like the Bus Nautic, the city is well connected and easy to navigate. And don’t forget — many of Barcelona’s highlights are closer than you think, making walking one of the best ways to take in its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Metro: Clean, punctual, and air-conditioned system covering most major sites. Trains run every ~5 minutes. More information on the metro is here.
Buses: Over 80 lines, easily identified by red signs and brown benches. Night-bus (Nit Bus): 16 routes (12 through Plaça Catalunya), running 22:40–06:00, ideal for late-night travel.
Bus Nautic: 100% electric boat connecting La Rambla with Barceloneta beach in 10 minutes. €1.90 per trip — avoids city traffic while offering scenic views.
Taxis: Official Barcelona taxis are yellow and black with a green light on top when available. Approx. €10–20 for a 15-minute journey; metered fares with small surcharges for luggage. Tipping is optional (5–10% if you wish).
Note: Central areas are often pedestrianised, so taxis may not always be the fastest option.
Trains: Barcelona Sants is the city’s main hub for national and international routes. Connected by Metro lines L3 (green) and L5 (blue). Taxis, buses, and car hire services are available at the station.
Walking: The city centre is compact — many sights are within easy reach on foot. Walking is often the quickest way to experience Barcelona’s unique architecture and atmosphere.