Overview
Traveling from Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) to the tranquil town of Aiguaviva offers a blend of Catalan charm and rural serenity. Located 110 km northeast of Barcelona, Aiguaviva sits in the Girona province, surrounded by rolling hills and medieval villages. The journey typically takes 1 hour 15 minutes by road, making private transfers or taxis the most efficient options for travelers prioritizing comfort and direct routes.
Getting to Know Aiguaviva
Aiguaviva is a hidden gem in Catalonia’s countryside, ideal for travelers seeking authenticity beyond Barcelona’s bustling streets. Key attractions include:
- Sant Esteve Church: A 12th-century Romanesque landmark.
- Camí de Ronda: Scenic hiking trails connecting coastal and inland villages.
- Proximity to Girona (20 km): Explore its medieval walls, Arab Baths, and Game of Thrones filming locations.
The town’s quiet atmosphere makes it popular for retreats, cycling tours, and cultural immersion.
Arriving at Barcelona El Prat Airport
Barcelona Airport has two terminals (T1 and T2). After landing:
- Follow signage to baggage claim and customs.
- Currency exchange, SIM cards, and car rentals are available in both terminals.
- Exit through Arrivals Halls to find taxis, rideshares, or pre-booked transfers.
Pro tip: Download offline maps if relying on GPS for rural routes.
Main Transfer Options
Public Transport (Train/Bus)
- Train: Take the R2 Nord line from T2 to Barcelona Sants (25 mins), then transfer to a regional train to Girona (1 hr 10 mins). From Girona, a taxi to Aiguaviva costs ~€35 (20 mins). Total cost: ~€50 per person.
- Bus: Sagalés buses run from Barcelona Nord to Girona (1 hr 30 mins), followed by a taxi.
Best for: Budget travelers with flexible schedules.
Taxi & Rideshare
- Taxi: Fixed fare from Barcelona Airport to Aiguaviva averages €150–€180. Ensure meters are running or agree on a price upfront.
- Rideshare: BlaBlaCar or Uber options vary but may lack availability for rural destinations.
Watch for: Unlicensed taxis charging inflated rates.
Car Rentals
Companies like Europcar and Sixt operate at both terminals. Expect to pay €40–€70/day for compact cars. Note:
- Rural roads near Aiguaviva are narrow but well-paved.
- Parking is widely available in the town.
Best for: Explorers planning day trips to Costa Brava or the Pyrenees.
Private Transfer Services (Keyword: Barcelona Airport Private Taxi Service)
Pre-booking a private transfer ensures door-to-door convenience. Providers like A2B Transfers offer:
- Fixed pricing (€130–€160 for standard sedans).
- English-speaking drivers tracking flight arrivals.
- Complimentary 60-minute waiting time.
- Options for luxury vehicles (Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series) or larger groups.
Why choose this: No hidden fees, meet-and-greet service, and tailored routes.
Choosing the Best Method
Recommendations:
- Families/Groups: Private minivans (8-seaters) via A2B.
- Luxury travelers: Premium sedans with Wi-Fi and bottled water.
- Budget solo travelers: Train + Girona taxi.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- Book transfers early during peak seasons (June–September).
- Morning arrivals avoid Barcelona’s rush-hour traffic (8–10 AM).
- Scenic detour: Take the C-32 coastal highway for views of the Costa Brava.
- Learn basic Catalan phrases like “Gràcies” (Thank you) for smoother interactions.
Reaching Your Final Destination
Most private transfers drop guests directly at accommodations. If using public transport:
- Aiguaviva’s center is walkable, but taxis are scarce—pre-arrange return trips.
- Ask hosts for local taxi contacts like Taxi Girona (+34 972 222 222).
Where to Get More Info
Plan ahead, and let services like A2B Transfers handle the logistics for a stress-free start to your Catalan adventure.
FAQ
Q: How long is the airport transfer from Barcelona to Aiguaviva? A: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by road, depending on traffic.
Q: What’s the cheapest Aiguaviva airport transfer service? A: Public transport costs ~€50 but takes 2.5+ hours. For speed and value, private transfers start at €130.
Q: Are luxury transfer options available from Barcelona Airport to Aiguaviva? A: Yes. Providers like A2B offer premium vehicles with amenities like Wi-Fi and chilled drinks.
Q: Can I book a Barcelona airport private taxi service in advance? A: Absolutely. Pre-booking via platforms like A2B guarantees availability and fixed rates.
Q: Does Aiguaviva have Uber? A: Rideshares are rare in rural Catalonia. Private transfers or local taxis are more reliable.
Safe travels!
