Traveling from Barcelona Airport to L’Estartit blends the excitement of Catalonia’s vibrant capital with the serene beauty of the Costa Brava. This 130 km journey takes roughly 1 hour 45 minutes by road, winding through picturesque landscapes like the Montgrí Natural Park and coastal villages. Whether you’re heading to L’Estartit’s pristine beaches, the Medes Islands marine reserve, or a seaside villa, choosing the right transfer ensures a stress-free start to your trip.
Getting to Know L’Estartit
Nestled on Spain’s Costa Brava, L’Estartit is famed for its 3 km sandy beach, underwater diving trails, and the medieval town of Torroella de Montgrí nearby. Visitors flock here for:
- Scuba diving in the Medes Islands Protected Marine Area
- Family-friendly resorts with calm, shallow waters
- Hiking and cycling routes in the Montgrí Natural Park
- Proximity to historic gems like Pals and Begur
This fishing-village-turned-holiday-hub retains local charm while offering modern amenities, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure.
Arriving at Barcelona Airport (El Prat)
Barcelona Airport (BCN) is Spain’s second-busiest airport, with two terminals (T1 and T2). After landing:
- Follow signage to baggage claim and customs.
- Currency exchange/ATMs and SIM card vendors are available post-arrivals.
- For pre-booked transfers, drivers typically wait in the arrivals hall with a name sign.
Pro Tip: If booking a Barcelona airport private transfer, confirm your terminal and flight details in advance for seamless coordination.
Barcelona Airport to L’Estartit Transfer Options
Public Transport: Trains and Buses
- Train + Bus: Take the R2 Nord train from BCN to Barcelona Sants (20 mins, €4.20), then a SARFA bus to L’Estartit (2h 30m, €15–€20). Limited daily departures.
- Direct Bus: No year-round direct routes; seasonal services may operate in summer.
Best for: Solo travelers on a tight budget.
Taxi & Rideshare
- Metered Taxi: €180–€220 one-way. Ensure the meter is running and confirm toll fees upfront.
- Rideshare Apps: BlaBlaCar occasionally lists drivers for this route (€25–€40 per seat).
Watch for: Unofficial taxis soliciting inside terminals—use licensed providers only.
Car Rentals
Major rental agencies (Europcar, Sixt) operate at BCN. Expect €50–€80/day for compact cars.
- Drive Route: AP-7 highway north to Girona, then GI-642 toward L’Estartit.
- Tolls: ~€15 one-way.
Consider: Parking in L’Estartit’s center can be challenging in peak season.
Private Transfer (Recommended)
Pre-booking a Barcelona airport to L’Estartit private shuttle offers:
- Fixed pricing (€150–€190 for 1–3 passengers)
- 24/7 availability with flight tracking
- Vehicle choices: Sedans, minivans, or luxury cars
- Complimentary waiting time (60 minutes at airports)
- Meet & greet service with English-speaking drivers
Companies like A2B Transfers specialize in Costa Brava routes, ensuring punctuality and local expertise.
Barcelona Airport to L’Estartit: Comparison Table
Choosing the Best Transfer Method
- Families/Groups: Opt for a private taxi from Barcelona Airport to L’Estartit to accommodate luggage and avoid multiple stops.
- Solo Travelers: Public transport works if schedules align.
- Flexibility Seekers: Rent a car to explore hidden coves like Cala Pedrosa en route.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- Book Early: Summer (June–August) sees high demand—secure transfers 2–3 weeks ahead.
- Scenic Detour: Take the C-31 coastal road past Palamós for cliffside views.
- Language: While Catalan is official, most drivers and tourism staff speak English.
- Tipping: Round up fares or tip 5–10% for exceptional service.
Reaching Your Final Destination
Most transfers drop guests directly at hotels or rental properties. If staying in a remote villa:
- Confirm exact coordinates with your driver.
- Download offline maps—some rural roads lack clear signage.
Where to Get More Info
FAQ: Barcelona Airport to L’Estartit Transfers
Q: How much is a private transfer from Barcelona Airport to L’Estartit? A: Prices start at €150 for standard sedans, with minivans (up to 8 passengers) around €220.
Q: Are child seats available for L’Estartit taxi services? A: Yes—reputable providers like A2B offer free child/booster seats upon request.
Q: How early should I book a transfer? A: Reserve at least 48 hours in advance, especially for summer travel.
Q: Do drivers assist with luggage? A: Professional transfer services include luggage handling as standard.
Q: What if my flight is delayed? A: Providers tracking your flight adjust pickup times automatically at no extra cost.
Safe travels! With the right L’Estartit airport transfer options, your Catalan adventure begins the moment you land.
