If you’re landing at Barcelona El Prat Airport and heading straight to the heart of the old city, the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), you’ll face a simple yet important decision: take a taxi or the metro?
Both are reliable options, but your choice depends on time, budget, comfort, and luggage.
Let’s compare both in detail.
Option 1: Taxi from Barcelona Airport to the Gothic Quarter
Duration:
Approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Price:
- Flat rate: Around €35–€40
- Does have airport supplement
- A bit more costly late evening, weekends, or holidays
Pros:
- Convenient and direct – no transfers or walking involved
- Operates 24/7 – taxis are available day and night
- Perfect if you have bulky luggage or children
Cons:
- More expensive than public transport
- A bit longer in rush hour because of traffic
Tip: Book in advance with a trustful service like TAXXILO.COM for a fixed price and no stress to the airport.
Alternative 2: Metro (L9 Sud + Transfer)
Duration:
About 40–50 minutes
Cost:
- Single ticket: €5.15
- Or employ Hola Barcelona card or T-Casual for savings if making several trips
Route:
- Travel on Metro Line L9 Sud from Airport Terminals T1 or T2
- Change at Zona Universitària or Torrassa to Line 3 (Green Line)
- Exit at Liceu or Drassanes station – both of them are in the Gothic Quarter
Pros:
- Very cost-effective
- No traffic disruption
- Metro every 7–10 minutes
Cons:
- Minimum transfer required
- Not ideal for heavy luggage
- Walking from station to hotel
Verdict: Taxi vs. Metro – What’s Best?
| Feature | Taxi | Metro |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 20–30 mins | 40–50 mins |
| Cost | €35–€40 | €5.15 |
| Comfort | High | Moderate (sometimes crowded) |
| Luggage Friendly | Yes | Not ideal |
| Direct Route | Door-to-door | Requires transfer + walking |
Final Recommendation
Take a taxi if you want comfort, speed, and door-to-door service, especially after a long flight or if you have luggage.
Take the metro if you’re attempting to be frugal, not packing much, and don’t mind walking a little.
Pre-book your private transfer on TAXXILO.COM to avoid lines and surprise fixed-price bills – perfect for solo, couples, and families arriving in Barcelona.
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