Spain is famous for its vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. While Barcelona dazzles with its unique architecture and Mediterranean vibe, Granada charms visitors with the Alhambra palace and its foothills setting beneath the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you’re short on time or simply want to experience the best of both worlds, a flight from Barcelona to Granada is your quickest ticket from Catalonia to the heart of Andalusia.
Why Fly Over Drive or Train?
The Barcelona to Granada distance of about 850 kilometers (about 530 miles) is not that short to drive or take the train. While Spain’s speedy trains (designated as AVE trains) are gorgeous and comfortable, the direct train journey typically takes 6-7 hours and may include a stop-over at Madrid. Driving is a stunning journey but can take even more time, typically 8-9 hours on the road.
A direct flight, however, is only 1 hour and 30 minutes—the fastest and most convenient way to travel from city to city. Which is why business travelers, tourists with limited time, and anyone who wants to cram in as much Spanish time as possible like it.
Airlines and Airports
-
Departure: Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)
-
Arrival: Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX)
Barcelona’s main airport is large, modern, and well connected to the public transportation system. The Granada airport is smaller and just 17 kilometers (about 10 miles) from central Granada, making it a simple taxi or bus trip upon arrival.
Tourist-friendly airlines on this route are Vueling and Iberia, both of which are popular Spanish airlines. Vueling is a low-cost airline (a “cheap airline,” similar to Southwest or Ryanair), while Iberia is the flagship Spanish airline.
What to Expect at the Airport:
Barcelona El Prat is a major international hub, so there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and amenities. To get there from central Barcelona is easy by train, bus, or taxi.
Granada airport is quite small. There are cafes, car rental offices, and taxis waiting outside. Normal buses run to the city center, and it takes about 30 minutes.
Flight Schedules and Ticket Prices:
-
Flight duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (straight)
-
Frequency: There are various direct flights daily, with extra options during the high tourist season (spring, summer, and early fall).
-
Ticket fares: Fares vary with the season, how in advance you book a seat, and which airline you choose. You can be booking tickets for as low as €40–€80 one way on low-cost airlines if you book seats well in advance. Peak holiday and festival flights and last-minute bookings might cost more.
Pro Tip:
Always verify if your ticket has checked luggage, as a lot of low-cost prices are “hand luggage only” and there is an additional fee for suitcases.
What to Do Upon Arrival in Granada
Granada is a small, walkable city renowned for its Moorish-Spanish fusion. Don’t miss:
-
The Alhambra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the most stunning palaces in Europe. (Pro tip: pre-book tickets!)
-
Albaicín: The ancient Moorish quarter, with its windy streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views.
-
Tapas culture: Granada is one of the last holdouts in Spain where complimentary tapas are included with your drink in most bars.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
-
Book in advance to secure the best fares, especially in spring and summer.
-
Check luggage allowances beforehand.
-
If your flight is early or delayed, check out the timetables of public transport, or book a taxi in advance.
-
You may need to go through security and passport control in Barcelona if you are transferring from abroad.
Final Thoughts
Flying from Barcelona to Granada is a trouble-free and easy way to visit two of Spain’s finest cities on one trip. Whether your interest lies in Gaudí’s buildings in Barcelona or Granada’s Moorish magic, flying means you spend more time seeing places and less time on the move.
Book your taxi ride from TAXXILO.COM to go anywhere in Barcelona.
TAXXILO also offers Premium Airport Transfers with discounted prices.
Leave a Comment