Costa Brava Spain Travel Guide
This is the closest in distance airport to many Costa Brava towns, about 12.5 km (7.8 miles) southwest of Girona city center. GRO mainly welcomes low-budget airlines, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers from Europe. Its proximity simplifies transfers to the coastal resorts.
BCN is a big international hub, about 120 km (75 miles) south of the central Costa Brava region. It features a wider variety of international and long-haul flights from all over the world. While further away, its extensive connections often make it the preferred choice for tourists who are arriving from outside Europe or those seeking direct flights from major global hubs.
Flight frequency and prices peak during the high season (July-August) plus national holidays. Expect higher fares and fuller planes at these times. Shoulder seasons offer a good balance of pleasant weather and competitive prices.
GRO offers basic facilities including vehicle rental desks, bus services, taxi stands, a few shops, and cafes for your convenience.
BCN features extensive facilities across its multiple terminals. These include numerous shops (duty-free and retail), a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, lounges, vehicle rental firms, and direct connections to train, metro, and bus networks.
For flights abroad from BCN, arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. For European flights, 2 hours is typical.
Allow extra time during peak season (July-August) for check-in, security, and passport control due to increased traffic.
Consider packing light to speed up airport processes and avoid baggage fees.
Further than air travel, land transport options offer ways to reach the Costa Brava, specifically if you are traveling from other parts of Spain or neighboring countries.
Buses serve as a practical plus budget-an amicable way to travel to and within the Costa Brava region. They link coastal towns, inland villages, and major cities.
You need a valid driver's license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is for non-EU citizens and must be carried alongside your national license.
Roads are generally well-maintained. The AP-7 is a toll motorway offering a fast route. Coastal roads can be winding and scenic, offering breathtaking views.
While less common for international arrivals, sea transport plays a role in internal coastal exploration. Palamós is the main cruise port on the Costa Brava, welcoming smaller and medium-sized cruise ships.
The Costa Brava region does not offer significant river transit choices for visitors; its rivers are generally not navigable for tourist purposes. For international cruise arrivals, standard Schengen immigration procedures apply, similar to air travel.
Cruise ports like Palamós have taxi stands and bus stops well-situated, connecting passengers to nearby towns and more inland.
Limited passenger ferry services operate within the Costa Brava region for short scenic trips between coastal villages or excursions to the Medes Islands.
There are no major international ferry routes directly to the Costa Brava region.
Be aware of methods and recommended timings for your departure. Spain does not levy specific exit fees or taxes on departing travelers at the airport or ports beyond what is typically included in your airline ticket price.
Allow ample time to navigate the airport. Major train and bus stations offer basic amenities.
Airports (GRO, BCN) feature duty-free shops, retail stores, and a wide selection of restaurants and cafes.
Lounges are available at airports for travelers to relax before their flight.
Major rail and bus stations provide waiting areas and often coffee shops or small shops for convenience.
Give yourself plenty of time prior to departing processes, especially during peak travel times, to avoid stress.
