Tag Archive for: Airports

10 Of The Best Airports in Spain

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is how to get there. Spain is a popular tourist destination, and as such, has several airports located throughout the country. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the main airports in Spain.

Which are the main airports in Spain?

The best airports in Spain make it easy for travelers to explore the country’s many attractions. From Barcelona El Prat Airport to Madrid Barajas Airport, Spain has some of the busiest airports in Europe. While Barcelona International Airport (BCN) is the busiest airport in the country, other popular Spanish airports include Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), Malaga Airport (AGP), Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), Lanzarote Airport and Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC).

All of these airports offer flights to major cities within Spain as well as to destinations in other countries throughout Europe. Let’s take a look at the top ten airports in Spain and discover all the information you need to determine which one is right for your next trip.

1. Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD)

Barajas International Airport is one of Europe’s most impressive airports. Located conveniently near Madrid’s city center, it welcomes over 50 million travelers each year. Tourists choose Madrid to explore its various attractions. From the stunning architecture and shopping on Gran Via to iconic landmarks such as Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace, this vibrant metropolis has a lot to offer.

2. Barcelona International Airport (BCN)

Located just a short bus ride from Barcelona’s bustling downtown, Barcelona International Airport is the second busiest airport in Spain. There are several popular destinations from this hub, including Gran Canaria, Palma de Mallorca, and Malaga—all of which have their own airports. You can explore the city’s vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, and gastronomy from here. From exploring its illustrious capital city teeming with history and architecture, such as the Sagrada Familia or Gaudi’s masterpieces, to sun-soaked beaches, Barcelona is a must-visit for any vacationer.

3. Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI)

Despite being a small island, the Palma de Mallorca airport welcomes millions of holidaymakers each summer. Majestic Majorca is renowned for its sunny beaches and rich heritage; tourists can explore the bustling city of Palma or venture farther to uncover secret viewing spots around this Mediterranean paradise! With so much history to discover in Santa Maria Cathedral and hidden places off the beaten track, now’s your chance to experience true Spanish culture at its best.

4. Malaga Airport (AGP)

Malaga Airport, the epicenter of entry to Costa del Sol in southern Spain, is conveniently located near bustling city centers as well as popular tourist destinations like Torremolinos. In peak summer months, it hosts approximately 20 million travelers! Aside from its renowned beach parties and tranquil resorts with golf courses, Malaga offers so much more: a reminder of Islamic culture past through La Alcazaba fortress and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and tantalizing flavors of Andalusia during Malaga’s festivals, where you can savor flamenco performances, sherry wines, and fresh-grilled sardines.

5. Alicante International Airport (ALC)

Alicante Airport, located on the Costa Blanca in Spain, is another top destination for travelers. Popular tourist resorts such as Benidorm and Altea are just a stone’s throw away from Alicante International Airport. Alicante, the province’s capital, and a breathtaking seaport attracts 20 million visitors annually. Located on Spain’s Costa Blanca coast along the Mediterranean Sea, this destination is home to many European retirees seeking sunny leisure. Alicante offers something for everyone from its white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife to its Casco Antiguo castle and marble promenade lined with museums. Come indulge in all this beautiful locale has to offer; you’ll be sure not to regret it.

Take a look at the most important airports in Spain

 

6. Gran Canaria Airport (LPA)

Gran Canaria airport is the busiest in the Canary Islands, with July and August being peak tourist season. It’s located close to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital of this incredible island. There are plenty of things for visitors to enjoy here: Playa de Las Canteras boasts excellent swimming conditions; a lively carnival celebration annually; shopping opportunities abound; cruise ships dock in its port regularly; and colorful neighborhoods rest atop its hills. Furthermore, adventurers will love beginning their journey at La Palmas to experience the majestic volcanic crater Cauldron of Bandama.

7. Tenerife Sur (TFS)

The island of Tenerife is the largest in Spain’s Canary Islands and has two airports, the smaller Tenerife North (TFN) and the bigger Tenerife South (TFS). International connections arrive at TFS airport, while a direct bus service connects both airports. Vacationers come all year round to enjoy resorts like Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, or Costa Adeje near TFN. Pico del Teide will take your breath away. At 3715 meters, this vulcano reigns as Spain’s highest elevation point. For those seeking some adventure, a paragliding session will have you soaring above the clouds of this beautiful island.

8. Ibiza Airport (IBZ)

Ibiza’s airport, though modest in size, welcomes more than five million tourists every year. Located near the island itself, this is your gateway to discovering both Ibiza and Formentera at their best; from May onwards until October, people arrive for a memorable summer of partying with immersive techno music across many beach clubs. Nonetheless, if you prefer something quieter, there are plenty of world heritage sites that you can explore either by yourself or take part on an organized tour – not to mention secluded beaches and small villages perfect for relaxation while shopping opportunities also abound. Whether you’re searching for wild nightlife, a relaxed get-away, or adventure and sports activities, this is the place to be.

9. Valencia Airport (VLC)

Although Valencia Airport is much smaller than other airports, it still serves an impressive six million passengers annually. With flights available from Madrid to the likes of London, Rome, Paris, and Amsterdam among others; this Mediterranean hub always welcomes travelers with open arms! And don’t forget all the incredible attractions for visitors – La Ciudad de las Artes y de las Ciencias showcases modern structures such as a planetarium or cultural venues like botanical collections. You can also explore Valencian Gothic architecture at La Lonja de la Seda, declared a world heritage site. In addition to the astounding cathedral, the historic Casco district, and El Carmen’s charismatic bohemian flair, Jardín del Turia offers visitors an opportunity for tranquility with its riverbed park.

10. San Pablo Airport Seville (SVQ)

Every year, over five million travelers make their way to Seville by flying into San Pablo Airport. The months between May and August are the most crowded with tourists looking for a gateway to Andalusia’s renowned beaches of Costa del Sol and its capital – Seville. Steeped in history and architecture, this city is home to UNESCO World Heritage Site Cathedral de Sevilla alongside other remarkable landmarks such as Real Alcázar, Parque de María Luisa, Plaza de España, etc. Additionally, visitors flock to the Santa Cruz neighborhood brimming with charm or indulge in art at one of the many museums featuring fine artwork. Day trips to Cordoba or Granada are also popular if you’re looking to explore more of Andalusia.

Which is the nicest airport in Spain?

Adolfo Suárez-Barajas airport in Madrid has been named the top airport in Europe for services, efficiency, complaints handling, and quality of its stores & restaurants. Not far behind is Bilbao Airport, which came second.

Which airline travels to Spain?

Spain is a coveted destination for many, attracting various airlines that operate direct flights to different Spanish cities. In particular, notable carriers that facilitate direct travel to Spain are Air Europa, Air France, Alitalia, British Airways, EasyJet, Iberia, Lufthansa, Ryanair, Vueling, and Wizz Air.

These airlines typically operate from various international aviation hubs and maintain multiple air links to diverse Spanish cities. Thus, prospective travelers can opt for the most suitable carrier that aligns with their itinerary and budget. It is noteworthy that some of these airlines also extend budget-friendly travel options, and it’s advisable to keep an eye out for exclusive deals and promotions.

A word from SublimeSpain

Spain is a great holiday destination, and with its stunning array of the best airports located all over the country, it is easy to see why so many people travel there. From Barcelona El Prat to Gran Canaria Airport and Son Sant Joan, the country offers a variety of international airports for visitors to choose from. From daily domestic services between major cities to regular connections worldwide, these airports make it easy to soar over Spain and explore the popular tourist resorts or vibrant cities. Whatever your destination of choice is, there’s sure to be an airport in Spain that will provide you with all the information, flights, and flight tickets you need.

Spanish Airports: The 10 Most Used Airports in Spain

Spanish Airports are essential to Spain because the country gets many visitors throughout the year, especially the summer months. Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia are among the most popular destinations. Spain is also a popular tourist destination because of the Canary Islands, Costa del Sol, and Balearic islands

Next to this, the Pyrenees form the shared border between Spain and France. Skiers and cyclists will enjoy exploring the mountain range.

Top Spanish Airports

With its big size, Spain has many international airports. Below we discuss the top Spain airports in more detail from largest airports to smallest.

1) Madrid Airport

Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is one of the most used international airports in Europe located in the northeast of Madrid near the capital city centre. The airport changed its name in 2014 to Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport.

It is the first airport in Spain for passengers, goods transport, and operations. It ranks fifth in Europe according to Eurostat agency data and fifteenth in the world by passenger traffic according to ACI agency statistics.

2 Barcelona Airport

Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) is located about 13 kilometers southwest of Barcelona. It ranks second in Spain after Madrid Airport. There are flights to more than 200 destinations, making it one of the most important airports in the world.

3) Palma de Mallorca Airport

Palma de Mallorca Airport (Son Sant Joan Airport) (PMI) is located 4 km south of Palma, the main island of Mallorca, Spain. It is about 8 kilometers from the city center. Due to its location in one of the most touristic hotspots in Spain, it is one of the busiest airports in the summertime.

4) Málaga Airport

Málaga Airport (AGP) is located in the southwest of Málaga, with the best approach to the runway being made over the sea. This airport is the main Airport of Andalucia and the Costa del Sol. This airport in Spain has a capacity of 15 million passengers per year. The airport is close to the center, only 15 minutes away. It is connected to over 60 countries within Europe and the rest of the world.

5) Alicante Airport

Alicante Airport (ALC) is located in the southeast of Alicante, close to Alicante and Murcia. It has a capacity of 10 million passengers per year. The airport is also known by the name of El Altet. It is mostly used by Ryanair, Easyjet, Vueling, Norwegian air shuttle, and other low-cost airlines.

6) Gran Canaria Airport

Las Palmas / Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is an international airport, located about 19 km from Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria. It is also known as Gando Airport. The airport has recently been updated and expanded to be able to handle more passengers, airlines, and aircrafts every year.

7) Tenerife South Airport

Tenerife Airport (TFS) is the second major airport in the Canary Islands. It is located in the south of Tenerife, near Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristóbal de La Laguna. It has a capacity for 10 million passengers per year with services to more than 60 destinations within Europe, North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and

8) Ibiza Airport

The Ibiza Airport (IBZ) is located on the island of Ibiza, close to Santa Eulária des Riu. Most visitors that want to go to Ibiza or Formentera take a plane to Ibiza Airport. The airport has improved its facilities and services recently. It is an international airport and is connected to many European countries, such as Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and the Netherlands.

9) Lanzarote Airport

Lanzarote Airport (ACE) is located southwest of Arrecife and around an 8min drive. It is one of the airports on the canary islands. Many international flights arrive at Lanzarote Airport. It includes a museum that has a collection of historical aircraft.

10) Valencia Airport

Valencia Airport (VLC) is located 8 km from the center of Valencia and has a metro connection. It has a single terminal, but is an international airport and connects to over 20 countries within Europe and the rest of the world. After Alicante, it is the busiest airport in the region.

International Spanish airports

Most Spanish airports have flight connections to major cities all over the world. The airports with the most international flight connections include Madrid, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Malaga, Alicante, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife. The airports are linked to a large transportation network that allows you to travel to your final destination by train, taxi, bus, or subway.

Domestic flights

Spain’s domestic flights include routes from Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Sevilla, and Malaga. Most flights go to major cities. However, some smaller cities also have their own airport with scheduled flight connections to other parts of the country.

Moving from the airports

Taxies are affordable and can be used to get to the city. Bus transport is also good and very cheap, especially if you take advantage of certain discount passes such as tourist or student cards. The subway system is relatively new and well connected to other forms of public transport.

Frequently asked questions

Which airports are on the canary islands?

From big to small: Tenerife South Airport, Gran Canaria Airport, Fuerteventura Airport, Lanzarote Airport, Tenerife North–Ciudad de La Laguna Airport, El Hierro Airport, La Gomera Airport.

What is the largest Spanish airport?

The largest airport is Madrid Airport, after this comes Barcelona airport, Palma de Mallorca Aiport, and Málaga Airport.

How long before take-off do I need to check-in?

It is best to be at the airport three hours before international flights.

Which airlines are from Spain?

The main ones are Iberia, Vueling Airlines, Air Europa, Iberia Express, Air Nostrum. The others include Albastar, Binter Canarias, Canaryfly, LEVEL, Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas, Volota, Wamos Air, and World2fly.