Find Barcelona to Tarragona bus tickets
Why Choose the Bus from Barcelona to Tarragona
Traveling from Barcelona to Tarragona offers a convenient and scenic journey that deserves careful consideration of your transportation options. Choosing the right mode of transport can enhance your experience and ensure a smooth trip.
💰 Cost-Effective Travel
pros
- Bus tickets between Barcelona and Tarragona are reasonably priced, ranging from €7.5 to €15, making it an affordable option for travelers.
- Opting for a bus could save you money that you can use for exploring Tarragona's attractions.
cons
- While the bus is economical, last-minute bookings may lead to higher fares compared to earlier purchases.
🛎️ Convenient Schedule
pros
- Buses from Barcelona to Tarragona depart every four hours, providing flexible travel times to fit various schedules.
- With daily services, you can easily align your trip with other travel plans without extensive wait times.
cons
- Buses may have limited departures during off-peak hours compared to train services, which could restrict options during late-night travel.
⭐ Scenic Views
pros
- The bus route from Barcelona to Tarragona covers 84.4 km, allowing passengers to enjoy beautiful landscapes during the journey.
- Travelers can experience the charming Catalan countryside, adding a visually appealing dimension to their trip.
cons
- While the scenery is delightful, it may not be as fast-paced as railway travel, potentially feeling longer for those in a hurry.
highlights:
Travelers should plan their departure times accordingly, as off-peak schedules may limit options.
Affordable ticket prices make bus travel a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Frequent departures provide easy scheduling, allowing spontaneous trips.
Scenic views along the route enhance the travel experience and showcase the beauty of Catalonia.
Bus Options from Barcelona to Tarragona
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct | Empresa Plana | Barcelona Station, Barcelona | Tarragona Station, Tarragona | 08:00, 12:00, 16:00, 20:00 | 09:30, 13:30, 17:30, 21:30 | Every 4 hours | 1h 30m | € 7.5-15 | |
| Connecting | Renfe | Barcelona-Sants, Barcelona | Tarragona, Tarragona | 09:15, 13:15, 17:15, 21:15 | 10:21, 14:21, 18:21, 22:21 | Every 4 hours | 1h 6m | € 9-20 | Madrid |
Comparison of Bus Operators from Barcelona to Tarragona
Comparing bus operators servicing the route from Barcelona to Tarragona is crucial for travelers to optimize their trip based on budget, convenience, and personal preferences. The route covers approximately 84.4 km and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with services departing every four hours. Understanding the offerings of each operator can enhance the travel experience.
| Criteria | Empresa Plana | FlixBus |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | € 7.5 - € 15 | € 8 - € 16 |
| pricing policies | ||
| refund policy | No refunds, only exchanges allowed under specific conditions. | Fully refundable if canceled 30 days before travel; 50% refund thereafter. |
| Ticket Changes | Tickets can be changed up to 2 hours before departure for a fee. | Free changes allowed up to 30 minutes before departure. |
| discounts | Children under 12 receive a 20% discount. | Students and seniors receive a 15% discount. |
| amenities | Air conditioning, Free Wi-Fi, Restroom facilities, USB charging ports | Free Wi-Fi, Power outlets, Snack service available for purchase |
| baggage allowance | ||
| free allowance | 1 piece of luggage up to 20 kg and 1 small carry-on. | 1 larger piece (30 kg) and 1 small personal item. |
| Additional Fees | €5 for each additional bag, and oversized luggage incurs a fee of €10. | First additional bag costs €7, subsequent bags €10 each. |
| accessibility | Buses are equipped with ramps for wheelchair access and designated seating for disabled passengers. | Accessible buses with space for wheelchairs and guide dogs welcomed. |
Travelers have several options for the Barcelona to Tarragona route, with Empresa Plana appealing for its overall affordability and straightforward policies. However, FlixBus provides greater flexibility and amenities, particularly for those seeking to travel with multiple bags or requiring specific discounts. Ultimately, the choice of operator should align with the traveler's individual needs and preferences.
Bus Stops and Stations from Barcelona to Tarragona
Knowing about the bus stops and stations is essential for ensuring a smooth travel experience between Barcelona and Tarragona.
Main Bus Stations in Barcelona
Estació de Autobusos Barcelona Nord
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Metro Lines: L1 (Red Line) and L2 (Purple Line)
- Local buses: Various routes connecting to the city center
- Renfe train services: Nearby Estació de França for regional connections
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your bus departure.
- Be aware of security checks and have your bag ready for inspection.
- Try to travel during off-peak hours to avoid long queues.
- Check out nearby attractions like the Arc de Triomf if you have extra time.
Main Bus Stations in Tarragona
Estació d'Autobusos de Tarragona
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Luggage storage lockers
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
- Local bus services connecting to various parts of Tarragona
- Walking distance to taxi stands and rideshare services
- Easy access to local attractions and hotels
- Plan your arrival to allow time for navigating the city.
- Familiarize yourself with the bus schedules as services may vary.
- Avoid evenings on weekends for less crowded conditions.
- Explore local eateries if you want to sample Tarragona's cuisine nearby.
En Route Stops
Sitges
facilities
- Restrooms
- Vending machines
- Seating areas
Cunit
facilities
- Limited seating
- Local shops nearby
Calafell
facilities
- Seating areas
- Cafés nearby
Understanding the bus stations and stops along the route from Barcelona to Tarragona ensures a hassle-free journey. Familiarize yourself with these details to make the most of your travel experience.
Travel Tips
⛰ Plan for Scenic Views
The bus route from Barcelona to Tarragona offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline. Consider sitting on the right side of the bus for the best views as you travel along the coast.
📍 Pack Local Snacks
To enhance your travel experience, pack local snacks such as 'pan de coca' or 'turrón' to enjoy during the ride. This way, you can taste a bit of Catalonia while en route to Tarragona.
🚍 Check Event Calendars
If you're traveling during summer, check Tarragona's event calendar. The famous 'Tarraco Viva' historical festival might lead to crowded buses, but it's a unique experience with reenactments and cultural activities worth joining!
🎭 Arrive Early for Comfort
Buses can sometimes be full, especially during weekends. Arrive at the bus station early to secure the best seat, and don’t forget to check if there are amenities like Wi-Fi or power outlets onboard.
🏛 Explore Tarragona's Rich History
Use the bus ride to prepare for Tarragona’s history. Read up on its Roman roots, particularly the amphitheater and aqueduct you can visit upon arrival, making your trip educational and enjoyable.