Can You Sleep In The Barcelona Airport?

Barcelona, the heart and pride of Spain, boasts a vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and a bustling airport that serves millions of travelers each year. With long layovers or flight delays, many weary travelers have one simple question in mind — can you sleep at the Barcelona Airport?

We, at Airport Sleeping Pods, have created the ultimate guide for catching some shuteye at the Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN). From available facilities and services to insider tips, this guide will help you rest easy and make the most of your stay at BCN. So sit back, relax, and let us show you how to sleep in style at the Barcelona Airport!

1. Sleeping in Public Areas

Yes, you can sleep in the Barcelona Airport’s public areas! Both terminals 1 and 2 have sections with comfortable seating and a relatively quiet atmosphere, especially during the night. While there are no designated sleeping areas, you can find spots to rest if you know where to look.

Terminal 1:

• The second floor’s central area has benches and seating with no armrests, allowing you to lay down comfortably.
• Sections near the gates also offer cushioned seating that can be used for sleeping.

Terminal 2:

• Look for quiet spots throughout the terminal to rest, as seating options are more limited compared to Terminal 1.

Keep in mind that during the day, the airport can be crowded and noisy. However, once nighttime arrives, the foot traffic decreases significantly, making it a more suitable environment for sleep. It’s also a good idea to wear earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones and bring an eye mask for your comfort.

2. Paid Sleep Options

If you prefer a more comfortable and private spot, there are paid sleep options available at the Barcelona Airport.

Terminal 1:

• Air Rooms Barcelona Airport: Located in the business center within the airport, Air Rooms offer private rooms for a fee, with a minimum stay of 4 hours. They’re open 24/7 and come with numerous amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, showers, and a work desk.
• Sleep & Fly: Also situated in Terminal 1 and open round-the-clock, Sleep & Fly offers private pods that can be rented for a minimum of 3 hours. Each pod is equipped with a bed, storage space, a table, and outlets for charging devices.

Can You Sleep In The Barcelona Airport Example

Let’s say you have an overnight layover and choose to sleep in the public areas of Terminal 1. Arriving early evening, explore the terminal and locate a comfortable spot near one of the gates with cushioned seating. Prepare your sleep gear—a travel pillow, blanket, and earplugs—to ensure maximum comfort.

During the night, you enjoy a relatively quiet environment and manage to get some much-needed rest. In the morning, freshen up at one of the airport’s shower facilities (for a fee) and continue with your journey, fully refreshed and ready to take on the day!

Sleeping in the Barcelona Airport is possible and can be a comfortable experience for weary travelers. Whether you choose to rest in the public areas or opt for a paid private space, always ensure you have the essentials for a good night’s sleep—eye mask, earplugs, travel pillow, and a blanket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it allowed to sleep at Barcelona Airport?

Yes, you are allowed to sleep in Barcelona Airport. Many passengers choose to spend the night in the terminals due to late arrivals, early departures, or layovers.

Are there any designated rest zones within the airport?

Barcelona Airport does not have designated rest zones as such, but there are various benches and seating areas where travelers can rest. For more comfort, the airport offers airside VIP lounges, some of which have more relaxing seating and may offer day rooms.

Can I stay inside the terminals overnight?

Yes, the terminals remain open 24 hours, allowing you to remain inside overnight. However, the availability of certain services and shops will be limited outside normal operating hours.

Does the airport provide sleeping pods or cabins?

Currently, Barcelona Airport does not have sleeping pods or cabins. Passengers looking for a private space to sleep might consider booking a nearby airport hotel.

Are there any hotels inside the airport?

While there are no hotels inside the terminal buildings, the Air Rooms at Terminal 1 offer hotel room services for layovers, and there are several hotels within a short distance of the airport that provide shuttle services.

What is the best place to sleep in the airport?

The best place to sleep in the airport often depends on your departure terminal. Generally, quieter areas with armrest-free seating or padded benches are preferred, and these can sometimes be found in less-transited parts of the terminals or near gates that do not have flights departing at night.

Do the airport lounges offer facilities to sleep?

Yes, some airport lounges offer more comfortable seating and quieter environments suitable for resting. However, they usually have operating hours that might not cover the entire night. Purchasing access to these VIP lounges could be an option for a more restful sleep.

Is it safe to sleep in the airport?

Barcelona Airport is considered relatively safe, but as with any public space, you should keep an eye on your belongings. The airport has security personnel patrolling regularly. For peace of mind, stay in well-lit areas and consider using a luggage lock.

Can I bring a sleeping bag or blankets?

Yes, you can bring a sleeping bag, blankets, and travel pillows to make your stay more comfortable. Just ensure that your belongings are always secure and that they do not obstruct walkways or emergency exits.

Are there any showers available at Barcelona Airport?

Yes, there are shower facilities available in some of the VIP lounges, which you can access by purchasing a lounge pass or through membership programs. Otherwise, public showers are not widely available.

What items are recommended for a comfortable stay at the airport?

For a more comfortable stay, consider bringing a travel pillow, sleeping mask, earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones, and a blanket or sleeping bag. Also, have a sweater or jacket on hand as the airport can be chilly at night.

Can I leave the airport and return if I have a layover?

If you have the necessary visas or travel documents to enter Spain, you can leave the airport during your layover. Make sure to account for the time required to pass through security when returning to the airport.

Are food and beverages available at the airport during the night?

While most cafes and restaurants close at night, there are vending machines available throughout the terminals that dispense snacks and drinks 24/7.

Can I use electric outlets to charge my devices?

Yes, Barcelona Airport provides electric outlets for passengers to charge their devices. However, these may be limited, so it’s advisable to have a fully charged battery or a portable power bank.

Is there free Wi-Fi available at Barcelona Airport?

Barcelona Airport offers free unlimited Wi-Fi to all passengers. You can connect by selecting the airport network and following the login instructions.

What should I do with my luggage while sleeping?

You should always keep your luggage close by and secure. For added security, consider using a luggage lock or wrap service. Alternatively, there are luggage storage facilities available at the airport.

Are the airport restrooms open all night?

Yes, the restrooms at Barcelona Airport are open 24 hours a day. They are regularly maintained for cleanliness and convenience.

Is it noisy to sleep at the airport?

Airports are generally noisy due to announcements, passengers, and cleaning activities. It is recommended to bring earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to help block out the noise while trying to sleep.

Are there any quiet zones in the airport for resting or meditating?

While Barcelona Airport does not explicitly have designated quiet zones, you can often find less crowded and quieter areas at the far ends of the terminals or near gates that are closed for the night.

Will I be asked to show my boarding pass or identification while at the airport overnight?

It is possible that security personnel may ask to see your boarding pass or identification, particularly if you are sleeping in the airport overnight. Keep these documents accessible and be prepared to show them if requested.

What should I do if I have concerns about my safety or need assistance?

If you have any safety concerns or require assistance, approach the airport security personnel or any airport staff member. There are also information desks and emergency call points throughout the airport where you can ask for help.

We hope this guide helps you plan your overnight stay at the Barcelona El Prat Airport. Remember to share this post with fellow travelers and explore other guides at Airport Sleeping Pods to make every layover a breeze. Happy travels!