Casa Verda : Luxury villa in Cadaqués > Cadaqués Travel Guide > How to get to Cadaqués
How to get to Cadaqués:
Airports, Trains and Travel Tips
Tucked away near the French border, the seaside village of Cadaqués is famous for its natural beauty and peaceful isolation. With no airport or train station in town, getting there takes a bit of extra planning but the journey is well worth it.
Whether you're flying into Barcelona, Girona, or even Perpignan, we’ll help you compare the best airport options, find the most convenient flights, and choose the ideal way to reach Cadaqués, whether by rental car, bus, taxi or shuttle.
From airport to arrival, here are our top travel tips to make your journey to Cadaqués as smooth and enjoyable as possible, whether you're using public transportation, booking a private transfer or driving yourself.
Where is Cadaqués Located?
Cadaqués is a picturesque coastal village on Spain’s Costa Brava, close to the French border. Located within the Cap de Creus region, it stands out for its striking landscape, Mediterranean character and historical ties to modern art.
Its secluded location is part of its charm but it also means that Cadaqués is not directly accessible by airport or train. There’s no railway line, and the final stretch of road is narrow and winding, which limits public transport options. For most visitors, the easiest and most flexible way to get there is by car, whether through a rental or a private transfer.
It’s important to keep this in mind when planning your trip, from booking your flights to choosing the right transportation to reach Cadaqués comfortably.
What’s the Nearest Airport to Cadaqués?
| Airport | Distance | Travel Time | Flight Type | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Girona–Costa Brava (GRO) | 80 km | ~1h30 | Mostly European low-cost | Closest, fewer international flights |
| Barcelona El Prat (BCN) | 170 km | ~2h30 | International and long haul | Best for international flights |
| Perpignan (France) | 90 km | ~1h45 | Regional French and European | French side, limited flights |
How to Get from Girona to Cadaqués
The best way to travel to Cadaqués from Girona is by car, as it offers the most flexibility and a faster, more comfortable experience. The usual route takes the AP-7 motorway towards Figueres, then passes through Roses before reaching Cadaqués via a winding mountain road.
The total distance is around 80 km, with an estimated travel time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This option avoids the limited and indirect public transport connections, making it ideal for travelers with luggage or those who prefer more independence.
You can easily rent a car at Girona Airport or in the city center, depending on your point of arrival.
By Car from Girona
Traveling from Girona to Cadaqués by public transport is possible, but less straightforward. First, you’ll need to take a train from Girona to Figueres, a short journey of about 40 minutes, with frequent departures from the main train station.
From Figueres, there is no direct train to Cadaqués. You can continue by bus (with limited service) or take a taxi, which takes around 45 minutes. While this option works for travelers without a rental car, it’s important to note that there are few direct connections, and travel times can vary depending on the season and schedules.
Good to know: planning ahead is essential, especially if you're traveling during weekends or off-peak hours.
By Public Transport from Girona
How to Get from Barcelona to Cadaqués
Driving is one of the most convenient ways to travel to Cadaqués from Barcelona. The fastest route follows the AP-7 motorway, a major highway that takes you north toward Figueres, before continuing through Roses and into Cadaqués via a mountain road.
The total travel time is around 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic, especially when leaving or entering Barcelona during rush hour.
Choosing to drive offers maximum autonomy and allows for a flexible itinerary. Many travelers take advantage of the route to make a stop in Figueres, home to the famous Dalí Theatre-Museum, before continuing on to the coast.
By Car from Barcelona
If you’re not driving, reaching Cadaqués from Barcelona takes a bit of coordination, but it’s doable. One of the most reliable options is to take a train to Figueres, then continue the journey by bus or taxi. The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes and taxis from Figueres to Cadaqués usually take another 45 minutes.
There’s also a direct bus service from Estació del Nord, although it often requires a transfer in Roses. It’s slower, but can be convenient if the timing works.
This route involves multiple steps, so be sure to check connections in advance, especially during weekends or off-peak periods.
By Public Transport from Barcelona
Tips for Traveling to Cadaqués
Did you know?
The last few kilometers to Cadaqués follow a narrow, winding mountain road, drive carefully, especially if you’re not used to such road.
Bus schedules vary seasonally; always check the latest timetables before planning your trip.
Parking in the village is limited and often full during peak season, consider parking outside the center and walking or using a taxi.
Book taxis in advance, as availability can be scarce, especially during evenings and weekends.
The village is car-restricted in some areas, so be prepared to walk or use local shuttle services once you arrive.
Prepare for slower travel times during summer holidays and weekends due to increased traffic.
If you’re traveling with large luggage, car travel is generally easier since public transport options are limited.
Plan your arrival and departure times carefully to coordinate with public transport schedules, as options can be infrequent.
Private Transfers & Other Options to reach Cadaqués
For travelers seeking comfort and simplicity, private transfers are a popular alternative to public transport or car rentals. Several companies offer door-to-door service from major airports like Barcelona El Prat or Girona-Costa Brava, with options for shared shuttles, chauffeur-driven cars or minivans ideal if you’re carrying luggage, traveling in a group or arriving on a late-night flight.
You can also book your transfer online in advance, which often includes airport pick-up, luggage assistance and a direct drop-off at your accommodation in Cadaqués. While not the cheapest solution, it saves time and stress, especially if you're unfamiliar with local transportation options.
Some visitors also choose to rent a car with driver, or arrange custom transfers that include sightseeing stops along the way, for example, in Figueres or along the Costa Brava coast.
Arriving in Cadaqués? Choose Casa Verda for Your Stay
After the drive, transfer or train journey, why not unwind in a place that feels like home? Casa Verda is a charming villa ideally located in the heart of Cadaqués just minutes from the beach, the main street, and local highlights. It’s the perfect base to settle in after your travels, whether you’re visiting as a couple, with family, or with a few friends.
Discover more about Cadaqués
Once you’ve made it to Cadaqués, the real adventure begins. From fresh seafood restaurants and cozy bars to hidden beaches and unforgettable activities, we’ll help you make the most of your time in this one-of-a-kind coastal village.
Cadaqués Airport: Frequently Asked Questions
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The closest airport is Girona-Costa Brava (GRO), located about 80 km from Cadaqués. It’s the most convenient option for regional or low cost airlines like Ryanair, especially from European cities. However, for more frequent international flights, including long-haul routes and better airfare deals, Barcelona El Prat (BCN) is your best bet, around 2h30 away by car or shuttle.
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No, Cadaqués doesn’t have its own train station or airport, which partly explains its peaceful, remote atmosphere. The nearest rail station is in Figueres, reachable by train from Barcelona, Girona or other Spanish cities. From there, you’ll need to take a taxi, bus or book a shuttle service to complete your journey to the coast.
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Absolutely, but expect a bit of an adventure. With no direct train and the nearest airports an hour or more away, getting here means mixing rail travel, buses or even a taxi from Figueres. If you're not into car rental or driving mountain roads, it’s still doable, just plan your itinerary carefully, check departure times and don’t expect an airport shuttle to drop you off at the beach.
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From Barcelona El Prat Airport or the city centre, expect a travel time of around 2h30 by car, depending on traffic conditions. If you choose public transport, the journey typically takes 3 to 4 hours, with a train to Figueres, followed by a shuttle bus or taxi. Allow extra time if you're traveling during peak departures or weekends.
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For families or groups, booking a private transfer, van or car rental is often the smartest choice. It gives you more control over your itinerary, makes luggage handling easier and avoids delays caused by waiting for buses, shuttles or navigating train stations. If you're arriving on an international flight, many services offer airport pick-up directly from Barcelona or Girona.