Barcelona Airport: Covid Testing Availability And Facilities

Yes, Barcelona Airport does offer COVID-19 testing. The testing centre is located on level 3 of Terminal 1 in the commercial area El Mirador and is open every day from 3:00 to 19:00. The centre is run by Eurofins Megalab, a private health organisation, and offers PCR and antigen testing. Testing ceased temporarily in January 2022 until new contracts were in place.

Covid testing centre location in Barcelona Airport

Yes, there is a Covid testing centre at Barcelona Airport. It is located in Terminal 1 on the third floor in the commercial area El Mirador. The centre is open seven days a week from 3 am to 7 pm.

The testing centre is operated by Eurofins Megalab, which provides testing services in 12 Spanish airports. The centre provides quick PCR, antigenic, and serological tests to detect active infections and the presence of Covid-19 antibodies. It also has isolation areas for travellers awaiting their results.

The price of a Covid test in Barcelona is around €100 if performed in a private laboratory or clinic. The price varies depending on the length of time to obtain the result. On average, an antigen test costs between €35 and €55, while a PCR test costs:

• €85 with results within 24 hours
• €110 with results within 5 hours
• €170 with results within 2 hours

Please note that PCR tests are not reimbursed for travel reasons by public health services in Barcelona.

Types of tests available

Barcelona Airport offers PCR and antigen testing at a laboratory located in Terminal 1 on Level 3 of the commercial area El Mirador. The testing centre is open seven days a week from 3:00–19:00.

The type of test available will depend on the laboratory. Generally, you can expect to find:

PCR Tests

PCR tests are widely available in Barcelona, including at the airport. This test detects the presence of the virus's genetic material and is considered highly accurate. The test is usually performed via a nasal swab, and results are typically available within a few hours to a day. The cost of a PCR test in Barcelona can vary depending on the speed of the result, ranging from €70 for a result within 12 hours to €170 for a result within 2 hours.

Antigen Tests

Antigen tests, also known as rapid antigen tests, detect specific proteins on the surface of the virus. This type of test is usually cheaper and faster than a PCR test, with results available in as little as 30 minutes. In Barcelona, antigen tests typically cost between €25 and €55.

Serological Tests

Serological tests, also known as antibody tests, detect the presence of antibodies in the blood that are produced in response to an infection. These tests can indicate whether someone has previously been infected with COVID-19 and may have some level of immunity. Serological tests are typically performed via a blood draw and can detect antibodies for several months after infection.

It is important to note that testing requirements and availability may change over time, so it is always recommended to check the latest information and guidelines before travelling.

Cost of tests

The cost of a COVID-19 test in Barcelona depends on the type of test and the laboratory where you get tested. The average cost of a PCR test in a private laboratory or clinic is €100, but prices vary depending on how quickly you need the results. For example, you can expect to pay €85 for results within 24 hours, €110 for results within 5 hours, and €170 for results within 2 hours. Antigen tests are cheaper and usually cost between €35 and €55.

At Barcelona Airport, Terminal 1, you can get a PCR test for €70 and a rapid PCR test for €95. Antigen tests are also available for €25.

It is also possible to get a free COVID-19 test in Barcelona if you have symptoms of the disease or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. However, these tests are not reimbursed for travel purposes.

Opening times of the testing centre

Barcelona Airport does have a COVID-19 testing centre, located on level 3 of Terminal 1 in the commercial area El Mirador. The testing centre is open from 3 am to 7 pm every day.

The diagnostic facilities provide quick PCR, antigenic, and serological tests, with results available in 30 minutes for antigenic tests and within 12 hours for PCR tests. The centre also has isolation areas for travellers awaiting their results.

The price of an antigenic test ranges from 25€ to 35€, while the PCR test costs around 100€. The cost of the PCR test depends on the length of time to obtain the result, with prices ranging from 85€ for results within 24 hours to 170€ for results within 2 hours.

It is recommended to book an appointment for the COVID test to avoid long queues and waiting times. However, it is important to note that testing is only available for passengers departing from Barcelona and is not available for those arriving at the airport.

How to get to the testing centre

The COVID-19 testing laboratory is located on level 3 of Terminal 1 of Barcelona Airport, in the commercial area El Mirador. It is open every day from 3:00 to 19:00.

To get there, you can take the L99 bus from the airport to the Apark&go stop in front of Mercabarnaflor. The laboratory is inside the Apark&go building, at the back of the enclosure.

If you are coming from the city of Barcelona, you can also take the L80 bus, which goes from the town of Gavá to Barcelona and back.

If you are driving, you can find parking at Car Park 7.

Alternative Testing Options

If you are unable to get to the testing centre at the airport, there are other options available for COVID-19 testing in Barcelona.

You can find private laboratories or clinics that offer PCR, antigenic, or serological tests. These tests can be more expensive, but they are usually faster, and you can often get an appointment without waiting in line.

There are also free testing options available through the public health service, but you must have symptoms of the disease or be a contact case of COVID-19. You will also need to present your European Health Insurance Card.

Additionally, there are express testing services available for cruise ship passengers, with centres located near the Sagrada Familia or with testing in your hotel/apartment.

Frequently asked questions