Comfortable Barcelona airport
Even has outdoor terraces!
If your gate is near the tip of the terminal, it is a long stretch, but with the moving walkways, you don't even notice. The best feature of this airport is unquestionably the two large outdoor terraces located on each side of the main building. Very few airports have open-air areas these days; most were closed due to security concerns by the turn of the century. My all-time favorite remains Bangkok Airways' Koh Samui airport, where the entire airport is open-air with a collection of thatch roofs without walls. Makes you want to change into your swimsuit and look for the pool!
Back to El Prat airport, the other area that is big and bright in Terminal 1 is the shopping area. The stores are much larger than those usually found in airports. The Desigual shop, a brand from Barcelona, is larger than I have seen in most shopping centers. There are over 30 restaurants, bars, and coffee shops with a great choice of local flavors to be found aside from the usual fast-food brands.
The older Terminal 2, mostly for low-cost airlines, is located across the field. While there is no shuttle train between the terminals as is usually found in major airports, there is a free shuttle bus service that is simple and efficient. There is a good selection of shops and eateries, although not on the scale of Terminal 1.
Explore Barcelona
If your destination is Barcelona, you will get to town quickly as the airport is only 14km (9 miles) from the city center. You can choose the train, the metro, or the Aerobus from either terminal. After sightseeing the best-known attractions, the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Batllo, etc., look further afield and discover Barcelona's two cable cars and three mountain trains! You will get great views of the city from any of these. This area of Catalunya is also famous for hot-air balloon rides with amazing views. Mainly from Vic, a one-hour drive north of the city, it is definitely something to put on your bucket list.
Last but not least, the food! This is Catalunya country with mountains and the Mediterranean coast. The cuisine draws from both sides, with fantastic seafood, along with many fresh vegetables to choose from. Do try at least a few of Barcelona's restaurants, but do not miss a visit, including lunch, at La Boqueria Food Market.