Reus Airport

Overview

Reus Airport (IATA: REU) is an international airport located in the Catalan region of Spain, primarily serving the Costa Dorada coastline and the city of Tarragona. It operates as a seasonal hub for leisure travel, with most flights arriving during the spring and summer months. The airport is used extensively by low-cost carriers, including Ryanair and Jet2, connecting passengers to numerous European cities such as Manchester, London, Dublin, and Brussels. Reus Airport is also a secondary gateway for visitors heading to Barcelona, which lies about 100 kilometers to the northeast, though it is more commonly chosen by those bound for the beach resorts of Salou, Cambrils, and La Pineda, or for the PortAventura World theme park. Despite its relatively small size, the airport handles a significant volume of seasonal traffic, making it a convenient alternative to Barcelona-El Prat for travelers focused on the Costa Dorada region.

Location & Access

Reus Airport is situated approximately 7 kilometers south of Reus city center and about 10 kilometers west of Tarragona. It lies just off the N-420 highway, making it easily accessible by car. The airport’s location is strategically placed for tourists heading to the coast: Salou is roughly 15 minutes away by road, and Cambrils about 20 minutes. For those continuing to Barcelona, the AP-7 motorway provides a direct route. Public transport options include regular bus services operated by Empresa Plana, which connect the airport to Reus, Tarragona, and Barcelona (Estació d'Autobusos de Sants). Journey times vary: roughly 20 minutes to Reus town, 30 minutes to Tarragona, and about 1 hour 45 minutes to Barcelona. Taxis are available outside the arrivals area, with fixed rates to popular destinations such as Salou (around €25–30) and Tarragona (€30–35). Car rental desks are located in the terminal, with major companies like Avis, Europcar, and Hertz offering vehicles. Parking at the airport is straightforward: a paid parking lot is located directly in front of the terminal, with spaces for both short and long stays. The lot is wheelchair accessible, with designated spaces close to the entrance.

Facilities

Reus Airport is compact but provides the essential services needed for a comfortable journey. The terminal is fully wheelchair accessible, featuring a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilets. There is also a dedicated wheelchair-accessible toilet with a changing table in the family restroom. For passengers arriving early or with time to spare, baggage storage is available, allowing travelers to explore the area without their luggage. The airport offers standard on-site services, including a café and small shop selling snacks, drinks, and travel essentials. Toilets are located throughout the terminal and are kept clean and well maintained. There is no dedicated lounge, but the café provides a place to relax. Flight information displays are clearly visible. It is important to note that the airport operates seasonally; during peak hours (10–11 am), the terminal can become busy as several flights depart close together. Security checks are efficient, but passengers should allow extra time during these periods. Wi-Fi is available free of charge throughout the terminal.

About the Region

The Costa Dorada, meaning “Golden Coast,” is renowned for its long stretches of fine sandy beaches and warm Mediterranean climate. The region attracts millions of tourists each year, drawn by the sunny weather, clear waters, and family-friendly resorts. A major draw is PortAventura World, one of Europe’s largest theme parks, featuring roller coasters, shows, and a water park. The historic city of Tarragona, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers Roman ruins including an amphitheater and aqueduct. Reus itself is known as the birthplace of the modernist architect Antoni Gaudí, and visitors can tour his childhood home and the Gaudí Centre museum. The surrounding landscape is a mix of coastal plains and hills, with vineyards producing the region’s Cava and Priorat wines. Outdoor activities include hiking in the Prades Mountains, sailing in the Mediterranean, and cycling along the coast. The area is also famous for its seafood cuisine, particularly calçots (a type of spring onion) and romesco sauce.

Practical Information

Reus Airport is operated by Aena and is open seasonally, typically from late March to early November. Outside of this period, flights are limited or may be canceled. The terminal opens approximately two hours before the first scheduled departure and closes after the last arrival. It is strongly recommended to check flight schedules and airport opening hours in advance during off-season travel. Official contact information: phone +34 913 21 10 00, website www.aena.es/en/reus.html. The airport has a Facebook page and Twitter account for updates. Currency exchange is not available at the airport; passengers should obtain euros before arriving. ATMs are located in the terminal but may not always be functional. For lost luggage, contact your airline directly. Smoking is not permitted inside the terminal; designated smoking areas are outside.