Barcelona

Barcelona Overview

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Traveling from Barcelona, Spain to China offers exciting opportunities to explore China’s vibrant cities, ancient history, and rich culture. Whether you’re planning to visit Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, or Hong Kong, this guide provides all the information you need to plan your trip from Barcelona to China.


Where is Barcelona?

Barcelona is the second-largest city in Spain, located on the northeastern Mediterranean coast. It is known for its stunning architecture by Antoni Gaudí, including landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell, as well as its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene.


The Neighbouring Cities and Countries of Barcelona

Neighbouring Cities

  • Girona (approx. 100 km): Known for its medieval architecture and Jewish quarter.
  • Tarragona (approx. 100 km): Famous for its Roman ruins and Mediterranean beaches.
  • Sitges (approx. 40 km): A coastal town known for its vibrant nightlife and film festival.

Neighbouring Countries

  • France (to the north): Famous for Paris, the French Riviera, and fine wines.
  • Andorra (to the north): A small, mountainous country known for its ski resorts.
  • Gibraltar (to the southwest): Known for the Gibraltar Rock and as a key naval base.

Which International Airport in Barcelona Can Take Flights to China?

The main international airport serving Barcelona is Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN). It is one of the busiest airports in Spain and offers a wide range of international flights, including those to China. There are both direct and connecting flights available to major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and more.

Direct Flights to China

  • Barcelona to Beijing
  • Barcelona to Shanghai
  • Barcelona to Hong Kong

Airlines Operating Flights to China

  • Air China
  • Iberia
  • China Eastern Airlines
  • Emirates
  • Qatar Airways

Plan Your China Trip from Barcelona

Our Barcelona – China travel guide covers essential information about traveling from Barcelona to China, including the best times to visit, top destinations, visa details, and transportation options.

When and Where to Visit

  • Beijing: For the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
  • Shanghai: For modern architecture like The Bund and Shanghai Tower.
  • Xi’an: To see the ancient Terracotta Warriors.
  • Hong Kong: A fusion of eastern and western cultures with sights like Victoria Peak.
  • Chengdu: Famous for Giant Pandas and Sichuan cuisine.
  • Yunnan: Rich in diverse ethnic groups, with natural beauty in places like Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La.

China Travel Tips

  • Language: Mandarin is the official language.
  • Currency: The Chinese Yuan (CNY).
  • Time Zone: China Standard Time (CST), UTC +8.
  • Weather: China experiences diverse weather patterns. The best time to visit most areas is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November).

How to Travel from Barcelona to the Main Cities of China

Barcelona – Beijing Travel

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 11-13 hours (direct flight).
  • Airlines: Air China, Iberia.
  • Top Attractions:
    • The Great Wall of China
    • Forbidden City
    • Temple of Heaven
    • Tiananmen Square
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Xi’an Travel

  • Flight Duration: 12-14 hours (with layovers).
  • Airlines: Qatar Airways, Emirates.
  • Top Attractions:
    • Terracotta Army
    • Big Wild Goose Pagoda
    • Ancient City Wall
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Shanghai Travel

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours (direct flight).
  • Airlines: Iberia, Air China.
  • Top Attractions:
    • The Bund
    • Yu Garden
    • Shanghai Tower
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Hong Kong Travel

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 13 hours (direct flight).
  • Airlines: Iberia, Cathay Pacific.
  • Top Attractions:
    • Victoria Peak
    • Hong Kong Disneyland
    • Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with spring and autumn being ideal.

Barcelona – Guangzhou Travel

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 13-15 hours (with layovers).
  • Airlines: China Southern Airlines, Emirates.
  • Top Attractions:
    • Canton Tower
    • Yuexiu Park
    • Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
  • Best Time to Visit: Autumn.

Barcelona – Chengdu Travel

  • Flight Duration: 13-15 hours (with layovers).
  • Airlines: Qatar Airways, Emirates.
  • Top Attractions:
    • Chengdu Panda Base
    • Sichuan Opera
    • Jinli Ancient Street
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Kunming Travel

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 14-16 hours (with layovers).
  • Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways.
  • Top Attractions:
    • Stone Forest
    • Green Lake Park
    • Kunming’s Ancient Pagodas
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Chongqing Travel

  • Flight Duration: 14-16 hours (with layovers).
  • Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways.
  • Top Attractions:
    • Three Gorges Museum
    • Hongya Cave
    • Chongqing Zoo
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Visa Policy from Barcelona to China

Visa Requirements for Spanish Citizens

Spanish citizens require a visa to travel to China. Here’s a breakdown of what you need for the visa application process:

  1. Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months after your intended arrival date in China.
  2. Visa Application Form: Complete the online Chinese Visa Application Form.
  3. Photographs: Provide two recent passport-sized color photos.
  4. Flight Tickets: Proof of return or onward flight.
  5. Hotel Reservations: Proof of accommodation for your stay in China.
  6. Financial Proof: Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in China.

Types of Visas

  • Tourist Visa (L Visa): For travel and leisure purposes.
  • Business Visa (M Visa): For business-related travel.
  • Student Visa (X Visa): For studying in China.
  • Transit Visa (G Visa): For those passing through China en route to other destinations.

Visa Application Process

  • Submit Documents: Submit your documents to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in Barcelona or the Embassy of China in Madrid.
  • Processing Time: Standard processing takes about 4-7 business days.

Barcelona to China Transportation Guide

By Air

Flying is the fastest and most efficient way to travel from Barcelona to China. Direct flights are available to cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, while others may require a layover.

By Train or Bus

  • Train Travel: High-speed trains within China are efficient for domestic travel, but there are no direct train connections from Barcelona to China.
  • Bus Travel: Not a practical option for traveling from Barcelona to China due to the long distance and logistical challenges.

By Cruise or Ship

Although cruises from Spain to China are available, they are typically for leisure and can take several weeks, making it impractical for most travelers.


Traveling from Barcelona to China offers a wealth of opportunities to explore historical sites, vibrant cities, and unique landscapes. With a well-organized plan, you can enjoy a seamless journey, whether you’re visiting Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, or Hong Kong. With the right visa and a good understanding of transportation options, your dream trip to China is within reach! Safe travels!