Travelling between airports and city centres is something every traveller experiences regularly. However, that journey can sometimes be a hassle, with transportation taking hours and costing a small fortune. Luckily, some airports are located just a stone’s throw from their respective cities, making travel much easier.
Whether or not a city benefits from being located next to its airport is up for debate. Clearly, there are both advantages and disadvantages. Nonetheless, not spending excessive time or money on transport can make your travel experience significantly smoother.
1. Alderney Airport, Channel Islands
If you want to experience what it’s like to walk to the airport instead of taking a bus, train, or taxi, head to Alderney. Alderney Airport is located on the island of Alderney, part of the Channel Islands. A short 800-metre walk takes you to the local town of St Anne, and given the island’s small size, you could even turn your entire stay into a walking holiday.
2. Gibraltar International Airport, Gibraltar
The second spot on the list goes to Gibraltar International Airport. Everything in the region is easy to reach, and the same applies to the airport, located just 1.4 kilometres from the city centre. If you have too much luggage to carry, the Citibus will take you to the terminal in just five minutes for €1.60.
3. Corfu International Airport, Corfu, Greece
Why take a cab when you can walk? The distance between Corfu International Airport and the city centre is just 2.4 kilometres, making it a comfortable stroll. However, summers in Greece can be quite hot, so depending on the weather, you might prefer an air-conditioned vehicle. A taxi ride should cost around €10.
4. Pisa International Airport, Pisa, Italy
Always wanted to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa? You can easily reach the monument on foot from the airport. The historical centre is just over 3 kilometres from the terminal, making it tempting to explore the city by walking. Alternatively, the PisaMover shuttle will take you there in just a few minutes for €6.50.
5. Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, Biarritz, France
Just like Pisa’s airport, Biarritz Pays Basque Airport is located around 3 kilometres from the city centre—and the ocean. The region is famous as a surfer’s paradise, so don’t be surprised if you see people carrying surfboards as you head into town. Enjoy the coastal-themed buildings along the way, and if you reach the beach, you’ve gone too far!
6. Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport, Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn Airport is conveniently close to Estonia’s capital. A bus ride to the city centre takes just 15 minutes and costs only €2, with services running throughout the day and night.
7. Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, Olbia, Italy
Located just 4 kilometres from the city, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport makes travel easy. Although you could technically walk the distance, a transfer costs only €1 and takes just 10 minutes. This means you can spend your time enjoying Italian cuisine or relaxing on the beautiful beaches instead.
8. Geneva Airport, Geneva, Switzerland
With so much to do in Geneva, it’s fortunate that the airport is just a seven-minute train ride from the central railway station. Tickets cost approximately €3. Depending on where you’re staying, you might even be eligible for a free public transport pass during your visit.
9. Innsbruck Airport, Innsbruck, Austria
From the moment you land at Innsbruck Airport, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking mountain scenery. A short nine-minute taxi ride or an 18-minute bus journey takes you straight to the city centre, where stunning architecture and alpine charm await.
10. Naples International Airport, Naples, Italy
Naples International Airport places the bustling city right at your fingertips. A 15-minute bus ride or a quick taxi ride will take you straight into the heart of Naples. But don’t waste any time—after all, you’re in the world capital of pizza, and that’s something you should enjoy as soon as possible!
11. Lisbon Airport, Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport is one of Europe’s most central city airports, located just 7 kilometres from the historic heart of Lisbon. You can reach the city centre in under 20 minutes using the Lisbon Metro (Red Line), with tickets costing just €1.80. Alternatively, taxis are relatively affordable, with fares ranging from €10 to €15. Whether you’re headed to the Alfama district, the famous tram routes, or the beautiful viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River, you’ll be there in no time.
For travellers prioritising convenience, proximity to the city centre can be a game-changer. While some airports demand long transfers and costly transport, these eleven offer quick, budget-friendly, and even walkable connections, making arrivals and departures significantly smoother.
