Box Office vs Online Prices: The Difference Matters
One of the most important decisions when planning your PortAventura visit is where to buy your tickets. Prices vary significantly between buying at the box office on the day of your visit versus buying online in advance. This guide explains all price differences, when each option makes sense, and how to maximize your savings.
Generally, buying online in advance saves you 10-15% compared to box office prices, plus you avoid queues and get greater flexibility to change dates. However, there are situations where buying at the box office may make sense.
Approximate Box Office Prices 2025
Important note: Box office prices are generally the highest "general rate" prices. These prices may vary by season and day of week.
1-Day PortAventura
Box office: €60-70 adults
Online: €52-60 adults
Savings: €8-10 per person
2-Day (PA + Ferrari)
Box office: €80-95 adults
Online: €69-82 adults
Savings: €11-13 per person
Express Pass
Box office: €50-70
Online: €45-60
Savings: €5-10 per person
Parking
Box office: €18-22/day
Online: €15-18/day
Savings: €3-4 per day
When to Buy at Box Office
Despite higher prices, buying at the box office makes sense in these situations:
- Last-minute decision: You decide to visit today without prior planning
- Uncertain weather: You want to check conditions before committing
- Special discounts: You have physical certificates (large family, disability) that are easier to show in person
- No internet access: You can't buy online for some reason
- Local resident spontaneous visits: You live nearby and decide to visit on impulse
When to Buy Online (Recommended)
Online purchase is better in 90% of cases:
✅ Advantages of Buying Online
- 10-15% cheaper: Direct savings vs box office
- Skip box office queues: Direct entry, save 30-60 minutes in high season
- Guaranteed entry: Access even on sold-out days
- Date flexibility: Many online tickets allow date changes
- Plan ahead: Know exact costs before traveling
- Combo deals: Hotel + ticket packages often only online
- Early bird promotions: Additional discounts for advance purchase
Real Savings Example
Family of 4 (2 adults + 2 children) - 2-day visit:
Scenario 1: Box Office Purchase
- 2 adult tickets x €85 = €170
- 2 child tickets x €72 = €144
- Parking x €20 = €40
- Total: €354
- Plus 45 minutes waiting at box office
Scenario 2: Online Purchase
- 2 adult tickets x €72 = €144
- 2 child tickets x €61 = €122
- Parking x €16 = €32
- Total: €298
- Direct entry, no queues
Savings: €56 (16%) + 45 minutes of time!
How to Buy Online
- Visit authorized seller (like GetYourGuide) or official PortAventura website
- Select dates and ticket type
- Apply any discount codes
- Make secure payment
- Receive tickets via email instantly
- Show QR code at park entrance (print or phone)
Box Office Queue Times
Know what to expect if buying at box office:
- Low season weekday: 5-15 minutes
- Mid season: 20-40 minutes
- High season Saturday: 60-90 minutes
- Peak days (August, holidays): 90-120 minutes
These wait times are BEFORE entering the park, meaning you lose valuable park time.
Tips to Maximize Savings
💡 Money-Saving Strategies
- Buy 2-3 weeks ahead: Best online prices
- Visit weekdays: 20% cheaper than weekends
- Low season: January-March, November = lowest prices
- Multi-day tickets: Lower per-day cost
- Package deals: Hotel + tickets often best value
- Group discounts: Available online for 10+ people
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get same discounts at box office?
Yes, discounts like large family, disability, senior are available at box office, but you still pay higher base prices than online.
What if I arrive and park is sold out?
This happens on peak days. Online ticket holders are guaranteed entry. Box office may close when capacity is reached.
Can I upgrade my ticket at the park?
Yes, you can add Ferrari Land, Express Pass, etc. at box office, but prices are higher than online.
Do online tickets have hidden fees?
Some sellers charge small booking fees (€1-2 per ticket). Check total price before paying.
Bottom Line
Buy online 99% of the time. The savings (10-15%), time saved (30-90 minutes), and guaranteed entry make it the obvious choice for nearly everyone. Only buy at box office if you're making a last-minute spontaneous visit or have specific circumstances requiring in-person purchase.