If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona and wondering whether the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) goes there, you’re not alone. The TGV is a high-speed train service that connects major cities in France and beyond, but does it extend to Spain’s vibrant coastal city? Let’s explore.
What is the TGV?
Before we dive into whether the TGV goes to Barcelona or not, let’s first understand what the TGV is. The TGV is a high-speed train service that operates in France and some neighboring countries. It was introduced in 1981 and has since become one of the most popular modes of transportation for locals and tourists alike due to its speed, comfort, and reliability.
Does the TGV go to Barcelona?
The short answer is no. The TGV does not go directly to Barcelona.
However, you can get close by taking the train from Paris to Figueres-Vilafant in Spain, which is only about 20 kilometers from the French-Spanish border. From there, you can take a local train or bus to get to Barcelona.
Paris to Figueres-Vilafant
If you’re coming from Paris, you can take the TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon station to Figueres-Vilafant station. The journey takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes, with one transfer at either Montpellier or Perpignan depending on which train you take.
Figueres-Vilafant to Barcelona
Once you arrive at Figueres-Vilafant station, there are several options for getting to Barcelona:
- Regional trains: You can take a regional train operated by Renfe or Rodalies Catalunya from Figueres-Vilafant to Barcelona Sants station. The journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Buses: There are also buses that connect Figueres-Vilafant to Barcelona.
The journey takes around 2 hours and tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
- Taxis or private transfers: If you prefer a more direct and convenient option, you can also hire a taxi or book a private transfer from Figueres-Vilafant to Barcelona. However, this option can be more expensive.
Alternative high-speed train services
While the TGV does not go directly to Barcelona, there are other high-speed train services that do. The AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) is Spain’s high-speed train service that connects major cities within the country and beyond. You can take the AVE from Madrid to Barcelona, Valencia to Barcelona, or Malaga to Barcelona, among other routes.
Madrid to Barcelona
If you’re coming from Madrid, you can take the AVE from Madrid Puerta de Atocha station to Barcelona Sants station. The journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for those who want a direct route.
Conclusion
While the TGV does not go directly to Barcelona, you can still use it as part of your journey by taking it from Paris to Figueres-Vilafant and then connecting with local trains or buses. Alternatively, you can take Spain’s own high-speed train service, the AVE, which offers direct routes from major cities in Spain including Madrid and Valencia. With these options available, getting to Barcelona has never been easier!