Are you planning a trip from Paris to Barcelona and wondering how long it takes by train? Well, the answer isn’t straightforward as there are different train options available. In this article, we’ll take a look at each option and their respective travel times.
Direct Trains
If you’re looking for the fastest way to travel from Paris to Barcelona, then direct trains are your best bet. These high-speed trains run several times a day and take around 6 hours and 25 minutes to reach Barcelona.
The direct train journey is operated by Renfe-SNCF en Cooperación, a joint venture between France’s national rail operator SNCF and Spain’s Renfe. The train departs from Paris Gare de Lyon station and arrives at Barcelona Sants station.
Connecting Trains
If you’re on a tight budget or looking for more flexible travel options, then connecting trains might be better for you. These involve changing trains at least once during the journey.
The first option is to take a TGV train from Paris Gare de Lyon station to Figueres Vilafant station in Spain. This journey takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes. From Figueres Vilafant station, travelers can then take another train to reach Barcelona in around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Another option is to take an overnight train which departs from Paris Austerlitz station in the evening and arrives at Barcelona Sants station early morning. This journey takes around 12 hours but is an excellent option if you want to save on accommodation costs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if speed is your priority, then direct trains are your best option with a travel time of around 6 hours and 25 minutes. If you’re on a budget or prefer more flexible options, then connecting trains might be better suited for you with travel times ranging from 7 to 12 hours.
Regardless of which option you choose, traveling by train is a comfortable and scenic way to reach Barcelona from Paris. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance to get the best prices and ensure a stress-free journey.