Summary of the Best Train Journeys in Spain
Spain’s varied terrain makes it a prime location for interesting train journeys. These are some of our favorite train journeys in Spain.
Spain’s best train journeys can be divided into two types: the super-fast and the luxurious/scenic. Of course, that’s not to say you aren’t treated excellently on the fast trains.
Spain boasts the longest high-speed rail network in Europe, with its AVE rail network connecting Madrid to Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, and Valladolid, with more destinations being added all the time. Some even run overnight.
When it comes to the luxury/scenic services, you mainly have the narrow gauge network in the North to thank for that. The Transcantabrico is the most famous, while there’s also the affordable La Robla service.
Madrid to Barcelona
Spain’s premier cities are connected by a train that takes just over two-and-a-half hours. Without the need to check-in or travel to out-of-town airports, this train is a godsend. Picture being able to view Picasso’s Guernica at the Reina Sofia museum in the morning and then visiting La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona in the afternoon!
Transcantabrico
The Transcantabrico is Spain’s premier luxury train route. Sleep aboard classic narrow-gauge trains and visit northern Spain’s best sights in style. Routes start or finish in Santiago de Compostela and take in cities such as Bilbao, Leon, and Oviedo, along with the stunning mountain range of the Picos de Europa.
Madrid to Seville
The AVE high-speed train route from Madrid to Seville has been shuttling tourists and businessmen since 1992. The journey takes just two-and-a-half hours, considerably shorter than the more than six-hour bus ride.
This route is also part of a guided tour, suitable for a day trip or for a two- or three-day trip that includes Cordoba and/or Caceres.
Barcelona to Montserrat
The journey to the Montserrat mountain is a delightful experience that combines stunning views with cultural exploration.
Tarraco Talgo From Barcelona to Tarragona
Tarragona is a popular day trip from Barcelona, especially renowned for its Roman ruins. Although there is an airport close by (Reus Airport), public transport connections are best from Barcelona city center to Tarragona.
La Robla
If the Transcantabrico is too expensive, the La Robla service provides a more budget-friendly experience, visiting fewer destinations while sacrificing some luxury, but still offers great value considering all accommodation and dining are included.
Euskotren
The Euskotren is the Basque Country’s local rail service. Although it is a slower option to travel from Bilbao to San Sebastian and the French border, it offers beautiful scenery and an enjoyable three-hour journey through green fields and charming commuter towns.
Bilbao Funicular
Climb to the top of Mount Artxanda on the Bilbao Funicular for a breathtaking view of Bilbao, including the iconic Guggenheim Museum from a unique perspective.
Tren dels Llacs
This scenic route provides a fantastic journey from Lleida to Pobla de Segur, showcasing the beautiful landscapes of Catalonia.
Tren de la Fresa (Strawberry Train) to Aranjuez
Experience a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aranjuez on a vintage train. The journey begins from Madrid’s rail museum, where guests are served strawberries and then transferred to the historic town of Aranjuez, including a guided tour of the royal palace. Unfortunately, tours are only available in Spanish.
