{"id":37724,"date":"2024-01-18T15:47:52","date_gmt":"2024-01-18T14:47:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/niet-gecategoriseerd\/traveling-to-spain-by-train-2026-update-routes-tips-and-costs\/"},"modified":"2026-06-25T18:19:16","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T16:19:16","slug":"traveling-to-spain-by-train-2026-update-routes-tips-and-costs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/train-travel\/traveling-to-spain-by-train-2026-update-routes-tips-and-costs\/","title":{"rendered":"Traveling to Spain by Train (2026 Update): Routes, Tips, and Costs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling to Spain by Train from the Netherlands: Routes, Tips, and Experiences (from the Netherlands)<\/h1>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We took the train to Spain\u2014and honestly, I only now truly understand why people say that the journey becomes part of the vacation. You board the train in the Netherlands in the morning, watch the landscape slowly shift from polder to France to (almost) Mediterranean vibes\u2026 and you roll into Barcelona in the evening without any check-in stress or rushed hassle. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this article, I\u2019ll share exactly how we did it, which routes I find most logical (including those to San Sebasti\u00e1n, Bilbao, and M\u00e1laga), the latest updates, and how to book smart so you don\u2019t end up paying more than you need to.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"8025\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sagrada-Familia-Barcelona-Spanje-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Sagrada Familia - Barcelona - Spain\" class=\"wp-image-8025\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sagrada-Familia-Barcelona-Spanje-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sagrada-Familia-Barcelona-Spanje-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"8024\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Paella-Spanje-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Paella&#x2014;Spain\" class=\"wp-image-8024\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Paella-Spanje-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Paella-Spanje-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Train to Spain in 1 minute<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fastest route: Netherlands \u2013 Paris (Eurostar) \u2013 Barcelona (TGV INOUI). The trip from Amsterdam to Paris takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paris\u2013Barcelona can be traveled directly in about 6 hours and 42 minutes (stations: from Gare de Lyon to Barcelona Sants).  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How often? It varies by date and season, but there are usually several trains a day on the Paris\u2013Barcelona route. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transfer: 1 stop in Paris (we did it!). Allow at least 1.5\u20132 hours (especially if you&#8217;re traveling with suitcases). <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Booking tip: International tickets often go on sale online about 6 months before departure. It pays to book early.   <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Relaxation tip: Does one day feel too rushed? Plan a stopover in the South of France (we stopped in Valence) and turn it into a mini-trip. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is there a direct train to Spain?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the Netherlands: No, you always have to change planes (usually in Paris).<br\/>From Paris: Yes, there is a direct high-speed rail line between Paris and Barcelona.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That may sound like a minor detail, but it makes a huge difference in how you plan your trip (and how you explain it to people who think taking the train to Spain is very complicated). Be sure to check your departure and arrival times carefully and, if possible, plan to stay overnight beforehand so you don\u2019t end up arriving somewhere late and unprepared. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"14047\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/gare-du-noord-tgv-naar-amsterdam-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Paris - Gare du Nord, TGV to Amsterdam\" class=\"wp-image-14047\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/gare-du-noord-tgv-naar-amsterdam-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/gare-du-noord-tgv-naar-amsterdam-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"14045\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/gare-de-lyon1-1-e1727861791790-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Gare de Lyon - Paris\" class=\"wp-image-14045\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our favorite route to Barcelona (this is how we did it)<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We went with the classic route: Amsterdam\u2013Paris\u2013Barcelona. It makes perfect sense, is easy to book, and takes you to Barcelona Sants. It\u2019s also ideal if you\u2019re continuing your trip through Spain.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 1: Amsterdam \u2013 Paris (Gare du Nord)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We boarded the train early (around 8 a.m. in Amsterdam) so that we&#8217;d have plenty of time in Paris. The trip from Amsterdam to Paris takes about 3 hours and 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the route.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tip: You can often board the train at Schiphol, Rotterdam, Antwerp, or Brussels-South, among other places (which is convenient if you don&#8217;t live in Amsterdam).<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 2: Transfer in Paris (Gare du Nord \u2013 Gare de Lyon)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The TGV to Barcelona departs from Gare de Lyon. You&#8217;ll arrive at Gare du Nord. That means you&#8217;ll be passing through Paris on the way.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We took public transportation there (it was quick and easy), but on the way back\u2014with just small backpacks\u2014we walked a lovely route along the Seine (stopping for coffee and a visit to a boulangerie along the way). It felt like an extra mini-city trip during our vacation. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My rule for switching:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you&#8217;re traveling with luggage (or with children): Plan on 2 hours or more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>With light luggage and experience: it can be done faster, but I wouldn&#8217;t bet on it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 3: Paris \u2192 Barcelona (TGV INOUI)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Gare de Lyon, you can travel directly to Barcelona Sants in about 6 hours and 42 minutes.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Timeline (our example):<br\/>Departure from the Netherlands around 8:00 a.m. \u2014 afternoon in Paris \u2014 arrival in Barcelona late in the evening. (Exact times vary by day, so always check your date.) <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"14048\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/gare-du-nord-vertrekinfo-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Paris - Gare du Nord - Departure Information\" class=\"wp-image-14048\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/gare-du-nord-vertrekinfo-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/gare-du-nord-vertrekinfo-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"430\" height=\"909\" data-id=\"14042\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/3001-2-1-e1727861124894.jpeg\" alt=\"Paris Metro\" class=\"wp-image-14042\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"14038\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/20277-1-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Paris - Eiffel Tower in winter\" class=\"wp-image-14038\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Transfer Tip in Paris (My Favorite Slow Travel Hack)<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have plenty of time between trains (say, 2.5 hours), I recommend that you don&#8217;t just run from platform to platform, but actually take some time to explore Paris:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take a short walk (with light luggage) or take the metro or RER for 1\u20132 stops.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pick up some food at a boulangerie to eat on the train.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make your transition a moment when you\u2019re already \u201con a journey.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That&#8217;s exactly what makes train travel so enjoyable: you don&#8217;t have to teleport from point A to point B\u2014you actually travel through the landscape.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip: Staying overnight in France (extra relaxed)<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Does the idea of \u201ca one-day trip to Barcelona\u201d seem a bit much to you? To be completely honest: I get it. In that case, a stopover is perfect.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The train to Barcelona stops (depending on the route) at places that are ideal for a short break, such as Valence, N\u00eemes, Montpellier, Narbonne, Perpignan (and sometimes others).  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We stayed overnight in Valence, and that made the trip so much more relaxing: you arrive, have a nice meal, take a short walk in the park\u2026 and the next morning, you get back on the road feeling well-rested.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mini Inspiration (No Fuss):<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Valence: a walk in the park &amp; dinner in the city center<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Montpellier: Evening Stroll, Mediterranean Atmosphere<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perpignan: You can already feel the Pyrenees and Spain close by<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/IMG_1518-1-1-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Valence Park Evening Sun\" class=\"wp-image-14883\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/IMG_1518-1-1-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/IMG_1518-1-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Practical Tips for Traveling by Train to Spain<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Booking Tickets: Here&#8217;s How I Do It Myself<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I usually check two places, because availability and price can sometimes vary:<\/p>\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nsinternational.com\/?utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_network=tradetracker&amp;utm_source=affiliateid-464202&amp;utm_content=35043_NS%20International%20basic_text_\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.nsinternational.com\/?utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_network=tradetracker&amp;utm_source=affiliateid-464202&amp;utm_content=35043_NS%20International%20basic_text_\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Eurostar \/ NS International<\/a><\/strong> From the Netherlands to Paris (and other routes).  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sncf-connect.com\/nl-nl\/trein\/route\/parijs\/barcelona\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.sncf-connect.com\/nl-nl\/trein\/route\/parijs\/barcelona\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>SNCF Connect<\/strong> <\/a>from Paris to Barcelona (with stopovers in France).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And when I want to compare options (or plan trips to multiple countries in a single app), I often use Trainline to get an overview, and then I book wherever makes the most sense.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When should I book?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">International train tickets are often available up to about 6 months in advance; booking early usually offers the best prices and more options.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Interrail: Yes or No?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spain can be an interesting destination with Interrail, especially if you&#8217;re traveling around for a longer period of time. Keep in mind that reservations are required and that there are surcharges on high-speed trains (and: once they&#8217;re full, they&#8217;re full). <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>My 5 Planning Tips<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It&#8217;s better to plan a little extra time for your layover in Paris rather than cutting it too close.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are you traveling with kids? Then a stopover is truly a godsend. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Book your tickets as soon as they go on sale (especially during busy periods).  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring some snacks for the train ride (it saves you the hassle).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Whenever possible, choose a seat on the &#8220;landscape side&#8221; (it sounds like a small thing, but it makes a big difference).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29163\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9946-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Madrid - Prada Museum\" class=\"wp-image-29163\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"854\" data-id=\"29162\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9936-1.jpg\" alt=\"Madrid by Bike\" class=\"wp-image-29162\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9936-1.jpg 640w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9936-1-480x641.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 640px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"29164\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/IMG_9941-1-1-720x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Madrid - Sol - Spanish fan\" class=\"wp-image-29164\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling by Train in Spain (Faster Than You Think) &#8211; Updated January 2026<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spain is great for train travel. Long distances are often covered surprisingly quickly here.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Following the tragic train accident in southern Spain in January 2026, train service to southern Spain is currently limited. Replacement buses are being provided. Check with the local train companies, Renfe or Iryo, for the latest information.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>From<\/strong> <strong>Barcelona to Madrid<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The high-speed train (AVE) takes 2 hours and 37 minutes to travel from Barcelona Sants to Madrid (Atocha).  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which train companies operate here?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Renfe<\/strong> (including AVE; official operator)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>OUIGO<\/strong> (low-cost high-speed; Barcelona\u2013Madrid, about <strong>2:30<\/strong>)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>iryo<\/strong> (private high-speed operator)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"685\" data-id=\"8023\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Haven-San-Sebastian-Spanje-1024x685.jpg\" alt=\"Port of San Sebasti&#xE1;n - Spain\" class=\"wp-image-8023\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Haven-San-Sebastian-Spanje-980x656.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Haven-San-Sebastian-Spanje-480x321.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"678\" data-id=\"8022\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Caminito-del-Rey-brug-Spanje-1024x678.jpg\" alt=\"Caminito del Rey - bridge - Spain\" class=\"wp-image-8022\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Caminito-del-Rey-brug-Spanje-980x649.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Caminito-del-Rey-brug-Spanje-480x318.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">By Train to San Sebasti\u00e1n (Basque Country)<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the kind of itinerary I think Nature Travel Lab fans will especially enjoy: you combine a long, relaxing train ride with a destination where the city, the sea, and nature are all close together.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How it works:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>From the Netherlands to Hendaye (on the France\/Spain border). Roughly 9\u201313 hours, depending on your connections. Check <a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/l\/mVB0MY0\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/l\/mVB0MY0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Trainline<\/a>.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Hendaye to San Sebasti\u00e1n on the local &#8220;Topo&#8221; train: about 35 minutes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">By Train to Bilbao<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Want to continue on to Bilbao? You can easily do that from San Sebasti\u00e1n (using regional\/hybrid connections). Think of it this way: exploring the Basque Country by train, with ever-changing scenery.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"525\" height=\"700\" data-id=\"4901\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Steegje-boekenmarkt-Madrid-Spanje.jpeg\" alt=\"Alley Book Market, Madrid, Spain\" class=\"wp-image-4901\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Steegje-boekenmarkt-Madrid-Spanje.jpeg 525w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Steegje-boekenmarkt-Madrid-Spanje-480x640.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 525px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"525\" height=\"700\" data-id=\"4900\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Ober-Madrid-Spanje.jpeg\" alt=\"Waiter, Madrid, Spain\" class=\"wp-image-4900\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Ober-Madrid-Spanje.jpeg 525w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Ober-Madrid-Spanje-480x640.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 525px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">By Train to M\u00e1laga (Andalusia)<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, that&#8217;s also possible. You&#8217;ll usually travel via Barcelona and\/or Madrid, depending on your route. <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Barcelona to M\u00e1laga: Travel times vary, but there are connections starting at about 5 hours and 54 minutes (check your date).  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>M\u00e1laga to Madrid: fastest travel time is about 2 hours and 42 minutes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Night Train to Spain: What Are the Options?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A direct overnight train from the Netherlands to Spain isn&#8217;t something I&#8217;d plan on right now (under construction). What is possible\u2014and actually quite fun\u2014is: <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Night Option: From Paris to Latour-de-Carol (Pyrenees)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is an Intercit\u00e9 de nuit train from Paris (Austerlitz) to Latour-de-Carol in the Pyrenees (operated by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sncf-connect.com\/nl-nl\/trein\/route\/parijs\/barcelona\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.sncf-connect.com\/nl-nl\/trein\/route\/parijs\/barcelona\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SNCF<\/a>). <br\/>From there, you can take regional trains onward toward Spain (e.g., via Puigcerd\u00e0) and, if desired, continue on to Barcelona. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.seat61.com\/trains-and-routes\/paris-to-barcelona-by-sleeper-train\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Man in Seat Sixty-One<\/a><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>And those new night trains you sometimes read about?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Plans and lists for night trains in 2026 and beyond pop up regularly, but routes and launch dates often change. Think of it as something \u201cfun to follow,\u201d but don\u2019t use it as the basis for your vacation planning just yet. <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Take your car on the train to Spain?<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In short: not from the Netherlands, as in the past. The classic car-carrying sleeper trains from the Netherlands have been gone for years. If you want to drive to Spain, the realistic options are usually: driving (in stages) or flying\/taking the train and renting a car once you arrive.  <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Sustainable and Comfortable Trip to Spain: Here&#8217;s What You Get<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Traveling by train isn\u2019t just relaxing\u2014it\u2019s also one of the most climate-friendly motorized modes of travel, especially compared to flying. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eea.europa.eu\/en\/analysis\/publications\/rail-and-waterborne-best-for-low-carbon-motorised-transport\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.eea.europa.eu\/en\/analysis\/publications\/rail-and-waterborne-best-for-low-carbon-motorised-transport?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">European Environment Agency<\/a> (EEA) shows that rail consistently ranks among the modes of transport with the lowest emissions per passenger-kilometer, while flying ranks among those with the highest.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Would you like to see the specifics for your route? If so, you can use tools like <a href=\"https:\/\/ecopassenger.org\/bin\/query.exe\/en\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/ecopassenger.org\/bin\/query.exe\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">EcoPassenger<\/a> to compare transportation options.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And yes, depending on the route and passenger load, the difference can be enormous: examples are often cited in which train travel results in about 90% less CO\u2082 emissions than flying over comparable distances.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Useful apps and websites for when you&#8217;re on the go<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Eurostar (Netherlands\u2013Paris)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NS International (combination tickets and trips to the Netherlands)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SNCF Connect (France + Paris\u2013Barcelona)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Renfe (Spain)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OUIGO (Spain\/France, low-cost)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Iryo (Spanish high-speed)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Euskotren \/ Topo (Basque Country)  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trainline (great for planning and comparing options)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Spain by Train<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How long does the train ride to Spain (Barcelona) take?<\/strong><br\/>Roughly speaking, allow 10\u201312 hours from the Netherlands (depending on layover times and connections). Amsterdam\u2013Paris takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes, and Paris\u2013Barcelona takes about 6 hours and 40 minutes. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do I need to transfer in Paris?<\/strong><br\/>Yes, usually: arrival at Gare du Nord, departure for Barcelona from Gare de Lyon.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How much time should you allow for a transfer?<\/strong><br\/>I recommend allowing 1.5\u20132.5 hours, depending on your luggage and travel companions.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>When are tickets the cheapest?<\/strong><br\/>Usually when you book as soon as sales open (often up to about 6 months in advance).  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Is there a direct train to Spain?<\/strong><br\/>You can (from Paris to Barcelona). But not from the Netherlands.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Is there a night train to Spain?<\/strong><br\/>There is no direct, reliable option for planning a trip from the Netherlands. However, you can take a night train from Paris to Latour-de-Carol and then continue your journey from there.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Can I also take the train to San Sebasti\u00e1n?<\/strong><br\/>Yes: via Hendaye, then take the Topo to San Sebasti\u00e1n (about 35 minutes from Hendaye).  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>And M\u00e1laga?<\/strong><br\/>Another option: Barcelona\u2013M\u00e1laga in about 5 hours and 54 minutes (depending on connections) and M\u00e1laga\u2013Madrid in about 2 hours and 42 minutes (fastest travel time).  <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traveling to Spain by train: route on the map<\/h2>\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1iRLBL6p_f1GDpj2B-nffsUGXQ7YZ5d4&#038;ehbc=2E312F&#038;noprof=1\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In conclusion<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Taking the train to Spain really isn&#8217;t a big deal. It&#8217;s mainly a matter of: planning well, allowing plenty of time for transfers, and giving yourself permission to take it <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/groene-reistips\/wat-is-slow-travel\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/groene-reistips\/wat-is-slow-travel\/\">take it<\/a><\/strong> . And remember one thing: don\u2019t turn it into a race\u2014make it a journey.  <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Traveling to Spain by Train from the Netherlands: Routes, Tips, and Experiences (from the Netherlands) We took the train to Spain\u2014and honestly, I only now truly understand why people say that the journey becomes part of the vacation. You board the train in the Netherlands in the morning, watch the landscape slowly shift from polder [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":37727,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[214,216,237],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-37724","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-train-travel","category-sustainable-city-break","category-spain"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37724","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37724"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37724\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37727"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37724"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37724"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37724"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}