arriving at barcelona pier on in sept. on Sunday AM. How far is the train station from the pier? Going to Madrid for 2 days and staying near Retiro Park. How far is train station to park? More sense to cab (6 people w/luggage) or METRO? I hear PRADO is free on Sunday, is this true? Is the Hop on/Hop off in Madrid the best way to get oriented prior to touring? Any other tips?
Posted by
Mandeville, LA, USA
565 posts
Paul, because I am planning a trip to Spain and because you have not yet received any responses, I thought I would give you a bump. However, any good guidebook on Spain can answer some of the questions you ask. Certainly, the Rick Steves book on Spain can answer most of your questions.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
I will answer part of your question. Assuming you dock at the cruise terminal - which is not always possible - it is a couple of miles to the train station so a taxi is in order. Six people with cruise luggage, since I assume your are not doing carry on, will need two taxis. The PRADO is free on Sunday but the entry lines are long and it is packed. Pay the fee and go on Monday. Most of time a hop on/off bus is the best way for a good orientation BUT I have no experience with the Madrid on/off bus, if it exists.
Posted by
US
157 posts
Prado is free on Sunday and the line is long but moved very quickly. You only have two hours assuming you enter at 17:00. It closes at 19:00 and not 20:00 as indicated in RS's book. I was there on April 1.
Posted by
OP
Gulf Breeze, FL, USA
14 posts
Thanks. I think we'll take a peek at the line @ PRADO. If prohibitive, we'll launch onto the Hop ON/OFF and go round 1st.. Going back to Barcelona on the 3rd day. Been there 3 times, but never to MONSERRAT. Is it woth the trip? Bus to the monestary takes how long? How long should I allow for this excursiion? Thanks again.
Posted by
San Diego, CA
133 posts
The Atocha train station in Madrid is close to one end of Parque Retiro. However its a big park so if your hotel is at the other end you'll want transport. Find out from your hotel which Metro stop is closest and how near it is to the hotel. A cab would be the least complicated but more expensive than the metro.