From Amsterdam, my ultimate destination is Barcelona. I'm thinking of taking the train and stopping at Lourdes, France overnight, then off to Barcelona. I'm interested in any comments from people who have taken the train to Lourdes as well as anyone who has gone from Lourdes to Barcelona. I understand my options are to fly to Barcelona from Lourdes or to take the fast train or slow train through the Pyrenees. Any suggestions based on your experiences?
Posted by
London, United Kingdom
4684 posts
The "slow" train from Toulouse to Barcelona via Latour de Carol is a spectacular trip but is very slow. Note that it's impossible to buy tickets from LdC to Barcelona in advance, and it won't turn up on the timetables at bahn.de, because it's part of the Barcelona suburban rail system despite the long distance. Although travelling from Lourdes to Barcelona by fast trains will still be a bit lengthy and need a couple of stops. Personally I wouldn't bother unless you have major religious reasons to visit Lourdes.
Posted by
CA, USA
266 posts
We flew from Amsterdam to Barcelona on Transavia a few weeks ago. My understanding is that the train btw the two cities is very long and has at least a stop in Paris. You can find very cheap airfares in advance. It wouldn't hurt to look. Just make sure you comply with the strict(er) baggage requirements (read the fine print/FAQ)!