train or plane

From where to where? You have provided us with zero information, making it impossible for us to give you any advice what so ever. The more information you give us, the better advice you will receive.

Nancy, I agree with Jo. The answer will depend on the specifics. Could you elaborate on where you'll be travelling?

Nancy, As the others have said, that trip is absolutely better by rail. Travel time is ~3-hours which will be MUCH better than by air. How many days will you be in Madrid prior to going to Barcelona? You might consider just buying the tickets at a local station when you arrive in Madrid. The tickets on that route appear to be in the €118 PP at the moment. Is that close to what you were seeing? Have you tried The Renfe Website to obtain tickets? If you have trouble with that, have a look at the other Thread in this section on "Have you purchased tickets on Renfe". Good luck and happy travels!

Thanks to all who answered my query.
I was finally able to book my tickets which will be sent to me by U. S. Mail.

My group of seven need to get from Madrid to Barcelona on Saturday, June 4. We're trying to decide whether to go by plane or train. (this will be one-way as we're going on to Sevilla on the 9th.) Have had trouble with RailEurope website since it won't allow my U. S. address for mailing tickets. Sent them an email re this & was assured of reply within 48 hours, but still waiting.
Once that is resolved, am wondering about the scenic aspects of train travel from Madrid to Barcelona.

You first error is using R Europe for train information. R Europe is a travel agency and not a rail company. For the best schedule information go to bahn.de. The only reason to fly is cheap, cheap, and cheaper. But you pay in inconvenience, waiting time, security intrusions, lost time in airports, distance from city, etc. My benchmark is about six hours, IF the train ride is longer than six hours I will consider flying.

That's easy...the AVE is the best and fastest way no matter how you slice it. The trip is now down to about 2 hours 30 minutes for some trains. No airport waiting, no airport security, no flying hassle. Your bag will go through x-ray, but that's it. Buy tickets on Renfe (official site).

Trying to book train trip for 7 on June 5 from Madrid to Barcelona. Form wants country of residence for each traveler
but does not list US! HELP

Nancy, Just for "future reference", which website was finally successful for booking your tickets?

It was the Rail Europe website; I just figured out which buttons to push in order to get it in English, for U.S. residents!

It would interesting to know what you paid for your tickets and travel dates since most people believe that Rail Europe charges a substantial premium for their service and tickets.