My husband and I are trying to decide whether to go by train or plane from Madrid to Barcelona. We are seasoned travelers, but we are now 75 years old and are trying to minimize the wear and tear of travel. Cost and time are not factors. We just can't decide which would be easiest. We will each have a 21" suitcase and are staying in the Salamanca neighborhood in Madrid and on las Ramblas in Barcelona.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
This isn't even a fair contest - the train wins every time. City center to city center in less than 3 hours, with much fewer security hassles (although this train is one of the few in Europe that does actually have a security check), and once you're on the train you can settle in, walk around if you're feeling cooped up or restless, eat a picnic, etc.
Unless you're actually at the airport, the plane will take longer and be much more hassle in every way.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
Transport from your hotel to the train station will always be easier than to the airport, and taxis within the city are affordable. If you book the AVE train ticket up to three months in advance, it can be much cheaper; see www.petrabax.com/renfe.
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
I have made the journey by plane and by train. Without a doubt the TRAIN is the choice. You can get tickets about 60 or so days in advance at a discount. Or you can get the senior discount ticket in person upon showing your passport as asking for the discount card at the date of departure and still save a good bit. Check out the RENFE web site for details. You will leave from the Atocha Train Station a short taxi ride from Salamanca and arrive at the Sants station in Barcelona. You carry your own luggage and there is a compartment for it as you board the train. The train ticket will have the seat number and car number on it. Security is basically an x ray of your suitcase. Take the train by all means!!! (I am in my 70s as well.)
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
Train for sure unless you are already or will need to be at one of the airports.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32202 posts
alice,
I definitely agree with the others! For that particular route, use the AVE trains, as it will be faster than by air and considerably more pleasant than having to endure all the usual airport hassles. The AVE trains travel at up to 300 kmH (there's a display inside the cars that shows the speed), so it's a very quick trip (2H:45M).
Your departure station will likely be Madrid-Puerta de Atocha and your arrival station Barcelona Sants (there are several stations in each city).
Posted by
FL USA
1527 posts
Train. Walk into the station 30 minutes prior to departure. Ez lines for security. No need to rush when they call the train. Ample help in directing you to your cars and seats. Second class is all you need and the comfort matches airline business class. Audio/video services on line. Ability to get up and stretch. Great quiet ride. Beautiful scenary.
Plane? Meh!