Travelling by Rail

[66lewis99]

I have a few questions for anyone really familiar with the railways in Spain , as although I have been to the likes of Malaga and some of the Islands of Spain I have managed in the past to stay clear of trains by either renting a car or cycling.

So firstly how easy is it to get from Barca to Leon by train? And roughly how much am I looking at paying(will I need to book too?)?

Last question is although I know Santiago de Compostela has an (not international) airport, but is it easy enough to get back to Barcelona by train?

Thanks in advance. :mrgreen:

 

[Anniesantiago]

My experience in Spain is that it is generally much cheaper and much quicker to travel by bus, except in certain particular cases. When the train is good, it's great. When it's bad, it's horrid.

The buses, on the other hand, are lovely, large, roomy, clean, with HUGE nice windows so you can sightsee. They run on wonderfully regular schedules to just about everywhere. I looked at the ALSA website and couldn't see that the buses go into Leon, and I'm not sure which "Barca" you speak of. But you can bet there is a good connection from point A to point B on the bus.

Regarding the train, here is something to be aware of:

When I was trying to get to the Peaceable Kingdom to visit Rebecca, I took a train from Santiago. I asked where to wait and a spot was pointed out. I asked what time the train arrived and was told.

2 minutes (literally) before my train was to arrive, another train stopped right in front of me. I figured it was mine and stepped on, only to find myself on my way to VIGO!!!!

It was a lovely trip ::laughing:: but totally opposite of where I wanted to go, Leon. This is apparently a common mistake and the rail service gave me a free ticket back to Reb's area.

Anyway.. please be aware that Spanish trains RUN ON TIME.. EXACTLY on time! Don't assume a train that is 2 minutes early is yours... there's probably another waiting right behind it.

 

[anniethenurse]

A morning train leaves Barcelona at 09.20 arrives in Leon at 17.09. One way about € 70 (there is a night too, arriving at around 04.45)

The buses leave Barcelona in the morning arriving 9 h 40 min later in Leon. There is also a night bus. €45.

http://www.renfe.es
http://www.alsa.es

buen camino
annie

 

[66lewis99]

Thanks so much for the help. especially for the PM too This forum has been great for info and help, don't think I could do the camino without it :wink: