The high-speed train from Paris to Barcelona lets travellers experience the rich cultures of two gorgeous countries on one European adventure.

The train from Paris, France, to Barcelona, Spain, connects these two vibrant cities so travellers can experience the scenic beauty of Europe as it passes by their window. Travelling on a high-speed train from Paris to Barcelona is one of the most convenient and relaxing ways to get to the sights of both destinations.

Trust Rail Europe to ease the stress of planning your journey. Sit back and relax while you enjoy the smooth transition between Paris and Barcelona. Here's everything you need to know.

How to get from Paris to Barcelona by train

Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), founded in 1938, is France's national train operator.

SNCF operates its primary high-speed train service from Paris to Barcelona under the inOui TGV brand. SNCF inOui offers competitive amenities and convenient train times on this route for your travel needs. Treat yourself to a comfortable and scenic ride through the countryside connecting these two beautiful cities.

SNCF inOui

Since its launch in 2017, SNFC inOui has established itself as one of the top train operators in France. It offers fast travel to many other European destinations, including Barcelona.

This high-speed regional and international train service aims to provide a modern and luxurious experience for travellers on a tight budget. With four classes to choose from, SNFC inOui aims to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

SNCF inOui TGV high-speed trains offer passengers all the amenities expected to make their trip pleasant:

• Ample legroom
• Fast Wi-Fi
• Power outlets to charge personal devices
• On-board catering
• Entertainment
• Accessibility

SNCF inOui typically offers 25 trains per day, departing at a frequency of every 2 minutes to ensure all travellers can easily reach their destination.

Benefits of travelling via the Paris to Barcelona train route

Paris to Barcelona – train or fly? There are many benefits to choosing the best Paris to Barcelona train over a flight from CDG to BCE, including:

• Train tickets are cheaper than plane tickets
• Central train stations are conveniently located in city centres, closer to your hotel
• Airports tend to be located much further from the city centre
• Easier check-in and screening processes
• More comfortable seats with the freedom to move around
• Upper-Class seats are more reasonably priced than a First-Class flight ticket
• Better amenities overall

Paris to Barcelona train schedule details

Travelling from one country to another in Europe has never been easier. Travellers can enjoy their morning croissant in Paris and partake in Spanish tapas in Barcelona by evening.

The train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Barcelona has many convenient departure times throughout the day, so you can always find the right train for your busy travel itinerary.

Fastest travel times:

Your itinerary is busy, so you want to get from Paris to Barcelona as quickly as possible. The fastest train on this route spans the total distance of 833 kilometres in 6 hours and 19 minutes.

Earliest travel times:

For the early risers, the earliest weekday train from Paris to Barcelona departs at 06:38, and on the weekends at 06:38.

Latest travel times:

There are several late-night travel options on the schedule. During the week, the latest train departs at 16:07, and on the weekend at 16:07.

Number of daily departures:

There are 25 trains from Paris to Barcelona daily with departures every 2 minutes.

Paris to Barcelona ticket price information

Train tickets from Paris to Barcelona are surprisingly affordable, and using platforms like Rail Europe to book your trip ensures you get the best deals on all your fares. Here’s what you need to know before purchasing tickets for your trip.

Ticket prices

The Paris to Barcelona train cost depends on several factors, such as departure time and the class you choose. On this route, you can find ticket prices as low as US$38.50.

Booking in advance also affects your ticket price (more info below). Other factors to consider are the popularity/seasonality of this route and your chosen itinerary. Tickets along this route go on sale 6 months in advance.

When you are ready to find the best deal for your Paris to Barcelona train seat reservation, Rail Europe is here to help. Our website lets you compare ticket prices, browse train station information, view current and future schedules, and easily enable booking alerts.

Options for booking in advance

Travel along this route goes on sale 6 months in advance. No matter your budget or itinerary, booking your train ticket in advance is always a wise choice. Reserving your ticket at least 30 days in advance guarantees the best pricing for your trip.

On average, a ticket booked 30 days in advance costs approximately US$76, while a ticket booked only seven days in advance will cost US$119.

If you want to get the best price for your train from Paris to Barcelona, we highly recommend booking early. Booking in advance also gives you better seat selections and access to the fare class of your choice. Last-minute bookings are certainly not impossible, but booking in advance is your best option.

Setting up booking alerts with Rail Europe

Train operators tend to stagger or delay the release of train schedules and fare classes. If you have not seen your chosen itinerary or fare class, you can get an email alert when available.

Rail Europe helps you streamline train booking by setting up alerts for destinations like Paris and Barcelona. You will instantly be notified regarding great ticket deals when you sign up for free booking alerts. Rail Europe customers also gain access to exclusive discounts.

Stations serving trains from Paris to Barcelona

Whether your journey begins or ends in Paris or Barcelona, both destinations have central train stations offering modern amenities to suit your travel needs. With their convenient locations, you’ll be able to enjoy everything these regions have to offer before and after your train trip.

Paris Gare de Lyon

Nestled in the heart of the city of lights and love, Paris Gare de Lyon connects Paris to Barcelona and other top travel destinations in Europe.

This historic station was built for the World Exposition of 1900, and its facade boasts a classic example of the architectural style of that period. Located next to the Seine River at 4 Place Louis Armand in the 12th arrondissement, Paris Gare de Lyon is the third busiest station in France and is the premiere station for trains heading Southeast out of the city.

This Parisian landmark is instantly recognizable by its impressive clock tower and hosts the famous Train Bleu restaurant. While it retains its classic appearance, the Paris Gare de Lyon has been fully modernized to accommodate the high-speed TGV trains. It offers complete accessibility services such as elevators, escalators, and audio display information.

In addition, the station offers the following facilities and services:

• Connection to taxis, rideshare, bus, Paris Metro Lines 1 and 14 and RER Lines A and D
• Shopping, including newsstands, bookstores, souvenir shops and fashion boutiques
• Cafes, fast food and restaurants, including the famous Le Train Bleu restaurant
• Luggage storage and lockers
• Car rental services
• Information booths
• In-person ticket sellers
• Ticketing machines
• ATM and currency exchange
• Comfortable waiting rooms
• Luggage storage and lockers
• Short-term and long-term parking facilities
• Wi-Fi and charging outlets
• Mobility assistance
• Safety and security

Barcelona Sants

The Barcelona Sants Station is a contemporary station built in 1979. It serves as the main hub for high-speed train service to the rest of Spain and other European destinations.

While this station may not possess the rich history of Paris Gare de Lyon, it is clean and highly functional. Barcelona Sants is equipped to accommodate travellers who need mobility assistance via escalators and elevators. There are also many food and shopping options to enjoy while you eagerly await your train’s departure time.

Located just to the west of the city centre, Barcelona Sants offers all the modern amenities discerning travellers desire:

• Connections to taxis, rideshare, city buses, Metro Lines 3 and 5 and regional trains
• Car rental
• Information booths
• Live ticket sellers
• Ticketing machines
• ATM and currency exchange
• Apparel, gift shops, bookstores, supermarket, convenience stores
• Fast food, restaurants, bars and coffee
• Comfortable waiting rooms
• Luggage storage and lockers
• Short-term and long-term parking facilities
• Wi-Fi and charging outlets
• Mobility assistance
• Safety and security

What to know before boarding your trains

Travelling from Paris to Barcelona by train requires you to cross country lines. Therefore, you must be aware of a few security and customs procedures before you board your train.

Security procedures

First, you’ll be asked to scan your e-ticket or validate a paper ticket prior to boarding.

Then, before boarding your inOui TGV train from Paris to Barcelona, your baggage will have to be scanned, and you may be asked to pass through a quick metal detector scan.

Tips for navigating the station and boarding

Once you pass your screening, you may proceed to your departure platform. There, you will be asked to present your ticket to station agents at the time of boarding.

To make your trip as smooth as possible, use these helpful travel tips:

• Prepare your travel documents ahead of time (including your tickets and ID or passport)
• Use an electronic ticket if you’re concerned about misplacing a paper ticket
• Check the departure boards to find your platform easily

SNCF inOui train classes available from Paris to Barcelona

When travelling from Paris to Barcelona by train, travellers can book the journey that suits their unique wants and needs. SNCF inOui offers exceptional accommodations in several fare classes catered to its customers.

Standard Class (Seconde)

Standard Class offers a comfortable experience for an affordable price. Enjoy the following amenities included with your Standard Class ticket:

• Comfortable seats with adjustable headrests
• Ample legroom
• Wi-Fi
• Power outlets
• Overhead storage for luggage
• Buffet car access (refreshments available for purchases)

First Class (Première)

First Class offers a more luxurious experience for travellers. Enjoy the following amenities when you take the train from Paris to Barcelona First Class:

• Wider, reclining seats
• More legroom
• 2/1 configuration for enhanced privacy
• Faster speed Wi-Fi
• Power outlets
• Extra luggage space
• In-seat meal service
• Complimentary refreshments

Business Première

Business Première offers top-tier accommodation for travellers. Enjoy the following amenities included with your Business Première ticket:

• Comfortable, extra-large seats
• Maximal legroom
• High-speed speed Wi-Fi
• Power outlets
• Extra luggage space
• In-seat gourmet meal service
• Complimentary refreshments
• Station lounge access
• Priority boarding and disembarking
• Quiet zone for privacy and ideal working conditions

Essential train travel documents and custom procedures

Travelling from Paris to Barcelona by train may initially seem daunting, but the security procedures and customs process are quite simple.

The Schengen Agreement created a mostly border-free travel environment across the majority of European countries. Therefore, passport control is minimal. Everything you will need for your trip is listed below:

Train tickets

Be sure to print your tickets prior to arrival or have them loaded on your smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device. All tickets must be validated before you’re permitted to board your train.

Personal ID

All passengers will be asked to present a valid photo ID before boarding their train. Bring your driver's license, government-issued ID card, passport, or visa.

Customs Process

The Schengen agreement also extends to customs declarations. Therefore, outside of a standard security screening, no special customs declaration will be required to board the high-speed Paris to Barcelona train.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the train from Paris to Barcelona?

The total distance from Paris to Barcelona is 833 kilometres. The high-speed Paris to Barcelona train time allows you to travel this distance in as little as 6 hours and 19 minutes.

Is there an overnight train from Paris to Barcelona?

Currently, there is no overnight train from Paris to Barcelona. However, a Barcelona to Paris sleeper train is scheduled to begin service under the Midnight Trains banner in December 2024. Until then, the train schedule includes many flexible options for travellers wishing to depart in the evening.

The latest train during the week departs at 16:07, while the latest train on the weekend leaves at 16:07.

How much are train tickets from Paris to Barcelona?

The cost varies based on the season, itinerary and how far in advance you book. You can get Paris to Barcelona train tickets for as little as US$38.50.

Rail Europe’s booking alerts are the best way to ensure you receive the lowest rates on your fares with our exclusive discounts.

Which operators offer high-speed trains from Paris to Barcelona?

The Paris to Barcelona line is serviced by SNCF inOui’s high-speed TGV trains.

What amenities are included in my train ticket?

This is entirely dependent on your chosen fare class. Most modern high-speed trains include comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi and power outlets. You may choose to upgrade your tickets to enjoy even more complimentary amenities, like gourmet in-seat dining and extended legroom.

How far in advance should I book my train ticket from Paris to Barcelona?

You can book tickets along this route 6 months in advance. We highly recommend buying your tickets at least 30 days in advance to get the best deals on fares and ensure you get the departure time that best fits your schedule. Buying a ticket 30 days in advance can cost just US$76 compared to a ticket purchased a week in advance at US$119.

Is there a direct train from Paris to Barcelona?

Yes, there is a direct route from Paris to Barcelona by train. With the high-speed trains operating at speeds of up to 318km/h, you’ll be enjoying tapas and wine in Barcelona in no time.