The north of Spain at low prices

If you’re ready to escape the heat and crowds of Madrid, head to the north of Spain for something completely different. Nicknamed Green Spain, its grassy hills and valleys and mild temperatures will make you see España in a whole new way. Hear Catalan, Aranese, and Basque spoken, discover hidden gems, and meet locals. Hop a direct train from Madrid, and in two and a half hours at most, you’ll be stepping into a lush green world of hiking trails, stunning coastlines, and colourful cities.

🏖️ Madrid to Barcelona

Going from Spain's historic capital city to its quirky artists’ hub will give you the best of both worlds. Start by exploring the multi-layered history of Madrid—from Roman aqueducts to Moorish architecture and traditional cuisine. Then, head north for the ultimate Catalan experience: Gaudi’s funky Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell, The Picasso Museum, La Rambla (Barcelona’s trademark avenue, filled with attractions, restaurants, and monuments).

After you’ve had your fill of culture, head to either Barceloneta beach (the place to see and be seen) or Nova Icària beach (for a bit more rest and relaxation). Barcelona’s beaches are well-equipped with volleyball nets, snack bars, and surf shops, so you could easily make a whole day of it. If beaches aren’t your thing, check out Barcelona’s seaside swimming pools: Montjuic for a view or Club Natació for an exclusive feel. After a long day of activities, dig into fideua (paella’s pasta-based cousin), bombas (local mashed potato-based tapas), or escalivida (Catalan fire-roasted vegetables). Dessert lovers can finish it off with a crema Catalana.

🚅 Departs from: Madrid Puerto de Atocha station

⏲️ Fastest journey time from Madrid: 2 hours 30 minutes

✔️ Number of trains per day: 34

⛴️ Madrid to Valencia

A relatively new route, added in June of 2022, Valencia is a great option whether you’re a first-time visitor to Spain or a seasoned veteran. The thriving port city has a beautiful coastline and is the perfect combination of cultural offerings and outdoor activities. More affordable than both Madrid and Barcelona, a long weekend should give you enough time to see all the key sites.  Start with The City of Arts and Sciences, the Oceanografic, or the grandiose Ceramic Museum—the city’s most iconic cultural offerings.

Out in the fresh air, there’s sun and surf (of course). Las Arenas, the city's most accessible beach, can be reached via public transport. Clean, family-friendly, and sandy, there’s no need to go further for sunbathing or a quick dip in the water. City side, explore the Old City or take a self-guided tour of Hemingway’s favourite spots in Valencia. The author wrote The Sun Also Rises while residing in the city, and fans will adore visiting the sites that inspired him. Last but not least, don’t skip the paella (a rice dish cooked in broth and topped with sautéed meat and vegetables) or horchata (a local drink made from tiger nuts).

🚅 Departs from: Madrid Puerto de Atocha or Madrid Chamartin station

⏲️ Fastest journey time from Madrid: 1 hour 40 minutes

✔️ Number of trains per day: 25

🏺 Madrid to Zaragoza

If you’re up for an adventure off the beaten track, Zaragoza (also called Saragossa in English) might be the perfect place to explore. In just over an hour from Madrid, you’ll be in the capital of the Aragon region—in a city that is largely unknown on the international tourist circuit. However, Zaragoza is not to be overlooked. It's home to 2,000 years of architectural treasures including Roman, Moorish, and Baroque edifices.  Notable sites include the towering Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar (pictured), the impressive Aljaferia Palace, and the eclectic Old City.

If you’re visiting during Holy Week, don’t miss the beautiful processions. Local people in traditional apparel participate in a total of 53 parades (between Palm Sunday and Good Friday), toting flowers, statues, and traditional drums. October brings its own fun: the Fiestas del Pilar, celebrating the Virgin of the Pillar. This colourful festival, which includes parades, fireworks, and traditional costumes, begins on October 12th and lasts for nine days. 

Whenever you go, make sure to try some local tapas, ternasco al horno (oven roasted lamb shoulder), and arroz a la Zaragoza (meat paella) in the El Tubo Neighbourhood. Then stop by the Central Market for lighter fare and local Aragonese pastries.  

🚅 Departs from: Madrid Puerto de Atocha or Madrid Chamartin station

⏲️ Fastest journey time from Madrid: 1 hour 15 minutes

✔️ Number of trains per day: 24 

Powered by Froala Editor