Barcelona to Paris by train

Traveling between Barcelona and Paris by train is fast, comfortable, and scenic. The high-speed TGV journey takes 6 hours and 45 minutes, covering 667 miles (1,073 km). Here’s what you need to know:

• Route: Starts at Barcelona Sants and ends at Paris Gare de Lyon, with stops in cities like Lyon, Nimes, and Montpellier.
• Ticket Prices:
  • Second-class tickets start at €39 ($43) when booked early.
  • First-class tickets start at €59 ($65).
  • Flexible tickets range from €169 ($186) to €189 ($208).
• Overnight Options: Sleeper trains are available with reclining seats starting at €20 ($22) and couchettes starting at €29 ($32).
• Booking Tips: Use platforms like SNCF Connect or TGV INOUI Spain for real-time seat availability and discounts. Book early for the best prices.
• Luggage Rules: Passengers can bring up to 3 pieces of luggage and one hand luggage, with specific size and weight limits.

Skip the hassle of airports and enjoy onboard amenities while traveling directly between city centers. Whether you choose a high-speed daytime train or an overnight sleeper, this route offers comfort and convenience.

Barcelona to Paris by TGV high-speed train from €39

Train Ticket Options

Traveling between Barcelona and Paris offers various ticket choices, depending on the service and operator. These include high-speed daytime options and overnight sleeper fares.

For daytime travel, there are two main ticket categories:

• Standard class: Provides basic comfort and essential onboard services.
• First class: Offers more space and upgraded services.

Prices and amenities depend on the operator.

If you’re considering a rail pass for this route, keep in mind a few additional costs:

• An administration fee of €2 (around $2.20) per person per train.
• A paper ticket processing fee of €9 (around $9.90) per order.

The rail pass must cover both France and Spain to be valid.

For overnight travel, there are two sleeper options available:

Option 1: Paris to Latour de Carol via Intercité de Nuit

• Reclining seat: starts at €20 (around $22)
• 2nd class 6-berth couchette: starts at €35
• 1st class 4-berth couchette: starts at €63
• Local train connection to Barcelona: €12 (around $13)

Option 2: Paris to Perpignan or Cerbère via Intercité de Nuit

• Reclining seat: starts at €22 (around $24)
• 2nd class 6-berth couchette: starts at €29
• 1st class 4-berth couchette: starts at €60
• Connections to Barcelona:
  • High-speed train from Perpignan: starts at €25 (2nd class)
  • Local train from Cerbère: €14

Overnight services operate on weekends throughout the year, with additional daily services during the summer. Check connection times and reservation requirements ahead of your trip ^[2].

Train Companies and Services

The Barcelona–Paris route is operated by a partnership between France’s SNCF and Spain’s Renfe, providing high-speed train options for cross-border travel.

SNCF inOui Services

SNCF inOui runs high-speed TGV trains on this route, offering a premium travel experience.

Renfe-SNCF Joint Service

This joint service combines efforts from Renfe and SNCF to ensure efficient and smooth cross-border train operations.

Train Equipment Types

The route is served by modern TGV inOui high-speed trains, with SNCF regularly upgrading its fleet to align with current standards.

How to Buy Tickets

Railroad Company Websites

The easiest way to book your train journey from Barcelona to Paris is through the official SNCF Connect website or its mobile app. This platform, designed for booking train tickets across France and Europe, provides an intuitive interface available in multiple languages, including English. It also supports various payment methods, like international credit cards.

Another option is the TGV INOUI Spain platform, managed by Renfe and SNCF. Booking through these official channels ensures you get real-time seat availability and access to all fare options.

Booking Platforms

Third-party booking platforms are another option, especially helpful for international travelers. Tickets start at $135 USD, with prices climbing to $264 USD depending on the class and travel time. There are two daily departures, and the fastest journey takes 6 hours and 44 minutes ^[3].

In-Person and Mobile Options

If you prefer buying tickets in person, you can visit ticket offices at stations in both Barcelona and Paris. Alternatively, the SNCF Connect mobile app is a convenient tool for booking tickets on the go. It lets you store digital tickets, manage bookings, and receive real-time updates. Keep in mind that ticket prices often rise as the departure date approaches, so booking early is recommended. The Barcelona–Paris route is operated by both Spanish Renfe and French SNCF ^[3].

Ways to Save Money

Looking to cut down on travel expenses? These strategies can help you save on ticket costs and make your journey more budget-friendly.

Early Booking Discounts

Booking your tickets early can lead to major savings. For example, tickets start as low as $70.49 when booked in advance. The SNCF Connect platform offers Prem’s tickets for TGV INOUI services, which are discounted for early planners.

Here’s how to snag the best deals:

• Enable notifications on SNCF Connect to stay updated on offers.
• Check the promotions page on SNCF Connect frequently.
• Stay flexible with your travel dates to grab the lowest fares.

If you can also plan your trips during less busy times, you’ll save even more.

Low-Season Travel

Traveling during off-peak times is another way to save. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Choose weekdays over weekends for cheaper fares.
• Avoid traveling during peak holiday periods or major events.
• Opt for off-peak departures, like early mornings or late evenings.

SNCF Connect also offers discount cards to help you save throughout the year. Options include Avantage cards, the Forfait National pass, the Liberté card, and the MAX pass.

Pass and Split Ticket Benefits

If you’re planning multiple train journeys, rail passes can be a cost-effective option. For instance, the Barcelona–Paris route is covered by both Eurail and Interrail passes. However, remember that seat reservations are required for high-speed trains, even with these passes.

Schedule and Route Information

Direct Train Times

TGV INOUI vers l’Espagne runs two daily direct trains between Barcelona Sants and Paris Gare de Lyon. The trip lasts 6 hours and 47 minutes.

Check out the table above for departure and arrival times for both the morning and afternoon services.

Routes with Stops

The train makes stops at several key stations along the way: Valence TGV Rhone-Alpes Sud, Nimes, Montpellier, Beziers, Narbonne, Perpignan, Figueres Vilafant, and Girona.

These stops offer travelers the chance to visit multiple destinations along the route, making it a great option for exploring the region.

Daily Train Schedule

The service follows a consistent daily schedule. The morning train is perfect for those who want to arrive in Barcelona early, while the afternoon train caters to travelers who prefer a later start.

This schedule runs every day of the week, ensuring reliable options for trips between these two major cities.

Extra Costs and Rules

Seat Booking Fees

If you’re traveling on TGV high-speed trains, seat reservations are required. Some platforms charge additional booking fees, and there’s a $10 flat rate for infant seats, known as Billet Bambin.

Tip to save money: The Carte Avantage Adulte card costs $54 annually and offers a 30% discount on standard fares for you and a companion. This applies to TGV routes, including the Barcelona-Paris line, for weekend travel or round trips that include a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday night stay.

There are also specific policies for changing tickets, so keep those in mind.

Ticket Change Rules

Baggage Rules

Here’s what you need to know about baggage allowances:

• Main luggage: Each passenger can bring up to 3 pieces. Each piece must not exceed:
  • Dimensions: 33.5 x 21.7 x 13.8 inches
  • Combined weight: 55 pounds
• Hand luggage: One piece allowed, with a maximum size of 18.1 x 27.6 inches and a weight limit of 66 pounds.

Key rules to remember:

• All luggage must have a visible label with your first and last name.
• Luggage tagging is mandatory on AVE International trains.
• Special items like skis, golf bags, or disassembled bikes must stay within 47.2 x 35.4 inches.

You can also bring small pets (under 22 pounds) in carriers for a fee of $58 each way.

"From 2024, the luggage limit for Paris-Barcelona TGVs is up to 3 pieces of luggage no larger than 85 x 55 x 35 cm weighing a total of 25 Kg. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage no larger than 46 x 70 cm weighing less than 30 Kg" ^[1]

Quick Reference Guide

Here’s a summary of key ticket, pricing, and travel details for quick access:

Money-Saving Tips

• Get a Carte Avantage Adulte for about $54/year to enjoy 30% off for you and a companion.
• Book your TGV tickets as early as possible for the lowest prices.
• Consider traveling during off-peak seasons to save more.

Key Rules to Remember

• All luggage must have a visible name tag.
• Ticket changes and cancellations depend on the fare type (details above).

*Check the Ticket Options section for a full breakdown of pricing.