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Rail legs (approximate journey times)
| Leg | Approx. time | Notes | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| London → Paris (Eurostar) | from about 2 hrs 16 mins | Optional start from the UK | Trains on Trainline Compare on Omio |
| Paris Gare de Lyon → Barcelona Sants | about 6 hrs 30 mins–7 hrs direct TGV | A few direct trains a day; book early | Trains on Trainline Compare on Omio |
Times are approximate, from published 2026 timetables and guides (Eurostar, Seat61, Deutsche Bahn, NS International). Always check live times before booking.
Day-by-day plan
- Day 1–2: Paris.
- Day 3: Direct TGV to Barcelona.
- Day 4–6: Barcelona: Sagrada Família, Gothic Quarter, beach. Fly home or return by train.
Booking tips
- Book ahead. Eurostar, TGV and ICE fares rise as trains fill up; the cheapest seats go first. Bookings usually open several months ahead.
- Allow time at St Pancras for security and passport checks before Eurostar.
- Check engineering works. Long-distance routes sometimes run slower during trackwork (for example Amsterdam–Berlin in autumn 2026).
- Seat reservations are compulsory on TGV, Eurostar and most high-speed trains in France, Spain and Italy, including for rail pass holders.