Slow Travel: Train Holidays to Spain

Here at Oliver’s Travels, we’re always trying to do our bit to be more sustainable. ‘Slow travel’ is an ever-growing trend that’s all about appreciating your surroundings, getting to know a destination in-depth and taking your time with travel. Swapping planes for trains is one way of embracing it, and rail travel has myriad other benefits. It removes the stress of airport security, it’s a delightfully unhurried way of getting from A to B, and – perhaps most importantly – it’s better for the planet. Taking the train instead of flying can cut your CO2 emissions by a staggering 90%.

Since it first started shuttling passengers through the Channel Tunnel back in 1994, the Eurostar to France has become a seriously popular train route for travellers. It’s a convenient and speedy way to see the delights of Paris, Brussels and beyond – but where else can you get to in Europe by rail?

Read on for Oliver’s Travels’ guide to train holidays to Spain; tuck into tapas in Madrid, experience the flamenco traditions of Seville, and sun yourself on the beaches of Barcelona, all without stepping foot in an airport.

Train Holidays to Spain:

Where to go?

At Gare du Lyon, hop aboard the high-speed TGV in the direction of Barcelona, head from Paris Montparnasse to San Sebastián, or venture to Madrid and then continue in the direction of Seville. Whether you’ve got little kids that aren’t quite plane-ready or fancy a living a little greener, then train holidays to Spain are the perfect option. Plus, some of Oliver’s Travels’ favourite sustainable Spanish villas and city apartments are located within easy reach of each region’s train station.

Barcelona

While it requires multiple transfers, train holidays in Spain allow you to enjoy scenic views in the utmost comfort. Starting in London, you can board the Eurostar to Paris, then catch a high-speed TGV Lyria to Marseille or Avignon, and finally switch to a Spanish Renfe train that will whisk you directly to Barcelona. Along the way, you’ll glide through the charming French countryside, the beautiful Provence region, and the stunning Pyrenees mountains. This train route is not only an eco-friendly alternative to flying but also provides a chance to experience the rhythm of Europe in a more relaxed, immersive way. Whether you’re a seasoned train traveller or a first-timer, the journey to Barcelona is a perfect blend of adventure, convenience, and cultural discovery.

Seville

If you’re starting from London, take the Eurostar to Paris, and from there, connect to a high-speed TGV that will take you through France’s picturesque countryside to Barcelona. Once in Barcelona, you’ll board a Renfe AVE train, which will take you directly to Seville in comfort and style. The entire trip takes you through diverse regions, from the rolling hills of southern France to the sun-drenched plains of Andalusia, with views of vineyards, mountains, and vibrant cities. Although it’s a longer journey than flying, train holidays in Spain are far more relaxed and offer an eco-friendly, immersive means of travelling. With Seville’s enchanting blend of history, flamenco, and stunning architecture awaiting you at the end, this train journey will become a memorable part of your Spanish adventure.

Madrid

Travelling from the UK to Madrid by train is an exciting and picturesque journey that lets you explore Europe at a leisurely pace. Board the Eurostar to Paris from London St Pancras. From Paris, you’ll hop onto a long-distance Renfe train, which speeds you through the charming landscapes of Spain all the way to Madrid. Along the route, you’ll pass through scenic regions, from the rolling hills of France to the sprawling plains of Spain, giving you a chance to relax and take in the views. Once you arrive in Madrid, the Spanish capital’s vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture await, making this train journey an exciting start to your Spanish adventure.

Why choose train travel?

Train holidays to Spain offer numerous benefits, making them a fantastic choice for any traveller. First, they’re an eco-friendly option, significantly reducing your carbon footprint compared to flying. Sit back and enjoy European train holidays, content in the knowledge that you’re doing your bit to reduce plane emissions.

Trains also provide more comfort and space, allowing you to stretch out and enjoy the scenic landscapes as you journey through picturesque regions. Spanish high-speed trains, like the AVE, are known for their punctuality and speed, getting you to major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia quickly and efficiently. In fact, Spain boasts Europe’s longest high-speed rail network.

Additionally, train stations are often centrally located, saving you time on transfers, and there are no long security lines or baggage restrictions to navigate. The relaxed pace of train travel lets you sit back, unwind, and enjoy the experience, with the opportunity to witness Spain’s stunning countryside, coastal views, and historic towns from the window. Finally, travelling by train offers a more immersive travel experience, connecting you with the culture and rhythm of the country in a way that flying simply can’t.

Oliver’s Travels’ top villas in Spain, reachable by train:

Barcelona:

Apartment Perla

Apartment Eixample

Casa Gracia

Casa Cartella

La Masia Forn Teuler

Madrid:

Apartment Raul

Deluvina House

Apartment Hugo

Apartment Inigo

Inspired by our selection of train holidays to Spain? Check out our full collection of villas in Spain on Oliver’s Travels and read more about our love of train travel. Contact our friendly Concierge team for more travel advice and special extras that will elevate villa holidays in Spain.

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