Barcelona to Girona Train Guide

This guide is for travelers planning a train journey from Barcelona to Girona, including tourists, commuters, and day-trippers. It covers ticket options, schedules, discounts, and practical travel tips to help you make the most of your trip. The Barcelona to Girona train is fast, convenient, and affordable, making it a top choice for anyone traveling between these two vibrant cities. Girona is a charming medieval town and a popular destination for day trips, known for its scenic beauty and rich history.

Traveling between Barcelona and Girona by train is fast, convenient, and affordable. Here’s what you need to know:

• Travel Time: High-speed trains (AVE/Avant) take 38–57 minutes, while regional options take up to 1 hour 10–15 minutes. AVE and Avant are high speed train and fast train options, offering quick and efficient service to your destination.

• Cost: Tickets for high-speed trains can start from €7.30 when booked in advance, with average prices around €10–€18 if purchased on the day.

• Frequency: There are around 18 trains per day from Barcelona to Girona.

• Stations: Trains depart from Barcelona Sants and arrive at Girona, which is about a 10-minute walk from the historic city center. Both stations are conveniently located near their respective city centers and are easily accessible by public transport. Both cities are in the same autonomous community, Catalonia, which is relevant for regional and high-speed train services.

• Best Booking Time: The best time to book your train from Barcelona to Girona is 6 days before departure, as prices typically rise closer to departure.

The train journey offers picturesque views of the Catalonian countryside, including rolling hills and charming villages. It is often more comfortable and faster than driving between Barcelona and Girona, and traveling by train is also an eco-friendly option. Whether you’re looking for speed, savings, or flexibility, the train is a great way to travel between these two cities.

How to take the train from Barcelona, Spain

Overview

Taking the train from Barcelona to Girona is straightforward and suitable for both first-time visitors and regular commuters. The journey is operated primarily by Renfe, Spain’s national rail company, which operates both long distance routes across Spain and regional trains connecting cities within the same autonomous community or neighboring ones, and offers a range of services to suit different needs.

Stations

• Departure: Barcelona Sants (main station in Barcelona, well-connected by metro and bus)

• Arrival: Girona station (about a 10-minute walk from the historic city center, with local buses and taxis available)

Available Train Tickets and Discounts

Travelers on the Barcelona–Girona route can choose from several ticket types and take advantage of various discounts.

Family Discounts

• Large families receive a 20% discount.

• Families with special status enjoy 50% off.

• Children under 4 travel for free.

Age-Based Discounts

• Golden Card holders (passengers over 60, pensioners with disabilities, or individuals with a disability of 33% or more) receive 40% off base fares.

• The Golden Card costs €6.50 and may also include a companion discount if specified.

Youth Discounts

• Travelers under 25 with a Carnet Jove (Youth Travel Card) can save 20%.

Make sure to have the necessary identification or discount cards with you to take advantage of these offers. Additional details on ticket types, pricing, and booking can be found in later sections.

Train Companies and Services

Spain’s main railway operator, Renfe, offers several train options for traveling between Barcelona and Girona.

• AVE trains are Renfe’s high-speed services, reaching speeds up to 310 km/h.

• Avant trains operate short and medium distance high-speed services, reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h.

• Media Distancia refers to regional trains, providing slower but budget-friendly options.

• Euromed trains are high-speed services along the Mediterranean coast, also reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h. Euromed is a high-speed rail service operating along the Mediterranean coast of Europe, connecting key Spanish cities.

AVE trains offer two comfort classes: Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class equivalent). All AVE trains have air conditioning, power sockets, free WiFi, and a buffet carriage serving food and drinks. Renfe AVLO is a low-cost high-speed rail service that includes free Wi-Fi, entertainment, and power sockets. Renfe trains provide onboard catering services, including a cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. Renfe offers various fare types, including the cheapest Básico fare, the more flexible Elige fare, and the Premium fare for Confort Class. Passengers can enjoy modern amenities on board, including spacious seating and power outlets, and the onboard experience is enhanced by friendly staff and a clean environment. High-speed train services from Barcelona to Girona operate up to 42 times daily, with frequent direct trains taking 38 to 55 minutes.

Renfe’s variety of services ensures plenty of convenient and reliable connections.

How to Buy Tickets

Booking your train tickets is easy and can be done in several ways:

1. Online Booking

• Visit Renfe’s official website to compare train schedules and prices, choose your seat, apply discounts, and get your e-tickets instantly.

2. Using the Renfe App

• The Renfe app offers quick booking, real-time updates, digital ticket storage, and schedule alerts.

3. In-Person Purchase

• At Barcelona Sants station, use self-service machines for Cercanías and Media Distancia tickets or visit ticket counters for other services.

• For long-distance trains (Larga Distancia), it’s smart to book ahead during busy seasons since seating is limited.

• Station staff are available to assist near the machines, but if lines are long, using the self-service machines can save time.

For a broader overview of your travel options, search for the journey using AI-powered search tools to see all train connections between Barcelona and Girona, tailored travel suggestions, valid rail passes, and clear pricing details.

Train Times and Duration

Each day, around 18 trains operate from early morning until late evening. Trains run frequently throughout the day.

Travel Time

The length of your journey depends on the type of train service you choose. Here’s a breakdown:

First and Last Trains

• First train from Barcelona to Girona: 5:44 AM

• Last train from Barcelona to Girona: 11:05 PM

Schedules may change on holidays, so double-check timetables if you’re traveling early or late in the day.

Ticket Prices and Savings

Current Prices

• Tickets for high-speed trains can start from €7.30 when booked in advance.

• Average prices are around €10–€18 if purchased on the day.

Rodalies de Catalunya provides several options, including single tickets, round trips, and travel cards like 10-trip or monthly passes. The cost can differ depending on your travel date and how you book. You can also lower your expenses by taking advantage of advance bookings or seasonal promotions.

Early Booking Deals

• Booking your tickets ahead of time can help you save money.

• Renfe frequently offers discounts for early bookings on this route, with the best prices usually available weeks before your travel date.

• The best time to book your train from Barcelona to Girona is 6 days before departure, as prices typically rise closer to departure.

Special Offers

• Rodalies de Catalunya also has discount programs for families, young travelers, and seniors.

• These programs work alongside early booking discounts, giving you more opportunities to cut down on expenses when traveling between Barcelona and Girona.

Extra Fees and Rules

Changes and Refunds

Renfe offers options to modify or cancel tickets directly on its website using the “Change your ticket” or “Cancel your ticket” features. The fees for these services depend on the ticket type and how close the request is to the departure time. Additionally, Renfe has specific guidelines regarding baggage.

Baggage Rules

For standard tickets, passengers can bring up to three pieces of hand luggage with a combined weight limit of 25 kg (55 lbs). Each item must stay within 33.5 x 21.7 x 13.8 inches (85 x 55 x 35 cm), and the total dimensions of all pieces must not exceed 114.2 inches (290 cm).

Avlo services have different baggage policies:

Folded bicycles and kick scooters in carrying cases are permitted as hand luggage as long as their total dimensions do not exceed 70.9 inches (180 cm). Rules for regular bicycles vary depending on the train type.

Onboard Experience

The train ride from Barcelona to Girona is designed to offer passengers a pleasant journey, whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or a day trip. With cheap train tickets available for high-speed services like AVE trains, Avant trains, and Avlo trains, you can enjoy a fast and comfortable ride between these two vibrant cities. The journey is not only efficient but also relaxing, with modern trains providing a smooth and quiet experience as you travel through the scenic landscapes of Catalonia. Whether you’re a frequent commuter or a first-time visitor, the amenities and convenience of these trains make the Barcelona to Girona route a top choice for travelers seeking value and comfort.

Comfort and Seating

On the Barcelona to Girona route, trains are equipped with comfortable seating options to suit every passenger’s needs. You can choose between Standard Class and Confort Class, both offering spacious seats with ample legroom for a relaxing journey. All carriages are fitted with air conditioning to keep you comfortable in any season, and power sockets are available at your seat so you can keep your devices charged throughout the ride. For added convenience, a mobile bar service is available, allowing you to purchase snacks and drinks without leaving your seat. The Elige fare provides flexibility and access to additional amenities, making it a popular ticket type for those who want extra comfort. Passengers are allowed a generous weight limit for hand luggage, so you can bring your essentials onboard with ease. Whether you’re traveling for work or leisure, the thoughtful design and range of services ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey from Barcelona to Girona.

Amenities and Services

Travelers on the Barcelona to Girona route can look forward to a range of onboard amenities that enhance the overall experience. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making it easy to plan your trip around your schedule. Onboard, you’ll find vending machines stocked with hot and cold drinks, as well as a mobile bar service offering a selection of snacks and beverages. Free WiFi is available on most trains, allowing passengers to stay connected, catch up on work, or stream entertainment during the journey. If you’re traveling in Confort Class on AVE services, you’ll also enjoy exclusive lounge access at the station, providing a quiet and comfortable space to relax before departure. With these amenities, every trip between Barcelona and Girona is designed to be convenient, enjoyable, and stress-free, making this route one of the most popular destinations for train travel in the region.

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is a priority on the Barcelona to Girona train route, ensuring that all passengers can travel comfortably and independently. Trains are equipped with accessible toilets, and both Barcelona Sants and Girona stations feature ramps, elevators, and other facilities to assist passengers with reduced mobility. The journey takes just under 40 minutes on high-speed AVE trains, making it a quick and convenient option for everyone. Ticket prices for AVE trains start from as low as €7.30 when booked in advance, and a variety of onboard services—including food and drink options—are available to make your trip even more enjoyable. Whether you’re planning your journey ahead of time or need assistance at the station, the combination of accessible features and attentive service ensures a smooth and pleasant experience from start to finish.

Using Interrail Passes

Interrail passes are a convenient option for travelers with varied itineraries, especially on routes like Barcelona–Girona.

Pass Coverage

The Barcelona–Girona route is fully included in both the Interrail Pass and the Global Pass. Most local and regional trains on this route accept Interrail passes without requiring extra reservations. However, high-speed AVE and Avant trains do require seat reservations and additional fees.

Here are the available Interrail Spain Pass options for traveling within Spain:

Seat Bookings

For high-speed trains on this route, pass holders need to reserve seats. Fees depend on the class of service:

• Standard Class (Elige Estándar): $11

• First Class (Elige Confort): $14

• Premium Class (includes meal): $25.50

You can book your seat through the following methods:

• Self-Service System: Charges a $2.20 processing fee per person per train. Paper ticket orders add a $10 fee. Reservations can be made up to a year in advance.

• Train Stations: Book directly at Spanish train stations to avoid online processing fees.

The Rail Planner App is a helpful tool for identifying trains covered by your pass and checking if reservations are needed.

Quick Guide Summary

Here’s a brief overview of the key details for traveling by train from Barcelona to Girona:

Tips for Travel

• Book AVE and Avant tickets early to secure lower fares.

• AVE trains offer two comfort classes: Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class equivalent).

• Seat reservations are required for all high-speed trains.

• Local trains provide flexible travel options with open tickets.

• Most departures leave from Barcelona Sants, and trains arrive at Girona station, about a 10-minute walk from the historic center.

Ways to Save

• Save up to 65% with early bookings.

• Interrail passes are valid on this route, but reservations are needed for high-speed trains.

• Discounts are available for groups of 4 or more.

• Children under 4 travel for free.

• Special discounts apply for seniors (60+) and youth (under 26).