Trains from Barcelona to Marseille
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Barcelona to Marseille by train
When in Spain, make the most of your visit and take a journey over the border to France by train. It’s easier than you may think. Wave adios to Barcelona, and say bonjour to Marseille, on a four and a half journey through breath-taking scenery and picturesque villages you never knew existed.
Taking just 20 minutes longer than flying, you make up time by not having lengthy airport check-ins. And if you’re concerned about your carbon footprint, the train is certainly a more considerate way to travel.
Serviced by high-speed Renfe-SNCF trains, you can even upgrade your journey to First Class. In doing so, you benefit from leather reclining seats, extra legroom and power socket access. For further information on this route, read on!
Barcelona to Marseille by train
It takes an average of 9h 55m to travel from Barcelona to Marseille by train, over a distance of around 210 miles (338 km). There are normally 8 trains per day traveling from Barcelona to Marseille and tickets for this journey start from $39.61 when you book in advance.
| First train | 07:16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 15:50 | |
| Departure station | Barcelona | |
| Arrival station | Marseille | |
| Journey time | 6h 4m | |
| Distance | 338 miles (210 km) | |
| Frequency | 8 trains per day | |
| Changes | 1 change | |
| Price | From $39.61 | |
| Train and bus operators | Union Ivkoni (Bus), BlaBlaCar Bus, Flixbus, Renfe-SNCF, ALSA, Renfe |
AVE, Renfe and Renfe-SNCF trains from Barcelona to Marseille
AVE
Renfe
Renfe-SNCF
AVE is Renfe's flagship high-speed service, with trains capable of reaching up to 193 mph (310 km/h). It’s one of the fastest trains in Europe and connects the main cities of Spain. Most AVE trains offer two comfort classes – Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class equivalent, with 1-1 configuration, ultra-wide seats, gourmet food and drink and lounge access). All AVE trains have air conditioning, power sockets, free WiFi and a buffet carriage serving a selection of food and drinks. There are three fares for AVE services: the cheapest but least flexible Básico fare, the Elige fare (slightly pricier but more flexible), and the Premium fare for seats in Confort Class.
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Renfe is the national train operator in Spain. It operates trains on the longest high-speed railway network in Europe, and the second-longest in the world. The country's major cities are linked up by the high-speed AVE and Avlo trains, while other long-distance routes are served by Altaria, Talgo, Alvia and Euromed trains. Renfe also operates cross-border services into neighbouring Portugal and France. Depending on which service you are travelling on, you'll usually find two classes on Renfe trains - Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class). Fare types range from the cheapest (but least flexible) Básico fare, to the more flexible Elige fares, to the Premium fare for seats in Confort carriages.
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Renfe-SNCF trains are the result of a collaboration between France and Spain to bring the two countries together via a network of high-speed trains. There are two comfort classes – Turista (or Second Class) and Preferente (or First Class). Both classes have power sockets and comfortable seating. Luggage security checks are in force at all Spanish stations before boarding. It's also advisable to travel with your identity card for border control.
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Cheap train tickets from Barcelona to Marseille
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Barcelona to Marseille by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
FAQs for Barcelona to Marseille
How long does the train from Barcelona to Marseille take?
The average journey time by train between Barcelona and Marseille is 9 hours and 55 minutes, with around 8 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Barcelona and Marseille by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Barcelona to Marseille is 6 hours and 4 minutes.
How much does the train from Barcelona to Marseille cost?
Train tickets from Barcelona to Marseille can start from as little as $39.61 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from Barcelona to Marseille?
No, there are no direct train services from Barcelona to Marseille. Travelling from Barcelona to Marseille by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
What time does the first train from Barcelona to Marseille leave?
The first train from Barcelona to Marseille leaves at 07:16. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Barcelona to Marseille leave?
The last train from Barcelona to Marseille leaves at 15:50. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Barcelona and Marseille by train?
Trains travelling from Barcelona to Marseille cover a distance of around 210 miles (338 km) during the journey.