How to travel from Lyon to Barcelona by train
Thinking about taking the train from Lyon to Barcelona? We’ve got you covered.
You can expect the journey from Lyon to Barcelona by train to take around 5h 26m. You’ll usually find around 2 trains per day running on this route, which spans 331 miles (532 km). You won’t need to worry about making any changes along the way either as direct trains are available. Sit back and let a high-speen Renfe-SNCF train whisk you to Barcelona in just 5h 05m.
Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to search for cheap ticket prices – we’ll show you how much you can save on train tickets from Lyon to Barcelona if you book in advance.
Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Barcelona, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you’re ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.
Lyon to Barcelona by train
Renfe-SNCF, Renfe and AVE trains from Lyon to Barcelona
Renfe-SNCF
Renfe
AVE
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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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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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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Cheap train tickets from Lyon to Barcelona
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 Lyon to Barcelona 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.
Journey details
How long does the train from Lyon to Barcelona take?
The average journey time by train between Lyon and Barcelona is 5 hours and 21 minutes, with around 4 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 Lyon and Barcelona by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Lyon to Barcelona is 4 hours and 57 minutes.
How much does the train from Lyon to Barcelona cost?
Train ticket prices from Lyon to Barcelona can start from as little as €29 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Lyon to Barcelona?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Lyon to Barcelona without having to change trains. There is 1 direct train from Lyon to Barcelona each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Lyon to Barcelona leave?
The first train from Lyon to Barcelona leaves at 07:06. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Lyon to Barcelona leave?
The last train from Lyon to Barcelona leaves at 16:36. 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 Lyon and Barcelona by train?
Trains travelling from Lyon to Barcelona cover a distance of around 331 miles (532 km) during the journey.