Travelling from Tarragona to Barcelona by train
If you want to know more about the journey from Tarragona to Barcelona by train, look no further!
The average journey time from Tarragona to Barcelona by train is 1h 13m, with around 28 trains per day travelling 52 miles (83 km) between these two destinations. There’s no need for any changes along the way, as there are direct trains available from to Barcelona. High-speed AVE trains can take you from Tarragona to Barcelona in just 1h 06m on the fastest services, reaching speeds of up to 193 mph (310 km/h).
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 Tarragona to Barcelona if you book in advance.
Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for timetables (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.
Tarragona to Barcelona by train
Renfe, AVE, OUIGO and Avant trains from Tarragona to Barcelona
Renfe
AVE
OUIGO
Avant
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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OUIGO is the low-cost brand of French rail company SNCF, who operate trains in France and Spain. In France, all seats on OUIGO are Second Class and tickets can only be purchased online. You can also pay for additional extras, such as reserving a seat in the ‘quiet area’, at-seat power sockets and extra luggage. OUIGO has been operating in Spain since May 2021, and their trains include an onboard bar and a premium class of service called OUIGO Plus.
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Able to reach speeds of at 155 mph (250 km/h), Avant trains operate short and medium distance high-speed services. These trains are intended to cover journeys within the same autonomous community or in two neighbouring communities. For this reason, trains generally don’t offer catering services and travel less than 125 miles (200 km). They have two types of comfort classes – Turista (Second Class) and Preferente (First Class).
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Cheap train tickets from Tarragona 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 Tarragona 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 Tarragona to Barcelona take?
The average journey time by train between Tarragona and Barcelona is 1 hour and 13 minutes, with around 31 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 Tarragona and Barcelona by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Tarragona to Barcelona is 1 hour and 0 minutes.
How much does the train from Tarragona to Barcelona cost?
Train ticket prices from Tarragona to Barcelona can start from as little as €5.10 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 Tarragona to Barcelona?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Tarragona to Barcelona without having to change trains. There are 31 direct trains from Tarragona 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 Tarragona to Barcelona leave?
The first train from Tarragona to Barcelona leaves at 05:51. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Tarragona to Barcelona leave?
The last train from Tarragona to Barcelona leaves at 22:27. 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 Tarragona and Barcelona by train?
Trains travelling from Tarragona to Barcelona cover a distance of around 52 miles (83 km) during the journey.