4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Barcelona to Marseille
Cheapest price
$142
Average price
$145
Fastest journey
4 h 58 m
Average duration
5 h 4 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
339 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Barcelona to Marseille is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Barcelona to Marseille will cost around $145 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.
Of the 2 trains that leave Barcelona for Marseille on Fri, Nov 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 21 the direct trains cover the 339 km distance in an average of 5 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 58 m .
On Fri, Nov 21 the slowest trains will take 5 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9708+
4657
09725097259708+4657
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Barcelona to Marseille
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Barcelona to Marseille among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €20, and a flight costs an average of €40.
Distance: 210 miles (339 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€109 Average price | €44 Average price Cheapest | €317 Average price |
5h 25m Average total duration 4h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 9m Average total duration 7h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 53m Average total duration Fastest 2h 53m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Barcelona to Marseille train times
The table below shows live departures for Barcelona to Marseille trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9708+4657 | On time 8:28 AM Barcelona Sants | 5h10 | 1:38 PM Marseille Saint-Charles | 1 transfer | |
| 09725 | On time 3:34 PM Barcelona Sants | 4h58 | 8:32 PM Marseille Saint-Charles | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Barcelona to Marseille by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Nov 21
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Barcelona to Marseille?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Barcelona to Marseille
Spain
France
Trains from Barcelona to Marseille run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€49) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:50, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 210 miles (339 km) distance in 4h 55m.
Distance 210 miles (339 km) |
Average train duration 4h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $60 (€49) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 55m |
First train 04:50 |
Last train 21:07 |
Train companies: AVE, TGV INOUI, SNCF Intercités, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros from Barcelona to Marseille trainsAVE, TGV INOUI, SNCF Intercités, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Barcelona and Marseille from $25 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
AVE
TGV INOUI
SNCF Intercités
Renfe
Renfe Viajeros
Barcelona To Marseille By Train With Renfe's AVE Internacional
Introduction
I took the Renfe AVE Internacional from Barcelona to Marseille to reach the port city for a ship connection. The direct service from Barcelona Sants to Marseille St. Charles is smooth, scenic, and takes only about 5 hours. It’s a relaxing way to travel between Spain and France. This is the kind of trip where you can enjoy the countryside through wide panoramic windows, sip coffee from the bar, and arrive in the heart of Marseille rested and ready to enjoy the pleasures of the city. For me, the stretch after Perpignan, skimming inland lagoons and coastal plains, was the highlight of the trip!
Route Overview
The train from Barcelona to Marseille covers approximately 550 km, running along parts of the Mediterranean coast before crossing into southern France. The trip takes around 5 hours. This cross-border Renfe AVE service links Spain and France without airport queues or long drives. It’s a quick and comfortable alternative to flying, especially when you factor in airport transfers and security lines. With Renfe’s AVE, you travel city-center to city-center with generous seating, a calm atmosphere, and onboard services that make time pass effortlessly.
Transportation Experience
For this Barcelona to Marseille trip, I booked a First Class AVE seat about one month ahead and paid €74. After paying online, Omio delivered a mobile ticket instantly, which made check-in quick. Barcelona Sants is a large, modern station with shops, cafés, and restaurants, so arriving early is always a good idea. You can grab a snack, enjoy a quick espresso, or simply watch the time go by on one of the terraces before boarding. Like most trains in Spain, there’s a security check and a separate ticket control before being allowed onto the platform. Thanks to Renfe’s high service standards, the process is organized and efficient.
Route Details
Departure & Arrival Stations
Barcelona Sants connects to metro lines, local, regional, and long-distance trains, as well as multiple buses, making it one of the most accessible stations in Spain. Facilities include cafés, restaurants, and comfortable terraces where you can relax before departure.
Marseille St. Charles, located atop a hill overlooking the city, links directly to the metro and several buses. Walking down the monumental stairs to reach the city below is always a memorable way to arrive in Marseille.
Schedule & Frequency
The train from Barcelona to Marseille operates once daily in each direction as part of the Renfe AVE Internacional service. My train departed precisely at 4:34 PM. The journey lasts about 4 hours and 58 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, rest, work, or use the onboard entertainment before arriving in Marseille.
Onboard Experience & Services
Traveling First Class on the train from Barcelona to Marseille felt relaxing from the start. The seats recline and offer enough legroom to stretch comfortably. Each seat has a reading light and a fold-down tray. The carriage was really quiet as well, which made it easy to take a quick nap during the trip.
Renfe provides Wi-Fi through the PlayRENFE platform, where you can stream films, TV shows, newspapers, and other entertainment. Watching a movie on a 4+ hour trip helps break up the time. The connection occasionally dropped in tunnels and some long countryside stretches, but overall, it remained fairly steady and was easy to use.
The bar car on this route serves a good range of drinks and snacks. I tried a fresh pastry and a coffee that were both nicely presented and served with a smile. For luggage, there are the usual overhead racks and larger storage spaces near the doors. Each passenger can bring up to three bags of 25 kg.
The scenery between Narbonne and Marseille is a highlight. You get wide views of the coast, with small ports and inland lagoons that seem to blend into the sea. The large windows make those views even better, turning the trip into a very memorable ride.
Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown
Book at least four weeks in advance to find the best fares and to secure your preferred First Class seats. I booked through Omio and received a mobile ticket right away, which made the process quick and stress-free. Prices for this route can vary depending on the season, so booking early usually guarantees the best deal.
Budget breakdown:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Class AVE ticket | €74 | purchased one month ahead |
| Coffee and pastry | €6.10 | from the AVE cafeteria |
| Total | €80.10 |
Top Tips & Personal Recommendations
These are my top tips to make the most of your Barcelona to Marseille train journey.
- Keep your passport or ID handy: Although there’s no border control between Spain and France, railway staff sometimes perform spot checks.
- Choose the right-hand side: For the best coastal views after Perpignan, sit on the right to see lagoons, small ports, and stretches of the Mediterranean coast.
- Try the pastries in the bar car: The coffee and pastries are fresh, inexpensive, and make a perfect mid-journey treat.
- Stretch your legs at the bar car: It’s a good place to move around, enjoy a drink, and chat with other travelers during the trip.
Conclusion
The Renfe AVE Internacional train from Renfe combines Spanish comfort and service with French scenery. With large windows, Wi-Fi, the PlayRENFE entertainment app, and an efficient, friendly onboard crew, the train turns travel into an experience. If you value comfort and good service, this 5-hour ride is an easy and elegant way to reach Marseille and enjoy every kilometer along the way. Ready to plan your trip? Check times and prices on Omio now!
About the Author: Paulo Monteiro
- Job Title: Travel Creator and Rail Writer
- Bio: Paulo Monteiro is a European rail specialist and creator of travel videos and guides. He documents first-hand train journeys across Europe and focuses on onboard comfort, practical tips, and scenic moments.
Traveling by train from Barcelona to Marseille
The train connection between Barcelona and Marseille offers a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two cities. Passengers can choose from several providers, including Renfe AVE, Renfe AVE INT, and SNCF | TGV INOUI. With comfortable seating and onboard amenities, the journey allows travelers to relax while enjoying picturesque views of the Mediterranean landscape along the route.
Train Connection: Barcelona to Marseille
The train connection from Barcelona to Marseille takes approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes, with a total of 2 connections per day. The journey is not direct, requiring one transfer along the way. Passengers will depart from Barcelona Sants and arrive at Marseille Saint-Charles station.
Barcelona to Marseille Train Connection
The first daily train from Barcelona departs at 07:28, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful landscapes between these two cities. The last journey of the day leaves Marseille at 15:34, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their stay before heading back.
Train Ticket Prices from Barcelona to Marseille
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Barcelona and Marseille is €61. The average ticket price tends to be around €117, making it a good option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities in Southern Europe.
Exploring the Heart of Marseille: A Journey Through Its Iconic Landmarks
Welcome to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, a stunning basilica that has stood since the 19th century and serves as a symbol of Marseille’s maritime heritage. Its striking neo-Byzantine architecture and panoramic views from its hilltop location make it not only a spiritual center but also an iconic landmark for visitors seeking breathtaking vistas of the city and coastline. As we explore this sacred site, take note of the intricate mosaics and the golden statue of Our Lady atop its dome, which watches over sailors as they navigate home.
Next, we arrive at Vieux Port (Old Port), historically known as the heart of Marseille's trade since ancient Greek times when it was founded in 600 BC. This vibrant waterfront area is now bustling with cafes, markets, and boats bobbing gently on crystal-clear waters—an ideal spot to soak up local culture while enjoying fresh seafood delicacies. Don’t miss out on capturing photos against this picturesque backdrop where history meets modern life; it's truly where past meets present!
Finally, let’s visit Palais des Congrès et de la Culture—a remarkable venue that showcases both contemporary design and cultural significance within Marseille's artistic landscape. Opened in 1990, this multifunctional space hosts various events ranging from exhibitions to concerts while promoting creativity through art initiatives across diverse communities. As you walk through its halls adorned with innovative installations or attend an event here today, you'll experience firsthand how culture thrives in every corner of our beloved city!
FAQs: Trains from Barcelona to Marseille
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barcelona to Marseille by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Marseille, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Barcelona to Marseille
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
- Hotspots in and near restaurants.
- Staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00.
- McDonald’s
- Caffe di Fiore
- Ars Café
- Café de l'Estació
- Café de l’Estació Deli
- Lavazza
- Como
- Peter's
- Tutti Frutti
- Enrique Tomás
- & many more
- All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.
- Apartments Eixample
- Apartment Guell
- Sweet Inn Callao
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
- Located in various locations inside the station.
- Metro lines: L3, L5
- Bus lines: A1, A2
- Train lines: AVE, Alvia, Euromed, Talgo, Trenhotel, TGV, Avant, Intercity, R1, R2, R2 Nord, R2 Sud, R3, R4, RG1, R11, R12, R13, R14, R15, R16, R17
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk- Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00
- Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the station.
- The lockers are located on Boulevard Bourdet, on level 0 of the station. Service is provided by La Bag Mobile.
- Caffe San Carlo
- DAKAO
- Espressamente Illy
- EXKi
- McDonald's
- Monop'Daily
- Starbucks
- Casa Di Pasta
- Chatime
- PAUL
- Accès Plus is a service offered to passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility who need assistance at the station. For more information email [email protected] or call +33 890640650.
- Adagio Access Marseille-Saint Charles
- Holiday Inn Express Marseille-Saint Charles
- Hotel Les Bords De Me
- Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00
- Located on level -1 of the station, entrances via the station or via Bd Bourdet.
- Bus lines: 521, 52, 56, 82S, 533, 582, 33, 34, 49, 50, 51
- Metro lines: M1, M2
- Train lines: TGV, iDTGV, OUIGO, TGV Lyria, Eurostar, Thalys
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available near the station, with access from Square Stalingrad.
- Le Café de la Banque
- La Table de l'Ours
- Outside the main entrance.
- €0.50
- Kyriad Marseille Blancarde Timone
- Ibis Marseille Timone
- Hotel Azur
- Located near the main entrance
- 115 places, covered
- Located near the main entrance
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for regional and local trains
- Hall 2: access to metro and tramway connections
- Metro: Line 1
- Tramway: Line T1
- Bus: Several lines available
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityBike ParkingParkingDiningATMTaxisBike ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityHotelBike ParkingMost popular train connections from Barcelona
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Most popular trains to and from Marseille and Barcelona
Most popular train connections to Marseille
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