- Must visit
Museu Picasso
Major collection focused on Pablo Picasso’s formative years and his deep connection to Barcelona, housed in a set of medieval palaces in El Born.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Barcelona
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$655
Average price
$690
Fastest journey
1 d 1 m
Average duration
1 d 6 h 9 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
1384 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Barcelona is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Barcelona will cost around $690 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $655.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Barcelona without transferring at least 3 times.
5:15 PM26h08Manchester7:23 PMBarcelona$6551One-way3 transfers- 12:35 PM24h01Manchester12:36 PMBarcelona$6801One-way3 transfers
- 10:15 PM40h17Manchester2:32 PMBarcelona$7351One-way3 transfers
- 12:35 PM24h01Manchester12:36 PMBarcelona$6801One-way3 transfers
- 5:15 PM26h08Manchester7:23 PMBarcelona$6551One-way3 transfers
- 10:15 PM40h17Manchester2:32 PMBarcelona$7351One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Manchester to Barcelona
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Barcelona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.4 - 3.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $30, and a train costs an average of $655.
Distance: 859 miles (1384 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$690 Average price | $159 Average price Cheapest | $186 Average price | $231 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
30h 44m Average total duration 30h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 57m Average total duration Fastest 2h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 29h 19m Average total duration 28h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 19h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 4.1 - 8.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 3.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Barcelona is a flight with an average price of $159 (€128).
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Barcelona:
A flight is $28 (€22) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Manchester to Barcelona costing on average $186 (€150).
A flight is $531 (€428) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Barcelona costing on average $690 (€556).
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Barcelona is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 57m.
Other travel options to Barcelona take longer:
Bus takes on average 28h 49m.
Train takes on average 30h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Barcelona including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Barcelona among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $690 (€556) compared to roughly $231 (€186) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-459.40 (€-370.44). The journey takes 30h 14m versus 19h 58m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Manchester to Barcelona train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Barcelona trains for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:15 PM Manchester | 26h08 | 7:23 PM Barcelona | 3 transfers | |
| 10:15 PM Manchester | 40h17 | 2:32 PM Barcelona | 3 transfers | |
| Thursday, May 28 | |||||
| 12:35 PM Manchester | 24h01 | 12:36 PM Barcelona | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Barcelona 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.
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Why should you book Manchester to Barcelona trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Manchester to Barcelona.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Barcelona.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Barcelona.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Barcelona.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Barcelona
United Kingdom
Spain
Trains from Manchester to Barcelona run on average 2 times per day, taking around 30h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $655 (€528) but you can travel from only $30 (€24) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 12:35, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 859 miles (1384 km) distance in 24h 1m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $30 (€24)
Distance 859 miles (1384 km) |
Average train duration 30h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $655 (€528) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 24h 1m |
First train 12:35 PM |
Last train 10:15 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $30 (€24)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Manchester to Barcelona trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Manchester and Barcelona from $30 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
24h 1m
Cheapest Price
$655 (€528)
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Barcelona
Things to do in Barcelona
Discover the best of Barcelona — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Barcelona trip today.
- Must visit
MNAC - Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
Catalonia’s national art museum, especially strong in Romanesque frescoes, Gothic art, and grand city views from Palau Nacional.
- Recommended
Fundació Joan Miró
Hilltop museum dedicated to Joan Miró, combining paintings, sculptures, and temporary exhibitions in a landmark modern building on Montjuïc.
- Must visit
La Rambla
Barcelona’s most famous promenade, busy with street life and historic buildings, best experienced as a short walk rather than a long stay.
- Must visit
Barri Gòtic
Atmospheric old quarter of medieval lanes, hidden squares, historic facades, and one of the city’s essential walking areas.
- Recommended
Passeig de Gràcia
Elegant boulevard lined with luxury shops and standout modernist architecture, ideal for combining architecture, shopping, and city strolling.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pa amb tomàquet
Rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomato, olive oil, and salt. A staple of Catalan cuisine and often served with meals or charcuterie.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Escalivada
Traditional Catalan dish of roasted eggplant, red peppers, and onion, usually dressed with olive oil. Valued for its simple smoky flavor.
- Gluten-free
Esqueixada de bacallà
A refreshing salad of shredded salt cod, tomato, onion, and olives. A classic Barcelona and Catalan seafood starter.
Disfrutar
Internationally acclaimed fine dining restaurant offering highly creative contemporary cuisine with exceptional service and a tasting-menu format.
Bar Cañete
Celebrated tapas bar and restaurant serving refined traditional plates, seafood, and meats in a polished but bustling setting.
Can Culleretes
Historic traditional restaurant in the Gothic Quarter known for classic Catalan dishes such as escudella, roast meats, and crema catalana.
Euro
Moderate by Western Europe standards. Tapas and transit are manageable, but central hotels and tourist areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.80-3.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Small change is fine in cafes; taxis can be rounded up.
TMB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.65 EUR
- Day pass
- 11.20 EUR
To the city center
Barcelona Sants -> Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can pay by card at TMB metro ticket machines and on many city buses using contactless payment. Keep your ticket until the end of the journey for inspections.
- The Hola Barcelona Travel Card offers unlimited travel for 2 to 5 days and includes metro access from the airport. Buy in advance online for a discount from the official operator.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Barcelona
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Barcelona 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 Barcelona, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Barcelona can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $655 (€528), while the average price is around $690 (€556).
The train from Manchester to Barcelona takes 24h 1m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Barcelona is 859 miles (1384 km).
The first train from Manchester to Barcelona leaves at 12:35 PM.
The last train from Manchester to Barcelona leaves at 10:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Barcelona.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Barcelona.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Barcelona.
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Barcelona is by flight, with a cost of around $30 (€24).
The train journey from Manchester to Barcelona is not particularly known for being scenic, as it primarily includes urban and industrial areas, but offers glimpses of the English countryside and parts of the French landscape.
A day trip from Manchester to Barcelona is not feasible as the journey takes 24h 1m and the distance is 859 miles (1384 km). The frequency of trips is 1 per day for trains.
In Barcelona, you can explore Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona, which offers tours and a museum. Visit Montjuïc for stunning city views, the Magic Fountain, and Montjuïc Castle. Relax at Barceloneta Beach, known for sunbathing and seaside dining. Discover El Raval's eclectic culture and nightlife, and enjoy rides and views at Tibidabo Amusement Park. Must-see sights include the iconic Sagrada Família, vibrant Park Güell, bustling La Rambla, the historic Gothic Quarter, and the uniquely designed Casa Batlló by Gaudí.
Three to four days in Barcelona is ideal to explore its main attractions, including La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter, while also enjoying its vibrant culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Barcelona.
Barcelona is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Barcelona include Girona, Figueres, Tarragona, Lleida, Port Aventura.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Barcelona among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Barcelona, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like La Rambla, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include distraction techniques, fake petitions, and overpriced taxi rides without meters. It's advisable to keep valuables secure, avoid unlicensed taxis, and remain vigilant in busy spots to ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Barcelona
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Barcelona and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Barcelona
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