- Must visit
Museo del Castillo de los Templarios
Museum inside the Templar Castle showcasing medieval life, arms, and archaeology, adding strong context to Ponferrada’s most famous monument.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Barcelona to Ponferrada
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$50
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$72
Fastest journey on Sep 08
9 h 32 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
9 h 32 m
Trains on Sep 08
2
Distance
735 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Barcelona to Ponferrada is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Barcelona to Ponferrada will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 2 trains from Barcelona to Ponferrada, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 735 km distance in an average of 9 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 32 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 9 h 32 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.
8:05 AM9h32Barcelona5:37 PMPonferrada$501One-way0 transfers- 7:05 AM9h32Barcelona4:37 PMPonferrada$941One-way0 transfers
- 8:05 AM9h32Barcelona5:37 PMPonferrada$501One-way0 transfers
- 7:05 AM9h32Barcelona4:37 PMPonferrada$941One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Barcelona to Ponferrada
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Barcelona to Ponferrada among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $97 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 27m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $97, while a flight costs an average of $244.
Distance: 456 miles (735 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$100 Average price | $97 Average price Cheapest | $244 Average price | $179 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 53m Average total duration 9h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 29m Average total duration 10h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 27m Average total duration Fastest 1h 27m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 2.2 - 4.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Barcelona to Ponferrada is a bus with an average price of $97.
This is compared to other travel options from Barcelona to Ponferrada:
A bus is $3 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Barcelona to Ponferrada costing on average $100.
A bus is $147 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Barcelona to Ponferrada costing on average $244.
The fastest way to travel from Barcelona to Ponferrada is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 27m.
Other travel options to Ponferrada take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 23m.
Bus takes on average 10h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Barcelona and Ponferrada including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona to Ponferrada 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 $100 compared to roughly $179 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $79. The journey takes 9h 23m versus 8h 48m 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.
Direct services run with Renfe Viajeros.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Barcelona to Ponferrada train times
The table below shows live departures for Barcelona to Ponferrada trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:05 AM Barcelona | 9h32 | 4:37 PM Ponferrada | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:05 AM Barcelona | 9h32 | 5:37 PM Ponferrada | 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 Ponferrada 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 Barcelona to Ponferrada trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as AVE, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo and more offer trains services from Barcelona to Ponferrada.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe ALVIA tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe ALVIA?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe ALVIA, but also compare tickets for the likes of AVE, Renfe Viajeros or Ouigo to find the best option for your trip from Barcelona to Ponferrada.
- 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 Renfe ALVIA with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Barcelona to Ponferrada.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Barcelona to Ponferrada
SpainSpain
Trains from Barcelona to Ponferrada run on average 1 times per day, taking around 9h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:16, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 456 miles (735 km) distance in 9h 32m.
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
Distance 456 miles (735 km) |
Average train duration 9h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 9h 32m |
First train 6:16 AM |
Last train 9:07 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
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
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo from Barcelona to Ponferrada trainsRenfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo trains will get you between Barcelona and Ponferrada from $24. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe ALVIA
About
Renfe Alvia are high-speed trains with top speeds of up to 250km/h operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company. Alvia trains cover most cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Alicante, Zaragoza and Cadiz. They are somewhat slower than Renfe AVE and AVLO (high-speed and low cost) but cover more destinations and are a comfortable and effective way of travelling around Spain. Onboard facilities include free WIFI, bike storage and luggage allowance. Alvia trains have two seat classes – Estándar and Confort. Top routes for Renfe Alvia include Barcelona to Pamplona, Madrid to Cádiz and Alicante to Gijón.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe ALVIA Duration
9h 32m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$24
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in Preferente class
Seat reservation
Included in Preferente (First) class. Optional extra cost in Turista (Second) class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be muzzled and leashed, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average AVE Duration
24h 37m
Cheapest AVE Price
$125
AVE frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe Viajeros Duration
9h 32m
Cheapest Renfe Viajeros Price
$99
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Ouigo
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Ouigo Duration
7h 52m
Cheapest Ouigo Price
$124
Ouigo frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Ponferrada
Things to do in Ponferrada
Discover the best of Ponferrada — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ponferrada trip today.
- Must visit
La Fábrica de Luz. Museo de la Energía
Contemporary museum devoted to Spain’s energy story, with interactive displays on coal, electricity, and transition, set in a restored power plant.
- Recommended
Museo del Bierzo
Important contemporary art museum with changing exhibitions and striking architecture, one of the region’s leading cultural venues.
- Must visit
Plaza de la Encina
Historic square beside the basilica and castle, one of Ponferrada’s most atmospheric spots for architecture and photos.
- Must visit
Casco Antiguo de Ponferrada
Historic quarter around the castle and basilica, best explored on foot for medieval lanes, stone buildings, and Camino character.
- Recommended
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Main square of the old town, framed by historic buildings and arcades, ideal for orienting yourself before visiting nearby monuments.
- Gluten-free
Botillo del Bierzo
Smoked pork sausage from El Bierzo, usually pan-fried or grilled. It is one of the comarca’s best-known cured meats and a staple in local taverns.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Maragato
A hearty chickpea and meat stew linked to nearby Maragatería but widely eaten in Ponferrada. It is famous for its unusual serving order and rich flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pimiento Asado del Bierzo
Roasted green peppers from El Bierzo with a sweet, delicate flavor. They are prized for local terroir and often served grilled or preserved.
MuNa
Refined restaurant in Ponferrada known for contemporary Bierzo cuisine, tasting menus, and polished service in an elegant setting.
Casa Noval
Well-known traditional restaurant specializing in Bierzo classics and seasonal products, with a warm dining room and strong local reputation.
Las Cuadras
Popular central venue for León and Bierzo cooking, offering local meats, botillo, and regional wines in a classic, comfortable atmosphere.
Euro (€)
More affordable than Spain's big cities, with lower hotel rates, modest dining prices, and low local transport costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a budget meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- €45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-2.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for cafés; taxi tips are optional, usually rounding up.
FAQs: Trains from Barcelona to Ponferrada
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barcelona to Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Barcelona to Ponferrada can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24, while the average price is around $100.
The train from Barcelona to Ponferrada runs once a day and takes approximately 9h 32m.
The first train from Barcelona to Ponferrada leaves at 6:16 AM.
The distance by train from Barcelona to Ponferrada is 456 miles (735 km).
The last train from Barcelona to Ponferrada leaves at 9:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Barcelona to Ponferrada.
Yes, there is a direct train from Barcelona to Ponferrada. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Barcelona to Ponferrada.
The train station in Barcelona that goes to Ponferrada is Barcelona Sants, which connects to Ponferrada station.
The cheapest way to get from Barcelona to Ponferrada is by train, with a cost of around $24.
The train journey from Barcelona to Ponferrada offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the diverse landscapes of northern Spain, including the Catalonian countryside and the mountainous regions approaching Ponferrada.
A day trip from Barcelona to Ponferrada is not feasible since the journey takes 9h 32m, covering a distance of 456 miles (735 km). The trip frequency is 1 per day for trains.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Ponferrada, including its historic Templar castle, the Basilica de la Encina, and the nearby Las Médulas, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Yes, you can take the train from Barcelona to Ponferrada.
Since both Barcelona and Ponferrada are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Ponferrada include León, O Barco de Valdeorras, Monforte de Lemos, Astorga, A Rua.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona to Ponferrada among Omio's users.
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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Spain Pass and Interrail Spain Pass are valid on most trains within Spain, including RENFE regional, AVE high-speed, and other long-distance services. Some restrictions may apply for certain premium trains, so it is advisable to check specific train eligibility and reservation requirements in advance.
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 Ponferrada, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transportation. It's advisable to stay aware of surroundings and keep valuables secure. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting travelers, but standard precautions like avoiding overly persistent street vendors and verifying taxi fares before rides are recommended 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Barcelona to Ponferrada
Most Barcelona to Ponferrada trains use the Barcelona Sants to Ponferrada station pair. Use this guide to compare Barcelona and Ponferrada train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Barcelona
Arrival train stations in Ponferrada
Which Barcelona station do trains to Ponferrada leave from?
Trains from Barcelona to Ponferrada leave from Barcelona Sants. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Barcelona city centre at Plaça dels Països Catalans, 1, 7, 08014 Barcelona, Spain.
Barcelona SantsPlaça dels Països Catalans, 1, 7, 08014 Barcelona, Spain+34 934956020
City-centre transport
Getting to Barcelona Sants from Barcelona city centre
Barcelona Sants is 1 km from Barcelona city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainR1, R4 · 4m · $1 · every ~15 min
Re, 15254, 15710, 15760, 15762, 15770, 15772, 15774, 15778, 15780, 15782, 15784, 15786, 15788, 15792, 15850, 15860, 15868, 15874, 15878, 15886 · 5m · $1
BusN28 · 20m · every ~3 min
D20 · 21m · $4 · every ~12 min
SubwayL3 · 16m · $4 · every ~26 min
Barcelona Sants train station facilities and services
Barcelona Sants has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: 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
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Hotspots in and near restaurants. ATMs are in the central part of the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located in various locations inside the station.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Barcelona Sants: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Barcelona Sants: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Barcelona Sants: All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Apartments Eixample, Apartment Guell, Sweet Inn Callao.
Which Ponferrada station do trains from Barcelona arrive at?
Trains from Barcelona to Ponferrada arrive at Ponferrada. Ponferrada is 0 miles (1 km) from Ponferrada city centre.
PonferradaEstación de Ponferrada, Avenida de la Libertad, 24400 Ponferrada, León, Spain+34 987 410 000
City-centre transport
Getting to Ponferrada from Ponferrada city centre
BusSeveral lines available
TaxiAvailable outside the station
Ponferrada train station facilities and services
Ponferrada has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant La Perla, Restaurante Mencía
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ponferrada. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ponferrada. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ponferrada: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ponferrada: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ponferrada: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include AC Hotel Ponferrada, Hotel Temple Ponferrada, Hotel Aroi Ponferrada.
More options for your journey from Barcelona to Ponferrada
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ponferrada and Barcelona
Most popular train connections to Ponferrada
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