My friend would like to take her husband to Barcelona for a surprise visit (a place he has always wanted to go). However, he is frightened of flying. Is it possible to travel from Bristol to Barcelona by train without too much hassle.
www.thetrainline.com should be a starting point for travel from Bristol to London. Maybe you can get them to sell you a ticket on the Eurostar service from London to Paris on the French 'Train de Grande Vitesse' (TGV - high-speed train). From there, a similar service will take you to the south of France, to Avignon, probably, where you will pick up another fast train to Barcelona. Have a look at www.voyages-sncf.com for a full service and details of special offers (you'll need some French to navigate!) From January 1st, currencies change to Euros on the continent, but good old Visa will buy most things you'll need. Pity your friend doesn't like flying as there are some extra-ordinary bargains from Bristol to Barcelona right now with www.go-fly.co.uk
You can't get there from here directly. They'll have to go Bristol to London (change) London to Paris Gare de Nord, then there is a direct night train from Paris Austerlitz to Barcelona. Check out www.raileurope.com for more info. If they're under 26 he can get a huge discount.
another air plug: www.easyjet.com has deals from London to Barcelona...
Posts: 23 | Location: California, USA | Registered: December 29, 2001
The overnight train from Paris to Barcelona is the best option. Special fares apply to this train (it has no seats, only sleeping accommodation and a restaurant car). It should be possible to spend a few hours in Paris for sightseeing or shopping - the main stations have left luggage offices ("consigne").
