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Many families plan two cities in one trip and book a short flight between them. On several of our routes that is the slower option. Add the drive to the airport, security, boarding and the ride into town, and a two-and-a-half-hour train from city centre to city centre wins easily.
Madrid – Barcelona
High-speed trains run all day between Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants in about two and a half to three hours. Three companies share the line, so prices vary a lot: compare before you book. Arrive 30 minutes early – there is a quick bag scan at the entrance to the platforms.
Madrid – Granada
A direct high-speed train takes a little over three hours and drops you in the city, a short taxi ride from the Alhambra hill. With a private driver the road trip is longer but lets you stop in Córdoba on the way.
Rome – Florence – Milan
Italy’s fast trains link Rome Termini and Milano Centrale in roughly three hours, with Florence in between. From Milan, regular trains reach Como in under an hour and Varenna for the eastern shore of the lake.
Lisbon – Porto
The Alfa Pendular takes about three hours along the coast. It is comfortable, but not as fast as the Spanish or Italian lines; many families prefer a private car so they can stop in Óbidos or Coimbra.
About luggage: there is no weight limit like on a plane, but you carry your own cases. Space is at the end of each carriage and above the seats. With more than one big case per person, a porter at the station or a driver for the transfer to the hotel makes life easier.
Which class?
For families, the comfort or business class is worth it on longer journeys: wider seats, quieter carriages and, on some trains, a light meal at your seat. Book seats facing each other with a table so children can draw or play.
When the plane is still better
Between countries – Madrid to Lisbon, Rome to Barcelona, anywhere to Istanbul or Santorini – fly. The train connections are slow or need changes.
