How to Get to Barcelona from London

They’re two of Europe’s biggest hotspots, but how to get to Barcelona from London?

With over 1,100 km separating the cities, there are many choices – but is flying the best option?

How’s the train? Is the bus the dumbest idea ever?

Here’s how to go from London to Barcelona without wasting time or money.

How to Get to Barcelona from London

There are four main ways to make the trip from London to Barcelona, each with different costs and travel times.

• ✈️ Flight: Fastest and usually the cheapest.
• 🚆 Train: A scenic, relaxed journey with transfers.
• 🚌 Bus: The longest but budget-friendly.
• 🚗 Car: Great for a road trip, but time-consuming.

Let’s do a deeper dive on the best ways to get from London to Barcelona.

Flying to Barcelona from London

Flying is the best option for most travelers. Multiple airlines offer daily direct flights from London’s major airports to Barcelona El Prat, and the flight itself is quick.

I’ve flown this route several times, and it’s the easiest way to go. Budget airlines like Ryanair, Vueling, and easyJet keep fares low, but they’ll charge extra for bags.

If you want a hassle-free experience with less fees, Vueling is the best choice.

🕒 Time to destination: About 2 hours (plus airport time).

💰 Average cost: About €60.00.

📍 Barcelona airport to city centre transport

🌟 Book a flight to Barcelona with Vueling 🌟

Taking the Train to Barcelona from London

There’s no direct train from London to Barcelona, but it’s possible with a transfer in Paris. You take the Eurostar from London to Paris, then switch to a high-speed train to Barcelona.

I did this once for the experience, and it was a smooth, scenic ride. The Eurostar is quick, and the train from Paris to Barcelona has great views of the French countryside.

It’s more expensive than flying, but if you hate airports, it’s a solid alternative.

🕒 Time to destination: About 11 hours (including transfer).

💰 Average cost: About €120.00.

📍 Barcelona train stations

👉 Book a train to Barcelona

Taking the Bus to Barcelona from London

The bus is the cheapest way to get to Barcelona, but it’s a long ride: over 24 hours.

I’ll be honest: a friend told me that it was a bit rough. After 10 hours, he was regretting not splurging the extra €50.00 on a flight. If you can sleep on buses and don’t mind long journeys, it’s an option.

Just bring entertainment, snacks, and patience.

🕒 Time to destination: About 24-26 hours.

💰 Average cost: About €40.00.

👉 Book a bus to Barcelona

Passes

Guarantee Spots + Save up to €65 on Barcelona’s Top Attractions

Get more info

Driving to Barcelona from London

Driving from London to Barcelona is a serious road trip.

You’ll need to cross the English Channel, then drive through France before reaching Spain. It’s a long drive, but it’s great if you want to stop in places like Bordeaux or Toulouse along the way.

I haven’t driven the full route myself, but I’ve done road trips through France and Spain.

The roads are excellent, but tolls in France can get pricey. If you’re renting a car, check the drop-off fees—one-way rentals between countries are expensive.

🕒 Time to destination: About 15-18 hours (plus ferry/Eurotunnel time).

💰 Average cost: About €130.00 in gas.

📍 Parking in Barcelona

👉 Directions with Google Maps

Tips on How to Get from London to Barcelona

Flying is the best option for most people. It’s faster and often cheaper than taking the train or bus.

If you hate airports and don’t mind a longer journey, the train is a comfortable alternative. Just be prepared for a transfer in Paris.

The bus is only worth it if you’re on a serious budget and can handle a full day of travel. Bring snacks, entertainment, and a good pillow.

Driving works if you want to turn it into a road trip. If you’re just trying to get there, it’s not worth the hassle.

How to Get to Barcelona from London FAQ

Is the train from London to Barcelona better than flying?
If you love train travel and don’t mind the longer journey, yes. Otherwise, flying is faster and usually cheaper.

How much is a train ticket from London to Barcelona?
Prices vary, but expect to pay around £150-£250 if booked in advance.

What is the cheapest way to get to Barcelona from London?
The bus is usually the cheapest, but flying can be just as affordable if you book early.

How long is the flight from London to Barcelona?
The flight itself is about 2 hours, but add airport time on both ends.

Is driving from London to Barcelona worth it?
If you want a road trip and plan to stop along the way, yes. If you just want to get there, fly.