Train route through Eastern Spain: Alicante, Valencia and Barcelona

Explore Eastern Spain by train: Mediterranean light, history and flavour between Madrid, Alicante, Valencia and Barcelona.

From the capital to the sea, this train route reveals a vibrant and accessible coastline. Connecting comfortable stages and changing landscapes, the journey blends urban culture, heritage and coastal gastronomy. The experience unfolds unhurriedly: each arrival opens a window to the Mediterranean and its luminous way of life.

In Madrid the transition towards the coast begins; Alicante offers golden beaches and an iconic promenade; Valencia naturally combines tradition and modernity; Barcelona showcases modernism and a cosmopolitan spirit. Four cities, one railway thread, and a single Mediterranean rhythm.

The itinerary balances an efficient rail network, historic quarters, museums and coastal nature. Free time allows for exploring markets, terraces and viewpoints, while train logistics optimise transfers and maximise enjoyment of the Mediterranean landscape stress-free.

A cultural and luminous journey that unites city, sea and landscape through train routes designed to be savoured.

• Day 1: Madrid → Alicante (2h 20 by train) — Seafront promenade and Mediterranean welcome

Departure from Madrid towards the coast; arrival in Alicante and first encounter with the Explanada de España, a promenade of palms and mosaics where the sea breeze comes to life.

Free time to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere and get your bearings in the city centre; nearby options for a light dinner and an evening stroll by the sea.

Accommodation in Alicante. A relaxed welcome by the shore and planning the following day to make the most of the urban and coastal surroundings.

• Day 2: Alicante — Beach and Santa Bárbara Castle (guided tour included)

Morning guided tour with ascent to the Santa Bárbara Castle, panoramic views over Alicante and the bay; descent to Postiguet Beach for a seaside walk.

Free afternoon with the option to sail to Tabarca; maritime flavours, clear light and a slow rhythm among white streets and terraces by the sea.

Accommodation in Alicante. A balanced day between heritage and coast; we recommend booking excursions and restaurants in advance to ensure availability.

• Day 3: Alicante → Valencia (2h by train) — Historic centre and markets (guided tour)

Transfer to Valencia and guided walk through the Silk Exchange, Central Market and Cathedral; lively squares, craftsmanship and fresh produce in a vibrant historic centre.

Free time to enjoy local cuisine or explore the old Turia riverbed, a green corridor ideal for cycling and relaxed strolling.

Accommodation in Valencia. We suggest booking dinner in central districts and arranging monument entries in advance to optimise time.

• Day 4: Valencia — City of Arts and Sciences and Albufera Natural Park

Morning at the City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural and cultural icon; museums, exhibition spaces and walks along the former Turia riverbed.

In the afternoon, excursion to the Albufera; rice fields, sunset over the lagoon and a traditional boat ride to savour the landscape and its serene waters.

Accommodation in Valencia. A day of contrasts between modernity and nature; option for a boat ride and rice dinner with views.

• Day 5: Valencia → Barcelona (3h by train) — Gothic Quarter, Ramblas and Eixample (guided tour)

Arrival in Barcelona, the capital of modernism; guided tour through the Gothic Quarter, Ramblas and Eixample, where history, commerce and urban creativity intertwine.

Afternoon for first impressions, lively squares and stylish cafés; an ideal introduction to the scale and rhythm of the city.

Accommodation in Barcelona. We recommend booking entrances and staggered timings to optimise visits and mobility.

• Day 6: Barcelona — Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, Gaudí’s legacy facing the Mediterranean

Morning devoted to the Sagrada Familia; towers, inner light and façades by the genius Gaudí. Transfer to Park Güell for panoramas and mosaics.

Free afternoon: Passeig de Gràcia, coastline and museums; suggestions to combine shopping, architecture and relaxation by the Mediterranean.

Accommodation in Barcelona. Evening open to shows or contemporary gastronomy.

• Day 7: Barcelona → Madrid (2h 30 by train) — Return by high-speed train

Morning free depending on schedule; final walk through Barcelona and transfer to the station. High-speed train to Madrid, closing the Mediterranean arc with memories of the Ramblas and modernism.

Planned arrival and smooth connections to continue your journey or return home, with well-structured timing and convenience.

End of services.

• Optional night in Madrid or Barcelona — extra night to end the journey calmly

Possibility to add an extra night in Madrid or Barcelona, according to traveller preference. Check availability and conditions when booking.

We recommend requesting the extension together with the main booking.

A train itinerary connecting the capital and the Mediterranean coast, between art, modernism and light: vibrant cities linked by comfortable and inspiring routes.