Escape the 'chaos and crowds' by travelling around Spain by rail

Holidays are all about slowing down, relaxing and enjoying the journey. Which is why rail trips are becoming increasingly popular - especially with stunning destinations like Spain on offer.

Great for those who love to take the road (or tracks) less travelled, with the added bonus of being much more eco-friendly than travel by plane or car, Eurail and Spain Tourism Board are on a mission to get Aussies all aboard this scenic way of seeing the sights.

Oh, and did we mention it's conveniently very budget-friendly, too?

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If you're not sure where to book your rail ticket to, here are a few spectacular stops for a more immersive way to enjoy Spain's people, culture and places.

And the best part, you'll avoid some of the more overcrowded places in doing so.

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FROM BARCELONA

Sitges

Perfect for when you tire of the hustle and bustle of Barcelona, the charming seaside town of Sitges lies just a quick 35-minute train ride away.

Nestled on the picturesque Catalan coast, this chic town has a sparkling waterside promenade, making it ideal for people watching and idyllic afternoon strolls.

Sitges is also one of Spain's leading LGBTQI+ destinations, so take your pick from the endless buzzing restaurants, bars and clubs to explore.

Tarragona

Take a break from the busy tourist trail with a trip to ancient Roman town, Tarragona.

Pick up a few snacks at the train station and settle in for the quick one-hour trip south of Barcelona to this World Heritage City.

After exploring the Roman Amphitheatre and the impressive Cathedral, end the day with a leisurely wander in the quaint fishing town of El Serrallo before indulging in dinner at one of the busy seafood restaurants.

Montserrat

Celebrating its 1000th anniversary in 2025, this spectacular mountain monastery is less than two hours by train from Barcelona, and well worth the day trip.

Now home to a vibrant community of Benedictine monks, get your cultural fix by immersing yourself in the incredible collection of religious art on site, and time your visit for a performance by its renowned boys' choir - one of the oldest in Europe.

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Girona

Keen for a break from the chaos and crowds of Barcelona? Leave the traffic behind with a trip to the charming Catalonian city of Girona, which lies just a short 40-minute train ride from the Catalan capital.

A feast for the senses with its fabulous food and medieval architecture (Game of Thrones fans will recognise some of the streets and buildings), it's home to one of Spain's best-preserved medieval quarters.

FROM MADRID

Toledo

Known as the "city of three cultures", Toledo is a must-visit - especially when it's just 35-minutes by train from Madrid.

With the town sitting atop a gorge overlooking the Río Tajo, wander its beautiful, winding cobblestone streets before checking out the Cathedral and the Alcázar fortress.

Salamanca

This lively university city (one of the oldest in Europe), is less than two hours from Madrid by train.

With a history dating back to the Celtic era, it's known for its ornate sandstone architecture.

Cuenca

Cuenca is a city set in the mountains of east-central Spain.

You can visit the famous hanging houses of Cuenca and the town's famous abstract art, by taking a train ride that lasts only one hour from Madrid.

Avila

Just two hours by train from Madrid you'll find Avila. The historic walled city has some of the best-preserved fortified walls in all of Europe.

The medieval city walls, feature 80-plus crenellated, semicircular towers and nine gates, including the arched El Alcázar, on the eastern side.