How to Travel from Spain to Scotland and Ireland by Train: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling from Spain to Scotland and Ireland by train is an exciting journey, albeit one that requires some planning. Due to the lack of direct train routes connecting these countries, you will need to cover a series of steps to complete your trip. Below, we’ll outline each segment of the journey for you.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Spain to France

Starting Point: Choose a city in Spain such as Barcelona or Madrid.

Train to France: From Barcelona, take a high-speed train Renfe-SNCF to Paris. The journey takes about 6-7 hours. From Madrid, you can take a train to Irun or Hendaye on the French side and then transfer to a train to Paris.

Step 2: France to London

Take the Eurostar train from Paris Gare du Nord to London St Pancras. This journey takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Step 3: London to Scotland

From London, you can take a train to various cities in Scotland:

London to Edinburgh: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours. London to Glasgow: About 4.5 to 5.5 hours.

Step 4: Traveling to Ireland

The final leg of your journey involves traveling to Holyhead, Wales, and then to Dublin via ferry:

Train to Holyhead: From London, take a train to Holyhead. This takes about 3-4 hours. Ferry to Dublin: From Holyhead, take a ferry to Dublin, which takes about 2 hours. Book your ferry in advance for the best options.

Summary of Routes

Spain to France: Spain to Paris → Paris to London → London to Edinburgh/Glasgow

From England and Scotland to Ireland: London to Holyhead → Ferry to Dublin

Tips for Your Journey

Book in Advance: Train and ferry tickets are often cheaper when booked well in advance. Check Schedules: Train schedules can vary, so it’s good to check times and connections ahead of your trip. Consider Rail Passes: If you plan to travel extensively by train, consider a Eurail Pass or a UK Rail Pass for savings.

Final Note: This journey will involve multiple transfers and can take a full day or more depending on your connections and travel times. So, plan accordingly! Enjoy your travels!