Carol, help on Alicante

[sandm]

Carol, thanks for all your valuable information. It is always appreciated. My husband and I want to spend a few days in Alicante pre cruise in October. We are taking the train to Alicante from Barcelona then return trip a few days later.

I have a few questions. I understand there are two train services either the Euromed or the Talgo. Do both of these leave from Sants station? Is there a big difference between the two other than the travel times?

 

I know I have months before I need to buy tickets but I'm a bit nervous since reading the difficulties encountered on tripadvisor. I have read the helpful hints and hope for the best when the time comes.

WE will leave Barcelona the same day we arrive at Prat so I will allow at least 3-4 hours between arrival and leaving on the train.

Thank you in advance for your help.

[English_in_Spain]

All trains from Barcelona to Alicante leave from Sants station.

 

The Euromed is a very comfortable train which only stops about 3 times between Barcelona and Alicante. The journey takes between 4 ¾ and 5 hours

 

I have done this journey on the Euromed in Preferente (first class). If these tickets are not much more expensive than Turista then I would recommend upgrading. The first class ticket includes a light meal served to your seat. You also have the use of the first class lounge at both Barcelona and Alicante stations which is a much nicer place to wait for your train.

 

This was our Euromed train at Alicante station

 

 

 

This is the first class lounge at Alicante station

 

 

 

The Talgo is still a good train but not as nice as the Euromed. It stops at a lot more stations and takes between 5 ½ and 5 ¾ hours.

 

In the end though, you may have to choose your train by which time suits you best. There are about 4 of each type each day.

 

I can’t say what the fares would be as we get special residents’ senior discounted tickets.

 

Booking starts about 60 days beforehand.

 

I have also read several people from US here on CC reporting difficulty buying their tickets on RENFE’s website. I have heard mention of this website but I have never used them. If you have trouble with RENFE it might be worth trying here.

 

As you will already be at Barcelona airport, have you considered flying to Alicante.

 

The low cost airline for this route is Vueling. Single fare can be as low as €40 but, as with all low cost airlines, watch out for all the add-ons like luggage.

 

Let me know if you need help with finding somewhere to stay in Alicante.

 

[sandm]

Thank you for your prompt response. The photos are wonderful. I have looked into Vueling but the times work out better with the train. We also really want to relax and experience the train since here in the US it is just not that common.

 

We had planned on the Preferred class and am glad you also enjoyed the perks.

 

WE have reservations at Alicante Melia since my husband liked the look of the fitness facilities plus liked the service amenities on "The Level". However, if you have any recommendations please let me know.

 

I have battled cancer this past year and my husband and I are simply really looking forward to relaxing and enjoying the beautiful coastal town.

Thank you again.

Stephanie

[English_in_Spain]

I am glad you have chosen the Meliá Alicante. That would have been my first suggestion for you.

 

It is a very nice hotel, very well situated - close to the marina and the old town. It is also near the tram station. You can use the tram to visit other places up the coast.

 

If you like casinos there is a new one opposite the hotel (it was moved here from further up the coast and the locals hate the design of it - it does not fit in with the area).

 

If the weather is fine there is a beach near the hotel. When in October are you coming?

 

If you need any more information please let me know.

 

[sandm]

We actually arrive September 28 through October 1. We are so excited to just relax and wander. It looks like such a pretty town. We thought about Madrid or Seville but really just wanted a laid back couple of days before we head to Barcelona for our cruise.

 

We've been to Barcelona twice before and it is one of our favorite cities in the world. My husbands most favorite hotel is Hotel 1898 so we get to spend a few days there before we cruise.

 

Thanks you again for all your help.

[English_in_Spain]

Hi again

 

While looking for something else I happened to come across this youtube video about Alicante and thought you might be interested to see it