How Far is Barcelona from Rome and How to Travel Between Them
Planning to travel from Barcelona, Spain to Rome, Italy? Here's a complete guide on the distance, transportation options, routes, and how to make the journey smooth and enjoyable.
Barcelona and Rome are two of Europe’s most iconic cities — one nestled on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, the other known for its ancient Roman ruins, history, and culture. Although they sit in different countries, traveling between these cities is straightforward, offering a mix of fast, scenic, and budget-friendly routes.
Let’s break down how far from Barcelona to Rome, and explore the best ways to get there by train, flight, car, or bus — whether you're planning a quick city hop or a multi-day European adventure.
Distance from Barcelona to Rome
- Straight-line (air) distance: approximately 860 km (535 miles)
- By road or train: around 1,365 km (850 miles)
Wondering how far is Rome, Italy from Barcelona, Spain? In terms of direct distance, it’s less than 900 kilometers, but depending on your mode of transport, actual travel time and route length can vary greatly.
The distance from Barcelona to Rome makes it a feasible trip for travelers exploring southern Europe, and there are multiple routes that suit different travel styles and budgets.
Option 1: Barcelona to Rome Train
There is no direct train from Barcelona to Rome, but it is possible — and enjoyable — to travel by train with connections through France and northern Italy. This route combines scenic rail journeys with comfortable high-speed segments.
How to travel from Barcelona to Rome by train:
- Take a high-speed train from Barcelona Sants to cities like Lyon, Marseille, or Milan. These routes are operated by Renfe-SNCF and TGV.
- From Milan or Turin, transfer to a Trenitalia high-speed train heading to Rome.
- Total journey time: 13 to 15 hours
- Recommended stopovers: Lyon, Nice, Milan, or Turin
- Ticket price: €90–€180 (depending on booking time and train class)
If you're looking for a slow-travel experience and want to see the landscapes of southern France and northern Italy, the train from Barcelona to Rome Italy offers a relaxing alternative to flying.
Option 2: Flying from Barcelona to Rome
Flying remains the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Barcelona to Rome, with several direct flights daily.
- Flight time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Departure airport: Barcelona El Prat (BCN)
- Arrival airport: Rome Fiumicino (FCO) or Ciampino (CIA)
- Airlines: Vueling, Ryanair, ITA Airways, Iberia
- Prices: starting from €20–€100 depending on how early you book
- Total travel time (including airport time): ~5–6 hours
This is the most time-efficient option and is ideal if you're traveling light or have limited time to spend in transit. Flights are frequent, and it's easy to find budget-friendly deals if you book in advance.
If you’re comparing the train from Barcelona to Rome vs flight, flying wins for speed, but the train can be more scenic and relaxed.
Option 3: Driving from Barcelona to Rome
- Road distance: around 1,365 km
- Estimated drive time: 13 to 15 hours (not including stops)
- Costs: €150–€200 one-way (fuel, tolls)
- Border crossings: Spain – France – Italy
Driving from Barcelona to Rome is a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to visit multiple cities along the way. The route takes you through scenic regions like the French Riviera, Provence, and northern Italy.
It’s best to split the trip into at least two days and stop overnight in a city like Nice or Genoa. This adds comfort and the opportunity to explore en route.
Option 4: Bus from Barcelona to Rome
- Travel time: 20 to 24 hours
- Bus operators: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
- Ticket prices: €40–€70
The bus is the most budget-friendly option, though also the slowest. Buses from Barcelona to Rome usually operate overnight and make multiple stops along the way. While not the most comfortable for long journeys, they’re ideal for budget travelers and students.
Additional Travel Tips
- Book early for cheaper train and flight tickets
- Use multi-city rail passes if you’re exploring more of Europe by train
- If you're a fan of slow travel, consider combining train and ferry routes for a unique adventure
- Double-check visa and ID requirements if you're a non-EU citizen
Summary Table: Travel Options from Barcelona to Rome
| Transport Method | Duration | Price Range | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | ~1h 45m (5–6h total) | €20–€100 | Fastest, frequent, budget flights |
| Train | ~13–15 hours | €90–€180 | Scenic, eco-friendly, flexible |
| Car | ~13–15 hours | €150–€200 | Road trip through 3 countries |
| Bus | ~20–24 hours | €40–€70 | Cheapest option, basic comfort |
Final Thoughts
So, how to get from Barcelona to Rome? You’ve got several solid options, each with pros and cons depending on your time, budget, and style. Whether you choose a fast flight, a scenic train from Barcelona to Rome Italy, or a leisurely road trip through southern Europe, this route is filled with possibility.
The distance from Barcelona Spain to Rome Italy may seem long, but the journey itself can be part of your European experience. Pick the mode that suits you best — and get ready to explore two unforgettable cities.
From Gaudí to gladiators — it’s time to connect two of Europe’s most iconic cities.
