Montpellier to Barcelona via Port Bou - help needed

dear friends,

we%26#39;ve been trying to book train tickets from Montpellier to Barcelona for 29th Dec 2008 but till now has not been successful. someone suggested that we break up the journey into two - Montpellier to Port Bou Spain and then Port Bou Spain to Barcelona Sants. we%26#39;ve booked train tickets from Montpellier to Port Bou Spain; however the ticket printed show Montpellier to Port Bou France arriving at 09:27. there is a train from Port Bou Spain to Barcelona leaving at 09:52, the question is whether Port Bou France and Port Bou Spain is the same? if not, how far are they apart and is it within walking distance? will we be able to make the connection for the train to Barcelona? appreciate if someone can help, thanks.

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There are two direct trains a day between Montpellier and Barcelona leaving at 0726am and 1703pm. Portbou (current timetable) is reached at 0948 and 1930.

I have used these trains several times. I reserve on-line at www.voyages-sncf.com which offers tickets to Barcelona (ES)when you check destinations.

The ticket you have booked is for the segment Montpellier to Port Bou on the direct train as there is no other arrival (currently) in Portbou from Montpellier other than at 0821 am or until 1428!

You would not be able to get off the train and get another ticket as there would not be enough time. In any event, the trains are reserved seats only and have always been full every time I have used them.

I respectfully suggest that you check what you have done with the website or agent you used. You CAN book through from Montpellier to Barcelona.

If you cannot or do not wish to change the booking Montpellier - Port Bou be assured that Port Bou (France) and Port Bou (Spain) are the same place.

There is a local Spanish train (no reservation) from Port Bou to Barcelona at 1014. Separate ticket must be purchased at the Portbou station.

I trust that helps.

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If you can rent a car instead it%26#39;s well worth it. I drove from Montpellier to Barcelona and there are some gems along the way like Tossa de Mar. Plus if you go with Ada car rental it%26#39;s very cheap.

Of course, if you%26#39;re in a hurry to get to Barcelona then there may be no point.

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Of course, if you%26#39;re in a hurry to get to Barcelona then there may be no point.

Actually, it is faster to drive !

Peter

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