We have arrived in Mataro to finalize all the little details.. and one little but rather big detail is how to get here!
On the travel page of the blog I give different ways to arrive via train, bus or car. I am going to try and keep it easy but know that traveling where the language is not your own can be a bit of a challenge.
TRAIN - this is not the easiest way to travel to Mataro, because you have to take the train from the airport and transfer to another train in Barcelona. Also, for you heavy packers with more than two bags this is not for you. But if you are up to the challenge then here goes.
Depending on where you are coming depends on the terminal you will arrive in for those from the USA then you will arrive in T1, others from EU may arrive in T1 or T2 depending on airline.
If you arrive in T1, pick up your bags.. after that head out to the exit.. you will now need to look for the icon for train. In the photo it is the last one "Connection". You need to transfer to T2.
Once at T2 you have to go into the terminal up stairs or elevator.. keep following the train icon..
you will walk down a long terminal and at the end is the entrance where you can purchase your train ticket.
They may not speak your language, purchase a ticket to Mataro one way.
long path to train station..
counter to buy your ticket..you need euros or cc card.. american express is not accepted. I can't remember the cost but we think it was less than 5 euro per person one way.
This is not a straight shot to Mataro, you will have to change trains. Take RENFE train from the airport at T2B to Estacio Sants (Barcelona Sants) station.
The train has video screen and a vocal that tells you where you are and what train station is coming up.
You will exit the train at Barcelona Sants station, in the same station will transfer to the Train for Mataro R1.. in looking at the schedule it departs every 15 minutes. So don't worry if you miss the train.
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Important note about your ticket, make sure you keep it handy you will need it for the transfer and to get in and out of the stations. Also it is only good for 2 hour trip. The whole trip will take 1.5 hours. Once you get on the train you will take a 45 min ride up the coast to Mataro.
You will then head to the station and use your ticket to exit.
WELCOME TO MATARO!!
If this doesn't sound like your cup of tea then bus or private car may better.
BUS - There is a coach operated by Sagales that goes from BCN Airport Terminal T2C to Mataro.
The catch with this are the times of departure. You will have to take into consideration that you could wait up to 30 min for your bags and then if you arrive in T1 you must make the transfer to T2C.
The following is a copy of the bus schedule.
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The top schedule is departing from Mataro to the Airport: 4:20am, 11:20am, 13:00 (1pm), 16:20 (4:20pm)
The bottom schedule is from the Airport to Mataro: 9:00am, 12:20pm, 14:00 (2pm), 21:20 (9:20)
Cost is 6.75 euro for one way and 11.50 euro round trip.. only get round trip if it's going to work with your schedule. The website Sagales has a better view of the schedule and follow this link for Bus Ticket purchase. There is also an English option touch the British flag in to top corner.
(MAT) Estació Rodalies de Mataró - is the name of the train station and in front is where the bus picks up and drops off.
PRIVATE CAR/TRANSFERS - I saved the best for last.
I personally think this is the best way to go, it may cost a little more but if a few of you are coming in at the same time then you can split the cost.
There are several different transfer companies, my Friend Charles found this one and I did a little research and it is a good company and used by many tourist.
Sun Transfers - visit this page and follow the simple directions and book your transfer. Cost 4 passenger car is 77 euro one way @ 19.25 per person. Other options are on the website.
They pick you up at the airport and drop you off at the front door of the Hotel!! I also love this because I don't have to type any more for now.
I hope this information helps with your trip planning. I know that Wednesday is the heavy day for arrivals. Please send me your travel times, if you haven't already. See you in a few weeks.
Pam
