10/07/2022
Embarking on a journey from the charming town of Benicarlo to the vibrant coastal resort of Calella? Navigating the routes between these two Spanish destinations can seem a little daunting, but with the right information, your travel will be as smooth as the Mediterranean breeze. This comprehensive guide will explore your options, from the convenience of taxis to the efficiency of the Spanish rail network, ensuring you reach your destination with ease.
Understanding Your Journey: Benicarlo to Calella
Benicarlo, situated in the province of Castellón, and Calella, a popular seaside town in the province of Barcelona, are separated by a considerable distance. The most direct routes involve a combination of transport methods, primarily focusing on rail and road travel. Understanding the logistics, travel times, and potential costs will help you make an informed decision for your trip.
Option 1: The Train and Taxi Combination (Recommended for Efficiency)
This is often the most practical and time-efficient method for travellers looking to avoid long drives. The journey typically involves a taxi from Benicarlo to a major train station, followed by a train to Barcelona, and then another train to Calella.
Step 1: Benicarlo to the Nearest Major Train Station
Your first step is to get to a train station that serves intercity routes. While Benicarlo has a local train station, for connections towards Barcelona, it's often more efficient to travel to a larger hub. A taxi is an excellent option for this initial leg. You can arrange for a local taxi in Benicarlo to take you to a convenient station, such as Castelló de la Plana or even directly to Barcelona Sants if you prefer to minimise changes.
Step 2: Train to Barcelona Sants
Once you board the train, your destination is the Estació de tren Barcelona-Sants. This is Barcelona's main railway station and a major hub for national and international train services. The journey from Castelló de la Plana to Barcelona Sants is frequent and comfortable, with various train types, including high-speed options (AVE) and regional services (Regionals). The travel time can vary, but typically ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the specific service you choose.
Step 3: Barcelona Sants to Calella
Upon arrival at Barcelona Sants, you will need to transfer to a regional train (Rodalies de Catalunya) heading towards Calella. These trains are frequent and depart from different platforms within the Sants station complex. The journey from Barcelona Sants to Calella is scenic, running along the coast for a good portion of the route. The train ride typically takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Calella has its own train station, making it a convenient final stop.
Estimated Travel Times (Train & Taxi Combination):
| Leg of Journey | Estimated Time | Mode of Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Benicarlo to Castelló de la Plana Station | 30-45 minutes | Taxi |
| Castelló de la Plana to Barcelona Sants | 2.5 - 3.5 hours | Train |
| Barcelona Sants to Calella | 1 hour 15 minutes | Train |
| Total Estimated Travel Time | 4.5 - 5.5 hours (excluding waiting times) |
Remember to factor in time for transfers between trains and any potential waiting periods. Booking your train tickets in advance, especially for the longer leg to Barcelona, can often secure better prices and ensure availability.
Option 2: The Road Trip (More Flexible, Longer Duration)
If you prefer the freedom and flexibility of driving, or if you're considering exploring intermediate towns, a road trip is a viable option. This involves taking a taxi to your vehicle or arranging a private transfer for the entire journey.
The Route and Potential Stops
The provided information suggests a route that takes you from El Prat (likely referring to Barcelona Airport for onward travel, or potentially a starting point in the Barcelona area) via Morella, Castelló de la Plana, Castellon, and then to Barcelona Sants before continuing to Calella. However, if starting from Benicarlo, the route would be more direct:
From Benicarlo, you would head south on the AP-7 motorway towards Valencia and then continue towards Barcelona. Alternatively, you could take the N-340 coastal road for a more scenic, albeit slower, experience. The mention of Morella and Castelló de la Plana suggests a route that might involve exploring inland before heading north-east towards Barcelona. If you are starting from Benicarlo and driving directly to Calella, the most common route would be via the AP-7.
The journey via Morella and Castelló de la Plana is noted to take approximately 7 hours and 1 minute. This suggests a route that might be designed for sightseeing rather than the most direct path. A more direct drive from Benicarlo to Calella would typically be closer to 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your exact starting and ending points.
Driving Considerations:
- Tolls: The AP-7 motorway is a toll road for much of its length. Factor in toll costs for your journey.
- Traffic: Traffic can be heavy, especially around major cities like Castelló de la Plana and Barcelona.
- Fuel: Ensure your vehicle is adequately fuelled, with service stations readily available along the AP-7.
- Navigation: GPS or a reliable navigation app is essential for a smooth drive.
Comparing Your Options
Choosing the right mode of transport depends on your priorities:
- Speed: The train and taxi combination is generally faster and more predictable in terms of travel time.
- Cost: Train tickets can vary. Booking in advance is recommended. Taxi costs will depend on the distance and local rates. Driving costs include fuel and tolls.
- Convenience: If you have a lot of luggage, a taxi or driving might be more convenient than multiple train changes. However, trains offer a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Flexibility: Driving offers the most flexibility, allowing you to stop at your leisure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the quickest way to get from Benicarlo to Calella?
The quickest way is generally to take a taxi from Benicarlo to a major train station (like Castelló de la Plana) and then take the train to Barcelona Sants, followed by another train to Calella. This combination typically takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
Q2: Can I travel directly by train from Benicarlo to Calella?
There isn't a direct train service. You will need to change trains, usually in Barcelona Sants.
Q3: How much does a taxi cost from Benicarlo to Calella?
A direct taxi journey for this entire distance would be very expensive due to the long distance. It's more cost-effective to use a taxi for the initial leg to a train station and then rely on the train network.
Q4: How long does it take to drive from Benicarlo to Calella?
The direct driving time is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, without significant stops, via the AP-7 motorway. Routes that include stops at places like Morella will be considerably longer, as indicated by the 7-hour estimate.
Q5: Should I book train tickets in advance?
Yes, especially for the longer journey from Castelló de la Plana to Barcelona Sants. Booking in advance can lead to savings and guarantee your seat, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Conclusion
Whether you opt for the efficiency of the train network or the freedom of the open road, travelling from Benicarlo to Calella is an achievable and enjoyable journey. By understanding the available transport options, planning your route, and booking in advance where necessary, you can ensure a stress-free and memorable trip to the beautiful Costa del Maresme.
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