El Expreso de La Robla: Bilbao to León

El Expreso de La Robla

Starts and Ends

Bilbao to
León

Travel Periods

05 Jul 24 - 06 Sep 24 & 20 Jun 25 - 12 Sep 25

Experience

Travel Style

Rail Journeys

Highlights

Indulge in a gastronomic journey with expertly crafted dishes featuring fresh, local ingredients. Typically, in order to fully experience the visits, guests partake in lunch and dinner, indulging in the local cuisine of the towns that are being explored (inclusive of water, wine, soft drinks, and coffee).

Relax in the lounge car, offering a space to mingle with fellow travellers, savour a cocktail, or admire the passing landscapes.

Explore beyond the confines of the train and immerse yourself in the heart of Spain's enchanting towns and cities. Guided tours are provided for all excursions, encompassing all tickets and visits. A bus consistently accompanies the train, facilitating the group's access to various destinations and restaurants along the route.

Immerse yourself in the medieval charm of Carrión de los Condes, a historic city steeped in pilgrimage traditions. Located in the heart of Castilla y León, this picturesque town showcases its medieval origins through its well-preserved monuments and enchanting old town.

León, Medieval Capital and Pilgrimage Hub; it boasts a vibrant present with modern attractions like the City Auditorium and the Museum of Contemporary Art. With its rich history, cultural offerings, and status as a key waypoint on the Camino de Santiago, León offers an array of tourist options that promise an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Visit the heart of the city's historic center, where you'll marvel at architectural wonders such as the majestic San Isidoro Basilica and the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Santa Maria.

3 days

From

AUD 1,964

per person, twin share

Download PDF Make an enquiry

Travelling with kids? Read more

All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Combining the comfort reminiscent of legendary European trains with the amenities and technological advancements of the 21st century, El Expreso de la Robla boasts a youthful aesthetic. This vibrant and modern train provides an opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Castile and León.

Built in 2009 with its primary purpose being a school train for port intermodality courses, El Expreso de la Robla smoothly shifted its focus to providing tourist excursions between educational sessions. After the conclusion of its educational programs, the train continued to conduct tourist journeys across the narrow-gauge network of Northern Spain.

Inclusions

Private ensuite accommodation in a double compartment (upper and lower berth bunks) onboard the train

Enjoy a complimentary standard Renfe train travel before and after your tour, adding an extra layer of ease to your journey - Please note that this service is not a private transfer

Onboard the train, enjoy a welcome beverage and snack to commence your journey with a touch of elegance

Every day, enjoy a buffet-style breakfasts served on the train

Exceptional dining experiences for all dinners and lunches, whether served on board the train or in esteemed first-class restaurants, complete with inclusive offerings of wine, soft drinks and coffee

Each guest will be provided with a toiletry bag containing amenities and slippers

All entrance fees to museums, monuments, and shows, as well as scheduled excursions and guided visits

The onboard team is available around the clock, trained to provide personalised assistance in multiple languages and to assist guests

Itinerary

Download Itinerary Expand All

Day 1 Bilbao Espinosa de Los Monteros

Depart from Bilbao to Espinosa de Los Monteros. Luggage drop-off is scheduled at 2 pm in Bilbao’s La Concordia Train Station. The reception begins at 3 pm as the train sets off for Espinosa de Los Monteros. A coach trip is planned to tour the town of Frías and the Tobera waterfalls. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in Espinosa de los Monteros.

Dinner

Day 2 Espinosa de Los Monteros Cistierna

Whilst enjoying breakfast onboard the train, you will reach Mataporquera. Upon arrival, the coach will transport you to the stunning landscapes of Palencia Romanesque along the Camino de Santiago, visiting Carrión de los Condes, Frómista, and Saldaña. After touring the town and some leisure time, proceed to explore the Canal de Castilla and the Romanesque church of San Martín, followed by free time and lunch. In the afternoon, step back in time with a visit to the Roman Villa of La Olmeda, renowned for its impressive mosaic collection. Returning to the train, El Expreso de La Robla will whisk you to Cistierna, where you will enjoy dinner and spend the night.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Cistierna León

Depart from Cistierna to León. Enjoy breakfast while travelling to San Feliz. A coach trip is planned to visit the city of León, exploring the Old Town, Cathedral, and San Isidoro. The journey concludes with lunch and the end of the trip at Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro, around 2 pm.

Please note: For 2025 departures - the trip ends at approximately 4pm at the National Parador of San Marcos.

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

El Expreso de La Robla

STANDARD COMPARTMENT (UPPER & LOWER BERTH BUNKS only):
All compartments on El Expreso de La Robla feature bunk beds, two per compartment, along with amenities such as a luggage closet, reading light, air-conditioning, background music, loudspeakers and telephone. The modern and youthful ambiance ensures a comfortable rest. Each compartment includes its private bathroom equipped with a hydromassage shower, washbasin, toilet, and hairdryer. The electricity supply operates at 220 V. The train is entirely interconnected, allowing passengers to move freely throughout its length. With four sleeping cars, each car comprises seven compartments.

Standard compartment (upper & lower bunks)

Additional information

2024 Departure dates:

05 & 19 July
06 September

2025 Departure dates:

20 June
12 September

Excluded

International airfares and taxes
Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.),
Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package

FAQs

What is the dress code onboard the train?

The atmosphere on board is one of relaxed nature. During the day dress for relaxed comfort for onboard the train and when embarking on excursions. We suggest wearing durable shoes for excursions, and please be prepared for change of weather. In the evening, guests have the option to choose a more formal outfit.

Which drinks are available aboard the El Expreso de La Robla?

Complimentary wine, beer, soft drinks, tea, and coffee are provided during mealtimes. Outside of mealtimes, the lounge cars offer guests various options to purchase soft drinks, juices, tea, coffee, and water. Additionally, a thoughtfully curated menu of alcoholic beverages is available for purchase, encompassing wines, beers, and spirits, ensuring passengers can enjoy a delightful and refreshing experience while traveling onboard.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard the train?

Yes, there is Wi-Fi connectivity in all rooms and lounges. Each suite is equipped with a computer, and there is also a communal computer available in the Train Lounges (availability subject to carrier coverage).

Can special dietary preferences be requested?

Provided a detailed request has been made at time of booking – special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian and adhering to religious requirements, may be arranged.

Will I need to tip the train staff?

Gratuities for staff and guides are at the passenger’s discretion.

Is there air conditioning on board?

Onboard air-conditioning is provided, with individual control available for cabin air conditioning.

What is the luggage allowance for travelling guests onboard the train?

For ease while on board the train, it is recommended to utilise a travel bag or soft suitcase. Nevertheless, two large suitcases per room can be accommodated in the Suites, with staff onboard to help with loading the luggage.

Is it possible for individuals with mobility limitations to participate in the journey?

While the train has been renovated and features state-of-the-art technologies, it remains a historic and vintage train, lacking interior adaptations for wheelchair or walking frame access. Consequently, these trains are not considered accessible. However, individuals with reduced mobility who rely solely on wheelchair support outside the train can embark on the journey, provided they are accompanied by a companion to help.

Is smoking permitted onboard?

In Spain, smoking is not allowed in enclosed public spaces, including public transport or collective transport vehicles. Consequently, in compliance with existing regulations, travellers are prohibited from smoking while on board. It's important to note that train journeys typically do not exceed 3-4 hours.

Will I need travel insurance?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. Please consult with our agents at time of booking and we can assist you with this.

El Expreso de La Robla: Bilbao to León

Spain

From AUD 1,964

Enquire