All You Want to Know
About El Expreso de la Robla

El Expreso de la Robla is an air-conditioned vintage narrow-gauge train operated by Renfe Viajeros that travels through the spectacular scenery of northern Spain. The journey runs between Bilbao and León, crossing the mountains of Burgos and Palencia and passing through some of the most dramatic landscapes on the Iberian Peninsula. It is available in both directions — Bilbao to León and León to Bilbao.

There are two itineraries, each lasting 2 nights and 3 days. The Bilbao to León journey departs from Bilbao's beautiful 1902 Belle Époque La Concordia station and takes in the medieval town of Frías, the Tobera Waterfall, the Romanesque Route of Castile, the Roman mosaics at the Villa of La Olmeda, and the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of León. The reverse León to Bilbao journey highlights the Hoces de Vegacervera gorge, the caves of Valporquero, the finest Romanesque art of Castile, and a visit to the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.

Prices start from €1,300 per person in a shared cabin (double occupancy) for 2026 departures, with single-occupancy cabins from €2,200. Fares vary by season, occupancy, and departure date, so please contact Palace Trains for a precise quote for your chosen journey: call toll-free 1-800-724-5120, internationally on +1-786-408-0610 (also WhatsApp), or email travel@palacetours.com.

All guests travel in private compartments, each fitted with upper and lower berths, wardrobe, luggage carrier, reading light, air conditioning, stereo, and telephone. Every cabin has its own en-suite bathroom with a hydro-massage shower, hair dryer, wash basin, and toilet. Please note that as this is a narrow-gauge railway, passengers over six feet tall may find the beds somewhat short.

The journey includes accommodation in a private en-suite cabin, self-service breakfast each morning on board, regional lunches at local restaurants along the route, and daily guided coach excursions to heritage towns, historic sites, and natural landmarks. Evenings are spent exploring each town's cuisine and nightlife independently. Specific inclusions can vary — Palace Trains will confirm exactly what is covered for your chosen departure.

El Expreso de la Robla operates during the summer and early autumn months — June through September. There are currently 14 upcoming departures on our books, running from September 2026 through to September 2027. Please see the departure table on the train's page or contact us to check specific dates and availability.

The train is operated by Renfe Viajeros, Spain's principal rail operator, and follows the legendary El Transcantábrico route through some of the least-visited and most breathtaking scenery in Spain. What sets it apart is its combination of genuine vintage character — classic carriages, panoramic lounge windows, and an unhurried pace — with modern comforts including en-suite hydro-massage showers and air-conditioned cabins. The train also rests stationary at stations overnight so passengers enjoy a peaceful sleep.

Contact Palace Trains to check availability and reserve your place. You can call toll-free 1-800-724-5120 (US), reach us internationally or via WhatsApp on +1-786-408-0610, or email travel@palacetours.com. Our specialists will confirm dates, cabin options, pricing, and everything included for your chosen departure.

Each day brings a new guided excursion by coach. Highlights include the medieval walled town of Frías and the cascading Tobera Waterfall; the Romanesque Route of Castile through Carrión de los Condes and Frómista; the Roman mosaic collection at the Villa of La Olmeda; the dramatic Hoces de Vegacervera gorge and the underground chambers of the Valporquero Caves; and the Gothic Cathedral and old town of León — or, on the reverse journey, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.

Yes — El Expreso de la Robla is available for private charter for groups of up to 54 passengers. A private charter is an excellent option for a special occasion, corporate event, or exclusive group tour through northern Spain. Contact Palace Trains at travel@palacetours.com or on 1-800-724-5120 to discuss charter options and pricing.