Hola,

has anyone taken the bus from Barcelona to Madrid? It seems to be quite a bit cheaper than the train, how are the buses in Spain? Eurolines standards? Moreover, how are the night buses, convenient?

And if anyone happens to know about the Hostal Baires in Barcelona (see earlier post...) I'd appreciate it.

Long-distance buses in Spain are generally very comfortable and as good as any others in Europe, but I'd only use them if there's no rail alternative. The first part of the high-speed rail line from Madrid to Barcelona is now open so the train journey is a lot faster. If you're travelling overnight, the train is much more comfortable - even a couchette ("litera" in Spanish) is a lot better than sitting in a seat on a bus.

Since apparently the OP is travelling on a budget, I would suggest to check the discussion boards on www.eurotrip.com, since they cater for backpapers, and posters are more likely to be informed about budget travel, hostels, etc..

Make that *backpackers* , not backpapers....

Buses are cheaper are trains are more comfortable, both are fine.