Trains in Spain

Book through the Renfe website or app, which is the national rail operator. Tickets open for sale roughly two to three months before departure, and booking early typically secures lower fares. You can also buy tickets at station machines or counters on the day, though popular AVE high-speed routes between major cities can sell out during holidays and weekends.

AVE is Spain's high-speed rail service operated by Renfe, connecting major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and Málaga. Trains reach up to 300 km/h, making city-to-city travel competitive with flying once you factor in airport time. The Madrid to Barcelona route, for example, takes roughly two and a half hours. Seats are assigned and carriages are air-conditioned.

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha is the main station for AVE high-speed and long-distance southbound and eastbound trains, including routes to Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. Madrid-Chamartín handles northern routes toward cities like Valladolid and connections toward France. Both stations connect to Madrid's Metro system, so transferring between them is straightforward.

Renfe allows passengers to bring luggage onboard without extra charge on most services. High-speed AVE trains have overhead racks and dedicated luggage areas at the ends of carriages. There is no formal weigh-in, but luggage must fit in designated spaces. For bulky items like bikes or surfboards, check Renfe's specific policies as some require advance reservation or a dedicated space.

It depends on the route and how far ahead you book. Early-booked AVE tickets on popular corridors are often comparable to budget airline fares, and you avoid airport transfers and check-in time. For shorter routes like Madrid to Toledo or Barcelona to Tarragona, trains are generally the most practical and economical option. Compare current fares on the Renfe site against flight prices for your specific dates.

The Eurail Spain Pass covers a set number of travel days within a month on Renfe's network, including AVE high-speed trains, though seat reservations are required separately on long-distance services and carry an additional fee. Whether a pass saves money depends on how many long trips you plan. For just two or three journeys, point-to-point advance tickets bought early may work out cheaper.

In Madrid, the Cercanías commuter rail line C1 connects Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (Terminal 4) to central stations including Atocha and Sol. In Barcelona, the RENFE Cercanías line R2 Nord runs from El Prat Airport Terminal 2 to Passeig de Gràcia and Barcelona Sants. Both services run frequently throughout the day. Check current schedules at the station or on the Renfe Cercanías app.