Renfe train

Renfe (Red Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Españoles) is Spain's state-owned railway company, operating an extensive network of high-speed, long-distance routes, regional trains, and commuter services. Established in 1941, Renfe has played a crucial role in modernizing Spain's rail transport, making it one of the most advanced railway networks in Europe. Whether you're looking to buy Spanish train tickets for short regional trips or long-distance journeys, Renfe offers a range of options to suit your needs.

Renfe train tickets are available in different fare types to suit various budgets and travel needs. Standard options include Básico (Basic) for the lowest price, Elige (Choose) for more flexibility, and Prémium for first-class comfort.

High-Speed Renfe Trains (Alta Velocidad)

Renfe's high-speed train services are among the best in the world. The high speed AVE trains (Alta Velocidad Española) is the flagship high-speed train, reaching speeds of up to 310 km/h and connecting major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and Málaga.

For budget-conscious travelers, Avlo trains offers a more affordable alternative with lower fares but fewer amenities. The Alvia train service combines high-speed and conventional tracks, allowing it to reach destinations not covered by AVE while maintaining speeds of up to 250 km/h.

Additionally, the Euromed trains connect coastal cities along the Mediterranean, linking Barcelona, Tarragona, Castellón, Valencia, and Alicante.

Regional and Long-Distance Trains

For long-distance and regional travel, Renfe operates services such as Intercity, which provides comfortable, lower-cost long-distance travel at speeds of up to 200 km/h. The Media Distancia trains serve medium-distance routes, connecting smaller cities and rural areas with major urban centers.

Commuter and Scenic Renfe Trains

The Cercanías trains serve metropolitan areas like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville, offering frequent services ideal for daily commuters. Meanwhile, Renfe Feve operates narrow-gauge trains in northern Spain, providing scenic routes through rural and mountainous areas.

Why should I choose Renfe trains?

High-Speed Efficiency

Renfe's AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) trains reach speeds of up to 310 km/h, allowing you to travel between major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville in just a few hours, which is much faster than driving and often quicker than flying when factoring in airport procedures.

Comfort & Spacious Seating

Renfe trains offer comfortable, reclining seats with ample legroom, large windows, and a relaxing atmosphere far superior to cramped airline seats or long bus journeys. First-class options like Preferente and Prémium provide extra space, meal services, and exclusive lounges.

Extensive Network

Renfe operates a nationwide rail network, connecting major cities, smaller towns, and even remote rural areas. Whether you need a high-speed AVE, a budget-friendly Avlo, or a scenic Feve train in the north, Renfe has a service for every type of traveler.

Flexible Ticket Options & Discounts

Renfe offers multiple ticket classes and flexible fares, including Básico (low-cost), Elige (flexible), and Prémium (first-class). Discounts are available for students, youth, seniors, and families, and travelers can also use rail passes like the Spain Rail Pass for unlimited trips.

Reliable & Punctual

Renfe's AVE trains have a high punctuality rate, making them one of the most reliable transportation options in Spain. It even has a "punctuality commitment", it refunds par or all of the ticket price if the delays exceed 15 to 30 minutes.

Barcelona to Madrid

The Barcelona to Madrid train route is one of the most popular and convenient in Spain, with Renfe's AVE high-speed trains covering the 620 km (385 miles) distance in just 2.5 to 3 hours. Trains operate frequently in both directions. Onboard, passengers enjoy Wi-Fi, spacious seating, and food services, with multiple class options, including Turista (economy), Preferente (first class), and Prémium for added luxury.

Madrid to Granada

The Madrid to Granada train route provides a seamless connection between Spain's capital and one of its most historic cities. Renfe's AVE and Alvia high-speed trains cover the 418 km (260 miles) journey in about 3 hours and 15 minutes, running several times daily in both directions. Departing from Madrid Atocha as the departure station and arriving at Granada's main railway station as the arrival station, these trains provide comfortable, air-conditioned coaches, Wi-Fi, reclining seats, and food service.

Whether you're traveling to explore Granada's Alhambra and Moorish heritage or heading to Madrid for its museums and vibrant nightlife, this route is a fast and stress-free option.