【Spain Train Travel Guide】Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Spain by Train

# Spain

# Green Travel

# Travel Tips

TAKUYA MIYAVI

Jun 18, 2025

Contents

Spain Train Travel Guide | Introduction
Spain Train Travel Guide | Carriages and Services
- Spain Train Travel Guide | Exploring Different Trains
- Spain Train Travel Guide | Carriage Types and Services
- Spain Train Travel Guide | First vs. Standard Class: What’s the Difference?
- Spain Train Travel Guide | Dining Services On Board
Spain Train Travel Guide | Ticketing
- Spain Train Travel Guide | How to Buy Tickets
- Spain Train Travel Guide | How to Collect Your Tickets
- Spain Train Travel Guide | How to Refund Tickets
Spain Train Travel Guide | Destinations and Cities
Spain Train Travel Guide | Routes and Top Spots

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Hop aboard with this Spain Train Travel Guide! Discover how high-speed rails unlock Barcelona's magic, Madrid's art, and Andalusia's soul. Your ultimate Spain Train Travel Guide for tickets, routes & hidden gems starts here.

（source：Lonely Planet）

Spain’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage are best explored by rail—where efficiency meets adventure. Whether you're gliding between Barcelona’s modernist marvels and Madrid’s art-filled streets on a Renfe AVE bullet train, or opting for Ouigo’s budget-friendly rides through Andalusia’s olive groves, this Spain Train Travel Guide unlocks everything you need: insider tips on tickets, scenic routes, onboard dining, and hidden gems. Fast, eco-friendly, and packed with local flavor, Spain’s rail network turns travel into part of the journey. All aboard for an unforgettable ride!

（source：Lonely Planet）

Spain’s rail network is a traveller’s dream, blending speed, comfort, and scenery. Spain's rails are dominated by two operators:

Renfe AVE: The Ferrari of Spanish trains (310 km/h) with three service tiers:

AVE (long-distance)
Avant (medium-distance)
Alvia (hybrid high-speed/standard tracks)

Ouigo: Budget subsidiary with basic but modern trains (€9 Madrid-Barcelona fares).

Pro Tip: AVE trains are the fastest, but Ouigo is perfect for wallet-conscious explorers.

Spanish trains cater to all preferences:

1. Standard Class (Turista)：

2-2 seating, power sockets, fold-down tables
Free WiFi (AVE only; spotty on regional routes)

2. First Class (Preferente)：

2-1 seating, 30% more legroom
Welcome drink + meal (e.g., tortilla española + cava)
Priority boarding & station lounge access

△Accessibility: All AVE trains have wheelchair spaces & accessible toilets.

△Fun Fact: First Class on AVE includes a gourmet meal inspired by Spanish cuisine!

3. Ouigo Basic：

Single-class carriages with 2-2 seating (29" pitch) and limited legroom
No WiFi/power outlets; strict 2-bag limit (1 cabin + 1 under-seat)

Feature	Standard	First Class
Seat width	43 cm	52 cm
Food	Cafeteria purchase	Gourmet meal included
Luggage	Overhead racks	Dedicated storage
Best for	Short journeys	>3-hour trips

Pro Tip: First Class often costs just 20% more—worth it for Madrid-Seville (2.5 hrs).

Hungry travelers will find Spain’s trains cater to every taste and budget.

Renfe AVE offers the most refined experience:

First Class includes a complimentary three-course meal with regional specialties like salmorejo (chilled tomato soup) or bacalao al pil-pil (cod in garlic sauce), paired with wines from Rioja or Ribera del Duero.

Even in Standard Class, the bar carriage serves tapas, bocadillos (sandwiches), and local wines—don’t miss the jamón ibérico or Spanish tortilla! Vegetarian/vegan meals are available if pre-ordered 48 hours ahead via Renfe’s app.

Meanwhile, Ouigo keeps costs low with vending-machine snacks (€4 bocadillos) but encourages bringing your own food—perfect for picnicking with market-fresh finds.

Book early for the best prices! Options: