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All about AVE high-speed trains in Spain
Routes, schedules, and everything you need to know about traveling across Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and more.
This website is an independent informational resource not affiliated with renfe.com - the official carrier for AVE trains.
What Is the AVE Train in Spain?
AVE is Spain’s high-speed train service, run by Renfe. Trains link the country’s main cities, making train travel a popular alternative to flying.
AVE is known for its punctuality, modern trains, comfortable seating across all classes and quality onboard services. Today, it’s one of the most advanced high-speed rail systems in Europe and an essential part of Spain’s public transport.
Why Travel by AVE High-Speed Train?
SPEED
Up to 300 km/h
COMFORT
Relaxed, spacious and modern travel
PUNCTUALITY
Reliable and on time departures
CITY-CENTER
From city center to city center
ECO-FRIENDLY
Sustainable electric rail travel
Popular AVE Train Routes
The AVE - Spanish high-speed rail - connects Spain’s most visited cities, making travel fast, comfortable and convenient. From cultural capitals to coastal destinations, AVE trains allow you to explore Spain efficiently while enjoying modern rail comfort. Whether you’re looking for a Madrid to Barcelona train or want to explore all of Spain aboard the AVE high-speed network, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your trip.
Below are some of the most popular AVE train routes, chosen by travelers every year.
AVE Train Route Map
AVE Train Stations in Spain
AVE Train Times and Prices
Spain's high-speed rail · Operated by Renfe
Train Route | Travel Time | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
Madrid to Valencia Train | 1 hour 50 minutes | from $38 |
Madrid to Barcelona Train | 2 hours 30 minutes | from $70 |
Barcelona to Madrid Train | 2 hours 30 minutes | from $70 |
Madrid to Seville Train | 2 hours 20 minutes | from $57 |
Barcelona to Valencia Train | 3 hours 5 minutes | from $51 |
Madrid to Malaga Train | 2 hours 30 minutes | from $65 |
Malaga to Madrid Train | 2 hours 30 minutes | from $73 |
Barcelona to Malaga Train | 5 hours 30 minutes | from $125 |
AVE Train Classes and Fares
On AVE trains, your ticket combines two things: a seat type (Estándar or Confort) and a fare (Básico, Elige or Prémium). The seat decides how much space you get; the fare decides how flexible your ticket is and what’s included.
Estándar
The standard seat on every AVE train: a reclining seat in a 2+2 layout with a fold-down table and a power socket. You get it with a Básico or Elige Estándar ticket.
Confort
Also called XL Confort: wider seats in a 2+1 layout with more legroom and a quieter carriage. You get it with an Elige Confort or Prémium ticket.
AVE Fares: Básico, Elige and Prémium
Fare | Seat | Changes | Cancellation | Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Básico | Estándar | Not allowed | No refund | Seat only; extras can be added for a fee |
Elige Estándar | Estándar | First change free | 70% refund | Optional paid extras (seat choice, pet, meal box) |
Elige Confort | Confort (XL) | First change free | 70% refund | Wider seat; optional paid extras |
Prémium | Confort (XL) | Free changes | Highest refund level | Meal at your seat (not on Saturdays), Sala Club lounge, seat choice |
Lounge access and flexible conditions depend on your fare, not the carriage: only Prémium includes Sala Club lounge access, free changes and a meal served at your seat (not on Saturdays). Elige gives you one free change and a 70% refund, while Básico can’t be changed or refunded.
What to Know About AVE High-Speed Trains
What is the AVE train in Spain?
AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) is Spain’s high-speed train service, run by the national rail company Renfe. It opened in 1992 between Madrid and Seville and today links Madrid with Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga, Alicante and other cities at up to 300 km/h, often faster door to door than flying.
How much does an AVE train ticket cost?
AVE fares depend on the route, the travel date and how early you book. On popular routes such as Madrid to Barcelona or Madrid to Seville, Básico tickets start from around $57–70 when booked in advance. Prices rise closer to departure, so search early to find the cheapest seats.
What is the difference between Básico, Elige and Prémium?
Básico is the cheapest fare, with an Estándar seat and no changes or refunds. Elige lets you choose an Estándar or Confort seat, includes a first free change and refunds 70% if you cancel. Prémium comes with a Confort seat, free changes, a meal at your seat (except on Saturdays) and Sala Club lounge access.
How much luggage can I take on the AVE train?
Each passenger can bring up to three pieces of luggage free of charge, for example one large suitcase, one smaller bag and a personal item. Bags go on the overhead racks or in the luggage areas at the end of each carriage, and you need to be able to carry them yourself.
Are there security checks before boarding the AVE?
Yes. At most AVE stations your bags pass through an X-ray scanner before you reach the platform, much like a quick airport check. Boarding closes a few minutes before departure, so plan to arrive at least 20–30 minutes early, especially at the busy stations in Madrid and Barcelona.
Can I bring my pet on the AVE train?
Yes. Dogs, cats and other small pets up to 10 kg can travel in a carrier for a small fee, and this is free with the Prémium fare. On selected routes, dogs up to 40 kg can travel without a carrier with an Elige Estándar ticket. Add your pet when you book.
Which other companies run high-speed trains in Spain?
Besides Renfe’s AVE and its low-cost brand Avlo, two other operators run high-speed trains in Spain: Iryo and Ouigo. They serve major routes such as Madrid to Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Seville and Málaga. Use the search at the top of this page to compare the trains available for your date.
Is the AVE train eco-friendly?
Yes. AVE trains run on electricity and produce far less CO₂ per passenger than flying or driving the same distance. Taking the train on routes like Madrid to Barcelona is one of the easiest ways to cut the carbon footprint of your trip, and you skip airport transfers and queues too.
Is there Wi-Fi on the AVE train?
Most AVE trains offer Wi-Fi through the PlayRenfe app, which you open on your phone or laptop after boarding. It is free only for Renfe loyalty programme members, so don’t count on it as a free extra. Coverage can also drop in tunnels and rural areas, so download what you need before you travel.
What Travelers Say About AVE Trains
Travelers consistently rate AVE trains for comfort, speed and reliability. Many consider AVE the best way to travel between Spanish cities without the stress of airports or long drives.
Alexis, USA
“The AVE high-speed train made traveling between cities in Spain simple and relaxing. Clean interiors, beautiful views along the way, and stations located right in the city center - highly recommended.”
Daniel M., DE
“I was impressed by how modern and well-organized the AVE trains are. Spacious seats, reliable Wi-Fi, and excellent punctuality made the trip very enjoyable. I would definitely choose AVE again.”
Emma R., UK
“Traveling by AVE train was incredibly easy and comfortable. The journey from Madrid to Barcelona was fast, smooth, and right on time. A great way to explore Spain without the stress of airports.”