Routes and stations
The busiest AVE route is Madrid Atocha–Barcelona Sants, with 20 or more trains a day and journeys from about 2 hours 30 minutes.
AVE also links Madrid with Seville, Valencia, Malaga and many other cities. Some journeys need a change, and not every train stops at every station.
Tickets and fares
Básico gives a standard seat only. Elige gives a standard seat, or a comfort seat with Elige Confort. Prémium gives a comfort seat, flexible changes, lounge access in Madrid and Barcelona, and a meal at your seat.
On Madrid–Barcelona, fares start at about €17 in standard and €68 in comfort. Prices rise as trains fill.
Renfe has competitors on main routes: Iryo and OUIGO. Compare prices, but note their luggage rules can be stricter.
How to book
Book on renfe.com or the Renfe app. The site sometimes switches to Spanish and may reject some foreign cards. If that happens, try an agency such as Trainline, which also sells Iryo and OUIGO.
You can choose your seat when booking, which helps families sit together.
Tips for travellers
Each passenger may take up to 3 pieces, with a total weight of 25 kg and total size of 290 cm. The largest piece can be 85 x 55 x 35 cm. You cannot buy extra allowance, and there is no checked baggage.
Bags are scanned by X-ray before you reach the platform. Arrive with time to spare, especially with children and several bags.
Luggage space fills up on full trains. Board early to find space near your seat.
There is a café-bar with snacks and hot dishes. You may bring your own food and drink, which helps families who prefer halal food.
Last checked: October 2026. Fares and timetables change, so confirm on the official website before you travel.
