AVE High-Speed Trains

AVE trains have revolutionised travel across Spain, connecting cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville and Valencia in record time. With speeds of up to 310 km/h, a network spanning over 2,500 km, and a wide range of onboard amenities, they are the ideal choice for fast and comfortable journeys.

Want to know more about AVE trains? As official providers of Renfe, at TrainPal you can book AVE tickets at incredible prices and find all the information you need to plan your trip – including routes, timetables, onboard services, and much more.

AVE routes and schedules

With one of the most extensive timetables in the country, AVE trains allow you to travel quickly and comfortably to a wide range of destinations. Explore below for details on the most popular AVE routes.

AVE Barcelona to Madrid​
Departure from Barcelona-Sants
Stops: Camp de Tarragona and Zaragoza-Delicias
Arrival at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha
Journey time from 2 hours 30 minutes
Price from £8.80
AVE Valencia to Madrid​
Departure from Valencia-Joaquín Sorolla
Stops: Requena-Utiel and Cuenca-Fernando Zóbel
Arrival at Madrid-Chamartín
Journey time from 1 hour 55 minutes
Price from £12.64
AVE Madrid to Seville
Departure from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha
Stops: Ciudad Real, Puertollano and Córdoba
Arrival at Seville-Santa Justa
Journey time from 2 hours 37 minutes
Price from £8.13
AVE Málaga to Madrid
Departure from Málaga-María Zambrano
Stops: Antequera-Santa Ana and Córdoba
Arrival at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha
Journey time from 2 hours 44 minutes
Price from £8.80

See the table below for details on other popular AVE train routes:

Train RoutesDurationFrequencyPrice From
AVE Madrid to Barcelona2 hours 30 minutes84£8.13
AVE Madrid to Valencia1 hour 52 minutes29£6.32
AVE Seville to Madrid2 hours 37 minutes32£8.13
AVE Alicante to Madrid2 hours 23 minutes20£6.32
AVE Barcelona to Seville5 hours 42 minutes24£26.90
AVE Zaragoza to Madrid1 hour 19 minutes59£8.13

Popular AVE stations

Discover some of the most popular stations you can reach by AVE trains. Plan your journey down to the last detail. Here you’ll find key information including their locations, available services, and the most popular routes.

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha Station

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha Station is one of Madrid’s most important transport hubs. Moreover, it’s also one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Inaugurated in the 19th century, its historical architecture blends seamlessly with the functionality of a modern station. Its vast tropical greenhouse, located in the original main hall, also makes it one of Spain’s most unique and recognisable stations.

Each year, the station serves millions of passengers travelling on AVE, OUIGO, and iryo high-speed trains, solidifying its status as a central hub for Spain’s high-speed rail network.

Address:

Pl. del Emperador Carlos V, Arganzuela, 28045 Madrid, Spain

AVE train routes:

Barcelona Sants

Barcelona-Sants Station is the Catalan city’s busiest railway hub and Spain’s second-busiest high-speed rail terminal. Located in the Sants-Montjuïc district, it connects AVE, OUIGO, and iryo high-speed services to destinations nationwide. With direct metro access and an adjacent bus station, it functions as a major urban transport interchange, perfect for seamless travel across Barcelona and beyond.

Address:

Pl. dels Països Catalans, 1 - 7, Sants-Montjuïc, 08014 Barcelona, Spain

AVE train routes:

Sevilla-Santa Justa

Sevilla-Santa Justa Station stands out for its functional design. It’s also a key hub in Spain’s high-speed rail network. Operated by Renfe, OUIGO, and iryo, the station offers direct services to major destinations such as Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona.

Address:

41007, C. Joaquin Morales y Torres, 41003 Sevilla, Spain

AVE train routes:

Zaragoza–Delicias

Zaragoza-Delicias Station is one of Spain’s most modern transport hubs, renowned for seamlessly integrating rail and bus services within a single complex. Inaugurated in 2003, the contemporary and practical design of Zaragoza-Delicias has established it as a cornerstone of Spain’s high-speed rail network. AVE, OUIGO, iryo, and Renfe trains depart from their platforms with direct connections to major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona.

Address:

Av. de Navarra, 80, 50011 Zaragoza, Spain

AVE train routes:

Madrid Chamartín

Madrid-Chamartín Station is one of Spain’s most significant high-speed rail hubs, particularly for AVE routes serving the country’s northern regions. Currently undergoing extensive renovation, it aims to become a flagship national intermodal transport centre. The station hosts services operated by Renfe, OUIGO, and iryo, offering modern facilities and efficient services.

Address:

Chamartín, 28036 Madrid, Spain

AVE train routes:

Valencia-Joaquín Sorolla

Valencia-Joaquín Sorolla station was provisionally opened in 2010. Since then, it has become a critical hub along the Mediterranean Corridor. Its strategic location provides seamless connections to the city centre, while its modern facilities are designed to streamline passenger flow. You can travel on high-speed rail services operated by Renfe, OUIGO, and iryo.

Address:

C/ de Sant Vicent Màrtir, 171, Extramurs, 46007 València, Valencia, Spain

AVE train routes:

Check out more AVE train stations:

  1. Málaga-María Zambrano
  2. Granada
  3. Alicante Terminal
  4. Santiago de Compostela
  5. Córdoba Central

AVE train tickets and classes

Renfe categorises its AVE high-speed tickets into four distinct classes, each tailored to different traveller needs. Below, we outline the key differences between each option to help you select the best fit for your journey.

BÁSICO

These are Renfe’s most affordable AVE high-speed train tickets. They include a Standard Class seat with reading lights and power sockets. Tickets are non-refundable and permit only one change (subject to a €10 fee plus any fare difference, if applicable), provided changes are made at least 24 hours prior to departure. Optional add-ons, such as seat selection, pet transport, or onboard meals, can be purchased separately.

ELIGE ESTÁNDAR (CHOOSE STANDARD)

These semi-flexible AVE tickets include a Standard Class seat with reading lights and power sockets. The first change is free of charge, while subsequent changes incur a €10 fee (plus any applicable fare difference). Cancellations qualify for a 70% refund. Optional add-ons, such as seat selection, onboard meals, or flexibility upgrades (e.g., Unlimited Changes, Puente AVE, Full Refund, or Pack Superflex), can be purchased separately.

ELIGE CONFORT (CHOOSE COMFORT)

These AVE tickets cater to travellers prioritising comfort without sacrificing flexibility. Elige Confort tickets share the same change and cancellation policies as Elige Estándar. The key upgrade lies in seating: XL Comfort seats are included, offering extra legroom and generous space for a significantly more comfortable journey.

PRÉMIUM

Renfe’s most flexible AVE tickets offer unlimited free changes and a 100% refund up to 7 days before departure (reducing to 95% within the final 6 days). Included in this tier are XL Comfort seats with extra legroom, at-seat dining service, and access to the Club Lounge. Additional perks include Puente AVE (travel date bridging), free name changes, and complimentary pet transport (up to 10 kg). Designed for premium comfort, this option is ideal for travellers seeking a seamless, all-inclusive experience on AVE and long-distance services.

Ticket typeBÁSICOELIGE ESTÁNDARELIGE CONFORTPRÉMIUM
Seat typeStandard seat (2+2 seating)Standard seat (2+2 seating)XL Comfort seatXL Comfort seat
Seat selectionExtra 5€Extra 5€Free
Changes of time or dateExtra €10 and the price differenceFree first change + the price difference
Subsequent change for €10		Unlimited free changes
Change ticket holderExtra 40€Extra 20€Free
Changes due to missed trains󱕤30% off the next train ticketFree
Cancellation󱕤70% refundFull refund
PetsOne small pet (<10 kg) for €10
  1. One small pet (<10 kg) for €10
  2. or, one large dog (<40 kg) for €35 on some trains
One small pet (<10 kg) for €10Free
At-seat cateringBox menus from €5.50Box menus from €5.50
  1. Box menus from €5.50
  2. Prémium meal for €22-€25
Free Prémium meal
Club Lounge󱕤󱕤󱕤Free access
Free combined Cercanías trains󰾅
Free Wi-Fi (PlayRenfe on AVE)󰾅
Three pieces of luggage󰾅
Collect Renfecitos (Renfe points)󰾅
Reclining seats󰾅
Reading light󰾅
Power socket󰾅

AVE Offers

Travelling by high-speed train in Spain is even better with unbeatable discounts. If you’re planning to book AVE tickets, explore all special fares and maximise your savings on upcoming journeys aboard Spain’s flagship high-speed service.

Children

Renfe offers discounted fares for children travelling on AVE and long-distance trains: children under 14 receive a 40% discount, while infants aged 0 to 3 travel free if they do not require a seat. Infant tickets can be changed or cancelled, subject to the terms of the chosen fare (charges may apply).

Young people

Travellers aged 14 to 25 can save 30% on AVE and long-distance trains with Renfe’s Youth Plus programme (€50 annual fee). An additional 5% discount is available for holders of the Carné Joven (Spanish Youth Card) or recognised international youth cards. Both discounts allow ticket changes and cancellations, subject to the terms of the selected fare (charges may apply).

Aged 60+

Travellers aged 60 and over qualify for a 25% discount on AVE and long-distance trains. This benefit requires Renfe’s Gold Card, which costs €6 and offers validity periods of 1, 2, or 3 years. Tickets purchased with this card can be changed or cancelled, subject to the terms of the selected fare (charges may apply).

Large Family

Members of large families can benefit from discounted fares on AVE and long-distance trains: a 20% discount (General Category) or a 50% discount (Special Category). Tickets purchased with these discounts can be changed or cancelled, subject to the terms of the selected fare (charges may apply). Note: Large Family discounts do not apply to AVE International services.

Groups of 4 to 9

Groups of 4–9 passengers travelling on AVE and long-distance services can receive an 8% discount on any applicable fare. This offer allows groups to book child tickets at a 40% discount and includes free tickets for children under 4 (provided they do not occupy a seat). The offer is also compatible with Large Family Discount schemes (General/Special Categories). Important: Tickets booked under this offer are non-changeable and can only be cancelled if the entire group booking is voided (charges may apply).

Disabled people

Disabled passengers qualify for a 25% discount on AVE and long-distance trains, subject to certain criteria. The discount is applied through Renfe’s Gold Card, which is available in 1-, 2-, or 3-year validity periods. Tickets purchased with this discount can be changed or cancelled, subject to the terms of the selected fare (charges may apply). Travellers who require assistance with their travel may bring a companion who is eligible to receive the same discount (subject to eligibility).

How to book AVE tickets

Now that you know the AVE train ticket types and the different discounts available, it’s time to book your ticket. With TrainPal, booking cheap AVE train tickets is easy and convenient. Below, we provide detailed steps for purchasing your ticket.

Step 1:Travel details

Enter your travel details

Step 2: Select train+class

Search for tickets and compare prices and times

Click the train’s duration to track its real-time status and intermediate stops.

Step 3: Real-time stops

Enter passenger details and apply any promotional codes

Step 4: Pay now

Complete payment. Your e-ticket will be sent via email and on your TrainPal account.

Combinado Cercanías

When you book your AVE tickets on TrainPal, you gain access to additional services like Combinado Cercanías train tickets, allowing travel at no extra cost. With Combined Cercanías trains, you can travel on urban or regional train types such as Cercanías, Rodalies, FEVE, and TRAM (only in Alicante). This service is included with most AVE, other long-distance Renfe, and iryo trains, but not with OUIGO and Avlo trains.

Combined Cercanías trains offer free travel from any location in your city of origin to the departure station in the four hours before your departure, and from the arrival station to any location in the destination city in the four hours after your arrival. This flexibility allows you to use the service freely at either the departure or arrival station during the valid period.

After collecting your AVE train ticket, you will find it has a five-digit code or barcode. You can enter this code at ticket vending machines or ticket offices at Cercanías stations to redeem it. Additionally, at some Cercanías stations, you can simply scan your original tickets to board the trains. Please note that you need to validate the code again when you leave the arrival station, and only one code can be used per person.

Combinado Cercanías

AVE route map

If you're planning a train journey through Spain, this map will help you easily explore all the AVE routes available from your nearest city or station. Spain boasts one of the world's most modern and extensive high-speed train networks, enabling quick and comfortable travel to numerous destinations.

AVE trains not only cover virtually the entire Spanish territory but also extend across the border, connecting Spain with France via several direct international routes. You can travel seamlessly to iconic cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Avignon, and Montpellier. It's an ideal way to explore two countries by train, offering comfort and convenience.

AVE routes in Spain

AVE train lines span almost the entire breadth of Spain, and our map provides detailed information about each route. Whether you're planning a train journey or a short getaway to a nearby city, you can choose your route after reviewing the essential information.

AVE high-speed trains provide cutting-edge technology and maximum comfort. Once experienced, you won’t hesitate to choose AVE trains for all your future trips. Below, you'll find an introduction to the ten routes, allowing you to compare and select the one that best suits your needs. All that’s left is to book your next AVE train journey with TrainPal!

AVE Madrid to Barcelona

The AVE route from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Barcelona-Sants features key stops at major destinations such as Guadalajara, Calatayud, Zaragoza, Lleida, and Tarragona. Some direct trains and services with fewer stops are also available.

This route primarily serves the central and northern regions of Spain, offering local travellers a convenient journey of less than three hours. As a major economic or tourist hub, Madrid and Barcelona attract both business travellers and holidaymakers.

AVE Madrid to León

The AVE route from Madrid-Chamartín to León includes key stops at major destinations such as Segovia, Valladolid, and Palencia. Direct train services are also available.

This route primarily serves the central and northwestern regions of Spain, providing local travellers with a journey of approximately two hours. Madrid and León are significant economic and tourist hubs, attracting a diverse range of travellers, including business professionals, families, and holidaymakers.

AVE Madrid to A Coruña

The AVE route connecting Madrid-Chamartín with A Coruña includes key stops in Zamora, Ourense, and Santiago de Compostela. The direct journey takes approximately 3.5 hours, providing a convenient and comfortable alternative for travellers.

This high-speed train has significantly improved connectivity between central and northwestern Spain, facilitating seamless travel for business trips and tourist getaways.

AVE Madrid to Seville

On its route from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Seville-Santa Justa, the AVE train includes stops at places like Ciudad Real, Puertollano, and Córdoba. Some direct trains and trains with fewer stops are also available.

This route primarily connects central and southern Spain, offering local passengers a journey of approximately 2.5 hours. As Spain's first high-speed line, it marks a turning point in travel between the centre and the south, catering to both business and leisure travellers.

AVE route map

AVE Madrid to Málaga

From Madrid to Málaga, the AVE train route passes through stops like Ciudad Real, Puertollano, Córdoba, Puente Genil-Herrera, and Antequera. Some direct trains and trains with fewer stops are also available.

The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering convenience, punctuality, and comfort for travellers. As a primary route facilitating passenger flow between the heart of Spain and the Costa del Sol, it attracts those travelling for holidays, short getaways, or business trips.

AVE Madrid to Alicante

From Madrid-Chamartín to Alicante-Terminal, the AVE train route passes through stops such as Cuenca, Albacete, and Villena, with some services offering non-stop journeys..

This route primarily connects the heart of Spain to the east coast, completing the journey in approximately two hours. As a popular tourist destination, Alicante attracts visitors for family holidays, short getaways, or relaxing seaside retreats.

AVE Barcelona to Seville

The AVE route from Barcelona-Sants to Seville-Santa Justa features key stops in Tarragona, Lleida, Zaragoza, Ciudad Real, Puertollano, and Córdoba, with options for trains offering fewer stops.

The direct journey takes about six hours to traverse the peninsula, offering diverse scenery and a unique travel experience. This versatile route is ideal for those looking to enjoy the journey and explore various regions along the way.

AVE Huesca to Seville

The AVE train route from Huesca to Seville-Santa Justa includes stops at Tardienta, Zaragoza, Calatayud, Guadalajara, Madrid-Puerta de Atocha, and Córdoba. This north-to-south route is one of the longest and most comprehensive journeys on the network.

This high-speed train completes the journey in approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes, facilitating travel across a significant portion of Spain without transfers. It's perfect for those looking to visit multiple cities or enjoy an extended journey with all the comforts of AVE travel.

AVE Valencia to Seville

From Valencia-Joaquín Sorolla to Seville-Santa Justa, the AVE route passes through stops such as Cuenca, Ciudad Real, Puertollano, and Córdoba, with some direct trains available.

The journey takes about 4.5 hours, offering travellers scenic views of the plains and Andalusian countryside. This route connects the east and south of the Iberian Peninsula, blending coastal landscapes, inland regions, and Andalusian art. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a seamless journey from start to finish, with the usual comfort of AVE travel.

AVE Alicante to Ourense

The AVE route connecting Alicante-Terminal with Ourense features key stops at Albacete, Cuenca, Madrid Chamartín, and Zamora, with some direct train services available.

This high-speed train completes the journey in around five hours, providing comfort and convenience for travellers. The route traverses the entire peninsula from southeast to northwest, linking the Mediterranean with the interior and northern regions. It is an ideal option for those wishing to visit Galicia from the east without the hassle of stopovers or long transfers.

Train RoutesJourney DurationDaily FrequencyPrices Starting From
Barcelona to Lyon5 hours 1 minute3£80.02
Madrid to Marseille8 hours 11 minutes1£80.32
Madrid to Montpellier6 hours 34 minutes1£71.29

Please note that Premium tickets are not available when booking tickets for International AVE trains between Spain and France. However, you can choose from other options, including Basic, Select Standard, and Select Comfort tickets.

AVE travel tips

For a seamless and comfortable journey, we offer the following comprehensive details on boarding AVE train services and other essential travel tips you need to know.

AVE luggage allowance
󱒃
Travel on AVE trains with up to three pieces of hand luggage, ensuring the total weight does not exceed 25 kg and that dimensions remain within 290 cm (height, width, and depth). Each item must be no larger than 85 x 55 x 35 cm. Accepted items include suitcases, backpacks, handbags, folded baby seats, and musical instruments in cases (up to 30 x 120 x 38 cm). Non-electric bicycles and scooters, when folded and cased, qualify as hand luggage if under 180 cm in combined dimensions. Note: Electric scooters and similar vehicles are prohibited for safety reasons.
AVE seating plan
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On AVE trains, select between Standard and Comfort seats based on your comfort preference. Standard seats, arranged in a 2+2 configuration, come with Basic and Choose Standard tickets. For more space, opt for Comfort seats, featuring a 2+1 configuration with wider seats and greater separation, available with Premium and Choose Comfort tickets. Both options ensure a comfortable and safe journey, but if you are looking for extra space and peace of mind, it’s best to go for Comfort. Seat type is determined by the fare selected.
Children
󱒃
Renfe provides a service for unaccompanied children aged 6 to 13 travelling on AVE trains. Available with Premium and Choose Comfort tickets, this service must be requested during ticket purchase and at least 48 hours before departure. Each train permits a maximum of four unaccompanied children, with arrival times no later than 10:00 p.m. On travel day, the responsible adult must arrive at the station at least 45 minutes before departure to complete a mandatory form. Unaccompanied children will be supervised by onboard staff throughout the journey.
Pets
󱒃
On AVE trains, you can bring a pet weighing up to 10 kg (22 lbs) in a carrier (maximum size 60 x 35 x 35 cm) with its own ticket. Pets travel free with a Premium ticket, while Basic or Elige tickets incur a €10 supplement. Certain AVE routes allow dogs up to 40 kg (104 lbs) to travel without a carrier for €35 in designated areas. This service is exclusive to Choose Standard tickets and requires online booking, prior documentation, and collection of a special travel kit at the station. Ensure you check routes and requirements before travelling with pets on high-speed trains.
Wi-Fi
󱒃
Wi-Fi
Bicycle
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On AVE trains, you can bring your bicycle as long as it is folded and placed in a bag. If the dimensions do not exceed 180 cm (width, height, and depth), it qualifies as carry-on baggage. For bicycles exceeding these dimensions, you must select the free bicycle extra when booking your ticket, with maximum allowed dimensions of 140 x 90 x 40 cm. Ensure the handlebars are turned 90° and the pedals are removed. Only one bicycle per person is permitted, and it must remain in its bag from access control until the journey ends.
Accessibility
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The Adif Acerca assistance service is tailored to support travellers with disabilities or reduced mobility. This complimentary service aids in station access, train boarding, and disembarkation. Request assistance when booking your ticket or via the assistance service app. Depending on the station, requests should be made 30 minutes to 12 hours in advance. Specify your needs for suitable support, including mobility assistance, accompaniment, communication, or guide dog access.
Food and drinks
󱒃
Travel on AVE trains with Renfe and enjoy a variety of dining options – you’ll never go hungry! Choose from Box Menus like the Iberian, Nordic, Hot, or Sweet, served directly to your seat, and add this food supplement up to 12 hours before departure. Premium ticket holders can enjoy the complimentary Premium Menu. Additionally, access the cafeteria or mobile bar for your favourite snacks and drinks during the journey. Enhance your trip with these convenient and delicious dining options!

AVE vs. other trains

TrainsAVEAvantAvloiryoOUIGO
OperatorRenfeRenfeRenfeILSASNCF
Max. speed310 km/h250 km/h300 km/h300 km/h300 km/h
Combinado Cercanías󰾅󱕤󱕤󰾅󱕤
Classes
  1. Básico
  2. Elige Estándar
  3. Elige Confort
  4. Prémium
  1. Sencillo
  2. Ida y vuelta
  3. Con enlace
  1. Básico
  1. Inicial
  2. Singular
  3. Singular Only YOU
  4. Infinita Bistró
  1. OUIGO ESENCIAL
LoungeAvailable for passengers with Premium tickets󱕤Available for members of the Silver, Gold, or Platinum categories of the Más Renfe program󱕤󱕤
Key featuresExclusive high-speed serviceHigh-speed trains for medium-distance journeysAffordable high-speed trainsFlexible and premium optionsLow-cost high-speed trains

AVE

Travelling by AVE means comfort and speed, with trains reaching up to 310 km/h, connecting numerous key destinations across Spain and France. Enjoy spacious, comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and individual power outlets. AVE trains also offer a cafeteria car, mobile bar service, and onboard digital entertainment, making them one of the top choices for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Avant

Renfe's Avant trains provide high-speed medium-distance services, perfect for short journeys between nearby cities. Reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h, they offer a fast and comfortable solution for daily commutes. Operating in a single class without a café car, Avant trains are equipped with free Wi-Fi and power outlets at every seat, making them ideal for travellers seeking efficiency and comfort on short trips.

Avlo

Experience accessible high-speed travel with Avlo, Renfe's low-cost service reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h. Enjoy a comfortable journey with reclining seats, power outlets for device charging, free Wi-Fi, and reading lights. Avlo trains also feature luggage storage, vending machines for drinks and snacks, and accessible restrooms for passengers with reduced mobility. Starting from just €7, Avlo offers a fast, comfortable, and affordable travel option.

iryo

Iryo offers a superior high-speed train service, providing a premium travel experience with speeds up to 360 km/h on ETR 1000 trains. Enjoy fast and comfortable journeys between Madrid and Barcelona, featuring 5G Wi-Fi, a mobile bar service, and four distinct comfort areas, ensuring each journey is unique and enjoyable.

OUIGO

OUIGO, a low-cost high-speed train service, launched in Spain in 2021. Featuring double-decker trains with a single seating class, OUIGO offers up to 590 seats per train at competitive prices starting from €9. Tickets are exclusively available online. Onboard amenities include a café car, with the option to enhance your journey through the OUIGO Plus service, offering more space, additional luggage, and other benefits. Perfect for travellers seeking an economical option without compromising on speed.

Other train operators in Spain

Other train operators in Spain
Renfe
Other train operators in Spain
iryo
Other train operators in Spain
OUIGO
Other train operators in Spain
Ave
Other train operators in Spain
Avant
Other train operators in Spain
Avlo
Other train operators in Spain
Cercanías