How can I buy Renfe tickets online?

One of the easiest and quickest ways is via TrainPal, the comparison website that allows you to check train schedules, compare fares, and find the cheapest Renfe tickets in a matter of seconds. You can buy tickets directly through both the TrainPal website or app for a seamless and secure purchasing process.

Can I cancel my Renfe ticket?

Yes, you can cancel your ticket as long as the fare you have chosen (Básico, Elige, or Premium on long-distance, or on Avant or medium-distance trains) allows it. Cancellations can be made up to the moment the train departs and you will need your booking reference or the ticket number (13 digits). Depending on the fare type, admin fees may apply and the refund method may vary. Don’t forget that you can cancel any ticket free of charge within two hours directly after purchasing. Refunds can be requested through the app.

Can I change my Renfe ticket?

Yes, you can modify your ticket as long as the fare you’ve chosen (Elige or Premium on long-distance, or on Avant and medium-distance) allows it. Changes can be made up to the moment the train departs and may incur an additional charge, depending on your fare. You can manage your ticket directly through the app, where you can also consult the refund conditions.

Do I need to print my Renfe ticket?

It is not necessary. If you book with TrainPal, you can show your ticket to Renfe staff directly from your phone. You can also save it to your Apple Wallet.

Can I choose my seat when buying a Renfe ticket?

Yes, on AVE, Avlo, OUIGO, and iryo trains, you can select your seat during the booking process. TrainPal shows you all available options according to your chosen fare.

Is Wi-Fi available on Renfe trains?

You will find free or paid Wi-Fi access on many AVE and long-distance trains. TrainPal will let you know if your train will have Wi-Fi on board.

Can I bring luggage on Renfe trains?

Yes, every passenger may travel with multiple hand luggage items without any additional cost, as long as they meet the size and weight restrictions.

Is it possible to travel with bicycles on Renfe?

Yes, bicycles are permitted on Cercanías, medium- and long-distance trains, although conditions vary according to each service. You can easily check if your route allows them on TrainPal.

Is it possible to travel with pets on Renfe?

Yes, Renfe allows you to travel with pets (up to 10 kg/22 lbs) in a carrier, and some trains even allow large dogs with the purchase of a special ticket. With TrainPal, you can check the conditions for your trip in advance, and if you have any doubts, you can always get in touch with our customer support team.

Renfe trains: tickets and schedules

Renfe is much more than a national railway company: it is the perfect travel companion for discovering the magic in every corner of the country. As the primary Spanish railway operator, Renfe has been connecting Spain’s major cities for decades, offering you the freedom to explore destinations like Barcelona, the historic city of Seville and the majestic scenes of Madrid.

With a network that extends across the entire country, Renfe in Spain doesn’t just bring you to your destination, it transforms every journey into a unique experience. From ultra-modern high-speed trains that reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph) to the comfortable Cercanías commuter services that connect you to the country’s hidden gems, every trip with Renfe is an invitation to experience Spain in a different way.

At TrainPal, finding and booking train tickets is as easy as dreaming up your next trip. Our comparison tool grants you access to all Renfe’s services at the best prices, with the ease of having all the information you need at your fingertips.

Renfe trains

AVE Renfe: Premium high-speed trains

The AVE train (Alta Velocidad Española, or Spanish High Speed) represents peak national railway engineering. When you travel on a Renfe AVE train, you’re doing more than just getting from A to B: you’re enjoying a premium experience from the get-go. Choose from four ticket types to suit your needs: Básico, the most affordable option; Elige Estándar (Choose Standard), with more flexibility for changes and cancellations; Elige Confort (Choose Comfort), which guarantees ‘Confort’ class seating with extra services; Prémium, the all-inclusive option that includes at-seating catering and access to Club Lounge at train stations. What’s more, AVE tickets include the Combinado Cercanías service, which allows you to travel around your journey origin and destination in the 4 hours before your departure and the 4 hours after your arrival—free of charge.

The main high-speed Renfe routes connect Madrid with destinations like Seville, Valencia, Barcelona, Malaga and Alicante, making it the backbone of rapid transport in Spain. International services such as Madrid–Marseille expand the possibilities, and transport you to France in the same comfort that characterises Spanish high-speed trains.

Avlo Renfe: Low-cost high-speed trains

Renfe Avlo is the innovative answer for those looking for AVE speed at more budget-friendly rates. With cheap train tickets from just €7 (about $8), this low-cost train allows you to travel at speeds of 300 km/h (186 mph) without losing the standard of quality that characterises Spanish high-speed rail.

Renfe Avlo trains operate on the same infrastructure as AVE trains—the difference lies in the service level. You won’t find the usual coffee service, instead you’ll find vending machines and a bar cart that only accepts card payments. It is the perfect option for travellers who prioritise efficiency and budget but don’t want to sacrifice high-speed travel.

Avant Renfe: Medium-distance high-speed trains

Avant trains are medium-distance, high-speed trains whose primary focus is facilitating frequent journeys between nearby cities. They operate on the same infrastructure as AVE trains and reach speeds of up to 250 km/h (160 mph), but with more affordable fares suitable for passengers who frequently commute to work, college or any for any other regular travel requirement.

The most popular routes include connections such as Madrid–Toledo, Madrid–Ciudad Real–Puertollano, Barcelona–Lleida and Seville–Córdoba–Malaga. These trains offer frequent departures and competitive prices, making Avant trains a comfortable, fast alternative to travelling by car or bus.

Avant Renfe: Medium-distance high-speed trains

Alvia Renfe: The long-distance connector

Alvia trains combine stretches of high-speed tracks with conventional tracks, facilitating access to destinations that the AVE network does not yet extend to. These trains are ideal for routes like Madrid–Bilbao, Madrid–Santander, or Barcelona–Galicia, where the mountainous landscapes offer unique scenery that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your train carriage.

These trains are long-distance and high-speed, with the capability to reach speeds of up to 250 km/h (160 mph) on specialised tracks. This versatility allows them to travel on both high-speed train tracks and conventional tracks, ensuring efficient connections across a large part of the country.

In terms of service class, you’ll find the Básica class with comfortable and functional ‘Estándar’ (Standard) seating and Prémium class, with more spacious ‘Confort’ (Comfort) seating along with extra amenities like on-board dining and access to Club Lounges at stations. Thanks to this flexibility, Alvia is the perfect blend of technological innovation and geographic adaptability, bringing high-speed train travel to regions not served by AVE.

Euromed: The Mediterranean Corridor Train

Euromed specifically operates along the Mediterranean Corridor and connects Barcelona to Valencia and Alicante at speeds of up to 220 km/h (140 mph). These trains allow you to travel along the east coast taking in views of the Mediterranean while you speed along in comfort towards your destination, offering the unique experience of coastside travel all journey long.

Intercity Trains

Renfe’s Intercity train services complete the company’s Spanish rail package, extending to cities and towns that form the very essence of Spain. These trains connect destinations that aren’t yet part of the high-speed network, so you can discover unique corners of the country where every station has its own history and every landscape reveals the secrets of the peninsula.

Intercity trains operate along long-distance routes that combine comfort and efficiency, connecting large cities with intermediate destinations along the way. They are perfect for passengers seeking a balance between speed and enjoying the scenery, with quality services at more affordable prices compared to high-speed trains.

Cercanías (Commuter) trains

Renfe Cercanías trains are essential in Spain’s large metropolitan areas. They offer frequent, affordable connections that ensure millions of passengers arrive at their destination each day. They operate in major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona (known as Rodalies there), Valencia, Seville, Malaga, Bilbao, Asturias, and Santander, linking urban centres to towns in the outskirts and facilitating access to business districts, university towns and residential areas.

Regional trains

Regional trains travel at moderate speeds and connect small and medium-sized cities to provincial capitals, offering a peaceful journey to enjoy the Spanish countryside. They are essential for maintaining regional cohesion and ensure that even the smallest villages are connected to large city centres. This facilitates both rural tourism as well as daily commutes within local communities.

AVE high-speed rail connecting Spain and France

Renfe’s services also extend beyond Spanish borders, connecting Spain to France with a comfortable, sustainable alternative for travelling through Europe—without the hassle of air travel.

International high-speed services connect Barcelona to French cities such as Lyon and Marseille, and make use of the French high-speed network to offer efficient journeys between the two countries.

These international services maintain the quality standard of Spanish AVE trains, offering Wi-Fi access, on-board catering and the comfort characteristic of high-speed trains. Tickets also offer information services in multiple languages and assistance specifically for international travellers.

AVE high-speed rail connecting Spain and France

Renfe Tickets: Book with TrainPal

TrainPal lets you access all of Spain’s rail services in the most convenient, transparent way. Our website and app allow you to compare prices and check the schedules of all Renfe’s train services in real time. Whether you’re travelling on AVE, Avlo, Alvia, Avant, Euromed, Intercity, medium-distance, or regional trains, with TrainPal, you’ll always have access to Renfe’s official fares and conditions.

Simple booking, best prices

Buy your Renfe tickets quickly and easily via our website as well as our app, available to download for free. The process takes just a few minutes and guarantees the best price possible. Renfe tickets usually go on sale up to 62 days in advance, while AVE tickets are available about 100 days before travel, giving you plenty of time to plan your trip and get the best fares.

TrainPal’s booking system is designed to be efficient and intuitive, without any of the complications of traditional purchasing processes. With just a few clicks, you can choose your origin, destination, date, and time, compare all the options and book your tickets securely.

Understanding Renfe ticket prices

High-speed, medium- and long-distance Renfe train tickets operate within a dynamic pricing system that adapts fares in accordance with multiple factors: how soon the journey is, train type, fare type and service class. This flexibility in prices means that cheap train tickets are particularly achievable for people who book in advance.

Prices can vary significantly across different travel times within a single day, meaning you can get AVE tickets, among other services, at competitive prices. TrainPal gives you a clear breakdown of all the options so you can make an informed decision about when and how to travel to best suit your budget.

Your Renfe e-ticket

Once you buy your ticket through TrainPal, you will receive a confirmation email right away with all your trip details along with a PDF of your electronic ticket. This digital ticket is fully valid; you just need to show it to staff from your electronic device—whether that’s a smartphone, tablet or laptop. You can also save it to your Apple Wallet or download it from our app.

The convenience of doing things digitally eliminates the need to print tickets and the fear of losing physical documents, and allows for a completely seamless travel experience.

Smart tools for savings

At TrainPal, we make it easy to find train tickets at the best price thanks to our smart filter system. Every time you make a search, you can choose the “Cheapest price” tab to view only the most affordable fares available, or use our price calendar to check how prices fluctuate across different travel dates.

Our algorithms are constantly analysing all available Renfe fares, including special promotions, Renfe discounts, and the latest offers, to ensure you always have access to the cheapest tickets on offer. This price transparency means there are never any hidden costs: the price you see when you search is exactly what you’ll pay.

Renfe Loyalty Cards

Renfe discount cards are designed to make train travel more affordable and beneficial for different groups of passengers. These cards don’t just offer significant savings on train tickets, they also offer additional benefits such as loyalty points and access to exclusive services.

The Más Renfe Loyalty Programme

The Más Renfe loyalty program consists of four levels aimed at different types of passengers: Más Renfe (basic free level), Más Renfe Plata (Silver), Más Renfe Oro (Gold), and Más Renfe Platino (Platinum). Each level offers increasing benefits such as loyalty points, exclusive discounts and access to Club Lounges.

Renfe points can be exchanged for tickets across any of the company’s services, from high-speed trains to Cercanías. It’s also possible to use them on discount coupons or even gift them to other passengers.

Más Renfe Joven Youth Card

If you’re between 14 and 25 years of age, the Más Renfe Joven youth card can get you a 30% discount on AVE, Spain-to-France International AVE and long-distance trains, as well as a 25% discount on Avant, medium-distance and commuter trains. The card comes at an annual fee of €50 (about $58) and in non-transferrible. When you buy one, you will receive a Más Renfe client number that allows you to earn points with each journey while also enjoying all the benefits of the loyalty program.

Tickets purchased with the Más Renfe Joven card may be modified or cancelled as long as the chosen fare conditions allow it, though they may be subject to an admin fee.

Carné Joven Youth Card

The Carné Joven is the Spanish youth card, aimed at young people between 14 and 30 years old and offers a 20% discount on Avant, medium-distance and regional trains on the Feve network. AVE and long-distance services can be purchased at a 5% discount on the base fare at the time of purchase. Recognised European and international youth cards are also valid, which offer passengers flexibility when travelling around Europe. Tickets purchased with a Carné Joven can be modified or cancelled according to the conditions of the selected fare, which may offer additional flexibility to young passengers.

Tarjeta Dorada (Golden Card)

The Tarjeta Dorada—or Gold Card—is aimed at over 60s, retirees with permanent disabilities, veterans with permanent disabilities and anyone with a disability degree of at least 33%. It costs €6 a year (about $7), although it can also be purchased in 2- and 3-year versions. These cards are non-transferable and offer some of the most attractive discounts available on the Spanish railway system.

With this card, travellers get a 25% discount on AVE, International AVE and long-distance trains on any day of the week. A 25% discount can be redeemed on Avant trains from Monday to Friday, with a 40% discount on Saturdays and Sundays. Medium-distance and Cercanías (commuter) services can be purchased at a 40% discount on any day of the week. Tickets purchased with the Tarjeta Dorada can be modified or cancelled as long as the fare conditions allow it.

Renfe Spain: Your national rail network

Renfe is Spain’s primary train operator and offers quick, convenient and reliable connections across the country’s major cities. From high-speed trains like AVE or Avlo to long- and medium-distance services, Renfe keeps the country connected with frequent departures and prices tailored to every type of passenger.

Renfe Madrid

Madrid is Renfe’s primary hub, operating from two main train stations: Atocha and Chamartín. Trains to Barcelona and Andalucía operate from Atocha while routes to the Valencian Community and the north of Spain leave from Chamartín. Long-distance tickets to and from Madrid also include the Combinado Cercanías, which allows passengers to travel across the city’s Cercanías network to get to and from their high-speed train.

Renfe Barcelona

All long-distance trains from Barcelona depart from Barcelona-Sants. From there, Renfe operates high-speed trains from the Catalonian capital to destinations such as Madrid, Seville, Valencia and Zaragoza, as well as Euromed services to the Mediterranean Coast. It’s also possible to combine long-distance trains with Rodalies (Barcelona’s commuter trains), perfect for anyone who needs to continue on to regional destinations.

Renfe Valencia

Valencia-Joaquín Sorolla station is the main Renfe hub in this city. From here, AVE and Avlo trains link to Madrid in journeys under 2 hours, while Euromed trains offer quick connections to Barcelona and Alicante. For daily transport, Renfe also offers Cercanías commuter services that serve destinations across the province.

Renfe Seville

Sevilla-Santa Justa is the main Renfe station in Andalucía. AVE trains depart from here towards Madrid, with journeys taking just 2 hours 30 minutes, with connections to Cordoba, Malaga and Valencia also possible. Medium-distance services let you easily reach Cádiz, Huelva and Granada, making Seville a key railway hub for the south of Spain.

Renfe discounts and special offers

2025 discount program

Renfe has launched a comprehensive discount system for 2025, with special attention to young people and frequent users to bolster their commitment to affordable, sustainable travel. Young people aged between 14 and 26 are eligible for monthly Cercanías travel passes for just €10 (about $11.50) and also enjoy a 50% discount on long-distance travel. Customers over 26 can get the Cercanías pass for €20 a month (about $23). In addition, under-14s can travel on Cercanías and medium-distance trains with special travel passes, which allow families to travel without worrying about the cost.

Más Renfe Loyalty Programme

The Más Renfe program rewards frequent travellers across different levels, namely Plata (Silver), Oro (Gold), and Platino (Platinum). Each level offers increasing benefits that make train travel even more attractive. Access to Club Lounges is just the start of a series of benefits that includes exclusive discounts and priority services.

With Más Renfe, loyalty is converted into tangible rewards with frequent travel adding up to free train tickets, while preferential conditions for changes and cancellations offer the flexibility modern travellers need. This program transforms train travel from a need to a true pleasure, and is especially beneficial for those who want to access cheap train tickets on the regular.

PlayRenfe and Special Seasonal Promotions

During the summer, Renfe offers young people between 18 and 30 discounts of 50% on AVE and long-distance lines, with the possibility of receiving free tickets as a Más Renfe client. This promotion makes summer the perfect season to discover Spain, when every corner of the country is in its prime.

The discounts also extend to Avant services, with reductions of 50% on single and round-trip tickets, while young people can enjoy conventional medium-distance trips at a discount of up to 90%. These offers demonstrate Renfe’s commitment to making travel affordable for all groups with access to cheap train tickets.

The PlayRenfe platform complements these offers with gamified experiences that grant users additional discounts and exclusive benefits, making every journey an opportunity to enjoy more advantages on future trips.

PlayRenfe and Special Seasonal Promotions

Club Lounges

Renfe’s Salas Club, or Club Lounges, are the perfect place to start your trip in peace and comfort. You can enjoy this exclusive space up to 2 hours before your train departure, with access to relaxation and reading areas, meeting rooms, private bathrooms, and a self-service cafe with drinks and snacks.

Access is reserved for those travelling with Prémium tickets, in Luxury Tourist Trains or on combined Renfe-Iberia services (as long as they are Silver, Gold, or Platinum Más Renfe members). Gold and Platinum members travelling on AVE, long-distance, Avant, or Avlo services can also access the lounge, with additional benefits such as the option to bring a plus one or a minor travelling on the same train.

In addition, if you’re travelling with a pet and you meet Renfe’s transport conditions, you can also bring them with you to the lounge. Keep in mind that for security reasons, some Adif stations may limit access times to these exclusive lounges.

FAQs about Renfe Trains

How can I buy Renfe tickets online?
One of the easiest and quickest ways is via TrainPal, the comparison website that allows you to check train schedules, compare fares, and find the cheapest Renfe tickets in a matter of seconds. You can buy tickets directly through both the TrainPal website or app for a seamless and secure purchasing process.
Can I cancel my Renfe ticket?
Yes, you can cancel your ticket as long as the fare you have chosen (Básico, Elige, or Premium on long-distance, or on Avant or medium-distance trains) allows it. Cancellations can be made up to the moment the train departs and you will need your booking reference or the ticket number (13 digits). Depending on the fare type, admin fees may apply and the refund method may vary. Don’t forget that you can cancel any ticket free of charge within two hours directly after purchasing. Refunds can be requested through the app.
Can I change my Renfe ticket?
Yes, you can modify your ticket as long as the fare you’ve chosen (Elige or Premium on long-distance, or on Avant and medium-distance) allows it. Changes can be made up to the moment the train departs and may incur an additional charge, depending on your fare. You can manage your ticket directly through the app, where you can also consult the refund conditions.
Do I need to print my Renfe ticket?
It is not necessary. If you book with TrainPal, you can show your ticket to Renfe staff directly from your phone. You can also save it to your Apple Wallet.
Can I choose my seat when buying a Renfe ticket?
Yes, on AVE, Avlo, OUIGO, and iryo trains, you can select your seat during the booking process. TrainPal shows you all available options according to your chosen fare.
Is Wi-Fi available on Renfe trains?
You will find free or paid Wi-Fi access on many AVE and long-distance trains. TrainPal will let you know if your train will have Wi-Fi on board.
Can I bring luggage on Renfe trains?
Yes, every passenger may travel with multiple hand luggage items without any additional cost, as long as they meet the size and weight restrictions.
Is it possible to travel with bicycles on Renfe?
Yes, bicycles are permitted on Cercanías, medium- and long-distance trains, although conditions vary according to each service. You can easily check if your route allows them on TrainPal.
Is it possible to travel with pets on Renfe?
Yes, Renfe allows you to travel with pets (up to 10 kg/22 lbs) in a carrier, and some trains even allow large dogs with the purchase of a special ticket. With TrainPal, you can check the conditions for your trip in advance, and if you have any doubts, you can always get in touch with our customer support team.