AVE Trains by Renfe

AVE Trains by Renfe

AVE by Renfe tickets, key information and FAQs

Popular AVE Routes

TrainJourney TimePrice
Madrid to Barcelona2h 30mBuy from US$26.80Book Now
Madrid to Valencia1h 52mBuy from US$10.97Book Now
Madrid to Malaga2h 42mBuy from US$23.15Book Now
Alicante to Madrid2h 25mBuy from US$18.28Book Now
Madrid to Seville2h 33mBuy from US$23.15Book Now

What is AVE?

What is AVE?

First operated in 1992, Renfe’s AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) trains are the earliest high-speed trains in Spain, known for travelling at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph).

AVE trains pass through major cities and towns in Spain, including Madrid, Sevilla, Barcelona, and Valencia. Alternatively, AVE International trains can take you to popular destinations in France, such as Marseille and Lyon.

AVE trains offer up to four types of tickets and two classes of seating, ensuring an excellent and comfortable train journey for all travellers. While onboard, you can also enjoy unlimited free WiFi, reclining seats, and conveniently located charging ports.

Top Destinations

AVE Train Ticket Types

AVE trains offer four ticket types, while international trains provide only the first three listed here. Each type is suitable for passengers seeking fast travel but has its own advantages, so it is worthwhile researching the differences to ensure you have an enjoyable journey.
AVE Train Ticket Types

Básico

Básico is the cheapest ticket option, offering Standard (Estándar) seating, ideal for budget or short-trip travellers

  1. Standard seating
  2. Seat selection and small pet (up to 10kg) travel are available for an additional fee.
  3. Non-refundable and non-changeable tickets
  4. Free to bring up to three pieces of hand luggage

Elige Estándar

Elige Estándar provides Standard (Estándar) seating, though it offers the ability to pay more for many add-ons, such as refunds and changes to the ticket with an additional fee. Ideal for value-seeking travellers who want flexibility.

  1. Standard seating
  2. Refunds of up to 70% and the option to change tickets at an additional cost
  3. Additional fees apply for seat selection, pet travel (including dogs up to 40kg), and onboard food and drinks
  4. Free to bring up to three pieces of hand luggage

Elige Confort

Elige Confort offers XL Comfort (Confort) seating. Perfect for comfort-seeking travellers who desire flexibility when travelling.

  1. XL Comfort seating offering greater space and wider seats
  2. Refunds of up to 70% and the option to change tickets at additional cost
  3. Additional fees apply for seat selection, pet travel, and onboard catering
  4. Free to bring up to three pieces of hand luggage

Prémium

Prémium is the superior ticket choice when it comes to luxury, designed for those who want to travel in style.

  1. XL Comfort seating offering greater space and wider seats
  2. Free and full refunds and changes included
  3. Access to Renfe Club Lounges at the station
  4. Enjoy a Premium Menu delivered to your seat, choosing from a five-star menu, as well as a snack box and wine on selected routes
  5. Pets up to 10kg are free to bring
  6. Free to bring up to three pieces of hand luggage
AVE Ticket TypesBásicoElige EstándarElige ConfortPrémium
Seating typeStandardStandardXL ComfortXL Comfort
WiFi and power socket
Onboard food and drinksCafeteria and food trolley€5.50 add-on available€5.50 add-on availableFree
Club Lounges in the station
Silent coach
Hand luggageUp to 3 bagsUp to 3 bagsUp to 3 bagsUp to 3 bags
One pet under 10kg€10 add-on available€10 add-on available€10 add-on availableFree
One dog under 40kg€35 add-on available
Refunds & ChangesFor additional feesFor additional feesFree

AVE On-Board Facilities & Services

AVE trains are fully equipped and expertly designed to help ensure all passengers enjoy a pleasant journey.
  1. Seats: Standard Seat and Comfort seats (depending on ticket type)
  2. Luggage: Free to bring up to 3 pieces of hand luggage
  3. WiFi: Available for free on all carriages for all ticket types
  4. On-board food: This includes premium menus, snack boxes, and wine for Prémium ticket holders, as well as access to a cafeteria and mobile bar service for all ticket types.
  5. Silent coach: Available for purchase at the station for all ticket types
  6. On-board entertainment: Access to audio and video entertainment on-board
  7. Accessibility: Wheelchair spaces and other assistance services
  8. Pets: One small pet under 10kg in a carrier per traveller for an additional €10, though free for Prémium ticket holders. Dogs up to 40kg are allowed on certain AVE routes with Elige Estándar tickets for a fee of €35.
  9. Free cancellation: All ticket types can be cancelled free of charge within 2 hours of purchase.

AVE FAQs

  • How much does it cost for children to travel on AVE trains?

    Travel on AVE trains is free for children under four, and those aged 4 to 13 can enjoy a 40% discount on tickets. These child ticket discounts are valid on AVE and AVE International trains and are changeable and cancellable.

  • Can I take bikes on AVE trains?

    Yes, you can only bring one foldable bicycle, and it must be kept in a cover or case throughout the journey, with maximum dimensions of 140x90x40 cm.

  • Are pets allowed on AVE trains?

    Yes, each traveller can bring one small pet weighing no more than 10kg, but it must be in a carrier and an additional €10 must be paid unless you are a Prémium ticket holder, which means you are entitled to this for free. Additionally, on certain AVE routes, travellers with Elige Estándar tickets are allowed to bring dogs weighing up to 40kg for an additional fee of €35.

  • Are there security checks before boarding AVE trains?

    Yes, there is a screening for luggage before boarding an AVE, and your ticket is typically inspected to ensure passenger safety and security. For a hassle-free boarding experience, arrive at the station early and have your identification and ticket ready.

  • Are Renfe and AVE the same?

    No. Renfe is a Spanish railway company and AVE is the name of a high-speed train service provided by Renfe.
  • What is the top speed of Renfe AVE?

    The top speed of Renfe AVE trains is 300 km/h (186 mph). These high-speed trains offer fast travel between major Spanish cities, reducing travel times significantly.