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.
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.
Básico
Básico is the cheapest ticket option, offering Standard (Estándar) seating, ideal for budget or short-trip travellers
- Standard seating
- Seat selection and small pet (up to 10kg) travel are available for an additional fee.
- Non-refundable and non-changeable tickets
- 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.
- Standard seating
- Refunds of up to 70% and the option to change tickets at an additional cost
- Additional fees apply for seat selection, pet travel (including dogs up to 40kg), and onboard food and drinks
- 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.
- XL Comfort seating offering greater space and wider seats
- Refunds of up to 70% and the option to change tickets at additional cost
- Additional fees apply for seat selection, pet travel, and onboard catering
- 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.
- XL Comfort seating offering greater space and wider seats
- Free and full refunds and changes included
- Access to Renfe Club Lounges at the station
- 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
- Pets up to 10kg are free to bring
- Free to bring up to three pieces of hand luggage
| AVE Ticket Types | Básico | Elige Estándar | Elige Confort | Prémium |
|---|
| Seating type | Standard | Standard | XL Comfort | XL Comfort |
| WiFi and power socket | | | | |
| Onboard food and drinks | Cafeteria and food trolley | €5.50 add-on available | €5.50 add-on available | Free |
| Club Lounges in the station | | | | |
| Silent coach | | | | |
| Hand luggage | Up to 3 bags | Up to 3 bags | Up to 3 bags | Up to 3 bags |
| One pet under 10kg | €10 add-on available | €10 add-on available | €10 add-on available | Free |
| One dog under 40kg | | €35 add-on available | | |
| Refunds & Changes | | For additional fees | For additional fees | Free |
AVE On-Board Facilities & Services
AVE trains are fully equipped and expertly designed to help ensure all passengers enjoy a pleasant journey.
- Seats: Standard Seat and Comfort seats (depending on ticket type)
- Luggage: Free to bring up to 3 pieces of hand luggage
- WiFi: Available for free on all carriages for all ticket types
- 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.
- Silent coach: Available for purchase at the station for all ticket types
- On-board entertainment: Access to audio and video entertainment on-board
- Accessibility: Wheelchair spaces and other assistance services
- 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.
- 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.
