Expansion of Low-Cost Rail Services in Spain
Following the introduction of a low-cost train service between Madrid and Barcelona last year, a new budget-friendly route is set to connect Spain’s landlocked capital with the coastal cities of Valencia and Alicante, with some tickets priced as low as €9.
Traveling around Spain is becoming more sustainable and affordable as low-cost, high-speed train services expand across the country. These new services not only provide economical travel but also promote eco-friendly transit options.
New Routes Launched by Ouigo Spain
Ouigo Spain, a subsidiary of SNCF (the state-owned railway of France), is launching new services between Madrid and Alicante, as well as Madrid and Valencia. This connection allows travelers to reach the beautiful beaches and resorts of the Costa Blanca conveniently later this year, with exact dates to be announced.
An additional service will run between Madrid and the Castilla-La Mancha city of Albacete, enhancing the travel network in this region and offering more options for visitors.
Affordable Ticket Pricing
The most basic fare for adults starts from just €9 (subject to availability) and €5 for children between the ages of four and 14. Children under four can travel for free, making it a great option for families looking to explore Spain without breaking the bank.
What’s Included in Ticket Prices
Ouigo Spain’s pricing structure resembles that of a budget airline, whereby amenities have either been minimized or are available for an additional cost. Tickets must be purchased online at least four hours in advance, and baggage on board is restricted.
- The basic fare of €9 includes one small piece of hand luggage and one piece of cabin luggage (55x35x25 cm).
- Passengers can pay an extra €5 to bring larger luggage on board (up to 30 kg), or an additional €9 for the Ouigo Plus, which includes an XL seat (subject to availability), another piece of hand luggage, and on-board entertainment options featuring movies and TV shows.
Increasing Options Within Spain’s Rail Network
Ouigo is the first train service not operated by Spain’s public rail provider, Renfe. The company claims that over 1.4 million passengers have traveled on its double-decker trains since launching its daily service between Madrid and Barcelona last summer. Moreover, Ouigo trains also make stops in Zaragoza and Tarragona.
While Ouigo has pioneered the low-cost train model in Spain, it is not alone in this market. Renfe has recently launched its own low-cost subsidiary called Avlo, designed to offer competitive fares on popular routes such as Madrid to Barcelona and Madrid to Alicante, with one-way tickets starting from €7.
Additionally, Ouigo plans to expand further, connecting Madrid with Andalucía, passing through Córdoba to reach Seville, and ultimately Málaga in the Costa del Sol by 2023.
The Future of Train Travel in Europe
Train travel across Europe is witnessing a resurgence, especially in light of the pandemic and growing concerns about climate change. A new ‘ultra rapid’ train network is set to enhance connectivity between the continent’s capitals, significantly reducing travel times. Furthermore, several national railway operators are expanding night train services that will link up multiple cities, adding yet another layer of convenience for travelers.
With these ongoing improvements, traveling by train in Spain offers an exciting and practical option for both residents and visitors, ensuring access to charming destinations while keeping costs down and minimizing environmental impact.
