AVE High-Speed Train Service Overview
Buying Tickets
The AVE train tickets can be purchased in person at Madrid’s Atocha Train Station or Barcelona’s Sants Station.
However, the easiest method is to buy your tickets online.
Popular Routes
The most popular AVE route is from Madrid to Barcelona. Although, this particular route may not always be the most convenient compared to the Iberia Air Shuttle, which offers flexible flight times.
Madrid – Cordoba – Seville
The original AVE route allows travel from the capital to southern Spain’s jewel in just two hours and thirty minutes. You can also stop in Cordoba.
Travel times:
Madrid – Seville (2h30)
Madrid – Cordoba (1h45)
Cordoba – Seville (45m)
Madrid to Toledo
The day trip to Toledo is incredibly popular, being just thirty minutes from the capital. This route will typically serve most travelers better, except for those staying near Atocha Train Station.
Travel times:
Madrid – Toledo (30m)
Madrid – Cuenca – Valencia
You can reach Spain’s third-largest city from Madrid in under one hour and fifteen minutes. Consider staying in Cuenca to explore its famous hanging houses and modern art museums.
Travel time:
Madrid – Valencia (1h30)
Madrid – Malaga
Visit the south coast’s largest city in just two and a half hours.
Travel times:
Madrid – Malaga (3h)
Malaga – Cordoba (50m)
Barcelona to Paris
Travel to the French capital in six hours and twenty minutes, which can compete with flights in terms of convenience.
Travel Highlights
- Speed: The Madrid-Seville AVE service is the quickest option between these two cities.
- Convenience: The AVE avoids airport hassles and offers a central location for easy access.
- Punctuality: AVE trains are reliable, with a commitment to on-time arrivals. If your train is more than five minutes late, you may be eligible for a complete refund.
- Luxury: The AVE offers comfortable seating and amenities like movies and music during the journey.
- Pricing: Although AVE fares are generally higher than budget airlines, they often provide better value for last-minute bookings.
