The Madrid-Barcelona high-speed line, opened in 2008, is Spain's most important rail link. It covers about 620 km with trains running at up to 300 km/h, and non-stop services take about 2 hours 30 minutes, those with intermediate stops up to three hours or more. Since it opened, the train has taken most passengers between the two cities from the airlines.
Operators
| Operator | Service |
|---|---|
| Renfe AVE | the historic operator, with several classes and on-board services |
| Renfe Avlo | Renfe's low-cost brand, with hand luggage included and extras for the rest |
| Ouigo | the low-cost brand of French railways, with double-deck trains |
| Iryo | private operator part-owned by Trenitalia, with Frecciarossa trains and several classes |
Competition, which began in 2021, has cut prices sharply and increased services: today there are dozens of trains a day in each direction, from early morning to evening.
Stations and stops
- In Madrid trains leave from Puerta de Atocha, the historic station with its tropical garden, and some from Chamartín.
- In Barcelona they arrive at Sants; some services continue to Girona, Figueres and France.
- The main intermediate stops are Guadalajara-Yebes, Calatayud, Zaragoza-Delicias, Lleida and Camp de Tarragona, handy for Tarragona and Salou.
Prices and tips
- Prices are dynamic: booking ahead you can find tickets for under 20 euros, while last-minute fares can exceed 100 euros.
- Compare operators on their websites or apps that aggregate offers; check what the fare includes, especially luggage.
- Arrive a little early: there is an X-ray baggage check before you reach the platforms.
- Discount cards exist for young people and passes for frequent travellers.
Train or plane?
The flight takes an hour and a quarter, but you must add the time to reach the airports, security and boarding. The train runs centre to centre, lets you work on the way and has a much smaller environmental impact. For the whole network and other routes see getting around Spain, and our guides to Madrid and Barcelona.