🚅 10-step guide to the HIGH-SPEED train in SPAIN 🇪🇸 #116

Summary

This informative guide offers a step-by-step walkthrough for first-time high-speed train travelers in Spain. It covers determining connectivity between destinations, understanding the different high-speed train services including AVE, AVLO, OUIGO, and Iryo, and purchasing tickets. The guide also delves into the boarding process, luggage restrictions, station navigation, on-train amenities, and arrival procedures. Tips for a smooth journey, such as arriving early and securing your belongings, are provided to ensure an enjoyable high-speed train experience.

Takeaways

• 🚄 Determine if a high-speed train connects your destinations, as not all tourist spots are covered by the network.
• 🎟️ Familiarize yourself with the four high-speed train services in Spain: AVE, AVLO, OUIGO, and Iryo, each with different features and coverage.
• 💰 Be aware that low-cost services like AVLO and OUIGO may require separate payment for bulky luggage, unlike AVE and Iryo.
• 🛍️ Use specialized platforms like Trainline to search and purchase tickets from multiple high-speed train operators in one place.
• 📱 Always have a backup of your ticket, either printed or stored on another device, in case your mobile phone fails.
• 🕒 Arrive at the station at least an hour early if you're unfamiliar with it, as high-speed train boarding processes can be more complex than conventional trains.
• 🛂 Expect to go through security checks similar to airports before entering the high-speed train area.
• 🚉 Locate the correct platform by checking screens for train departures, which are clearly marked with numbers.
• 🧳 Be mindful of where to store your luggage on board, with large suitcases placed in designated racks and carry-on items above your seat.
• 📺 Enjoy the high-speed travel experience with amenities like Wi-Fi, power sockets, and food services, while observing the Spanish landscape at speeds up to 300 km/h.
• 🛑 Pay attention when disembarking, whether at an intermediate or final station, and ensure you take all your belongings with you.

Q & A

What is the first step to take when planning a high-speed train journey in Spain?

The first step is to determine if there is a high-speed train connecting the two destinations you want to travel between, as the high-speed network does not reach all tourist destinations in the country.

How many different high-speed train services are there in Spain?

There are four different high-speed train services in Spain: AVE, AVLO, OUIGO, and Iryo.

What is the difference between AVE and AVLO trains?

AVE is a bullet train operated by the Spanish public company RENFE, reaching the most destinations, while AVLO is a low-cost high-speed train also operated by RENFE, traveling to fewer destinations on purple trains.

Which high-speed train service does not include the transport of bulky luggage in the ticket price?

The low-cost services AVLO and OUIGO do not include the transport of bulky luggage in the ticket price and require separate payment for it.

How can you purchase tickets for high-speed trains in Spain?

You can purchase tickets by visiting each train operator's website or by using a specialized agency like the Trainline, which allows you to search for and buy tickets for AVE, AVLO, Ouigo, and Iryo trains on the same page.

What is the recommended arrival time at the station to avoid stress if you're not familiar with it?

It is advised to arrive an hour early if you're not familiar with the station to avoid any stress.

What should you do if you're boarding a high-speed train at an intermediate station?

When boarding at an intermediate station, you should be alert and not fall asleep, as you will have three to four minutes to board once the train arrives on time.

How are the luggage storage areas on the trains?

There are luggage racks at the entrance of the carriages for large suitcases. Hand luggage should be stored in the compartment above the seat, except in OUIGO trains where this compartment is too small.

What amenities do high-speed trains in Spain typically offer?

High-speed trains typically offer Wi-Fi (with varying costs), power sockets between or under the seats, USB ports, a tray for your devices, and toilets at the end of the carriages. Some trains also have a cafeteria and mobile bar service.

What should you do when the train is approaching your destination?

When the train announces your arrival, if you're getting off at an intermediate station, prepare your belongings and wait by the doors to disembark as soon as the train stops. If it's the final station, you can relax as everyone will disembark at their own pace.

What is the final step after disembarking from the high-speed train?

The final step is to find the transport that will take you to your accommodation, following signs for public transport or looking for taxis and buses usually available in front of the station.