How to Travel Through Spain by Train

Spain by Train: Essential Tips

Renfe is the national train service in Spain, offering both long-distance and short-distance journeys. It’s advisable to plan ahead, as you’ll typically need to reserve your seat for most trips. Additionally, purchasing tickets in advance can often save you money. Here are our top recommendations for making the most of your travel experience.

1. Luggage and Security Procedures

Make sure to arrive early to give yourself ample time before your train departs. Prior to boarding any high-speed train, you’ll need to pass through a luggage x-ray security check. There generally aren’t dedicated luggage cars, so you’ll need to take your bags on board and stow them on the racks above your seat or on shelves at either end of the carriage. Note that there is a weight limit of 55 pounds for luggage on Renfe trains.

2. Combinado Cercanías: Free Train Travel

When embarking on a long-distance trip between two cities in Spain, look for the term ‘Combinado Cercanías’ on your ticket, along with a reference number in the corner. This ticket allows you complimentary travel on Renfe suburban lines from your starting city and to any Renfe suburban stations in your destination city. It provides free transportation to your departure and arrival stations. To utilize this, scan the QR code on your ticket within three hours before your departure and within four hours after your arrival.

3. Embrace a Relaxed Journey

One of the greatest advantages of traveling through Spain by train is the opportunity to appreciate the country at a leisurely pace. While high-speed trains can whisk you to your destination quickly, opting for slower trains or connecting routes allows you to soak in the stunning scenery along the way. Spain boasts an excellent train network, making it easy to reach nearly any location. Plus, traveling by train often proves to be one of the most economical choices compared to flying or renting a car.

 Spain by Train: Must-Visit Destinations

Spain is home to countless stunning cities accessible by train. The northern and northwestern regions are particularly famous for breathtaking journeys through picturesque countryside and majestic mountains. No matter where you travel in Spain, you’ll encounter train rides that offer scenic vistas and remarkable destinations.

1. Transcantábrico

The Transcantábrico is one of Spain’s most renowned trains, taking you from Santiago de Compostela, the capital of northwest Spain, to the charming resort town of San Sebastián. As one of the oldest tourist trains in Spain, the Transcantábrico provides luxurious experiences complete with onboard entertainment and gourmet dining. While San Sebastián is famous for its cobblestone streets and delectable cuisine, your eight-day journey aboard the Transcantábrico will be a delightful adventure in itself.

2. La Robla

La Robla offers a similar experience to the Transcantábrico but without the luxury and high price tag. This train travels from León to Bilbao, allowing you to stop at various sightseeing spots and quaint towns where you can savor local delicacies. This route is ideal for those who struggle to sleep on trains, as it remains stationary at night. The entire journey spans six days.

3. Barcelona to A Coruña

Traveling from Barcelona to A Coruña is a long journey, taking approximately 12 hours, but the stunning views make it worthwhile. Starting in Barcelona, the route winds along the Mediterranean coast, traverses the Catalan countryside, and stretches across the expansive plains of Castile, before arriving in the verdant Galician valleys and the picturesque port city of A Coruña on the Atlantic coast.

4. Barcelona to Montserrat

This trip is a perfect day excursion to Montserrat for those staying in Barcelona. The journey takes just under an hour, making it easy to enjoy a full day in the mountain town. Although brief, the ride provides breathtaking mountain vistas as you ascend from the valley. Once you arrive, you can explore the renowned Montserrat Monastery and admire the unique rock formations on the mountainside.

5. Trens del Llacs

This international train journey is all about the breathtaking scenery along the route, connecting Lleida in Spain with Saint Girons in France. Known as the ‘Train of the Lakes’, it follows the Segre and Noguera Pallaresa rivers, offering stunning vistas of nearby water reserves, valleys, and mountains. The trip lasts about two hours, and you can choose between a modern passenger train or a vintage option that delights train enthusiasts.

6. Madrid to Oviedo

If you’re in the Spanish capital, Madrid, consider heading north to Oviedo, the capital of the Asturian region. This journey takes you alongside the majestic Picos de Europa, one of Spain’s most remarkable mountain ranges. You’ll travel through the heart of the countryside, soaking in beautiful landscapes before reaching Oviedo, where you can explore the medieval old town, admire regional artifacts, and sample the famous local cider. The ride takes approximately four hours and 45 minutes.

7. Tren de la Fresa

The Tren de la Fresa, or ‘Strawberry Train’, operates only from April to June and September to October. Starting in Madrid, it follows the same path as one of Spain’s earliest train routes from over 160 years ago. This experience is like stepping back in time, as train staff don 19th-century attire and serve delicious fresh strawberries during the ride to Aranjuez, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its strawberries. You’ll arrive at Aranjuez in the morning and return to Madrid in the evening. The trip features about 1 hour and 40 minutes of travel time, with each segment lasting around 50 minutes.

8. Nuria Valley Rack Railway

The Nuria Valley Rack Railway is one of Spain’s most scenic train rides, perfect for those seeking tranquil and stunning vistas. This journey takes you through the Pyrenees mountains, ascending 3,280 feet along approximately 7.7 miles of track. Upon arrival in the Nuria Valley, you'll be welcomed by shimmering lakes, diverse wildlife, and rolling grassy hills. The trip lasts about 40 minutes, with more frequent services during the peak season from August to September and on weekends from May to October.

9. Ronda to Cordoba

While many of Spain's iconic train journeys are found in the northern regions, the south offers equally breathtaking views. Departing from the mountaintop town of Ronda, you'll traverse beautiful mountainous terrains and pass by the renowned Pueblos Blancos (white villages) that dot Andalusia's southern landscape. The journey takes about one hour and 50 minutes, with typically three trains operating daily.