Tips for travelling by AVE

Traveling by high-speed train (AVE) in Spain is a unique experience that combines comfort, speed, and efficiency. Since its inauguration in 1992, the AVE has revolutionized rail transport in Spain, offering passengers a fast and comfortable alternative to car or plane travel.

Each year, more than 40 million travelers use the high-speed services. Demand is steadily increasing due to its main benefits, such as speed, safety, comfort, reliability, and punctuality.

You've probably used this service many times, but if you're currently planning your next trip on the AVE and want to optimize your experience, here are some tips to help you make the most of your journey.

1. Book in advance The first step to ensuring a good trip on the AVE is to book your tickets well in advance. Ticket prices are usually lower the earlier you buy them. Additionally, you'll ensure you get the seat you want, and you'll have access to offers and promotions that Renfe, the AVE operator, frequently releases.

2. Choose the right type of ticket In addition to standard tickets, Renfe offers different types of tickets to suit various needs and budgets:

• Bono AVE: This is a 10-trip pass for the same origin and destination that you can use within 4 months. The benefits of purchasing the Bono AVE include saving money because the ticket price remains the same regardless of time or demand. It also allows free cancellations and lets you select a seat at no extra cost.
• Bono AVE Flexible: With this pass, you can make 10 trips on the AVE on any route, meaning you can combine different origins and destinations over four months. There are two options: Bono AVE Flexible Standard, which lets you travel in a standard seat, and Bono AVE Flexible Comfort, which allows you to travel in any type of seat.
• Collaborative Pass: This is an 8-trip pass for up to 4 holders, making it perfect for families or groups of friends. These passes are non-transferable and only cover one route, always between two stations that must be selected at the time of purchase. Just like the Bono AVE Flexible, you can also choose between standard or comfort depending on the type of seat you prefer.
• Renfe Spain Pass: This is a special pass for people living outside Spain who want to enjoy their holidays in the country. This pass is valid for 4, 6, 8, or 10 trips within a month and allows you to choose between a standard or comfort seat.

3. Take advantage of available discounts

Renfe offers a variety of discounts depending on different criteria. Does one of these apply to you? If so, don’t hesitate to make the most of the available benefits.

• Children: Children under 14 always travel with a 40% discount.
• Young travelers: Young people between 14 and 25 can join the Más Renfe Joven program, which gives them a 25% to 30% discount depending on the route.
• Large families: Large families enjoy significant discounts when traveling on the AVE. For general category large families, the discount is 20%, and for special category families, it is 50%.
• Seniors (60+ years): Seniors aged 60 and over can obtain their Tarjeta Dorada online and enjoy discounts of up to 40% on their trips.
• Groups: For groups of 4 to 9 people, Renfe offers an 8% discount for each member. No excuses for not traveling with friends!
• Persons with disabilities: Persons with disabilities of 33% or higher, or with total incapacity, can obtain Renfe's Tarjeta Dorada, offering discounts ranging from 25% to 40%, depending on the journey and day.
• Charter: Charter trains are the best option for planning professional trips. Renfe offers customized tourist packages for these types of journeys.
• Congresses and trade fairs: If you’re organizing a congress or professional fair lasting up to 4 days with more than 75 attendees, you can get a 5% discount on AVE and Long-Distance trains. The request must be made online at least 30 days before the event.
• Companies: With Renfe Empresas, Renfe offers better travel conditions for company employees.

4. Arrive at the station early enough Although AVE trains are punctual, it is recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes in advance. This will give you enough time to pass security checks, find your platform, and board the train without rushing.

5. Keep luggage restrictions in mind Like air travel, AVE trains have specific luggage rules. You can bring up to three pieces of luggage with a total weight of 25 kg, and the dimensions must not exceed 85 x 55 x 35 cm. It's also important to label your luggage with your personal details to avoid confusion or loss. Place your suitcases in the designated spaces and keep your valuables with you at all times.

6. Enjoy the VIP lounges If you’ve purchased a ticket in Preferente or Club class, you’ll have access to VIP lounges at the main stations. These lounges offer a quiet environment, Wi-Fi, beverages, free newspapers, and snacks. It's the perfect place to relax before your trip!

7. Earn points If you frequently travel on the AVE, it’s a good idea to get the Más Renfe card. With it, you can accumulate Renfecitos (points). You can redeem these points for discounts on trips, hotels, car rentals, donations to NGOs, and more.

What do you think of our tips? With these, you'll be able to make the most of all the advantages that AVE services offer and make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Sit back, relax, and have a great trip!