Renfe is a state-owned passenger and freight rail transport operator overseen by the Ministerio de Fomento.

Renfe Operadora provides passenger and freight transport services, guided by the principle of safety, undertaking its activity with the customer clearly in mind, with criteria of quality, efficiency, profitability and innovation, and pursuing an increase in its share of the rail transport market on the basis of a strong commitment to society and the development of its employees. 

With a speed of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), you can travel between Madrid and Barcelona in less than 3 hours. 

AVE trains operate on the following routes:

  • Madrid – Barcelona (via Guadalajara, Calatayud, Zaragoza, Lleida and Tarragona) 
  • Madrid – Seville (via Ciudad Real, Puertollano, and Córdoba)
  • Madrid – Valladolid (via Segovia)
  • Madrid – Huesca (via Guadalajara, Calatayud, and Zaragoza)
  • Madrid – Málaga (via Ciudad Real, Puertollano, Córdoba, and Antequera)
  • Barcelona – Seville (via Zaragoza, Córdoba and Madrid)
  • Barcelona – Málaga (via Zaragoza, Córdoba and Madrid)