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| RENFE AVE Atocha Station Madrid - copyright Paul Langan |
Spain's high-speed rail network is one of Europe's most extensive, offering travelers an efficient and scenic way to explore the country. With multiple operators now competing on the same routes, passengers have more choices than ever. Here's my hands-on experience riding three major high-speed rail trains across Spain. I did not use the RENFE AVLO high-speed trains this trip, as I had rode it on a previous trip.
Why You Shouldn't Compare High Speed Train Operators
Before diving into my journey, let's address something important: comparing different high-speed rail operators in Spain isn't always fair or useful. You're often comparing trains of vastly different ages (2 years old versus 20 years old), different configurations (single-level versus double-decker), and operating on different routes with varying infrastructure.
Instead, I recommend evaluating each operator on its own merits and enjoying what each brings to the table. Spain's rail network—both conventional and high-speed—makes traveling throughout the country an absolute joy.
Pro Tip: Research your seat selection before booking. Each train has optimal seats for unobstructed window views, and it makes a significant difference in your journey experience.
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| SNCF OUIGO Madrid Atocha Station - copyright Paul Langan |
SNCF OUIGO: Madrid to Barcelona - The Double-Decker Experience
The Standout Feature: Upper Deck Views
My journey began with SNCF's budget OUIGO service, operating double-decker trains between Madrid and Barcelona. This was the ride I anticipated most, and it exceeded expectations.
What Makes OUIGO Special:
- No first-class cabins, but upper-level seats offer generous spacing
- Spectacular elevated views from the top deck
- Smooth, comfortable ride quality
- Clean, well-maintained facilities
The Ouibar Experience
One highlight was the onboard "Ouibar" snack car. There's something special about standing at the windows with a drink in hand, watching Spain pass by at 310 km/h. These moments of connection with the landscape are what make train travel superior to flying.
While the countryside between Madrid and Barcelona isn't Spain's most dramatic, the elevated perspective from the double-decker configuration transforms the experience.
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| RENFE AVE Barcelona Station - copyright Paul Langan |
Renfe AVE: Barcelona to Málaga - The Reliable Workhorse
Classic Spanish High-Speed Rail
Next, I rode Renfe's AVE service from Barcelona to Málaga—a 5-hour, 36-minute journey on well-used trains that are 15-20 years old.
Journey Highlights:
- Dependable, proven service
- Excellent café-car views
- Longer journey time allows you to settle in and enjoy the ride
Minor Drawbacks:
- Some rough patches along the route
- A few blocked toilets (to be expected on older, heavily-used trains)
Despite these minor issues, the experience remained enjoyable. The café-car provided wonderful opportunities for photography and people-watching—I captured a memorable photo of a mother with her baby, perfectly framing the human side of train travel.
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| RENFE AVE cafe-car - copyright Paul Langan |
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| IRYO Malaga Spain - copyright Paul Langan |
IRYO: Málaga to Madrid - The New Contender
Italy Meets Spain
For my final leg, I chose IRYO, a private operator running Italian-made Frecciarossa 1000 trainsets. At approximately 5 years old, these are among the newest high-speed trains in Spain.
IRYO Strengths:
- Modern, fashionable interior design
- Relatively new rolling stock
- Competitive pricing as a private operator
- Top speeds of 310 km/h
My Disappointment:
The café-car lacked standing space near the windows—a feature I value for enjoying the scenery and striking up conversations with fellow travelers. Perhaps I'm old-fashioned, but I believe this social aspect of train travel enhances the journey.
Key Takeaways for High-Speed Rail in Spain
What All Three Operators Share
- Top speeds around 310 km/h
- Clean, modern facilities
- Efficient connections between major cities
- Excellent value compared to European standards
Planning Your Spain Rail Journey
- Book in advance for the best prices
- Research seat selections for optimal window views
- Choose operators based on schedule rather than obsessing over minor differences
- Enjoy each experience for what it offers
A Canadian's Perspective
As a Canadian eagerly awaiting our own high-speed rail implementation through the ALTO project, riding Spain's extensive network reinforced one truth: we need to catch up with the modern world. High-speed rail transforms how people move through busy corridors, making travel more sustainable, comfortable, and enjoyable.
Spain demonstrates what's possible with proper investment in rail infrastructure. While I doubt Canada will adopt double-decker configurations like OUIGO's, even single-level high-speed trains would revolutionize travel between our major cities.
Final Thoughts
Spain's high-speed rail network offers travelers an unmatched way to explore the country. Whether you choose the budget-friendly OUIGO, the established Renfe AVE, or the new private operator IRYO, you'll enjoy efficient, comfortable travel with stunning views.
Don't get caught up in operator comparisons—each brings something valuable to Spain's rail ecosystem. Instead, sit back, grab a coffee from the café-car, and enjoy the journey.
Have you ridden high-speed rail in Spain? Which operator was your favorite? Share your experiences in the comments below.
Paul Langan
Founder High-Speed Rail Canada
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