Getting around

Trains, roads and how to move around Spain

Trains

Spain's high-speed AVE network connects major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia quickly and comfortably, often rivaling flights for convenience once you factor in city-center-to-city-center travel. Renfe operates the national rail system, and booking in advance usually secures cheaper fares. Regional trains (Media Distancia and Cercanías) are useful for shorter hops and commuter routes, though slower and less frequent than the AVE.

Driving

Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas, small villages, and regions like Andalusia or the Basque Country where public transport is sparse. Spain's toll and free highways are well-maintained, and road signage is clear, though city driving and parking can be stressful in places like Madrid or Barcelona. An International Driving Permit is recommended alongside your home license, and note that manual transmission cars are the norm unless you request automatic in advance.

Flights

Domestic flights are practical for covering long distances quickly, such as traveling from Madrid to the Canary or Balearic Islands. Budget airlines like Vueling, Ryanair, and Iberia Express offer frequent routes between major cities and islands at competitive prices. For mainland travel, however, trains are often more efficient once airport transfer times and check-in procedures are factored in.

City transport

Madrid and Barcelona boast extensive metro systems that are affordable, efficient, and easy to navigate with multilingual signage. Buses supplement metro service and are especially useful in smaller cities without rail networks, while taxis and ride-share apps like Cabify and Uber are widely available. Many cities also offer bike-share programs and increasingly pedestrian-friendly city centers, making walking a pleasant option for short distances.

Practical tips

Purchase train and flight tickets in advance for the best prices, especially during peak travel seasons like summer and Semana Santa. Validate any physical tickets before boarding regional trains or buses to avoid fines, and download the Renfe or Moovit apps for real-time schedules and route planning. Keep in mind that many businesses and some transport services observe a midday lull, so plan connections accordingly, particularly in smaller towns.