Travelling Spain by train
Spain has one of the world's best high-speed networks and plenty of people still drive because they don't know how the cheap tickets work.
The types of train
High-speed for long journeys between cities, fast and with compulsory seat reservation. Regional services for shorter routes, slower but far cheaper with more stops. And commuter trains for metropolitan areas, at urban fares.
There are several operators
Since liberalisation, several companies compete on the main routes with different prices for the same journey. Always compare before booking: on the same dates and similar times the differences can be large.
When to book
As soon as sales open if your dates are fixed. The cheapest fares are limited allocations that sell out, and prices rise as the train fills. Booking two months ahead can cost half what booking the week before does.
The fare types
Usually three levels: a basic one with no changes or refunds; an intermediate allowing changes for a fee; and a flexible one, pricier but refundable. If your dates aren't certain, the gap to the intermediate fare is usually small and worth it.
Regional trains: the lesser-known trick
For journeys of one or two hours, regional services cost a fraction of high-speed and don't always take much longer. Check before assuming high-speed is the only option.
Discounts
There are reduced fares for young people, large families and return journeys, plus season passes for frequent travellers on the same route. Check the current terms on the operator's site, as they change.
Luggage
Unlike airlines, on trains you carry luggage without paying extra and without measuring anything. For trips with a large case or bulky gear, the real price gap with flying narrows considerably.
When it beats the car
Almost always between cities, once you count fuel, tolls and parking. The car wins when you'll be moving around rural areas on arrival, or when there are four of you sharing costs.
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