Madrid to Valencia train with Ouigo

My Journey From Madrid to Valencia by Train with Renfe AVE

Introduction

Renfe’s AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) trains are Spain’s flagship high-speed services, connecting major cities at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph). Fares have become more competitive in recent years due to increased competition from Ouigo, Iryo and Renfe’s own budget brand, Avlo. Renfe’s AVE train service offers a full-service high-speed travel option across Spain.

Route Overview

The Madrid to Valencia high-speed train line opened in 2010, reducing the journey time between the two cities to around 1 hour 38 minutes. It is one of the fastest average-speed train services in Spain, running through central plains and agricultural landscapes along the way. While flights still operate between Madrid and Valencia, traveling by train is usually more convenient. You arrive directly into Valencia Joaquín Sorolla without airport transfers or rush hour traffic. For me, it is the best and most straightforward way to get to Valencia from Madrid.

Transportation Experience

I booked my seat on the Renfe AVE train on Omio about 4 weeks before departure, as prices tend to be lower when booked in advance. I went with an Estándar (Second Class) ticket since the upgrade to Premium didn’t feel necessary for such a short trip. The online checkout was very easy, and I had a digital ticket ready for scanning at the gate. I had considered the bus from Madrid to Valencia, but sitting on a bus for around 4 to 4.5 hours didn’t seem very enticing.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Trains to Valencia depart from Madrid Puerta de Atocha, located close to the city center and well connected by metro and Cercanías suburban trains. As at all major AVE stations, passengers pass through a quick airport-style security check before entering the platforms, so it’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes early. If you’re traveling on a Prémium ticket, you’ll have access to the Renfe Sala Club Lounge, which offers free drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, and a calm environment away from the crowds.

The train arrives at Valencia Joaquín Sorolla Station, located just south of the city center. It’s connected to the main Estació del Nord and central Valencia by a short free shuttle bus or a 15-minute walk. The station is also well linked by metro and local buses, which makes it easy to continue to other destinations. My hotel was in the center, and since I was traveling light, I chose to go on foot from the station.

Schedule & Frequency

There are 11 daily AVE services between Madrid and Valencia in each direction, with departures running from around 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM. The fastest trains are nonstop, while others make brief stops at Cuenca or Requena-Utiel, sometimes both. I traveled on the 8:30 AM nonstop service, which arrived promptly at 10:10 AM. I was visiting Valencia on a day trip, so the early morning departure was ideal.

Onboard Experience & Services

The S-112 “Pato” is one of Renfe’s most modern AVE trains, featuring a clean and stylish air-conditioned interior. These trains are built by Talgo with a unique shared-axle system. It can make the ride feel slightly firmer on some tracks, but on this high-speed corridor, it’s still very smooth and quiet.

In Premium Class, seats are in a 2+1 layout with more space, leather upholstery, and a quieter atmosphere. A complimentary meal service is included, with alcoholic drinks served after midday. I wasn’t riding Premium today, so my seats were arranged 2+2. I still had a generous amount of legroom, a footrest, a power socket, and a large tray table. There is also a café-bar carriage selling chips, pastries, sandwiches, and hot and cold drinks. I went for the Menu Mix, which included a coffee and cheese sandwich for €7.50.

The train had clean restrooms, along with luggage racks by the door for large bags. I only had a backpack, so I kept my things in the overhead storage. On Renfe AVE trains, Wi-Fi is usually available, but I didn’t really have a chance to use it on this short journey. I spent most of the time looking out the window, enjoying views of the rolling hills flying by at high speeds. Soon after, we pulled into Valencia Joaquín Sorolla Station.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Dynamic pricing applies on this route, so booking early usually results in lower fares, especially in Prémium Class. Tickets are typically available up to three months in advance. All AVE tickets include a seat reservation in the fare.

If you are flexible with travel times, Estándar (Second Class) fares can be found from around €18, while Prémium Class fares with the meal service usually start from around €65.

Budget breakdown:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

Here are a few helpful pointers to make the most of your trip from Madrid to Valencia by train with Renfe AVE:

• Visit the indoor garden: Madrid Puerta de Atocha has a beautiful botanical garden in the main hall that’s worth seeing before you pass through security.
• Use the Sala Club lounge (if Prémium): You’ll get complimentary drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, and quieter seating.
• Choose your seat at booking: Seat selection is included, so lock in your preferred window view early.
• Sit on the left side: I sat on the left, which had warmer light and more open countryside views on this route.

Conclusion

The AVE remains one of the most efficient ways to travel across Spain. With fast journey times and frequent departures, as well as comfortable onboard amenities, it’s a reliable choice for getting from Madrid to Valencia. I enjoyed the smooth ride and thought the value was excellent for the price I paid. To secure the best fares, try to book early on the Omio app.

About the Author: Nonstop Eurotrip

• Job Title: Travel Creator and Rail Writer
• Bio: I create YouTube trip reports and reviews on trains, planes, buses and ferries within Europe, and all around the world - and also share blog posts and travel deals on my website.