Girona to Perpignan train with TGV INOUI

From Girona to Perpignan by Train with Renfe's AVE Internacional

Introduction

I recently took the Renfe AVE Internacional from Girona to Perpignan, just for a day trip into this historic city. The direct service on the AVE train is smooth, scenic, and a relaxing way to travel between the two cities. It's the kind of trip where you can enjoy the countryside through wide panoramic windows and arrive in the heart of Perpignan without even noticing the time passing.

Route Overview

The Girona to Perpignan train route covers approximately 85 km, running along parts of the Mediterranean coast before crossing into southern France through the Perthus tunnel. The trip takes less than 45 minutes. This cross-border Renfe AVE connection links Spain and France without the need for a drive. From city-center to city-center, you get generous seating, a calm atmosphere, and onboard services that make time pass effortlessly.

Transportation Experience

I booked my First Class seat on Renfe’s AVE train through Omio about a month in advance and paid €57. I used Omio because it’s the easiest way to compare train times and prices. I chose the train simply because I wanted a relaxed day trip, not the stress of airports or motorway traffic. The AVE is fast, quiet, and lets you actually enjoy the time. The bus from Girona to Perpignan takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but the train is smoother and much more comfortable. I also enjoy being able to get up and walk around, which you can't really do on the bus.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Girona station connects to local, regional, and long-distance trains, as well as multiple bus lines and taxis. The station has cafés, restaurants, and convenience shops for any last-minute needs, so arriving early is always a good idea. You can grab a snack, enjoy a quick espresso, or simply watch the time go by before departure.

AVE platforms are located below ground, with easy access via escalators and lifts. Before boarding the train from Girona to Perpignan, there’s a quick security check and ticket control, which is standard across Spain. The process is organised and efficient, reflecting Renfe’s high standards.

Perpignan station is a monumental station, located near the city center and easily accessible by buses and taxis. It has a classic façade and an airy main hall. Inside, you’ll find cafés, ticket counters, restrooms, and luggage services. The station connects seamlessly to local TER and TGV trains, making it a popular gateway to southern France.

Schedule & Frequency

Renfe’s AVE services on this international corridor run twice daily in each direction, departing at 09:01 AM and 5:16 PM. The journey takes less than 45 minutes, but it's still enough time to enjoy the scenery, relax, or briefly use the onboard entertainment before arriving in Perpignan. I took the first train out of Girona and reached Perpignan just before 9:45 AM, perfectly timed to enjoy a morning walk through the city before it got busy.

Onboard Experience & Services

Traveling in First Class felt extremely relaxing. The seats recline and offer plenty of legroom to stretch comfortably. Each seat has a reading light and a fold-down tray. The cabin stayed quiet throughout the trip, making it easy to read or rest for a while.

Renfe provides Wi-Fi through its PlayRENFE platform, which lets you stream films, TV series, newspapers, documentaries, and even language courses. Connection quality may drop briefly in rural stretches or tunnels, but both the Wi-Fi and the PlayRENFE app are very reliable overall.

The bar car is worth visiting. As this was such a short journey, I only ordered a coffee, which came neatly presented and served with friendly attention. There were also pastries, sandwiches, and soft drinks available.

For luggage, there are overhead racks and larger storage areas at the carriage ends. On Renfe AVE trains from Girona to Perpignan, you're allowed up to three bags, with a combined total weight of 25 kg. Restrooms are located at the ends of each coach. The scenery is lovely throughout most of the journey, except, of course, during the section through the Perthus tunnel beneath the Pyrenees.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Book at least four weeks in advance to find the best fares and to secure your favorite First Class seat on Renfe AVE. I booked on Omio and received a mobile ticket immediately. Here’s a quick summary of what I spent on this train trip.

Budget breakdown:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

These are my top tips to make the most of your Girona to Perpignan train trip:

• Arrive early: It makes the experience far more relaxed.
• Sit on the right side: You’ll enjoy the best views along the coast.
• Use the PlayRENFE app: It provides reliable onboard entertainment for the entire journey.
• Visit the bar car: The service, presentation, and product quality make it worth stopping by, even on a short trip.

Conclusion

Renfe’s AVE Internacional from Girona to Perpignan combines Spanish comfort and service with beautiful scenery. With large windows, Wi-Fi, and a friendly crew, the train turns travel into an experience. If you value comfort and good service, this under 45-minute ride is an easy and elegant way to reach Perpignan and enjoy every kilometer along the way. Book your tickets on Omio today.

About the Author: Paulo Monteiro

• Job Title: Travel Creator and Rail Writer
• Bio: Paulo Monteiro is a European rail specialist and creator of travel videos and guides. He documents first-hand train journeys across Europe and focuses on onboard comfort, practical tips, and scenic moments.