Girona to Zaragoza train with iryo

Girona to Zaragoza by Train with Renfe’s AVE

Introduction

Having stayed overnight in Girona and needing to be in Zaragoza early the next day, I took Renfe’s AVE train for a quick and comfortable trip. This direct high-speed service connects the Mediterranean coast with the plains of Aragón. The journey from Girona to Zaragoza by train is fast, quiet, and elegant. It's the perfect way to travel across Spain while watching the landscape shift from sea views to the open countryside. Here's what to expect if you're planning a similar trip on this route.

Route Overview

The Renfe AVE train between Girona and Zaragoza covers around 410 km along one of Spain’s main high-speed corridors, arriving in less than 2 hours and 15 minutes. Departing from Girona, the train first follows the Mediterranean coast toward Barcelona. After passing the city, it turns inland through hilly terrain before reaching Aragón and its capital, Zaragoza. The contrast between the bright coastal light, the rolling hills after Barcelona, and the golden tones of Aragón makes this one of Spain’s most scenic high-speed routes. Taking Renfe’s AVE is the most comfortable and time-saving way to travel from Girona to Zaragoza.

Transportation Experience

I bought my Girona-Zaragoza train ticket about a month in advance, reserving a seat in First Class. The booking process on Omio was quick, and the mobile ticket was sent to me right after checkout. Digital tickets with QR codes make things much easier on the day of travel. Boarding was calm and well organised, and I found my seat without any trouble. There’s also a bus from Girona to Zaragoza, but it takes around 6 to 7 hours depending on the route and traffic. With the train being faster and far more comfortable, it was the better choice for me on this trip.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Renfe AVE trains to Zaragoza depart from Girona station. You can reach it easily from anywhere in the city by local, regional, or long-distance train, as well as by bus or taxi. It’s a medium-sized, modern station with several cafés and shops, including familiar options like McDonald’s and Subway if you want something to eat before departure. As is standard with trains in Spain, passengers go through both security and ticket checks before accessing the platforms. The AVE platforms are located underground and are easily reached by escalator.

Trains from Girona arrive at Zaragoza Delicias station. It’s a modern intermodal terminal west of the city center. From here, you can easily catch a local bus, taxi, or regional train to the center. Walking the 2 km from Zaragoza Delicias station to the city center is possible, but it takes about 40 minutes. The station is spacious, well signposted, and makes arriving in Aragón’s capital very straightforward.

Schedule & Frequency

Renfe AVE, along with Avlo and Iryo services, operates several daily departures between Girona and Zaragoza. Trains run from early morning around 6 AM until early evening around 6 PM. Some trains are direct, while others include a short connection at Barcelona Sants. With frequent departures throughout the day, it’s easy to plan anything from a same-day return to a weekend getaway. I was traveling for an overnight stay, so I took the 1:15 PM departure and arrived in Zaragoza just 2 hours and 15 minutes later.

Onboard Experience & Services

From the moment I stepped onto the Renfe AVE train to Zaragoza, the calm and quality were unmistakable. The soft lighting and spotless interior made the cabin feel especially welcoming. In First Class, the wide leather seats reclined comfortably and offered plenty of legroom. Each seat had a personal reading light, power socket, and fold-out table.

As expected, the PlayRENFE Wi-Fi service worked well, and the onboard entertainment platform kept me occupied with movies and digital newspapers. At-seat breakfast service began shortly after departure, with three menu options priced at €22 each. My meal was a freshly prepared cold breakfast with mixed fruit, two pastries, and both a hot and cold drink. It was nicely presented, and the pastries paired perfectly with strong coffee. Later in the trip, I visited the bar car, mainly to stretch my legs and chat with the friendly train staff.

Restrooms are available on the AVE train from Girona to Zaragoza. They were clean and fully stocked with soap and paper, which always makes a difference on longer journeys. Combined with attentive onboard staff and the smooth 300 km/h ride, the Girona to Zaragoza train experience was excellent from start to finish. From my seat, I had great views of the Mediterranean coast, and the hilly terrain after Barcelona was the highlight of the journey.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

I recommend booking your Girona–Zaragoza train ticket at least one month in advance to get the best price. Renfe’s AVE tickets include up to three pieces of luggage, with a maximum limit of 25 kg, which makes the fare even better value. I paid €76.00 for a First Class seat, which felt fair considering the comfort and service level.

Budget breakdown:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

A few tips to make your Girona–Zaragoza train trip even more enjoyable:

• Sit on the left side: You’ll get the best view of the coast and the open countryside.
• Arrive early: Start your trip relaxed and avoid any last-minute rush.
• Visit the bar car mid-journey: It’s a great place to unwind with a nice cup of coffee.
• Bring your ID card: Always recommended to bring with you when traveling.
• Treat the trip as a moment of relaxation: The smooth ride and quiet cabin make it perfect for working or simply recharging.

Conclusion

The Girona to Zaragoza train trip aboard Renfe’s AVE is the perfect blend of speed, comfort, and Spanish efficiency. In less than 2 hours and 15 minutes, you go from the heart of Catalonia to the capital of Aragón without the stress of airports or traffic. With scenic views throughout, this trip shows why Renfe’s AVE remains one of Europe’s most celebrated train experiences. Ready to go? Book your trip on the Omio app.

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.