Montpellier to Girona train with AVE

Montpellier to Girona by Train with Renfe's AVE Internacional

Introduction

I recently took Renfe's AVE train from Montpellier to Girona. With Renfe, I’m always certain of an excellent trip. The train offers a smooth, quiet ride across the French-Spanish border, with the coastal stretch after leaving Montpellier being especially memorable. Girona is a beautiful destination in its own right, and arriving by train feels like the perfect way to start exploring.

Route Overview

The Renfe AVE Internacional train between Montpellier and Girona covers about 245 km across southern France and northeastern Spain. This cross-border route connects two vibrant regions without the stress of airport lines or long highway drives. You can simply board in the city centre and relax as the train glides 300 km/h past vineyards and stretches of coastline before crossing into Catalonia. Girona makes for a rewarding conclusion to an exciting train trip through the south of Europe. For me, the Renfe AVE train is the best way to travel from Montpellier to Girona.

Transportation Experience

I booked my First Class seat on the Renfe Ave train from Montpellier to Girona about one month ahead and paid €59. Omio’s booking system accepted my payment and delivered a mobile ticket instantly, which made check-in quick. The staff checked tickets before allowing me onto the platform, and the boarding process felt calm and efficient, adding to the sense of a relaxed start. The bus journey from Montpellier to Girona usually takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the service and traffic, which makes the train a far more comfortable and time-saving choice.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Montpellier-Saint-Roch is compact and easy to navigate, located close to the city centre on Rue de la République. The station offers convenient connections to local buses, trams, and taxis right outside the main entrance. Facilities include cafés, restaurants, shops, and luggage lockers. I recommend arriving a little early and visiting the Paul bakery inside. It's the perfect spot to grab a croissant and coffee before boarding.

Girona station also provides quick connections to local, regional, and long-distance trains, as well as several city buses and taxis. It’s only about a 10-minute walk from the historic old town. The Onyar River is also within walking distance and makes a great spot for photos, especially near the riverside houses. Inside the station, you’ll find cafés, small restaurants, and shops for any last-minute essentials before heading out to explore.

Schedule & Frequency

Renfe AVE services on this international corridor run twice daily in each direction, departing at 9:33 AM and 4:28 PM. Other operators, including TGV INOUI, also serve this route. The exact number of daily departures can vary, so it’s best to check the schedule for your intended travel date. I took the morning AVE train, which delivered me to Girona in time for lunch in the city. It was perfect for a relaxed day trip.

Onboard Experience & Services

On the Renfe AVE train from Montpellier to Girona, I had a seat in First Class. It was spacious in a 2+1 seating layout and had enough legroom to stretch out and relax. Each seat came equipped with a tray table, power socket, and reading light. That's pretty much everything you need for comfort on a short international trip.

On AVE trains, you get access to the PlayRENFE app. Using the entertainment Wi-Fi network, you get access to TV shows, movies, news, and more. I used it to check the route map and read a travel magazine. The signal remained good, with only a brief dip in the tunnels.

Also on the train was a bar car with fresh coffee and light snacks, including tasty pastries. Even though the ride isn’t long, it’s a nice place to stretch your legs and chat with the train staff. I had my usual coffee and croissant, and I wasn't disappointed.

For luggage storage, there are overhead racks and larger storage spaces at the ends of each carriage. I brought only a backpack for this day trip, which I kept with me at the seat. As for scenery, the landscape immediately after leaving Montpellier is the highlight. The line runs alongside inland lagoons that reflect the sky and create long, peaceful vistas. With large windows and a smooth ride, those views feel cinematic rather than just a blur.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

I recommend booking at least four weeks in advance to find the best fares and secure your preferred First Class seat. Each Renfe AVE ticket includes up to three bags with a combined total weight of 25 kg, which adds solid value for international travelers. The onboard café bar also offers reasonably priced items, which makes the overall trip feel well worth the cost.

Budget breakdown:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

These are my top tips to make the most of your Montpellier to Girona train journey.

• Carry ID or passport: Always good to have identification when crossing borders, even within the Schengen area.
• Arrive early: Spend a little time at Montpellier-Saint-Roch to relax and enjoy the calm before boarding.
• Grab a bite at Paul Bakery: Located inside the station, they have excellent sandwiches and coffee.
• Sit on the left-hand side: You’ll get the best views of inland lagoons and coastal scenery after leaving Montpellier.
• Check out the PlayRENFE language courses: The app includes short lessons in Spanish and French, a fun way to pass the time.

Conclusion

Renfe’s AVE Internacional from Montpellier to Girona makes cross-border travel seem domestic. The ride itself feels calm and refined, with spacious seats and beautiful coastal views along the way. I don't think there's a better way to arrive right in the heart of Catalonia. Ready to go? Plan your journey easily on the Omio app and enjoy the ride.

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.