Alicante to Cartagena train with Renfe MD

Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.

Renfe Proximidad is a commercial division of the Spanish railway company Renfe Viajeros, established in February 2023. It focuses on providing rail routes with intermediate frequencies, bridging the gap between Cercanías (commuter) and Media Distancia (mid-distance) services to address daily mobility needs. These routes operate under Public Service Obligations (PSO) and aim to connect areas not adequately served by existing commuter lines, increasing frequency and reducing travel costs. Services include routes like Murcia-Cartagena, Málaga-El Chorro-Caminito del Rey, and Medina del Campo-Valladolid-Palencia. Renfe Proximidad utilizes various train series, including 446, 449, 464, 470, 592, 594, 598, and 599.

Renfe AVANT is a high-speed, medium-distance passenger rail service operated by Renfe, Spain's national railway company. These trains provide comfortable and efficient travel on shorter routes, typically less than two hours, connecting different provinces within the same or neighboring autonomous communities. AVANT services operate on high-speed lines, reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h, though some sources mention speeds up to 300 km/h. AVANT trains, such as the series 104, 114, and 121, generally offer a single class configuration (Standard Class or Turista) with air-conditioned comfort. While they may lack some features of longer-distance AVE trains, like a full restaurant car, many have vending machines for snacks and drinks, and some AV City branded services include a cafeteria. Popular routes include Madrid to Toledo, Barcelona to Girona, and Seville to Cordoba.