Exciting News for Train Travelers in Spain: Renfe’s Latest Discounts and New Operator Launch

For expats and residents in Spain, the start of 2025 brings a flurry of exciting developments in the rail travel sector, promising significant savings and enhanced travel options.

Renfe’s Super Prices Sale

Renfe, Spain’s national railway operator, has kicked off the new year with a compelling sales campaign. Until January 14, 2025, travelers can take advantage of Renfe’s “Super Prices” to book their 2025 trips at remarkably low fares. This offer applies to various train services, including the high-speed AVE, the budget-friendly Avlo, long-distance Larga Distancia trains, and even international AVE services to France.

For those planning their Easter break, summer holidays, or any other getaway, now is the perfect time to secure tickets. Travelers can book their tickets for journeys starting from January 20, 2025, and enjoy substantial discounts. Additionally, Renfe is offering an upgrade from a Básico Ticket to an Elige Ticket for just €1 more, and for international journeys to France, an upgrade to an Elige Confort ticket is available from €6 or €10[1].

Ouigo’s Low-Cost Entry

In another significant development, the French low-cost train operator Ouigo is set to launch its services in Spain on January 16, 2025. This new entrant will operate on the high-speed line connecting Malaga and Madrid, joining existing operators Renfe (with its AVE and Avlo brands) and Iryo.

Ouigo’s arrival promises a substantial reduction in ticket prices, with initial fares starting from as low as €9 each way. This is a welcome change, especially considering that average ticket prices in Malaga were previously higher compared to other cities like Valencia and Alicante. Families will also benefit, as Ouigo offers a fixed fare of €7 per journey for children between 4 and 13 years old, and free travel for children under 3 years old traveling with a parent[2].

Increased Frequencies and Capacities

The introduction of Ouigo will not only lower prices but also increase the number of trains and seats available. The Malaga-Madrid high-speed line will see a significant boost in frequencies, with a total of 21 trains running in each direction, more than double the pre-pandemic numbers. Ouigo’s trains, such as the Alstom Euroduplex, have the largest capacity in the Spanish market, with up to 509 seats per convoy, and plans for even larger multiple-unit trains in the future[2].

Government Subsidies Extended

Adding to the good news, the Spanish government has extended its public transport subsidy scheme until June 30, 2025. This means that regular users of trains and buses will continue to enjoy reduced fares, including free travel on commuter and medium-distance trains, 50% off Avant train tickets, and half-price metro and city bus fares. This extension is part of a broader initiative to make public transport more affordable and reduce car usage[4][5].

In summary, 2025 is shaping up to be a great year for train travelers in Spain, with Renfe’s Super Prices sale, the launch of Ouigo’s low-cost services, and the continuation of government subsidies. Whether you are a frequent commuter or planning a leisure trip, these developments offer numerous opportunities to save money and enjoy enhanced travel options.