Avlo Train Spain Guide – Affordable High-Speed Rail Travel
The Avlo train is Spain’s answer to affordable, high-speed travel. Launched by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company, Avlo has transformed how locals and tourists move between major cities. With low ticket prices, modern trains, and fast travel times, Avlo makes exploring Spain easier than ever.
If you’re planning a trip across Spain and want a budget-friendly alternative to flights or long bus rides, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Avlo train — routes, prices, luggage rules, booking tips, and how it compares to other Spanish trains.
What Is the Avlo Train?
The Avlo train is a low-cost, high-speed rail service operated by Renfe. It uses the same high-speed rail network as AVE trains but focuses on offering cheaper tickets with a simplified onboard experience.
Avlo trains can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), allowing passengers to travel long distances in just a few hours. Unlike traditional high-speed trains that offer multiple classes and luxury services, Avlo keeps things simple to keep prices low.
Why Avlo Train Is So Popular in Spain
The Avlo train has quickly become popular for several reasons:
- Very affordable ticket prices
- Fast travel times between major cities
- Modern and clean trains
- Easy online booking
- Eco-friendly travel option
For budget travelers, students, families, and even business travelers, Avlo offers a great balance between price and speed.
Avlo Train Routes and Destinations
Avlo currently operates on some of Spain’s busiest high-speed routes. These routes connect major cities, making it ideal for both tourists and locals.
Popular Avlo Train Routes
Some of the most common Avlo routes include:
- Madrid to Barcelona
- Madrid to Valencia
- Madrid to Zaragoza
- Madrid to Tarragona
- Madrid to Alicante
- Madrid to Cuenca
Most routes start or end in Madrid, which is Spain’s main railway hub.
Avlo Train Ticket Prices
One of the biggest advantages of the Avlo train is its low ticket prices.
How Much Do Avlo Train Tickets Cost?
Ticket prices usually start from €7 to €15, depending on:
- Route
- Travel date
- Demand
- How early you book
Prices can increase closer to departure, but they are still often cheaper than traditional high-speed trains or flights.

How to Book Avlo Train Tickets
Booking Avlo train tickets is simple and can be done online in just a few minutes.
Steps to Book Avlo Tickets
- Visit the Renfe website or official ticket platform
- Enter your departure and arrival cities
- Choose your travel date
- Select the Avlo train option
- Pick your seat and confirm payment
You’ll receive a digital ticket that you can show on your phone or print.
Avlo Train Seating and Comfort
Although Avlo is a low-cost service, it still offers a comfortable travel experience.
Seating Features
- Comfortable standard seats
- Power outlets at most seats
- Air-conditioned coaches
- Clean and modern interiors
There is only one class of service, which helps keep prices affordable.
Avlo Train Luggage Policy
Avlo has a simple luggage policy, but it’s important to follow the rules to avoid extra fees.
Allowed Luggage on Avlo Train
Passengers can bring:
- 1 hand luggage item (up to 36 x 27 x 25 cm)
- 1 cabin bag or suitcase (up to 55 x 35 x 25 cm)
Additional or oversized luggage may require an extra fee, so packing smart is key.
Food and Services on Avlo Train
To keep ticket prices low, Avlo trains offer limited onboard services.
What’s Available Onboard?
- Snack vending machines (on some routes)
- Clean restrooms
- Basic assistance from staff
There is no full restaurant car, so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Avlo Train vs AVE: What’s the Difference?
Many travelers wonder how the Avlo train compares to Spain’s famous AVE high-speed service.
Key Differences Between Avlo and AVE
| Feature | Avlo Train | AVE Train |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket Price | Lower | Higher |
| Speed | High-speed | High-speed |
| Classes | One class | Multiple classes |
| Food Service | Limited | Full dining options |
| Flexibility | Basic | More flexible tickets |
If you want luxury and premium services, AVE may be better. If you want affordability and speed, Avlo is the smarter choice.
Avlo Train vs Other Budget Trains in Spain
Spain has several low-cost train operators, and Avlo competes directly with them.
Avlo vs Ouigo and Iryo
- Avlo: Operated by Renfe, very affordable, simple service
- Ouigo: French-owned, competitive pricing, strict luggage rules
- Iryo: More premium, slightly higher prices, more comfort
Avlo often wins for travelers who want the lowest prices with reliable service.

Best Time to Book Avlo Train Tickets
To get the cheapest fares, timing matters.
Booking Tips for Avlo Train
- Book as early as possible
- Travel on weekdays instead of weekends
- Avoid peak holiday seasons
- Look for promotional fares
Renfe often releases tickets months in advance, so early planning can save you a lot.
Is Avlo Train Good for Tourists?
Yes, the Avlo train is excellent for tourists visiting Spain.
Why Tourists Love Avlo
- Easy booking in English
- Affordable prices
- Fast connections between major cities
- No airport security hassles
- Central city train stations
For city-hopping itineraries like Madrid–Barcelona or Madrid–Valencia, Avlo is ideal.
Environmental Benefits of Avlo Train
Choosing the Avlo train is also an eco-friendly decision.
Why Avlo Is Better for the Environment
- Lower carbon emissions than flights
- Energy-efficient high-speed trains
- Reduced road traffic
- Supports sustainable tourism
Traveling by train helps reduce your travel footprint while still enjoying fast journeys.
Pros and Cons of Avlo Train
Like any service, Avlo has advantages and limitations.
Pros
- Very low ticket prices
- High-speed travel
- Modern trains
- Reliable service
- Easy booking process
Cons
- Limited onboard services
- Strict luggage rules
- Fewer routes than AVE
- Less flexibility for changes
Tips for First-Time Avlo Train Travelers
If it’s your first time using Avlo, keep these tips in mind:
- Arrive at the station early
- Check luggage size before traveling
- Bring snacks and water
- Keep your ticket accessible
- Choose seats early for best options
Future Expansion of Avlo Train
Renfe plans to expand Avlo routes in the coming years. More cities and connections are expected as demand for affordable high-speed travel grows.
This means travelers can look forward to even more options for budget-friendly train journeys across Spain.
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Final Thoughts on Avlo Train
The Avlo train has changed how people travel in Spain. By combining high-speed rail with low prices, Avlo makes long-distance travel accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a tourist exploring Spanish cities or a local commuting between regions, Avlo offers a fast, affordable, and reliable solution.
If saving money while traveling comfortably matters to you, Avlo train tickets are absolutely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Avlo train?
The Avlo train is a low-cost, high-speed rail service operated by Renfe in Spain. It offers fast travel between major cities at lower prices than traditional AVE trains.
Is Avlo a high-speed train?
Yes, Avlo trains run on Spain’s high-speed rail network and can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h, similar to AVE trains.
How much do Avlo train tickets cost?
Avlo train ticket prices usually start from around €7 to €15, depending on the route, demand, and how early you book.
Which routes does the Avlo train operate?
Avlo mainly operates routes from Madrid to cities such as Barcelona, Valencia, Zaragoza, Alicante, Tarragona, and Cuenca.
How can I book Avlo train tickets?
You can book Avlo train tickets online through Renfe’s official website or authorized ticket platforms. Tickets are available as mobile or printable passes.
What is the luggage allowance on Avlo trains?
Passengers can bring one hand luggage item and one cabin-sized suitcase. Extra or oversized luggage may require an additional fee.
Does the Avlo train have food service?
Avlo trains offer limited onboard services. Some routes have vending machines, but there is no full dining car, so bringing your own snacks is recommended.
Is Avlo train cheaper than AVE?
Yes, Avlo is generally cheaper than AVE. AVE offers more comfort and services, while Avlo focuses on affordability and speed.
Is Avlo train good for tourists?
Yes, Avlo is very popular with tourists because it is affordable, fast, easy to book online, and connects major Spanish cities.
Are Avlo train tickets refundable?
Most Avlo tickets are non-refundable and have limited flexibility. It’s important to check fare conditions before booking.