If you’re planning to travel between France and Spain, you’ve chosen one of the most popular train routes for travellers! This route is operated by two main carriers: Renfe, the Spanish operator of AVE trains, and SNCF, the French operator of TGV trains.
Booking seat reservations for these trains can be tricky due to their popularity and limited availability. To make the booking experience easier, below you will find details about these carriers and all possible ways to secure your reservations.
As you already know, the train routes between France and Spain are operated by two main carriers:
- Renfe (Spain): Operates AVE trains.
- SNCF (France): Operates TGV trains.
Each carrier has specific booking policies and platforms, which can sometimes create confusion. Knowing the correct method to secure a reservation for your preferred train is key.
Booking Options for Renfe (AVE) Trains
Online Booking:
Booking reservations as soon as possible is always a better idea. Renfe train reservations can be made through:
- Our Self-Service tool
- Happyrail website (booking instructions can be found on this page)
-
Rail Europe website (here you will find detailed booking instructions)
Direct Booking in Spain:
Renfe allows travellers to book international AVE train reservations at train stations in Spain. However, reservations for these trains are not available at French train stations.
It might be good to know that reservations for Spanish trains can be pre-booked in advance by calling Renfe at +34 91 232 03 20 (here you can find more information about it).
Booking Options for SNCF (TGV) Trains
Online Booking:
Reservations for international TGV trains can be made on the following websites:
- Our Self-Service booking tool
-
Rail Europe website (here you will find detailed booking instructions)
Availability can be limited, especially during peak travel seasons, so booking well in advance is recommended.
Direct Booking in France:
If online reservations are unavailable, you can:
- Visit a ticket office in France to secure your reservation.
- Call SNCF directly at +33 1 84 94 36 35 (open every day from 8 am to 8 pm, press #85 for English). Ensure you have a credit card or Amex ready for payment.
If your preferred reservation for a direct train is no longer available, you can try the following:
Explore alternative routes with transfers:
You can look into routes that include train changes in cities along the way. For example:
Paris/Lyon – Montpellier/Narbonne/Perpignan/Girona – Barcelona
Here you can find more information.
Travel via the Basque Country:
You can also travel to Spain via the Basque Country. This option is less convenient, as the journey requires more train transfers and takes longer. This route can be a last resort, or a good option if you are travelling to the Basque Country:
Paris – Hendaye
(TGV train, included in the Pass network)
Hendaye – Irun
(Not included in the Pass network; a 10-minute journey that can be booked for approximately €2)
Irun – Spanish destination of your choice
(with Spanish trains, included in our Pass network)