Spain’s Renfe Talgo High-Speed Train

Europe is known for its high-speed train travel, a mode of transportation that can take you across the continent in a flash. In Spain, Renfe’s “Talgo” can propel you across the country with speeds between 99 to 124 mph. The Taglo train can cut your transit time almost in half; for example, traveling from Barcelona to Valencia by car or bus can take up to six hours, but a seat onboard the Talgo train can reduce this travel time to 3.5 hours.

Talgo tickets can be purchased online and, because seats tend to fill up, it is strongly recommended to choose your seat at the time of booking (free of charge). Once onboard the sleek grey interior train cars, passengers can take advantage of a pair of earbuds for each seat, power outlets under the seat, entertainment (usually a well-known American or European film with Spanish subtitles) via a few TV screens that hang from the ceiling, and luggage storage at one end of the car, plus overhead storage for smaller bags like purses and backpacks.

Throughout the journey, a staff member wheels a beverage cart through the cars, selling sodas, water, beer and light snacks such as chips and nuts. Larger items such as sandwiches and additional alcoholic drinks like wine and cava can be purchased in the “cafeteria” car.

Rates for Talgo rides vary greatly depending on distance and time of travel. Between Barcelona and Valencia, for example, fares can range $32–49.