free bus travel in spain

Free long-distance buses in Spain, all you need to know

MADRID – From 2023, tickets for many long-distance buses in Spain will no longer be sold at half price. They will be completely free! It concerns 42 bus lines that cross Spain. In t his way , the Spanish government wants to help people save on their costs.  

The new measure complements the one already announced for the Cercanías and ‘Media Distancia’ trains, which will also be free for frequent travellers in the coming year. To qualify for this, travellers must deposit €20, which will be refunded if the subscription is used.  

Related post: Free train travel through Spain until the end of 2023  

The long-distance buses that will be free throughout the year 2023 are part of the state concession network . This was confirmed last week by Minister Sánchez of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda during a speech in the Spanish parliament. Based on the measure in force since September 1, frequent travellers now receive a 50% discount on tickets for some bus lines.  

Which routes are free?  

The list of free long-distance buses in Spain in 2023 is as follows:  

• Huesca-Lleida  
• Barcelona-Huesca  
• Madrid–Segovia  
• Madrid–Salamanca–Vigo  
• Tamarite de Litera (Huesca) – Lleida  
• Madrid – Fuente del Arco – Monasterio – Badalona  
• Teruel-Barcelona  
• Zaragoza – Caspe – Tarragona – Castellón de la Plana  
• Fraga – Binéfar – Mequinenza (Huesca) – Lleida  
• Madrid–Miajadas–Don Benito  
• Madrid – Jaraiz de la Vera  
• Madrid–Zaorejas (Guadalajara)–Sigüenza (Guadalajara)  
• Madrid – Casas Ibáñez – Las Lagunas de Ruidera  
• Madrid – Piedrabuena – Casas Ibáñez – Las Lagunas de Ruidera  
• Madrid – Jaen  
• Madrid–Toledo  
• Logrono – Soria – Madrid  
• Murcia – Cartagena – Granada – Málaga – Seville – Córdoba  
• Murcia-Valencia  
• Viella-Lleida  
• Lleida – Zaragoza – Molina de Aragón  
• Irun-Tuy  
• Madrid-Alicante  
• Burgos – Poza de la Sal – Frías – Briviesca – Padrones – Logroño  
• Madrid–Granada–Almunecar  
• Madrid-Zaragoza-Barcelona  
• Santander-Bilbao-Barcelona  
• Alicante-Murcia  
• Salamanca – Leon – Santander  
• Seville – Málaga – Montgat – Manresa  
• Irun–Madrid  
• Santiago de Compostela – Gijón – Irun – Barcelona  
• Madrid – León – GijónSeville – Salamanca – Irun  
• Ferrol (A Coruña) – Algeciras (Cadiz)  
• Murcia-Almeria  
• Madrid-Guadalajara  
• Soria-Zaragoza  
• Madrid – Almeria Almeria – Cartagena  
• Alicante–Cartagena–Murcia  

How do you get a free bus ticket?  

You can take advantage of this offer when you buy multi-ride tickets of 10, 20 or 30 rides and pay an advance of 20 euros. This deposit – also required for the medium and long-distance trains from Cercanías and Rodalies – is refundable if you make a certain number of journeys. However, what that number is, has not been announced yet.  

350 million litres of fuel saved  

According to the minister, this rail measure will save more than 350 million litres of petrol and prevent the emission of one million tons of CO2 into the atmosphere by 2023. The ministry has also calculated that a family of four members could save between €1,800 and €3,000 by using the scheme.  

The bus network  

According to data from the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, at the beginning of 2022, the bus network had a total of 4,088 stops distributed in 2,399 cities belonging to 1,837 municipalities in Spain. The total length of the lines is 68,861 kilometres, with an average of 894.3 kilometres per concession.  

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Spain adds long-distance buses to its free train and transit journeys

Dec 1, 2022 • 7 min read

Spain is expanding its free public-transport program © pureshot / Shutterstock

Starting next year, many passengers who travel on long-distance coaches in Spain will be able to do so for free, the government confirmed on Tuesday.

Earlier this year, free train tickets were introduced for short and medium-distance journeys in Spain. The measure started on September 1 and was only meant to last for three months to help people struggling with rising energy costs – but its success led the government to extend it throughout the coming year.

Transport and mobility minister Raquel Sánchez confirmed on Tuesday that the program will expand again, this time to include long-distance coaches that are part of the state concession network.

As well as cutting commuters' costs in the cost of living crisis, the transport minister said the bus scheme would save more than 350 million liters of fuel, potentially preventing the emission of one million tons of CO2 into the atmosphere during 2023.

How does the free long-distance bus scheme work?

Currently, people can purchase tickets from companies who operate state-owned bus routes at a 50% discount – and next year, the discount will increase to 100%. It doesn't cover single journeys. To apply, you'll have to purchase season or multi-trip tickets (in batches of 10, 20 or 30) and pay a €20 deposit.

Thanks to the state's extensive bus network, covering 1,837 municipalities throughout the country, you can travel huge distances across Spain, from Madrid to Barcelona, Alicante to Murcia, Santander to Salamanca, Santiago de Compostela to Barcelona, and more.

It's not yet clear how many journeys a passenger has to take in order to get the deposit back. With the free train scheme, it's 16, but the government hasn't specified the details of the bus scheme yet. We will update this article when we have more information.

In the meantime, if you plan to travel to Spain next year, there are significant savings to be made across the rail network under the free train tickets scheme. Not just for locals, the scheme is aimed at passengers from all over the world, including American and European tourists to Spain. Here's what you need to know.

What train lines are covered by the free ticket scheme?

The policy includes rail journeys on  Cercanías , Rodalies  and Media Distancia rail lines that travel across short and medium distances, typically up to 186 miles (300km). 

Cercanías : These trains link the main cities with their metropolitan area. Cercanías operate in  Alicante , Barcelona, Bilbao, Cádiz, Madrid, Málaga,  Oviedo ,  Santander , San Sebastián, Sevilla,  Valencia  and  Zaragoza . 

Rodalies:  The same concept as Cercanías, just in the region of Catalonia.

Media Distancia (MD):  These trains usually link different cities, towns and villages within a single autonomous region.

The measure doesn’t include either long-distance train journeys or high-speed lines like AVE, Avant and Avlo. 

How do I apply?

You’ll need to download the Renfe app  (for iOS or Android ) and sign up for an account to purchase your free train tickets, or apply at railway stations. Once you’ve paid your deposit, you'll receive a QR code that can be used as a free ticket.

Visitors to Spain can sign up using their passport number.

Although tickets are free, passengers must pay a deposit of €20 for Media Distancia journeys and €10 for Cercanías. The deposit will be returned at the end of the year if you’ve completed a minimum of 16 journeys. (We recommend paying the deposit by card since if you pay by cash the refund process can take longer.)

Is it worth signing up as a tourist?

If you want to explore some less-visited regions, then yes. Even if you don’t complete the minimum 16 trips to qualify for the deposit refund, you can still make savings.

For example, say you’re visiting Barcelona  and you want to use the city as a base to explore the surrounding area. A Media Distancia round-trip ticket from Barcelona to Figueres costs €32 without the scheme, which is more expensive than the €20 deposit. So even if you don't complete the 16 trips needed to get your deposit back, you’re still saving €12 on one trip alone.

If you need some inspiration on where to go, below is a list of suggested itineraries that you could take under the free ticket network.

Spain by train: the best local and medium-distance itineraries

Easy train trips from madrid.

The capital of Spain is the main transportation hub in the country, with direct trains to almost every major city. Near Madrid, however, there are more than a few worthwhile cities located in the historical region of Castile , all of them excellent day trips from Madrid. 

Toledo is perhaps the most visited city close to Madrid . Home to sword artisans and one of the largest old towns in Europe, its historical city was declared a Unesco World Heritage site in 1986. It is composed of architectural masterpieces that reflect the mix of civilizations that have lived here for some 2000 years, including the Romans, Muslims, Jews and Christians.

Those looking for a culinary experience can take a train to Segovia , located less than 62 miles (100km) north of Madrid. The town is nationally famous for its  cochinillo asado (roasted piglet), always served crispy and washed down with local red wine. If the local food isn’t enough reason, Segovia is also home to the most well-preserved Roman aqueduct in the world, a Unesco World Heritage site since 1985. 

If you want to escape the crowds, you might want to try Cuenca , a fortified medieval town also Unesco-designated thanks to its unusual hanging houses and Spain’s first Gothic cathedral .

Easy train trips from Barcelona

The most popular city in Spain is the perfect base for exploring the region of Catalonia . 

First-timers should take the train to Girona , a 2000-year-old city founded by the Romans, which also contains one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in the world. The entangled, medieval alleys of Girona’s old city were also a major filming location for Game of Thrones . Continue on the same train for an extra 30 minutes to reach Figueres, the birthplace of the painter Salvador Dalí. The city houses a museum that contains the largest collection of the artist’s work in the world . 

An easy, short train trip from Barcelona,  Sitges  is a bustling and sophisticated coastal town with whitewashed houses and restaurants serving Catalan cuisine. Do try xató , a local sauce made from almonds, vinegar and red pepper, typically eaten with anchovies, cod fish and salads. Sitges is also the center for LGTBIQ+ tourism in Spain. 

Consider getting off the beaten track by visiting Vic, a rarely visited town in the center of Catalonia, famous both for its medieval architecture and the best embotit (pork cold meat) around. Don’t forget to buy some fuet and llonganissa  from one of the many butchers in town. The locals from Vic are also known for having the strongest Catalan identity in the entire autonomous region. 

Easy train trips from Bilbao

Bilbao is the most populated city in the Basque Country . 

If you had to take one single train journey from here, we would recommend  San Sebastián (Donostia in the local language), the most refined city in Spain. Most Spaniards agree that San Sebastián offers the best food in the entire country, ranging from budget pinchos (local tapas) to a wide range of Michelin-star restaurants. 

Wine enthusiasts may have also heard of Rioja wines. They are all produced in the  Spanish region of the same name , with Logroño its capital. Every one of the city’s bars and restaurants has an extensive list of Rioja wines to try. Moreover, the old city gets particularly busy around 1pm and 7pm, when locals gather over a few glasses of wine and tapas before lunch and dinner respectively – an unmissable local experience. 

Easy train trips from Málaga

Málaga is the most cosmopolitan city in the region of Andalucía , and a transportation hub for the region. 

The regional capital of  Seville  is an open-air museum containing endless examples of jaw-dropping Moorish and Gothic architecture, like the Alcázar and the astonishing cathedral . Dance lovers can check out a flamenco performance in the city where the tradition burns brightest, while sports fans can head to a Sevilla FC or Real Betis match.

Often overlooked by tourists, Cádiz is an ancient port city on the southern coast of Spain known for local and friendly nightlife, especially during the summer season. February is an excellent time to come, too, since the carnival here is one of Spain’s best. Seafood is a big thing here, and locals tend to eat it fried. A must-try local specialty is tortita de camarones , consisting of deep-fried dough filled with shrimps.

Check schedules and ticket prices of tickets at  renfe.com . We recommend booking well in advance. 

This article was first published July 2022 and updated December 2022

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Free public transport continues in Spain in 2024

Certain groups in spain will benefit from free trains but the details still have to be ironed out with regional governments.

Who will be able to travel for free next year?

• Minors: People under 18 years of age
• Young people: This age group hasn’t yet been specified by President Sánchez, although he hinted earlier in the year that it could cover passengers aged between 18 and 30
• Unemployed: People who do not have a job and are officially registered as unemployed

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These are the long-distance bus routes in Spain which will be free from next year

The spanish government has said the scheme which already exists, whereby local and medium-distance train journeys are free for passengers who do them regularly, is to be extended to long-distance bus travel as well.

Edurne Martínez

Friday, 25 November 2022, 13:12 | Updated 13:28h.

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There is some good news for those who travel by bus in Spain: the government has announced that many long-distance routes will be free of charge for regular users next year.

The Minister of Transport, Raquel Sánchez, said this Friday morning (25 November) that the scheme which already exists, whereby local and medium-distance train journeys are free for passengers who do them regularly, is to be extended to long-distance bus travel as well. The aim is to encourage people to leave their cars at home and use public transport, as well as to help offset the cost of living crisis.

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It is not yet known exactly how the bus scheme will work. Since 1 September these routes have already been subsidised by 50%, a measure which will remain in force until 31 January.

When that was introduced, it only applied to companies which already offered season tickets and multi-journey passes for their passengers. The Ministry of Transport says this may still be a condition for the 100% subsidy to be applied, although that has not been confirmed. In fact the president of the Confébus association, Rafael Barbadillo, has said that the model could be changed so that it resembles the system currently used on trains, where regular users pay a deposit which is refunded if they make a certain number of journeys within a particular period.

Up to 79 routes

More bus companies will be able to apply to join the scheme now, so the current list of 42 routes could be expanded to 79, the total that make up the entire state-owned network

Some of the most popular bus routes which will be free in 2023 include Madrid-Segovia, Madrid-Guadalajara, Teruel-Barcelona and Santander-Bilbao-Barcelona. Regular passengers on these services can buy tickets for 10, 20 or 30 journeys at a 50% discount at present, but in just over a month they will be free.

Barbadillo said the measure is “very positive” because it rebalances the system of free public transport and puts buses in the same situation as medium-distance train journeys.

The long-distance bus network covers 2,400 towns and cities in Spain, with an average journey length of nearly 900 kilometres. Sánchez explained that the measure will provide a saving of over 350 million litres of petrol and stop one million tonnes of CO2 being released into the atmosphere next year.

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Long-distance buses in spain, free to use in 2023.

Busses in Spain now get as attractive to use as trains, thanks to the free-ride plan, Source: Depositphotos

The special measure for multi-pass users expands from trains to public road transport

Following a political agreement in support of the general budget, the Spanish government has announced that the subsidy measure that grants free train trips in 2023 will also be expanded to include the state-owned long-distance bus lines. That means, that from 1 January, regular travellers holding multiple-ticket passes will ride for free .

In fact, this represents an upgrade on the already existing measure which allowed a 50% discount on bus trips, which was in effect since 1 September.

With that, the Spanish authorities are affirming their commitment to helping local commuters by easing the burden of inflation on their pockets . Plus, the aim is also to make public transport much more attractive to use and thus lower CO2 emissions as a consequence .

Public transport back in fashion

With the start of 2023, passengers holding passes or tickets for 10, 20 or 30 trips will get a 100% discount on the price of their commute. These will be available for t he state-owned lines, like the ones linking Madrid and Segovia, Guadalajara and Madrid, Teruel and Barcelona, ​​Zaragoza and Castellón de la Plana, Jaén and Madrid, Gijón and León, Irún and Tui or Logroño and Soria

According to data from the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, at the beginning of 2022, the network had a total of 4,088 stops that are distributed among 2,399 towns belonging to 1,837 municipalities of the national geography. The total length of lines is 68,861 kilometres, with an average of 894.3 kilometres per concession.

The same Ministry had also indicated that it expected the free train rides measure to prevent the emissions of 1 million tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere next year. And that estimate is sure to grow drastically with the addition of the free bus option.

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John Kirk / Getty Images

Spain has beautiful, must-visit cities that are not at all close to each other. To visit the tapas bars of Seville , the modernist architecture of Barcelona and the medieval cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and return to your starting point, you would need to cover around 1,864 miles.

For such long distances, of course, flying is the most convenient. There is a great network of local flights in Spain  but then you'll skip the great sights in between. Many opt for ground transportation to see the Spanish countryside.

Spain has a good train network with the most high-speed trains anywhere in Europe, and with good connections to France and Portugal . Where there are no trains (or where they are too expensive), buses serve as a very economical replacement.

Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno / Getty Images

Booking Bus and Train Tickets

• The majority of train tickets in Spain can be booked via the RENFE website , the Spanish national train operator, and Rail Europe , an easy-to-use commercial distributor of train tickets and rail passes.
• Most bus tickets in Spain can be booked from​ Movelia , a commercial online booking site where you can find   schedules, itineraries , rates, and possible money-saving promotions. You can also try Alsa, the ticketing site for the biggest bus company in Spain. You'll need to use the Avanza  website for Avanza buses and their affiliated brands (such as the Costa del Sol's Portillo).

Rail Passes 

If you are going to be doing considerable traveling over a longer period of time, you might want to consider a rail pass. Rail passes can be divided into three categories:

• Spain-only Passes: You have two choices, the Eurail Spain Pass and the Renfe Spain Pass.
• Two-Country Passes: Pair Spain with Portugal, France or Italy via the Eurail Select Pass with a two-country option. (There are also three-country and four-country Eurail Select Passes.)
• Multiple Country Passes: The Eurail Global Pass allows you to travel freely in 28 countries, while the Eurail Select Pass allows you to pick from four adjacent countries.

The Rail Europe website can assist in deciding what type of pass would be the best. But, the best thing to do is to look at the travel you have planned, get prices for individual leg tickets and then compare that to the price of a pass.

Bus and Train Companies

Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Though there are more bus companies than there are train companies in Spain, it's actually easier to book a bus ticket than a train ticket in Spain.

Bus Companies

Over the past ten years, many of the many Spanish bus companies have been bought out by one company,  ALSA . This makes it pretty easy to book buses in Spain. If it’s not run by ALSA, it’s almost certainly on the Movelia aggregator site. And if it’s not there, it’s probably run by Avanza.

National Train Network (RENFE)

RENFE ( Red Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Españoles ) is the national train operator and runs most train services in Spain. However, in some cases a route might be covered by a different brand of train operated by RENFE and, in that case, you'll need to go a different website to see the timetables.

Of course, you can always use Rail Europe, as it's easy-to-use and they have English-language customer service. 

High-Speed Trains

The AVE is Spain’s high-speed network. It is a part of the RENFE network, but you’ll hear it referred to by itself so much that you might think it’s a different company. AVE, the longest high-speed network in Europe running at speeds of up to 310 kph (192 mph), allows you to get from Madrid to Barcelona , Seville, Valencia, and Malaga in under three hours. This beats the airplane when you factor in airport transfer times and the hassle of checking in.

Regional Train Companies

These regional train services are largely commuter services, but in each case, there is at least one place you'll want to go on a regional route.

FGC (Barcelona)

FGC is Catalonia's regionally-owned train network that is part metro and part suburban railway. Use the FGC website for timetables but book in person at the station. Many use FGC to get to Montserrat.

Cercanias RENFE

Many cities in Spain have a Cercanias suburban rail network. Though owned by RENFE, their tickets are not available on the normal RENFE site or from Rail Europe. You'll need to go to the Cercanias RENFE site for timetables but you should book in person (they never sell out).

FEVE (Mainly Northern Spain)

FEVE is Spain's narrow gauge railway network. It operates mainly in northern Spain, connecting cities that don't have an existing RENFE rail connection. Services tend to be very slow because they stop at every station, but the scenery is usually fantastic.

This is another RENFE company that is not bookable through the normal website. Visit the FEVE site for timetables, but book in person.

Euskotren (Basque Country, San Sebastian, and Bilbao)

Euskotren is the Basque local rail network. It connects San Sebastian and Bilbao as well as few smaller towns in the area.

Travel From Barcelona

MediaProduction / Getty Images

Barcelona's national trains are all run by RENFE, but its local services might require using one of the smaller sub-companies. There are high-speed AVE trains to and from Barcelona to Madrid and Seville. 

Train or Bus

Barcelona is well served by trains, it is very rare to find a train that is slower than the bus. Because Barcelona is tucked so far up in the northeast corner of the country, travel times are longer than from other cities, thus amplifying the advantage of the train over the bus.

Compare prices between the train and bus by checking Movelia bus times and prices and train schedules and prices on Rail Europe to decide when the price difference makes the slower bus worth your while.

Barcelona to Seville

Its a long way from northeast Spain to the south coast and land transport can be both expensive and lengthy. The only reasonable land transport to Andalusia is the Barcelona to Seville route. There are both direct trains from Barcelona to Seville and services with a well-timed connection in Madrid which gets you there in around five and a half hours. 

But flying might be your best bet. 

Madrid to Barcelona

The high-speed train between Spain's two biggest cities makes this one of the quickest and easiest journeys to make in Spain, but it is expensive. Bus prices tend to be half the price of the train but take three times as long. Check the train schedules because prices vary greatly and you can sometimes get a direct train for only a few more euros than the bus. 

Regional Train Services

Train travel in Catalonia can be complicated. Barcelona has:

• Barcelona Metro (run by TMB) 
• Cercanias Barcelona suburban railway (run by RENFE)
• The FGC, a Catalonia-run service that is part metro, part suburban railway

How this Affects Travelers:

• You can use Metro tickets on any metro line, whoever runs it, as long as it is in zone 1
• For suburban journeys, on FGC and Cercanias services, buy your tickets at the station. They don't work on each other's networks
• The websites operate independently of each other, so don't expect the timetables of one company on the other's site

Which Company Runs Which Service?

The FGC occupies an unusual position between the Barcelona Metro and the Cercanias. Lines you’d expect to be run by one is actually run by FGC.

• Barcelona to Montserrat  - FGC
• Barcelona to Sitges  - Cercanias.
• Barcelona to Barcelona Airport - Cercanias
• Barcelona to Mataro - Cercanias
• Barcelona to Vilanova - Cercanias
• Barcelona to Reus - Bus

Any services further away than these are on the standard national RENFE network and should be booked from their site or from Rail Europe.

From Madrid

Bruce Yuanyue Bi / Getty Images

The train and bus network from Madrid is probably the simplest in the country. Madrid's central location means you can get pretty much everywhere in the country by bus and train. All trains are run by RENFE and are bookable from Rail Europe as well. The exceptions are a few regional services.

Train and Bus Stations

The main train station in Madrid is called Atocha and most services in Madrid depart from there. The main bus station is a little further out and there are a few other stations that you'll need to use on some occasions.

All high-speed AVE trains, which can be expensive, in Spain start or pass through Madrid (there are a couple of routes that don't actually stop in Madrid but they still have to go through the city). This means that in under three hours you can get to Barcelona, Valencia , Malaga or Seville.

Alternatives to AVE Trains

Unfortunately for those on a tight budget, the AVE train has replaced the most cheaper trains. You'll need to take a bus if you want to save money , which will usually at least double your journey time. You could consider flying, but with airport transfer times and costs, you might not be any better off.

Train prices vary at different times of day: it might be worth your while to travel at a different time of day rather than take the bus, particularly in the case of Madrid to Barcelona. You can check prices at different times of on Rail Europe. Also, check the schedules as there are some bus routes that are actually quicker than the trail. Examples are: 

• Madrid to Bilbao
• Madrid to Granada
• Madrid to San Sebastian

Regional Cercanias Trains

The Cercanias is RENFE's suburban commuter rail service. It mainly serves Madrid's suburbs, but visitors to Spain may be interested in the following services.

• Madrid to Aranjuez
• Madrid to El Escorial
• Madrid to Madrid Barajas Airport Terminal 4 (for other airport terminals, take the metro or bus)
• Also, as there are several stops in Madrid city center, you can easily get from Sol to Nuevos Ministerios to Chamartin train station and Atocha train station quicker than you could by Metro or bus.

You can check train times on the Cercanias Madrid website. But buy your tickets in person (they won't sell out).

Trains and Buses in Andalusia

Jérôme Meertens / EyeEm / Getty Images

Train and bus travel in Andalusia is easy, with good high-speed trains and extensive bus service for places where there are no rail services (such as along most of the south coast). Everything is run by RENFE and bookable on Rail Europe, apart from the Cercanias suburban routes and the short FEVE route in Cartagena.

High-Speed AVE Train

The AVE train connects Seville to Madrid, via Cordoba, in around two and a half hours. Cordoba is also on the Madrid to Malaga line.

Antequera is on the AVE train network. The AVE train station is around 20 kilometers outside the city center and there is no bus so you'll need to take a taxi.

Train, Bus Routes and Times

• Seville to Granada: Both the train and the bus take around three hours, but the bus is cheaper
• Granada to Cordoba : There are no direct trains, and the bus trip takes three hours 
• Seville to Malaga: Though some trains are quicker than the bus, which is cheaper, most of the time both take around two and a half hours.
• Malaga to Granada: There are no trains from Malaga to Granada. The bus takes one and a half hours to two and a half hours. 
• Marbella to Malaga: There is no train station in Marbella, so you'll need to take the bus

Malaga, Seville, and Cadiz-Jerez have Cercanias networks.

These services are not bookable by the normal train websites such as RENFE or Rail Europe. Check times at Cercanias RENFE but buy your tickets in person at the station.

Routes you might want to use Cercanias for these routes:

• Jerez to Cadiz
• Cadiz and Jerez to El Puerto de Santa Maria
• Cadiz and Jerez to Jerez Airport
• Malaga to Malaga Airport
• Malaga to Torremolinos
• Malaga to Benalmadena
• Malaga to Fuengirola

Travel in the Basque Country

Malcolm P Chapman / Getty Images

Train travel in the Basque Country (the region that includes  San Sebastian and Bilbao) is complex. There are so many regional train services, with a different website for each, that it can be difficult to plan day trips to the region.

For longer distances, you have your usual RENFE services and bus services (most of which can be booked on Movelia). Trains from the Basque Country to Barcelona are quicker and cheaper than the bus. 

However, there are many routes where it is better to take the bus than the train. Also note that a lot of services, particularly heading west, only depart from Bilbao, not San Sebastian, while services heading south and south-east are often better by bus, particularly from Bilbao.

Routes Where the Bus is Better Than the Train

• Bilbao to Pamplona 2-hour journey by bus. There is no train service (You could go via San Sebastian)
• Bilbao to Logroño. The bus is quicker taking an hour and 45 minutes vs. two and a half hours by train.
• San Sebastian to Logroño No train. Buses are bookable from La Estellesa.
• Madrid to Bilbao Train journey takes five hours. The bus journey time is about 45 minutes shorter.
• Bilbao to Burgos The bus trip takes about two hours and the train takes about 45 minutes longer.
• Bilbao to Haro : There are hourly buses and the journey takes an hour. The train takes almost twice that time. 
• Bilbao to Santander: The bus trip takes an hour and a half. There is no train service. 
• Bilbao to Zaragoza: The bus takes between three and four hours and the train journey takes a half-hour longer.  
• San Sebastian to Zaragoza: The bus takes about three and a half hours, the same as the train. The buses run more frequently. 

Regional Services

There are some tips for taking the regional trains in the Basque Country depending on where you want to go:

• As is the case in many major cities in Spain, both Bilbao and San Sebastian have Cercanias suburban train networks
• There is also the FEVE narrow-gauge railway, with slow but picturesque routes from Bilbao to Santander and Leon
• There is also the Transcantabrico, a luxury tourist train that runs from Bilbao to Leon and Santiago de Compostela
• There the Euskotren local train network that connects Bilbao to San Sebastian, as well as Bilbao and Bermeo plus San Sebastian to Hendaye (on the French border)
• Bilbao also has a metro system and a tram

Travel in North-West Spain (Galicia and Asturias)

Anton Petrus / Getty Images

Where there are train services in north-west Spain, they're excellent. Where there is no train service, you have a bus. 

• Train travel within Galicia is best by train. There is a very cheap, fast service from A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela, Pontevedra, and Vigo .
• There are no regular train services between Galicia and Asturias, though there are from Galicia to Castilla y Leon. Where no train service exists, there are good bus connections.
• The north coast of Galicia and Asturias has a narrow-gauge railway (run by FEVE) which offers a very picturesque (but slow) coastal journey. 
• There are also some tourist train routes that offer beautiful journeys on historic trains through the most beautiful parts of the region.
• There is also the Transcantabrico, a luxury tourist train that runs from Bilbao to Leon and Santiago de Compostela.

As with other areas of Spain, check train times at Rail Europe and bus times at Movelia.

FEVE Narrow-Gauge Railway

One of the most unique things about train travel in north-west Spain is the FEVE narrow-gauge railway. It starts in Ferrol, on the north coast of Galicia, and ends in Oviedo. The route follows along the coast, offering fantastic views of the  rias  (sunken valleys that are reminiscent of Norwegian fjords).

If you are in A Coruña and want to visit the Playa de las Catedrales, said to be the most beautiful beach in Spain, taking a bus to Ferrol and a FEVE train to the beach is the quickest and cheapest way to make the journey.

Be aware that the train service is very slow. Check train times at RENFE FEVE. Buy tickets in person at the station. 

Cercanias in Asturias

Like many cities in Spain, Oviedo has suburban rail service, Cercanias. Asturias is a small region, so this rail service can conveniently connect all three major Asturian cities, Oviedo , Gijon and Aviles. Check train times at the Cercanias Asturias website, but buy your tickets at the station.​

International Train Travel to Spain

Patrik Bergström / Getty Images

Spain has land borders with Portugal and France and so, unsurprisingly, there are good train connections between the three countries.

High-Speed Trains Between Spain and France

There is a high-speed train from Barcelona to Paris which gets you between Europe's two most popular cities in under seven hours. There are no border controls as both France and Spain are in the Schengen Zone  so the journey is quick and stress-free, with none of the need for extended check-in times or travel to out of town airports.

There are no direct trains from Madrid to Paris. Travelers take a train from Madrid to Barcelona and then change to the direct train to Paris . While this is comparatively quick, it's probably still better to fly.

You will need to connect with the Paris-Barcelona train, usually in Lyon or Perpignan.

Portugal to Spain

There is a Trenhotel night train from Lisbon to Madrid , conveniently stopping in Coimbra, Salamanca and Avila en route. 

If you're visiting Porto, continue your Iberian vacation with a trip to Galicia. There is a train from Porto to Vigo. From Vigo, there is a great train connection to Santiago de Compostela and A Coruña.

How to Get from City to City in Spain

How to Travel From Seville to Cordoba by Train, Bus, and Car

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

The Best Time to Visit Spain

Navigating Valencia's Bus and Train Stations

Best Internal Flights in Spain

Traveling by Train in Europe: Where, Why, and How

Best Train Journeys in Spain

How to Get to France From Barcelona and Other Spanish Cities

The 12 Best Day Trips From Barcelona

How to Travel From Barcelona to Bordeaux by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Get to Oviedo and What to Do There

Bilbao, Spain: Bus and Train Stations

Top 12 Day Trips From Malaga, Spain

How to Get from Santander to Other Destinations in Spain

AVE Trains in Spain

Senior Citizen Discounts in Spain For Those 65 or Older Are a Great Way to Save Money

Senior citizen discounts in Spain can make living or holidaying there even cheaper

I just got back from a month’s vacation in Albir, Spain with my retired parents. As I’m nowhere near retirement age, until now, I’ve never been that aware of the fabulous senior citizen discounts in Spain those 65 years of age and over are entitled to, whether living here or just on vacation.

With discounts for transportation, museums, food and more, traveling in Spain if you’re over 65 can be a great way to have a cheap holiday. Here are just some of the discounts you can expect.

Discounts on Trains – Earlier this week, my parents and I took an hour’s train ride from Altea, Spain to Denia just down the coast. Before we went to the train station, the guide at the hotel had told my parents they must take a copy of their passports to prove they’re over 65 years of age.

With just a passport copy, both my parents were able to get a return train ticket that was 40% cheaper than mine, a saving for each of them of more than 1 euro 55 cents ($2.20). Imagine if you’re doing that kind of trip several times a month. Over a year, that’s an enormous saving, just for being over 65 years old.

In fact, RENFRE, the Spanish train company issues a travel discount card to anyone over age 60 for a small annual charge. Valid for a year and called the Dorada Card (Tarjeta Dorada), it entitles anyone over age 60 to 25-40% discount (depending on the day) on any one-way or return train tickets. A massive yearly saving.

Senior Citizen Discounts at National Museums in Spain – Another wonderful benefit of traveling or living in Spain at the age of 65 or older is you can see all of Spain’s national museums for free. Museums like the National Archaeological Museum, a wonderful museum, offers free admission every day, all year round, for anyone age 65 on up.

Don’t forget to check local museums too as, even if they don’t give free admission to seniors, most will have a deep discount with proof you’re 65 years of age or older. Just take a copy of your passport or other official ID card.

With so many incredible museums in Spain, it’s nice to know you can see just about all of them for free or a nominal fee.

Spanish Government Off-Peak Senior Rates – Due to Spain’s dire economy, the government recently launched a senior citizen discount program in Spain targeting anyone over the age of 55. With this program, if you stay in many of Spain’s four-star hotels (and they’re gorgeous), if you’re 55 or over you’ll be entitled to a very nice discount. Just check with the hotel before you book a room to make sure they’re offering the governmental discount.

In fact, this program has proven so popular, my father was informed he also was given an ‘off-peak’ discount when he rented a rental car last week. Apparently, other companies like rental car companies are jumping on the government’s off-peak band wagon as it’s proving to be so successful.

Those over the age of 55, coming into Spain for vacations or even traveling while living in Spain, often have more disposable income than younger adults, and the Spanish government knows this. Their off-peak program runs from mid-October to early April, so don’t miss it.

Restaurant Discounts – We’re staying in Albir, Spain and have also eaten meals in Altea, Benidorm, Calpe and Denia. In some of these towns and cities, we’ve noticed restaurants and cafes offering 10% discounts to anyone over 65 years of age, as Spain’s economy is so bad it helps bring in some custom.

If you want to eat lunch or dinner out, look for either cafes and restaurants offering senior discounts or those serving a ‘Menu del Dia’, which is a set lunch or dinner (usually 9 euros ($12.60) or less for three or four courses and includes a glass of wine or beer.

In Albir, the restaurants are so full of the over 65 crowd at lunch and dinner, it’s sometimes difficult to get a seat, but more power to ’em.

Senior Citizen Discounts on Buses in Spain – Another wonderful way to save money on your Spanish vacation or living in Spain is to get a senior citizen discount card for the bus service. Each region in Spain is different, with each bus service offering different cards and different discounts.

But, with discounts from 20-60% depending on the Spanish region, you’ll save a huge amount of money if you’re going to be spending much of your time on Spanish buses (which are excellent by the way).

Ask at the local bus station in the town you’re staying or living in. Just take a copy of your passport showing proof of age and either purchase a monthly or yearly senior citizen pass, then get on a bus!

Spain is not only one of the world’s best countries to travel in and live in, if you’re 65 or over you’ll find you’ll get cheap deals and excellent discounts and, of course, in a society that reveres the elderly, you’ll be well taken care of too.

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Spain announces free rail journeys from September until the end of the year

To tackle the cost-of-living crisis, the Spanish government is implementing 100% discounts on commuter and medium-distance routes

Where most governments have been sluggish in their efforts to tackle inflation, Spain has blazed full steam ahead with a scheme making some train journeys completely free.

The initiative means passengers will be able to hop across Catalonia, immerse themselves in the architectural splendours of Andalucía or explore the museums and restaurants of the Basque country.

The announcement came on Tuesday, when Spain’s socialist-led coalition government declared that travel across certain parts of the state-owned rail-network, Renfe, would be free from 1 September to the end of the year.

This new arrangement on Renfe routes is in addition to a policy announced last month in which the central government agreed a 30% discount on all public transport, including metros, buses and trams.

The 100% rail discounts will apply to multi-trip ticket journeys on cercanías (commuter services) and media distancia , or medium-distance routes (less than 300km). The measure is mainly aimed at Spanish season ticket holders but tourists could take advantage of it if they bought multi-journey tickets.

“I’d like the people of Spain to know that I’m fully aware of the daily difficulties that most people have,” Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, said on Tuesday. “I know salaries cover less and less and that it’s difficult to get to the end of the month.”

The price cuts are being implemented to cushion the impact of inflation and rapidly rising energy prices.

“This measure encourages using public transport to guarantee a safe, reliable, comfortable, economic and sustainable means of doing the daily commute amid the extraordinary increase of energy and fuel prices,” the Spanish Ministry of Transport said in a statement.

Spain isn’t the only European country seeking to reduce public transport costs.

In May, Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national railway company, launched a €9-a-month ticket scheme that runs from June until the end of August. The ticket is valid on all public transport services in Germany, and can be used on any local or regional routes.

And Austria launched its “Klimaticket” (climate ticket) in late 2021. Designed to encourage people to ditch their cars, the scheme proved extremely popular, with its website almost crashing when the tickets went on sale. The annual pass, priced at €1,095, works out at just €21 a week or €3 a day.

Britons, meanwhile, continue to be weighed down by eye-watering ticket prices. In February it was announced that rail fares would rise across England and Wales by an average of 3.8%. Railfuture, an independent organisation seeking to reform the railways, has suggested that commuters’ annual travel costs will seem insurmountable while fares are hiked up.

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Travel around Spain by bus and train

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Popular routes in Spain

How to travel around in spain.

If you're planning to travel around Spain, one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to get from one city to another is by bus or train. Spain has an extensive network of intercity bus and train routes, covering major cities and towns across the country. In this article, we'll provide you with an overview of what to expect when traveling with these two transportation methods, including information on the companies, popular cities to travel and how to book tickets.

What to expect from bus and train travel

Spanish buses and trains are known for being reliable, comfortable, and affordable. Most buses are modern and well-maintained, equipped with air conditioning, comfortable seats, and ample legroom.

Some long-distance buses even offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms. Bus routes in Spain are well-connected, with frequent departures and arrivals, making it easy to plan your itinerary and travel between cities.

The trains also offer a modern, efficient and reliable travel experience. Travelers can expect high-speed trains connecting major cities, with comfortable seats, onboard services, and frequent itinerary options.

Types of buses in Spain

Several types of buses operate on intercity routes in Spain. The most common type is the standard coach bus, which is comfortable and spacious, suitable for both short and long distances. There are also premium or executive buses, which offer extra amenities such as more comfortable seats and extra legroom.

On some routes, you can find buses that make overnight trips, which allow you to travel long distances while you sleep, saving you time and money on accommodation. Though these buses are usually the same for day trips, this might be a good way to save money on accommodation and make the most of your time in Spain.

Top bus companies

Several bus companies operate intercity routes in Spain, offering a wide range of options for travelers. Some of the top bus companies in Spain are:

★★★★☆ (4.3/5)

ALSA is one of the largest bus companies in Spain, known for its extensive network of routes covering major cities and tourist destinations across the country. ALSA operates a modern fleet of buses with various amenities such as air conditioning, comfortable seats, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms. ALSA is known for its punctuality and reliability, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Avanza is another major bus company in Spain, offering a wide range of routes and schedules. Avanza has four different bus classes: standard, multimedia, multimedia plus and multimedia VIP. Though the amenities and comfort level change according to each class, with some of them offering extra legroom and premium amenities, all their buses are modern and well-maintained. In all classes, they're equipped with amenities such as air conditioning and comfortable seats, providing a high level of comfort for travelers.

★★★★☆ (4.0/5)

Socibus is a bus company that specializes in long-distance routes connecting major cities in southern Spain, such as Madrid, Seville, and Cadiz. Socibus is known for its comfortable buses with amenities such as air conditioning, spacious seats, and onboard restrooms. Socibus also offers overnight buses, allowing passengers to travel long distances while they sleep, saving time and money on accommodation.

Train companies in Spain

Trains in Spain offer a wide network of rail transport that covers both short and long distances. With several train companies, such as Renfe, Ouigo and Iryo, travelers can enjoy a variety of train options, from high-speed trains connecting major cities, to regional trains providing access to rural and coastal areas.

★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

Renfe is the state railway company of Spain that offers a wide range of train services, from high-speed trains such as the AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) that connects the main Spanish cities, to regional and commuter trains that cover urban and rural areas. Renfe is recognized for its commitment to punctuality, comfort and safety in its services, and has a modern fleet of trains, as well as additional services such as onboard catering and Wi-Fi access on some trains.

★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

Ouigo is a high-speed rail company operating in Spain and is known for its focus on offering cheap fares and low-cost travel options. Ouigo uses high-speed trains that offer a modern and fast travel experience, with a focus on efficiency and accessibility. The company connect cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia, with online booking options and a transparent pricing policy that allows passengers to choose the services that best suit their needs and budget.

★★★★☆ (4.1/5)

Iryo trains, a new railway company that began operating in Spain at the end of 2022, offers a unique experience for travelers looking for something different. With high-speed trains traveling at 360 km/h, Iryo promises efficient and reliable travel across the country, making it a convenient option for those who want to relax during their trip. What sets Iryo apart from its competitors such as AVE, Avlo and OUIGO Spain is its premium onboard service and sustainability, as they use trains made from recyclable materials and run on renewable energy.

Top cities to travel by bus

Many popular cities in Spain are well-connected by intercity buses, making it easy to explore the country by bus and saving your precious euros to see the best that each city has to offer. Some of the top cities to travel by bus in Spain include:

As the vibrant capital of Spain, Madrid offers a plethora of must-visit tourist attractions, including the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and Retiro Park. Stroll along the bustling Gran Via, indulge in delicious tapas in the La Latina neighborhood, catch a flamenco show, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Puerta del Sol.

Known for its unique blend of modernism and Gothic architecture, Barcelona is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Marvel at the iconic Sagrada Familia, stroll along Las Ramblas, explore the historic Gothic Quarter, and relax at the beautiful beaches. Don't miss the whimsical Park Güell and the famous Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Valencia is famous for its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, which includes an opera house, planetarium, and science museum. Enjoy a stroll in the Turia Gardens, marvel at the stunning Valencia Cathedral, and savor the local dish of paella, which originated in the region.

Steeped in history and culture, Seville is known for its iconic landmarks such as the Royal Alcazar, the Cathedral of Seville (home to the famous La Giralda tower), and the Plaza de España. Immerse yourself in the flamenco culture, take a stroll in the picturesque neighborhood of Triana, and enjoy a boat ride on the Guadalquivir River.

Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is renowned for its stunning Alhambra, a breathtaking palace complex with intricate Islamic architecture. Explore the winding streets of the Albayzín neighborhood, visit the historic Granada Cathedral, and indulge in local tapas in the vibrant Realejo district.

Located in the Basque Country, Bilbao is a dynamic city known for its iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary art. Explore the historic Old Town with its medieval buildings, sample local pintxos (Basque tapas), and take a stroll along the picturesque Nervion River. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the unique Basque culture and cuisine in this bustling city.

These cities are not only major tourist destinations with a rich cultural heritage but also serve as transportation hubs, offering a wide range of bus connections to other parts of the country.

How to book bus tickets with Busbud

Booking bus tickets in Spain is easy and convenient with Busbud, a leading online bus booking platform. Busbud allows you to search and compare bus routes, schedules, prices, and amenities from multiple bus companies in Spain, helping you find the best options for your travel needs.

You can book bus tickets with Busbud online or through the mobile app. With Busbud, you can book your bus tickets in advance, ensuring that you secure your seat and have a hassle-free travel experience.

So, if you're planning to explore Spain, consider traveling by bus and make the most of your journey!

What popular bus companies operate in Spain?

Why choose Busbud?

The best way to book bus and train tickets.

Busbud.com makes it easy for you to find, compare and book city-to-city bus tickets, all over the world. We save you the extra trip to the bus station. With Busbud, wherever you go, you have a worldwide bus station within reach and available in your own language and currency. With Busbud, you can buy tickets with confidence. We ensure that you make the most out of your bus trip by partnering up with reliable bus companies from all around the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others.

What are the top visited cities in Spain?

Plan your next bus trip in Spain

• Bus from Madrid to Barcelona
• Bus Madrid - Valencia
• Bilbao - San Sebastian
• Bus from Marbella to Málaga
• Bus Barcelona - Lloret de Mar
• Barcelona - Valencia
• Bus from Valencia to Madrid
• Bus Madrid - Toledo
• Madrid - Málaga
• Bus from Madrid to Salamanca
• Bus Málaga - Nerja
• Málaga - Ronda
• Bus from Málaga to Madrid
• Bus Madrid - Seville
• Cádiz - Seville

Most popular airports and destinations

• Alicante Airport to Benidorm
• Barcelona to Barcelona Airport
• Málaga Airport to Marbella
• Girona to Costa Brava
• Barcelona to Costa Brava

Sustainable travel

• Travel from Madrid to Valencia
• Travel from Málaga to Vélez-Málaga
• Travel from Barcelona to Valencia
• Travel from Madrid to Barcelona
• Travel from Barcelona to Madrid
• Travel from Barcelona to Paris
• Travel from Madrid to Granada
• Travel from Almería to Vera
• Travel from Madrid to Seville
• Travel from Málaga to Seville
• Travel from Málaga to Marbella
• Travel from Málaga to Madrid
• Travel from Málaga to Antequera
• Travel from Antequera to Málaga
• Travel from Valencia to Barcelona

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