Spain has one of the most extensive high-speed rail networks in Europe, which makes getting between major cities fast and comfortable. For rural areas and smaller towns, buses fill the gaps.
By Train
Renfe operates the national rail network. The AVE high-speed service connects Madrid to Barcelona (2h 30min), Seville (2h 20min), Valencia (1h 40min), and Málaga (2h 30min). Budget competitors Ouigo and Iryo run on the main corridors at lower prices — check both alongside Renfe when booking. All high-speed trains require advance seat reservations; walk-up tickets are usually available but prices rise with demand.
Regional and local trains (Cercanías around cities, regional trains for medium distances) are slower but cheaper and don't usually need advance booking.
By Bus
For destinations not on the rail network, buses are the default option. ALSA is the largest national operator, covering most of the country. Buses are often cheaper and sometimes faster than regional trains on certain routes. Rural areas in Galicia, Extremadura, and parts of Castile are most easily reached by bus.
By Air
Domestic flights make sense for routes like Madrid–Canary Islands or Madrid–Palma, where the distance is too great for a comfortable train journey. Iberia, Vueling, and Air Europa dominate domestic routes. Budget for airport transfers when calculating total journey time — Spanish airports are rarely central.
By Car
Renting a car opens up the interior, the back roads of Andalusia, Galicia's rías, and rural Castile in ways public transport cannot match. Motorways (autopistas) are fast but most charge tolls. Petrol prices are broadly similar to northern Europe. Parking in central Madrid and Barcelona is expensive and scarce; use public transport in cities and save the car for the countryside.
By Ferry
Regular ferries run from Barcelona, Valencia, and Denia to the Balearic Islands. The overnight crossing from Barcelona to Palma takes around 7–8 hours; fast ferries cut that to under 4 hours. To the Canary Islands, Trasmediterránea runs from Cádiz, but the crossing takes 2–3 days — flying is far more practical for most travellers.