I have been trying to buy tickets for days now. I get as far as "connecting to your bank" and then get an error message. I have called the bank, no problem there, and also I am within the issuing period. Any suggestions? Thank you VERY much.
Posted by
Seattle, WA
17438 posts
Have you registered your card with Verified by Visa? That was the key for me. If you do that and your card still does not work, try a different card. Some people have had success with a debit card when the credit card won't work. If you stilled not succeed, try Rumbo.es. They charge a small handling fee, but it is more than offset by the Web fare discount if you are able to get those. You will get the same printable Renfe ticket from Rumbo that you get from Renfe.
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
2727 posts
I followed the instructions on this TripAdvisor page (exactly) and it worked for me. Also consider using a different card - my debit card (also a Visa) worked but my "real" Visa did not. http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g187514-c80518/Madrid:Spain:Buying.Renfe.Tickets.Online..html
Posted by
OP
Lovettsville, Virginia, USA
42 posts
Yes, I followed that article's instructions also and changed cards. No luck so far. This is very frustrating!
Posted by
Seattle, WA
17438 posts
It is worth the aggravation if you can get the discounted Web or Estrella fares. If those are not available for your trip, you can avoid the frustration by just buying the tickets in Spain. Your card will work fine at the train station. But if the Web fares are still available for your train, give Rumbo.es a try. The website is only in Spanish (for purchasing train tickets).
Posted by
Marin, CA
532 posts
I too followed those great instructions even printing screen shots in English to match to the Spanish page. Took multiple tries and the second credit card but finally worked. As I remembered the time of day can effect it too. We got through to buy at 7:00pm Pacific Coast time. We took the train from Madrid to San Sebastian and I got the lowest special price but first class as it was a 5 1/2 hr early morning trip and only 10 euros more. So worth it. Special waiting room in Madrid with snacks and beverages and amazing service on board.
Posted by
OP
Lovettsville, Virginia, USA
42 posts
Good news! After many days of trying we too purchased our tickets. We also bought first class since they were not much more expensive than tourist. So glad to hear it is worth the few extra euros! Thanks!
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
Suggest you look at www.madridman.com...go to the transportation heading and check it...Apparently the Renfe Site is a confusing and difficult site to navigatate. you may find some help there. I used it several years ago with no difficulty....