Riding the Fast Trains in Spain

Same same as the rest of Europe. 1st class has a little more legroom, slightly wider seats.

But as the max time on an AVE train is like 3.5 hours (well I guess, 6, if you do the one direct Seville-BCN train per day), you'll have to decide for yourself if paying 50% more is worth the extra legroom.

For me, 2nd class is quite comfortable. There are three types equipment types used.

The oldest cars are based on the French TGV. These were recently refurb'd and are very comfortable. Note that just like the French TGVs, the seats do not reverse, you may end up riding backwards at 186mph.

Next group of cars are made by Talgo, didn't ride them.

Brand new sets for the Madrid-BCN trains, based on the German ICE trains. Reversible seats, so you'll always sit forward. However, the ride quality at speed on these cars is not as smooth as the older French equipment.

You'll have access to the dining car.

Thanks for the great information!

We like 2nd class, too. While the leg room is a little less, and it's just a bit tighter, seems like you talk to people more easily in 2nd class. We were so impressed with the AVE trains--clean, very fast, smooth rides, and comfortable.