I will be getting a ticket from the Renfe site for an AVE ticket from Barcelona to Madrid. (have some time before the 62 days) I am pretty sure I have the necessary information, etc. but am unsure on the class of seat. One site notes I will be asked for Preferente Class or Turista Class. Is this the same as 1st and 2nd class? I would assume for my purposes that the Turista class would suffice, but would welcome any feedback. Thanks
You're right on both points....Turista class is second class....and just as comfortable as first class.
there is a slight difference in preferente and turista class according to trip advisor. see #24 (scroll down and down...) at this link:
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g187514-c80518/Madrid:Spain:Buying.Renfe.Tickets.Online..html
I did a bit of research on this to appease my hubby who insists on first class for some odd reason. but I think that preferente is good enough. there is a club class too and they offer leather seats?
On page 2 of this link it tells in more detail the differences between the classes: