AVE

AVE is Spain's flagship high-speed service, connecting Madrid, Cordoba and Seville across dedicated high-speed tracks. AVE trains are based on the French TGV and Thalys, and the speed and comfort offered are similar. However, the level of service for passengers in First Class ("Preferente") is much higher, with a complimentary drink and light snack included. A café-bar serving drinks and snacks is also available on board. AVE is so reliable that the Spanish railway company, RENFE, promise a full refund if the train is more than five minutes late - so far they have only had to honour that promise in 0.16% of cases!