Renfe will expand its high-speed rail network from Barcelona to Toulouse in 2025, solidifying its role as the leading cross-border train operator between Spain and France.
This new international route will launch in the second quarter of 2025. It will offer travelers a faster and more sustainable alternative to road and air travel.
The European Union Agency for Railways (EUAR) has officially granted Renfe the necessary safety certification, confirming the company meets all regulatory standards set by both the French Safety Authority (EPSF) and the Spanish Safety Agency (AESF). This milestone paves the way for Renfe’s continued expansion into France, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing rail connectivity between the two nations.
With the certification in place, Renfe will begin training its conductors and onboard staff in January 2025, ensuring smooth operations once the service is ready to launch. By spring, Renfe will introduce six daily services (three in each direction), directly connecting 17 cities in Spain and France, including Toulouse and Barcelona.
This expansion follows Renfe’s initial entry into the French market in July 2023, when the company began operating AVE International trains. Until then, many of the routes Renfe now serves were primarily accessible by car or plane. The new Barcelona-Toulouse rail service will provide a faster, more comfortable, and eco-friendly option for travelers.
Renfe’s growing footprint in France aligns with the European Union’s goal of creating a seamless and sustainable trans-European transport network. By increasing the availability of international high-speed rail services, Renfe is contributing to a greener, more connected Europe.
This latest addition not only strengthens ties between Spain and France but also offers passengers a convenient way to travel between two of the region’s most vibrant cities. Whether for business or leisure, the new AVE service promises to make cross-border travel easier, faster, and more enjoyable.
