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Spain introduces new train travel prices for frequent travellers on July 1
The era of free train travel in Spain is coming to an end, but there are still savings to be had
After years of unprecedented free train travel that helped millions of commuters and frequent travellers in Spain weather the energy crisis sparked by the war in Ukraine, Renfe is switching tracks on Tuesday July 1.
The government's generous subsidy scheme, which allowed unlimited rail journeys for just a refundable deposit, will be replaced by a new system this month. While it will undoubtedly hurt the pockets of the average train passenger, the new system is designed to keep travel affordable for those who need support the most.
The biggest winners in this transition will be the younger generation. Anyone born between January 1, 1999 and December 31, 2010 can snag the new Youth Monthly Pass for just €10. That means unlimited travel on commuter and medium-distance trains for less than the cost of a couple of coffees.
There’s even better news for families: children born from January 1, 2011 onwards will continue to travel completely free with the new Children's Season Ticket. Parents just need to register online through the Ministry of Transport to secure their child's free travel code.
New prices for regular commuters
For everyone else, the free ride is over, but Renfe isn't leaving travellers completely stranded. The new system introduces several money-saving options:
For commuter trains (Cercanías): New subsidised season tickets will replace the previous free passes, though specific pricing hasn't been announced yet.
For medium distance travel: Two new options are launching:
- A 10-trip season ticket offering 40% off regular prices (perfect for occasional travellers or families to share)
- A monthly season ticket with 40% savings for regular commuters
Young adults will get an even sweeter deal on medium-distance routes with their Youth Monthly Season Ticket offering 50% off adult prices.
How to apply
To access any of these new discounted fares, you'll need Renfe's personalised Renfe&Tú contactless card.
Getting your card is straightforward but time-sensitive:
- Fill out a form online or at any station ticket office
- Provide a passport photo with white background
- Bring a photocopy of your ID
- Submit everything at a Cercanías station ticket office
- Pick up your card in about 15 days
Cards are free until August 31 but will cost €2 after that date. Given the potential savings, it's essentially free money to get yours now.
A word of warning
Renfe is taking a hard line on ticket sharing. Get caught using someone else's personal season ticket and you'll face a 60-day ban from purchasing discounted passes, plus immediate ticket cancellation with no refund.
The outgoing free travel programme was a remarkable emergency response that kept Spain moving during turbulent times. Since 2022, travellers could make unlimited journeys for just a €10-20 refundable deposit, provided they took at least 16 trips every four months. It was a lifeline during the energy crisis but as the financial climate stabilises, the Ministry of Transport is working on an approach that instead targets the most vulnerable.
While many passengers will undoubtedly miss the free travel, the new system promises to deliver substantial savings for those who need it most – young people starting their careers, families with children and regular commuters.
Also of interest: New rules for short-term rentals come into effect in Spain on July 1
Image: Renfe
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