International long-distance & high-speed
International trains connect Germany with its European neighbours. High-speed and long-distance trains from Spain, Portugal and beyond. Discover all 5 models with technical data, amenities and travel tips.
International trains
5train types
International trains connect Germany with its European neighbours. High-speed and long-distance trains from Spain, Portugal and beyond.
AVE
Series S-103 / S-100 / S-112
310
km/h max
404
Seats
1992
since
AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) is the Spanish high-speed system operated by Renfe. AVE trains run on dedicated high-speed lines at up to 310 km/h, connecting Madrid with Barcelona, Seville, Valencia and Málaga in a few hours. Renfe guarantees 100 % punctuality and refunds the fare if the delay is 15 minutes or more.
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Alvia
Series S-130 / S-730
250
km/h max
299
Seats
2006
since
Alvia is a Spanish long-distance train operated by Renfe that thanks to variable-gauge technology switches seamlessly between the Iberian broad gauge and the European standard-gauge high-speed network. It therefore serves regions not directly connected to the dedicated AVE network — especially northern and north-western Spain.
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Talgo
Series S-102 / S-112 / diverse
330
km/h max
372
Seats
1942
since
Talgo is a Spanish manufacturer whose name is synonymous with its passive tilt trains. The tilt is achieved by a unique single-axle Jacobs bogie design that raises curve speeds without an active system. Talgo trains run on AVE high-speed lines (S-102, S-112) as well as on non-high-speed routes.
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Alfa Pendular
Series Série 4000
220
km/h max
300
Seats
1999
since
The Alfa Pendular is the premium train of the Portuguese operator Comboios de Portugal (CP). Its Italian tilt technology enables higher curve speeds on Portugal's winding routes between Lisbon and Porto. At up to 220 km/h it is the fastest train in Portugal, comparable to a German ICE T.
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Intercidades
Series Série 2240 / Série 592
160
km/h max
280
Seats
1988
since
Intercidades is the long-distance network of Comboios de Portugal (CP), comparable to the German Intercity. The trains serve routes away from the main Alfa-Pendular Lisbon–Porto corridor and open up the Portuguese interior, the Alentejo and northern Portugal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are International long-distance & high-speed?
International trains connect Germany with its European neighbours. High-speed and long-distance trains from Spain, Portugal and beyond.
Which International trains exist?
There are 5 models: AVE, Alvia, Talgo, Alfa Pendular, Intercidades.
How fast are International trains?
International trains reach top speeds from 160 to 330 km/h.
