Renfe, Spain‘s national railway operator, has initiated a new promotional campaign in the face of fierce competition with rivals like Ouigo. The campaign offers travelers the chance to book tickets for as low as €7 between July 22 and September 8. This aggressive pricing strategy, dubbed ‘Superprecios’ (super prices), covers journeys on AVE (high-speed trains), Avlo (Renfe’s low-cost high-speed service), and long-distance routes.

Promotional Details

Renfe‘s €7 tickets are primarily available on Avlo trains, known for their affordability and speed. Additionally, tickets starting at €14 are offered for popular routes such as Madrid to Valencia, and from €15 for destinations like Zaragoza, Pamplona, Logroño, or Burgos.

Wide Range of Destinations

In a press release, Renfe outlines various fare options, including tickets from €18 for trips between Madrid and Barcelona, Lleida, and Camp de Tarragona, as well as between Madrid and Sevilla, Granada, Algeciras, Almería, and Extremadura.

Competitive Landscape

The price reductions come in the middle of a heated battle in the high-speed rail sector, notably against the French operator Ouigo. Spain‘s Minister of Transport, Óscar Puente, has publicly criticized Ouigo for allegedly engaging in price dumping—selling tickets at a loss to disrupt the market. Ouigo defends its strategy, emphasizing the affordability of its ‘low-cost’ tickets and the efficiency of its double-decker trains, each accommodating up to 1,000 passengers per trip.

Impact on Market Dynamics

Renfe’s decision to slash prices underscores its commitment to maintaining competitiveness, particularly through Avlo, its budget-friendly service. This ‘Superprecios’ campaign highlights Renfe‘s resolve in the ongoing price war with Ouigo and other competitors in the sector.

Image: Shutterstock/Maksim Safaniuk