If you’re over 60 and love to travel, RENFE has a great deal for you! The Spanish railway company is offering significant discounts for seniors through their ‘Tarjeta Dorada’ (Golden Card). For just €6, you can enjoy a whole year of discounted train travel across Spain. Let’s break down how you can benefit from this amazing offer and what you need to do to get your hands on this golden ticket.

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What is the Tarjeta Dorada?

The Tarjeta Dorada is a special discount card by RENFE, aimed at people aged 60 and above. This card provides significant discounts on various train journeys, making travel more affordable for seniors. It costs €6 for one year, €12 for two years, or €15 for three years (with a 16% savings for the three-year option).

With the Tarjeta Dorada, you get the following discounts:

• AVE (high-speed), AVE International (Spain to France), and Long Distance trains: 25% off any available ticket price.
• Medium Distance trains: 40% off.
• Avant trains: 25% off Monday to Friday, and 40% off on Saturdays and Sundays.

How to Get or Renew Your Tarjeta Dorada

Getting the Tarjeta Dorada is simple, and if you already have one, renewing it is even easier. The card can be renewed online up to 90 days before its expiration date. However, keep in mind that if your card was issued by a bank, this process won’t apply.

How to Apply for the Tarjeta Dorada

1. Visit a RENFE Ticket Office or Partner Locations:
   You can apply for the Tarjeta Dorada at any RENFE ticket office, railway station, or through authorized travel agencies. Simply go to the nearest station or RENFE sales point, present your ID (passport or Spanish national ID), and pay the fee of €6 for one year.
2. Apply Online through RENFE’s Website:
   If you prefer to do it online, here’s how:
   • Go to RENFE’s Official Website: Visit the official RENFE website and navigate to the section dedicated to the Tarjeta Dorada.
   • Fill in the Application Form: You will need to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, ID number, and contact details (email and phone number).
   • Select the Validity Period: Choose the validity period for your card—1 year (€6), 2 years (€12), or 3 years (€15).
   • Make the Payment: Pay for the card using a credit or debit card, or via Bizum (a popular payment method in Spain).
   • Download Your Card: Once the payment is confirmed, you’ll receive a digital version of your Tarjeta Dorada. You can download it in PDF format or as a Passbook file to store it on your smartphone.
3. What You Need to Apply:
   • Valid Identification: A valid Spanish ID (DNI/NIE) or passport.
   • Payment Method: A credit/debit card or Bizum for online purchases.
4. Receive Your Card Instantly:
   For those applying in person, you’ll receive your card immediately after completing the process. If applying online, the digital card will be sent to your email and can be printed or saved to your phone.

To apply click here to take you to RENFE’s webpage

Who Can Apply for the Tarjeta Dorada?

• People aged 60 and above.
• Pensioners of any age with permanent disability (recognized in Spain).
• Persons with disabilities with a recognized degree of disability of 33% or more.
• Other Eligible Groups: Certain categories like military retirees may also qualify under specific conditions.

Benefits of Applying Online

Applying online offers several benefits:

• Convenience: No need to visit a ticket office.
• Immediate Access: You get your digital card instantly.
• Easy Renewals and Management: Manage your card from the comfort of your home, including renewals, reprints, and cancellations.

Final Tips

• Check for Updates: Always check the RENFE website for the latest information and any changes to the application process.
• Prepare Your Documents: Have your ID and payment method ready to speed up the application process.
• Understand the Terms: Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions regarding ticket changes, cancellations, and discounts.

To renew your card:

1. Visit the RENFE website.
2. Provide your ID and card number.
3. Enter your email and mobile number associated with the card.
4. Pay the renewal fee using a credit/debit card or Bizum.

Once you complete the process, you’ll receive a PDF version of your new card via email or can download it as a Passbook file.

To renew click here to go to the correct page on RENFE’s website

How to Make the Most of Your Tarjeta Dorada

Using the Tarjeta Dorada is straightforward, but there are some important details to keep in mind:

• Changes and Cancellations: Tickets bought with the Tarjeta Dorada can be changed or canceled, but this depends on the ticket’s terms and conditions. Some changes might incur additional fees.
• Online Functionalities: You can renew, consult, download, or even cancel your card online. If you decide to cancel your renewal, it must be done within 15 days of the renewal date, and only if you renewed it online.

Why Train Travel is a Great Option

With the ongoing hassles of air travel and the cost of fuel for private cars, trains offer a comfortable and a more sustainable alternative. With RENFE’s Tarjeta Dorada, you don’t just save money—you also get flexibility and comfort.

And with the festive season approaching, these discounts make it the perfect time to plan a trip. So, whether you’re visiting family or exploring a new city, the Tarjeta Dorada is your key to affordable, comfortable, and hassle-free travel across Spain.

Ready to Hit the Rails?

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity. If you’re 60 or older, head to the RENFE website, get your Tarjeta Dorada, and start enjoying great savings on your next journey!

Share Your Experience with Us!

Already have a Tarjeta Dorada or planning to get one soon? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know how you’re using your card to explore Spain by tagging us on social media. Share your travel stories, photos, and tips with the community—whether you’re enjoying a scenic train ride along the coast or exploring a new city, we want to see it all! Don’t forget to use the hashtag #TravelWithTarjetaDorada and tag us in your posts. Happy travels! 🚆📸

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Image: Shutterstock/Markus Mainka