Discover Spain's Hotspots In The Comfort Of The High-speed Ave Train

The Tourist Office of Spain in New York invites you to discover the country's popular destinations with the help of its new routes of the high-speed train service out of Madrid. A part of Spain's National Railway, RENFE, the AVE train offers a sophisticated, high-tech experience filled with savvy amenities and magnificent countryside views.

Conveniently departing from Madrid, the AVE takes you to spectacular architecture, exquisite cuisine, quaint historic towns, sunny beaches and chic hotspots. Spain connoisseurs and first-time travelers alike will enjoy exploring the country's lesser-known destinations and their rich historic heritage, breathtaking landscapes and intricate style. Tickets may be purchased through RENFE website or through your travel advisor.

Recognized for its speed, reasonable fares, flexible schedule and comfortable interior, the AVE train will seamlessly transport you from Madrid's cosmopolitan ambiance to breathtaking landscapes of Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage City since 1996, and the sun- and smile-filled fiesta scene of Valencia.

Within 90 minutes, the latest AVE route connects Madrid with Valencia, a seaside city with a skyline designed by the likes of David Chipperfield, Norman Foster and Santiago Calatrava, Valencia's native son. Cuenca, a stop on the new route less than an hour outside of Madrid, is a lesser-known destination to the U.S. traveler that generated international recognition for its modern art legacy and renowned restaurants.

Madrid

With over six million Madrilenians currently living in the city and its surroundings, the capital of Spain is the third largest city in the European Union. Recognized as one of the top destinations for art and history, Madrid's architectural landscape features such landmarks as Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. The city is home to the Golden Triangle of Art, comprised of the Prado Museum, the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sof�a as well as the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. A global city, Madrid boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife, considered one of the best in Europe.

Cuenca (45 minutes from Madrid)

The walled town of Cuenca in the Castile-La Mancha region is a hidden treasure chest of cultural offerings. The heart of Spanish abstract art movement, Cuenca's thriving art scene complete with the works of Gerardo Rueda, Antonio Saura, and Gustavo Torner at the Museo de Arte Abstracto, is complimented by internationally-acclaimed restaurants and countless architectural gems. From Casas Colgadas, the seemingly precarious 'hanging houses' suspended over the dramatic gorge of the rivers to one of the oldest Gothic cathedrals in Spain, Cuenca a perfect day trip destination.

Valencia (1h 35 min from Madrid)

One of the hottest destinations in Spain, Valencia boasts a unique blend of Gothic and modern architecture, a 300-mile long coastline of immaculate beaches and a vibrant nightlife and over 300 days of sunshine. Birthplace of paella and home to the world-famous festivals of Las Fallas and the Tomatina de Bunol ('Battle of the Tomatoes'), Valencia will captivate you with its old-world charm interlaced with a contemporary vibe. The city is heaven for those interested in nautical sports, golf, art and design as well as anyone looking to relax and enjoy a near-perfect climate.