Can I buy Spain train tickets at the station?

Question

We are going to Madrid on holiday on the 28th July (Monday) and the plan is to take the night train on the 29th to Barcelona. I'm planning to take the night Estrella Costa Brava train.

I've been trying to crack the renfe website for months and have just figured out how to buy tockets online, and there are only First Class tickets left! Should I book them now or can I try to get Tourist class tickets at the station on Monday? If there are no Tourist tickets online will there definitely be no tourist tickets at the station? Please help, I am hitting myself for not trying harder earlier.

Answer 1

Yes, the train might fill up.  I would advise you to buy your tickets online, and then you at least have something!  If you need to sell them, you might be able to trade them, if there are still tickets at the window (which I sort of doubt), and a partial refund, or you should be able to sell them to the highest bidder in the station, because there is bound to be someone who really needs to get on that train, but did NOT buy them ahead.

But most likely, you are going to use the first class tickets.  I'm pretty sure you will find it's a full train.

Answer 2

The night trains fill up quickly, and if you can buy tickets ahead of time then do so - this is peak season in Spain.

The RENFE website is really horrible to use, but if you can work it out it's worthwhile.  If the website is not selling Tourist tickets, then these are probably sold out.

Answer 3

I do not see why you are having a hard time buying a ticket for the train online.  However, when you arrive in Madrid, go to the ticket window  and give them your information and purchase the ticket. It will be easier to get your ticket when you arrive then waiting for the last minute. I am sure you can get a 2nd  class ticket for your trip.

http://horarios.renfe.es/hir/index.jsp?p...