Spain is preparing for a nationwide train strike. Photo: Shutterstock Passengers planning to travel by train in Spain on Thursday, October 29, 2026, are asked to check the schedules before leaving for the station.
National railway company Renfe is preparing for a 24-hour strike announced by the Spanish locomotive drivers' union SEMAF, and has published the minimum service format established by Spain's Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility.
The strike is aimed at Renfe Group employees, and is expected to affect high-speed train services, intercity trains, regional trains and suburban trains.
According to Renfe's announcement, the minimum service format has been determined as follows:
- Suburban trains (Cercanías): 75% of normal service during rush hours and 50% during the rest of the day.
- Medium-distance regional trains (Media Distancia): average of 65% of normal service.
- High-speed and long-distance trains: average of 73% of normal service.
- Freight trains: 26% of scheduled service.
The defined rush hours for suburban trains are 06:00-09:00, 13:30-15:30 and 18:30-20:30, according to local time in mainland Spain.
The data refers to the minimum scope of service required to be guaranteed during the strike, and not to the number of trains actually canceled.
Spain operates one of Europe's most extensive high-speed rail networks, allowing travel between major tourist and business centers without the need for domestic flights.
For travelers planning trips between Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Malaga, and other cities, the reduction in service could lead to schedule changes and fewer travel options.
However, Renfe's announcement does not state that all trains on these lines will be affected, and passengers are required to check the specific train number and departure time.
The SEMAF union announced the strike amid disputes over driving-time regulations and oversight and safety issues in the railway industry.
Renfe claims that some of the union's demands concern issues outside its jurisdiction, including regulation of driving times and the activities of labor inspection agencies.
The company also notes that it has strengthened its operations and safety system, including by recruiting more than 1,200 new employees, strengthening maintenance systems, and promoting steps to improve service reliability.
Renfe expressed regret for any harm to passengers and said it would ensure the operation of trains scheduled within the minimum services framework.
Passengers are asked to check the train status and updated schedules in advance, especially when traveling to an airport, to a scheduled meeting, or connecting to another train.
Those planning to use suburban trains outside of rush hours should consider a more significant reduction in service frequency.
As of Wednesday, October 28, the strike is scheduled for tomorrow. The minimum services have been officially announced, but the actual extent of the disruptions will become clear during the day of the strike.