train travel france to spain

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Train travel options between France and Spain

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France and Spain are two amazing countries, offering some of the greatest scenery in Europe. Travel from the heart of France to the vibrant cities of Spain, in whatever pace you prefer. Take your time cruising through lavender fields or rush from Paris to Barcelona in less than 7 hours. On this page, we show you the best ways to travel between France and Spain.

Please keep in mind that all high-speed and night trains in and between France and Spain require an advance reservation. Regional trains do not require reservations. French high-speed and night trains often have limited seat allocation for Interrail Pass holders. It's important that you book these as far in advance as possible. You can reserve trains up to 3 months before your travel date.

From Paris to Barcelona

Travel time:

Reservation needed:

Paris, France

Gare de Lyon

Reservation required

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona Sants

From Paris to Portbou (Spain)

Migennes, france.

Laroche Migennes

Dijon, France

Gare de Dijon

Lyon, France

Lyon Part-Dieu

Avignon, France

Gare d’Avignon Centre

Portbou (Spain), Spain

Gare d'Austerlitz

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• TGV France-Spain

Book your TGV France-Spain train tickets TGV France-Spain

Yes, you can travel by train to Spain  in a fast, comfortable and sustainable way! Twice a day, the TGV France-Spain departs from Paris Gare de Lyon and reaches Barcelona in only  6h31  (also serving Figueres and Girona).

Why choose the TGV France-Spain?

• Connects Paris Gare de Lyon to Barcelona Sants in 6h31 only.
• Also serves Valence TGV, Nîmes, Montpellier, Sète, Agde, Béziers, Narbonne, Perpignan, Figueres and Girona
• Travel sustainably by reducing your carbon footprint
• Compulsory seat reservation in 1 st or 2 nd class
• Booking possible 6 months before travel

By default , our planner will suggest the fastest connections , and the fastest connections from Brussels to Barcelona are via Paris .

But you can also travel from Brussels to Barcelona with a connection at Valence TGV rather than Paris. The journey will take a few minutes longer, but this will save you changing stations in Paris. To do so, click on " More options ", enter the transit station " Aéroport Charles de Gaulle " in the " via " field and allow up to 40 min . transfer time.

Destinations served by the TGV France-Spain

• FRANCE   Paris  (Gare de Lyon),  Valence TGV ,  Nîmes ,  Montpellier  (Sud de France), Sète,  Agde , Béziers, Narbonne , Perpignan  
• SPAIN Figueres Vilafant (Figueras), Gerona (Girona), Barcelona  (Barcelona Sants)

Main TGV connections to Spain

Services on board tgv france-spain trains.

• Reclining seats and reading lights
• Family compartments, called "Carré"
• Nursery zone (carriage 7/17)
• Access to the bar carriage
• Wider reclining seats and electrical sockets
• Optional individual seat
• Nursery zone (carriage 1/11)
• Area for passengers with reduced mobility >

The TGV bar carriage is open to all passengers. Here you can purchase a wide selection of refreshments including drinks, warm meals, sandwiches and salads, as well as magazines, children's games, USB sticks, Paris Metro maps, etc.

Book the family compartment to enjoy a relaxing journey with your children, who’ll have the freedom to move around and play as they please. Each family compartment has 4 seats in carriages.

To reserve a family compartment (subject to availability), simply request one when booking. You can do this at any SNCB International station, via the SNCB International Contact Centre or at your travel agent.

Frequent questions about TGV France-Spain Questions about TGV France-Spain

For most high-speed trains (notably Eurostar, TGV INOUI, TGV Lyria and ICE), the cheapest fares are available in limited quantities. So to benefit from the best prices, we suggest you avoid peak times and book your journey as far ahead as possible .

In some circumstances, it can be more cost-effective to travel as a group , as some rail companies offer fares which are exclusively available to small groups of 3-5 passengers, like the " Pack Tribu " fare on TGV INOUI, for example.

Finally, many railway operators regularly run temporary offers   on fares, offering passengers good deals on rail travel. To ensure you don't miss out on these offers, we recommend you visit our website or Facebook page regularly, or sign up for our newsletter .

Direct TGV INOUI connections between Brussels and France

There's no strict limit on the number of luggage items that you can take with you on TGV INOUI, but make sure you only take luggage that you can easily carry and easily store in the spaces provided for this purpose .

Smaller luggage can be stored in the luggage racks right above your seat. For larger luggage, you will find spaces at the ends and in the middle of each carriage.

Each piece of luggage must be provided with a label  showing the name and surname of the traveler (legal obligation in France)..

Are allowed as hand luggage: suitcases , travel bags and backpacks .

The following are also admitted as hand luggage (one item per traveller):

• a child's stroller (folded and stored in the luggage spaces of your carriage)
• a bicycle (folded folding bicycle or non-folding bicycle with dismantled wheels contained in a special cover with dimensions of maximum 1.20 x 0.90 m )
• een pair of skis
• a  wakeboard  transported in a bag of max. 1.20 x 0.90 m )
• a  wheelchair  for a traveller with reduced mobility (folded up, if the special wheelchair slot  is not used).

Other TGV INOUI connections (within France, or between France and its other neighbouring countries)

All luggage is under the passenger's responsibility and must be labelled with the owner's name and telephone number ;

You must be able to carry your baggage yourself , and all at once (except for PRMs with assistance). After the platform access gates, only ticket holders are allowed on the platform.

On board the train, no luggage or personal belongings may obstruct the corridors or doors. Small items of luggage can be stored in the luggage racks above your seat . For larger items of luggage, there are spaces at the ends and in the middle of each carriage.

Each passenger can take up to:

• 2 items of luggage  (suitcase, travel bag, sports bag, large rucksack, etc.) no larger than  70 x 90 x 50 cm , and
• 1 item of hand luggage  (small rucksack, shopping bag, computer bag) no larger than  40 x 30 x 15 cm .

If you need to transport an object with special dimensions, you can take up to:

• 1 item of luggage  (suitcase, travel bag, sports bag, large rucksack, etc.) no larger than  70 x 90 x 50 cm ;
• 1 item of labelled special baggage , such as a pushchair, scooter (folded), musical instrument in a case, pair of skis (in a cover), waterboard or snowboard (in a cover) no larger than 90 x 130 cm ;

In Paris, Gare de Lyon is the departure point for most TGV trains to the Alps, Provence, Côte d'Azur, Occitania, Switzerland, Italy and Barcelona..

To get from Paris Nord station to Gare de Lyon , you can take a taxi , hire a bike (or a scooter), but nothing is easier than the RER (the suburban train network that runs through Paris).

• When your train arrives at Paris Nord station, follow the train platform until you arrive at the underground metro and RER station (following the RER signs, line D).
• Take  RER D  towards  Corbeil-Essonnes / Melun / Malesherbes and get off at Gare de Lyon .

The RER takes only 2 stops and 15 minutes to connect the city's two main train stations. However, you should allow at least a good half hour for your transfer, the time needed to find your way around the corridors of the underground stations.

This RER transfer is not included in your TGV tickets, but you can take the RER between the two stations with a simple metro ticket .

Tip: to save time in Paris, you can buy your metro tickets in advance in the Thalys bar carriage.

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SNCF TGV INOUI and RENFE AVE to Spain

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Both SNCF and RENFE have a couple of daily high-speed trains connecting Spain and France. They allow you to travel fast and comfortably between cities like Paris, Lyon, Valence, Montpellier, Marseille, Madrid, and Barcelona. Although both railway companies offer different routes.

Train routes to Spain

SNCF TGV INOUI trains run on the following route between France and Spain:

• Paris - Barcelona

RENFE AVE trains run on the following route between France and Spain:

• Lyon – Barcelona
• Marseille – Madrid

Use Intercités de Nuit as an alternative route to France:  

Both the night trains to Latour de Carol and Cerbère are good alternatives for the busy TGV route to Barcelona. The night train from Bayonne is a good alternative to reach San Sebastian and Bilbao via Hendaye.

• Search for  Paris to Latour de Carol  in our  timetable  and find the local train to Barcelona on the  Rodalies website  (‘La Tor de Querol-Enveitg’).
• Search for  Paris to Cerbere  and  Cerbere to Barcelona  in separate enquiries in our timetable. This train only runs daily during summer season.
• Search for  Paris to Hendaye  in our timetable and find the local trains to San Sebastian and Bilbao on  Euskotren * to Spain. RENFE trains to San Sebastian and Madrid depart from Irun, which is a 30 minute walk across the border or a 4 minute train ride by Euskotren.*

*Euskotren is not part of the Eurail network. Buy your tickets locally in Hendaye in vending machines or at the ticket desk.

Reservations

Reservations on SNCF TGV INOUI and RENFE AVE high-speed trains to Spain are  compulsory . Your Pass needs to be valid in both France and Spain.

How to make reservations for SNCF TGV INOUI and RENFE AVE trains to Spain

You can make your reservations on the day of travel or for up to 6 months in advance for TGVs and up to a year in advance for AVEs.

• TGV to Barcelona
• € 2,- p.p. per train
• Additional € 9,- per order (for paper tickets)
• The international AVEs connecting Lyon and Marseille in France with Barcelona and Madrid in Spain can only be booked at train stations in Spain.
• The international TGVs connecting Paris in France with Barcelona in Spain can be booked at train stations in France

An explanation of how each booking platform works can be found here . 

Added value to your trip

The SNCF TGV INOUI and RENFE AVE trains are comfortable and popular trains, offering spacious seats with power outlets and free WiFi. This is why reservation fees for these trains are higher than average.

Facilities and services

• Air conditioning
• Disabled facilities
• Power sockets
• Video screens

For more information, visit the SNCF TGV INOUI website  and RENFE AVE website

Operated by:

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Taking the train in Spain - all you need to know

Apr 3, 2024 • 15 min read

The vintage train from Sóller to Palma de Mallorca is one of the most scenic rail routes in Spain © Shutterstock

Spain boasts Europe’s longest high-speed rail network, second only to China globally, and its trains are exceptional and far-reaching. In one day, you could gawp at Gaudí’s architectural genius in Barcelona , be whisked by rail to Madrid ’s museums, and still arrive in Seville for a sunset flamenco show.

Not that it’s all A to B whirlwind rail routes. There are some outstanding scenic train journeys to slow down and enjoy the Spanish pace of life, whether trundling along the northern coast’s narrow-gauge tracks or meandering into the mountains. And with some new low-cost operators now on the scene, exploring Spain by train has never been more affordable.

With over a thousand stations and thousands more daily departures, getting around Spain by train is a straightforward joy rather than a stressful necessity. Seat reservations on most services guarantee uncrowded carriages, Rioja-serving cafe cars provide perfectly wine-paired panoramic views, and electric-powered trains make journeys even more sustainable. What’s not to love? Here’s everything you need to know to plan a train trip in Spain like a pro.

Train services are generally excellent in mainland Spain

You can traverse all four corners of Spain by train, usually on swift, reliable, well-maintained carriages. Few areas aren’t covered by at least a regional service. And where there are coverage gaps, buses will usually take you the final stretch to that pretty medieval village. While strikes can occur, they are rare, and minimum service levels are generally guaranteed. Compensation payments are offered for delays over one hour, which helps keep timetables on track. 

Renfe is Spain’s national railway company, operating everything from non-stop regional capital connections to short-hop commuter services. Iryo and Ouigo provide low-cost competition on the main high-speed intercity lines, with the latter’s double-decker trains being a welcome addition.

While the numerous names for differing service and train types can be confusing, the trains in Spain can generally be divided into three categories:

• High-speed, mainly long-distance (larga distancia) services link many major cities, mainly via Madrid. These full-service trains can reach 310km/h (193mph) and include Renfe’s AVE (Alta Velocidad Española), its new no-frills Avlo counterpart, and Iryo and Ouigo. There’s an ever-growing network of high-speed routes , including the popular Barcelona–Madrid, Madrid–Seville, and Madrid–Valencia lines.
• Mid-distance services – although they can sometimes cover long distances and reach speeds of 250km/h (155mph) – make up the majority of other major routes. Renfe services these under names including Media Distancia, Avant and Alvia. Intercity and Regional Exprés services are somewhat slower but only call at major stations. Popular routes include Madrid– Toledo , Granada–Seville, and the Euromed coastal service between Barcelona and Alicante . Nearly all long and mid-distance services use sleek, modern carriages.
• Slower trains , including Regional, Proximidad, and Cercanías commuter services (Rodalies in Catalonia), complete the network. The older Cercanías AM trains, previously FEVE, mainly operate on the northern coast’s picturesque narrow-gauge tracks.

Nearly all large and medium-sized train stations are staffed and contain shops or cafes. High-speed train stations operate similarly to airports, with luggage security scanners and boarding gates. It’s advisable to arrive 20–30 minutes early, especially as boarding can close five minutes before departure. The bonus is you’ll have time to admire the stations. Some, like Toledo’s Mudejar-style ticket hall and art nouveau Bilbao Concordia , are attractions in their own right.

There are tourist trains and unique rail services too

In addition to standard train services, Spain has an exceptional selection of specialist rail routes known as “ tourist trains .” These range from seasonal, short routes, such as the scenic Tren dels Llacs in the Pre-Pyrenees, to indulgent, multiday sojourns like the luxury Transcantábrico train hotel. There are currently no standard domestic night trains.

International and island rail routes are limited

Away from the mainland, the rail situation is starkly different. The Canary Islands have no train services, and only Mallorca in the Balearic Islands has limited rail connections . These consist of three short, modern lines and the vintage Sóller train. 

Traveling to and from France by train is possible on France’s TGVs (from Paris) and Renfe’s International AVE services to Marseille and Lyon . Fares start from €29. You can also cross via Hendaye in the Basque Country or take the slower, scenic sleeper service via the Pyrenees . The Trenhotel (night service) between Madrid and Lisbon has been discontinued, leaving the Tren Celta between Vigo and Porto and the slow route to Lisbon via Badajoz as the only connections with Portugal . Work continues on improving the tracks to accommodate a direct, high-speed link between the two Iberian capitals.

Book ahead to save money and guarantee your seat

Spain’s rail operators all use dynamic pricing for high-speed and long-distance services. Therefore, early booking is advised, especially as seat reservations are mandatory. Advanced Avlo tickets between Madrid and Barcelona start from €7, with Ouigo and Iryo also offering competitive pricing on primary routes. A same-day ticket can sometimes cost more than 10 times more than booking in advance. Prices are less competitive on routes solely operated by Renfe. 

When booking tickets online to or from major cities, use the dropdown city name followed by todos (all) to check for direct and affordable tickets from all stations. Provide the Passport or ID number of the photo document you’ll be traveling with, as tickets are personal. The second surname can be left blank – Spanish people take both their father's and mother’s surnames. Tickets can be printed, collected at self-service machines, or displayed as QR codes on mobile devices. Overall, Ouigo and Iryo's websites are easier to navigate than Renfe's, which can be glitchy. While most people would recommend using a third-party booking service – handy for comparing prices between all operators – direct reservations avoid booking fees.

Even short-distance, popular services with fixed fares (some mid-distance and regional trains) can fill up. I’ve previously struggled to get last-minute weekend tickets on the Madrid to Toledo route. Secure all tickets ahead if your vacation coincides with a major holiday such as Easter (Semana Santa) or Christmas, including around Three Kings Day on January 6.

Iryo and Ouigo release tickets many months ahead. Renfe’s tickets should be available at least 60 days ahead, but this isn’t always true. Check regularly in the months leading up to your departure and sign up for newsletters on the three websites to receive ticket availability and discount updates.

Occasionally, two single fares (ida) can be cheaper than a return (vuelta) . Reservations can also be made at station ticket machines (in English) or staffed desks. Larger stations may have separate sales points for particular types of tickets. 

You’ll always be assigned a mandatory seat reservation. However, if you’d prefer to select your own to guarantee a window, you can change it for a nominal fee. Confusingly, Renfe’s website has this step after choosing a payment method. 

Cercanías and Cercanías AM tickets can’t be purchased in advance and should be purchased at the ticket office, self-service machine, or onboard from the conductor when traveling from the tiniest unstaffed stations. This is the only time you’re allowed to board a train without a ticket. 

If you wish to upgrade from basic class (básico) on high-speed routes, you can choose from Elige, Elige Confort and Prêmium on Renfe, or similar options on Iryo. Upgrades can include access to premium station lounges, at-seat food service, and more spacious seats. Solo travelers may want to upgrade to enjoy an individual seat in the 2+1 configured carriages. Ouigo allows these seats as a paid add-on without upgrading.

Discounts and offers: know your benefits and bring ID

Much noise was made about the launch of Spain’s fixed-price travel pass . Yet this system, established to offer discounted fares on repeat return trips, is primarily aimed at locals and commuters.

Renfe does offer a Spain Rail Pass for travelers , covering between four and ten journeys. However, depending on the routes you plan to take, pre-booking discounted, advanced fares can be cheaper. Some region-specific options exist, such as the better value three-day Galica Rail Pass .

Other discounts available on Renfe include:

• Small group discount when booking four or more travelers together.
• Seniors discount, up to 40%, for over 60s. However, this requires purchasing a card ( La Tarjeta Dorada ) in person before making the reservation. Advanced, discounted fares can be better value.
• Youth Discounts for under 25s with a European Youth Card or suitable International Student Card. A digital card can be purchased online by citizens of most countries.  
• Babies travel for free, as do children, although the age cap varies between operators.

Considering an Interrail or Eurail pass? Check on any savings first. All high-speed trains in Spain require seat reservations, an additional cost not included in these passes. Avlo, Iryo, and Ouigo are likewise excluded, and these cheaper advanced tickets may be better value than using the pass, though there is less flexibility.

Money-saving tip: high-speed trains include a free local ticket

If you’re traveling on a high-speed AVE or long-distance service operated by Renfe or Iryo, Combinado Cercanías is included. This allows for free use of local Cercanías trains to reach your departure station and again on arrival. Scan the QR code at barriers, or use the PDF code to get a zero-priced ticket at Cercanías’ self-service machines.

Seat reservations ensure most train journeys don’t feel crowded

Traveling by train in Spain is so enjoyable because all long and mid-distance services require a seat reservation. With no congested corridors or jostling vestibules, these trains never feel crowded, even when full. However, some regional and Cercanías services can be packed, particularly around commuter hours and Friday and Sunday evenings. You might want to avoid peak times or, when available, pay for a regional service seat reservation.

Plan around major events and regional holidays during your trip, such as Semana Santa, when ticket demand and crammed suburban trains are common. Trains in Spain operate every day of the year, though some services may finish earlier on public holidays. If you’re traveling on weekends or during holidays, check onward public transport in advance as small, rural stations may have a reduced weekend bus service.

Train can be the fastest, most affordable transport method

Using the train in Spain can be quicker and cheaper than flying. For example, a flight from Madrid to Barcelona takes 1¼ hours compared with 2½ hours by high-speed rail. But once you factor in security checks, out-of-city airport transfers, and runway taxi times, the overall journey length by plane becomes longer.

Driving distances are considerable. The same journey by car will take closer to seven hours. It’s unquestionably worth renting a car if you’re planning a road trip , but generally, long-distance jaunts are best by rail. 

Most train terminuses are connected to city buses and, in larger metropolises, commuter rail or metro systems. Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Madrid–Barajas Airport are on the train network. If you wish to visit smaller towns or villages that are not on the train network, consider other ways to get around Spain .

Onboard facilities differ between service types

All of Spain’s high-speed train services are spacious, comfortable, clean and well cared for. Carry-on luggage can be placed in overhead racks, while storage areas at either end of the carriage accommodate bulkier luggage. Popular services (especially on Friday and Sunday evenings) can quickly fill, and train staff will usually assist in rearranging suitcases to fit. Cercanías services can be more dated and crowded and often lack enough dedicated luggage space.

If you’re traveling by bicycle, check the luggage policies of Renfe and Iryo . In some instances, bikes must be disassembled or an additional fee paid.

The dining carts on Spain’s trains are typically stand-up, cafe-style rather than seated dining carriages. They’re good for stretching your legs or getting an alternative window view, but dining at your seat table is often more comfortable. A selection of hot meals, snacks and drinks – usually all of decent quality – are available, and certain ticket types offer pre-ordered meals served at your seat. Iryo has particularly impressive dining options .

On some routes, a trolley service may be provided in addition or as an alternative. Mid-distance and Avlo services have vending machines rather than dining carts. Bringing your own food and even alcohol onboard Renfe’s services isn’t a problem.

Complimentary (sometimes patchy) wi-fi is provided on Iryo and Renfe’s high-speed services, alongside entertainment portals accessible on your device. Ouigo charges per connection. Plug sockets (F-type) are available at seats on high-speed and mid-distance trains. Nearly all trains, except commuter services, have toilets.

Plan the perfect train trip with these scenic routes and tips

The most popular train routes for travelers in Spain are the high-speed connections that rocket between Seville, Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia. But riding the rails in Spain isn’t only about barrelling between urban sprawl. These are some of our favorite scenic rail routes worth planning into your trip. 

• Santander to Oviedo :  Cross the lush landscapes of Northern Spain on this slow, scenic rail route using Cercanías AM’s narrow-gauge tracks. This six-hour journey provides some of the expensive Transcantábrico Train’s panoramas for a bargain €16.55. There are no seat reservations, which is handy, as you can switch sides to marvel at both the sparkling Bay of Biscay and the mighty Cantabrian Mountains , Spain’s answer to the Dolomites. 
• Barcelona to A Coruña :  Once served by the discontinued sleeper Trenhotel, this is one of Spain’s longest rail routes, taking nearly 14 hours. The 9:05am Alvia departure can be affordable to cross seven of Spain’s autonomous communities. Pack snacks and pay for a window seat (ideally on the right) to see the full scope of Spain’s landscapes, from arid pastures and fertile farmlands to the verdant Galician Massif . Consider hopping off a few stops early in Ourense to use the town’s free-to-access thermal pools the following morning.
• Granada to Almería : Leaving the magnificent Moorish Alhambra behind, set off across western Andalucía towards the coastal city of Almería. It’s a showstopping three-hour journey traversing the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, snow-capped peaks looming beyond, before cutting through carpets of cork trees. Book a late afternoon departure for ethereal golden light, or take two single tickets to plan a lunch pause at Guadix, best known for its cave houses. 
• Palma de Mallorca to Sóller:  Step onboard the rickety, wooden carriage of Ferrocarril de Sóller , constructed in 1912, for a one-hour-long trundle from Mallorca's capital to the pretty port town of Sóller. En route, you’ll wend through the Tramuntana Mountains, unlit tunnels, and citrus groves close enough to touch. All seats are excellent, but you might want to stand in the open-air platforms between carriages. 
• Zaragoza to Canfranc :  A one-way ticket on this twice-a-day, 2½-hour regional train costs just €16.90, and you’ll get plenty of panoramas for your money, especially after Huesca when the tracks slowly climb up into the ​​Pyrenees. Our resident rail expert, Tom Hall, calls it one of Europe’s best train routes , partly because the landmark Canfranc Station has recently been reborn as a grandiose hotel .

Station tips when traveling Spain by train

Most large cities have multiple train stations, so always confirm departure points. When traveling to dedicated AVE stations outside major cities, check the station’s distance from the city center and pre-plan your connecting travel. Some stations, such as Antequera ’s Santa Ana, can be as far as 15km (9 miles) from the Old Town. 

Spain’s largest stations, such as Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants, can be confusing due to split-level and separated boarding areas for different services. Don’t be afraid to ask for help navigating the station. A quick flash of your ticket will soon have you pointed in the right direction.

All major stations have cafes and kiosks where you can pick up food, although preparing a train picnic from a delicatessen might be preferable. Still, a quick tapas in Atocha's Tropical Garden, even if the pond-residing turtles have now been rehomed, is a solid start to any journey. If you’re on a connecting service with time to explore beyond the station, most larger terminals have lockers or left luggage desks (​​consigna) .

Many stations are accessible, but there’s room for improvement on older services

Adif, the agency in charge of Spain’s rail infrastructure, provides in-station and boarding assistance for travelers with accessibility needs via the Acerca service, offered at 145 stations.

When booking tickets online, H seats – accessible spaces that can anchor a wheelchair – can be requested on the opening screen, and Acerca assistance can be requested later in the booking process. A minimum of 12–48 hours' notice is stipulated, depending on the operator. However, in larger stations, staffed service centers can usually provide support without pre-booking if you arrive and register at the desk ahead of travel. Check which facilities are available at each station on Adif’s website .

In addition to offering boarding support (many train types require a stair-climber lift, not just a ramp, while others like Avlo have level boarding), Acerca can provide technical aids for hearing and a guided sight service. Contact Adif Acerca for information on induction loop systems or to discuss alternative routes should your planned journey include a non-accessible station without in-person assistance. Tactile paving, step-free access, and elevators are installed at most major stations, and nearly every train has a conductor or staff member onboard who can assist. 

On high-speed, long-distance, and most other services, wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are located in carriages with H seats. Ouigo trains have a call button on adapted seats to provide food and drink service, as the cafe is located on the top deck. Cercanías AM carriages have no H seats but offer a dedicated space for wheelchair users with tie-downs. However, many older, narrow-gauge trains lack accessible bathrooms.

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Exciting ways to travel: New trains of Europe

Comfort, efficiency, and an enticing travel experience  –  modern high-speed trains in Europe offer all this. With them, traveling by train has long lost the reputation for being slow and expensive, but instead has a growing number of people who prefer it over any other way of transportation, and new trains bring us into the future of modern travels.

No relic from the past

The charm of train travel has always captivated people. With the arrival of new high-speed rail networks like the ICE in Germany, Nightjets in Austria, and TGV in France , European countries are striving to create a more enticing travel experience on the tracks. These trains provide a unique and unforgettable journey to marvel at Europe's stunning landscapes, shaping the future of travel in Europe.

This remarkable combination of benefits is making it easier and more appealing for increasing numbers of holiday-goers to choose train travel over other modes of transportation. With the latest technology and luxurious amenities aboard these ingenious machines, travelers can sit back, relax, and marvel at some of the continent's most stunning landscapes as they embark on a truly unique and unforgettable journey of a lifetime. Whether you're on a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, these innovative trains are undoubtedly shaping the future of European travel and providing another reason to explore its diverse corners by rail.

Deutsche Bahn and the new ICE

In an effort to encourage more people to switch from cars to trains, Deutsche Bahn aims to have around 450 ICE trains operating throughout Germany by 2030, an increase of approximately 100 compared to the end of this year. The company plans to invest over 19 billion euros in new trains by 2039, as announced by CEO Richard Lutz. The funds will flow into the new models ICE 3neo and ICE L.

By the end of 2029, 73 new ICE 3neo trains are expected to be running on Germany's tracks, providing an additional 32,000 seats daily. The first ICE 3neo trains are set to be in operation by December 2022, initially connecting NRW and southern Germany via the high-speed route between Cologne and the Rhine/Main region. These trains are designed to reach maximum speeds of 320 kilometers per hour, offering passengers a fast and efficient mode of transportation while working to reduce the overall carbon footprint.

The Austrian Nightjet

The Austrian Federal Railways (Österreichischen Bundesbahnen) is stepping up its game in terms of traveler-friendly night trains, introducing a new generation of 33 Nightjets that will connect European cities at speeds of up to 230 kilometers per hour. These high-speed trains are designed with a modern aesthetic to make overnight travel more appealing and enjoyable for passengers.

The updated sleeping and reclining cars will offer enhanced comfort and increased privacy, featuring double compartments in the sleeping cars and four-person compartments in the reclining ones. This thoughtful design aims to cater to the needs of various types of travelers, ensuring a pleasant and restful journey through the European landscapes.

The first trains will already come into use in summer 2023 between Austria and Germany to Italy. Over the following two years, other cities in Switzerland and the Netherlands will also be included into the Nightjet plan.

Spain: A new intercity train

A new rival is set to grace the tracks of Spain as Iryo, a Spanish train operator, prepares to launch its high-speed services in November 2022. With 16 trains scheduled to operate daily, Iryo aims to build connections between the country's two largest cities, Barcelona and Madrid, while also making a stop in Zaragoza. Amidst the competition posed by the state-owned Renfe and French provider Ouigo, this addition to the railway ecosystem could come as a great benefit for the customers.

Notably, the ticket prices for the 505-kilometer distance covered by the existing operators range between €7 and €9. However, Iryo is set to introduce fares starting at €18, offering passengers a choice between four different categories as they travel amidst the bustling Spanish landscape.

The TGV from France

Picture yourself embarking on a dream European vacation , traveling from the bustling metropolis of Paris to the shimmering shores of the French Riviera in just four and a half hours. This is no longer a figment of your imagination, but a reality thanks to the new double-decker TGV M, a collaborative effort of the French railway company SNCF and train manufacturer Alstom.

The TGV M matches its previous generation's top speed of 350 kilometers per hour, enabling travelers to effortlessly journey from the City of Lights to the sun-kissed coast. Interestingly, the swift travel times have managed to substantially reduce domestic air travel within France, making the TGV M not only an impressive feat of engineering, but also a game-changer in the nation's transportation landscape.

The Midnight Train

The charming allure of night train journeys is making a grand comeback in Europe, and the French start-up, 'Midnight Trains,' is here to ensure travelers experience the trend in ultimate luxury. Set to launch in 2024, these lavish sleepers will whisk passengers away to over ten dreamlike destinations across the continent, with pit stops in mesmerizing cities like Paris, Copenhagen, Milan, Rome, Florence, Barcelona, Madrid, and Porto.

Even Germany will be incorporated into the picturesque panorama, making stopovers in both Hamburg and Berlin. The Midnight Trains promise to redefine rail travel by providing the elegance and comfort of a hotel on wheels. Envision high-end private suites with personal bathrooms, an exquisite menu featuring intricate cocktails, and even room service, as reported by "Executive Traveller." Midnight Trains is set to transform European rail travel , one luxurious journey at a time.

The future of traveling

Traveling by train combines many benefits, not only for your own experience, but also for the environment. New trains and more railroads all throughout Europe promise a growing number of fascinating options for your next holiday.

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Europe's Most Spectacular New Hotel Is Set in a Former WWII Railway Station

High in the mountains between Spain and France, a long-neglected train station has become an opulent hotel.

Simon Willis is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. For the magazine he has crisscrossed Europe, Asia and Latin America. Particularly drawn to remote places, he has filed features from Patagonia, Laos and the Southern Ocean among other destinations.

Denisse Ariana Pérez

A few years ago , I was flicking through a magazine when I saw a photo essay about abandoned train stations. They were images of sublime squalor. The grand Greco-Roman columns of Michigan Central Station in Detroit were covered with graffiti. The Art Deco posters on the walls of the St.-Martin Métro in Paris were gradually peeling away. But the most haunting place in the collection was Estación Canfranc, high in the Spanish Pyrenees.

From the outside, this 790-foot-long Beaux-Arts palace looked like it had been transplanted from a fashionable Parisian boulevard. When it was completed in 1925, Canfranc was the second-largest rail station in Europe, after the one in Leipzig, Germany. Inside, the structure had cathedral-like proportions, as though it had been erected not merely to facilitate train travel but to worship it. Huge arched windows let in shafts of beneficent light. The ticket counter could almost pass for an altar. But by the time the photo essay was published, the congregation was long gone. The building closed in 1970 and had been empty ever since. Its vaulted ceiling was slowly moldering, and the floor was covered in dust and debris.

Related: This Little-known Wine Region Is a Hidden Gem of Spain — and It Has a Gorgeous New Luxury Hotel

Now the travelers are back. One recent afternoon I arrived in Canfranc to check in to the station, which has been transformed into one of Europe’s most spectacular new hotels. Its scale and grandeur are incongruous, given that Canfranc is a remote mountain hamlet near the border of Spain and France. The town, which sits in a narrow valley enclosed by steep, forested slopes, has a population of only 600. 

After the station closed, Canfranc lured only a trickle of adventure lovers, drawn by glorious summer hiking and two tiny ski resorts farther up the valley. But today, the hotel is a destination in itself. The renovation is the work of the Barceló Hotel Group, who took over the derelict building in 2021. The Spanish firm has given the place a train-centric revamp that balances old-world glamour with contemporary style. As I checked in, I stood gaping at the old ticket hall, which now serves as the hotel lobby. Its polished wooden beams shone with a deep luster, and the ornate plasterwork on the walls was as clean and white as confectioner’s sugar.

When it was completed in 1925, Canfranc was the second-largest rail station in Europe, after the one in Leipzig, Germany. Inside, the structure had cathedral-like proportions, as though it had been erected not merely to facilitate train travel but to worship it.

In the station’s locomotive heyday, its north and south wings were occupied, respectively, by French and Spanish customs officials. Now the southern wing houses a bar and restaurant tricked out in Art Deco shades of green and gold; the bar is illuminated by pendant lamps that resemble train wheels. In the rooms, antique station windows have been refurbished as quirky wall art.

Yet the hotel’s brand of nostalgic luxury is only one reason to visit; the other is its history. The village of Canfranc may be tiny and remote, but its border location has given it an outsize strategic importance for centuries. The evidence is everywhere. After I arrived at the hotel I headed outside and looked north up the valley. Perched on a ridge high above me was a 16th-century fortress that the Spanish rebuilt after Napoleon’s invasion in 1808; they wanted to defend against another possible incursion through this mountain pass. At the other end I could see concrete bunkers, erected for the same reason by the Franco regime in 1944. As well as being a luxurious stop on the route between Paris and Madrid, the station has played a prominent role in the valley’s history of intrigue and espionage. 

Later that afternoon, I met with Ana Badino and Marcelo Boveri, an Argentine couple who moved from Madrid to the Canfranc region in 2020 to enjoy a quieter life in the mountains. Since then, they have immersed themselves in the station’s extraordinary history and now run tours around the valley.

Until the 20th century, this corner of northern Spain was seen as poor and backward. The main economic activity was smuggling: alcohol and cigarettes went from Spain to France, and clothes, clocks, tea, and embroidery went the other way. But the locals wanted more opportunity than contraband provided, and the government wanted to take this roguish part of the country and turn it into a legitimate, modern commercial hub. So in 1912, the government commissioned the station as a statement of ambition and advancement. Fernando Ramírez de Dampierre, a Madrid-born engineer, was hired to design it. Both the president of France and the king of Spain were present at the inauguration ceremony in 1928.

For a few years, life in Canfranc was full of commercial activity. Daily trains from Portugal delivered port wine, cocoa, and coffee imported from Brazil. Industrial goods like coal and aluminum arrived from France. Badino and Boveri pointed out the rusted, obsolete cranes behind the station; they once loaded and unloaded this cargo. 

But when war broke out in 1939, everything changed. As Bodina and Boveri explained, the head of the station’s French customs department was a man named Albert Le Lay. He was more than a mere border official. He was a vital member of the French resistance who used his position at the station to help Jews and allied fighters fleeing persecution and capture in Germany and Vichy France. Now remembered as an Oskar Schindler–like figure, Le Lay provided these fugitives with forged papers to help them cross into Spain and on to Portugal. From there they traveled to safety. The identities of Le Lay’s beneficiaries are hard to trace, but according to some historians, those who passed through Canfranc included Max Ernst and Peggy Guggenheim.

Bodina and Boveri led me a little farther down the valley, which is still crisscrossed by old railway lines. Eventually we came to a row of derelict warehouses, their heavy wooden doors bent and buckled from decades of neglect, their roofs full of holes where high winds had ripped the tiles away. Through the gaps we peered into the dark interiors. In one of the buildings, in 2000, a cache of Nazi paperwork was found that listed items the Germans had moved through Canfranc after the Gestapo occupied the station in 1942. They included looted gold bars and opium.

His job as a customs official gave Le Lay the cover he needed to continue his resistance work. He would receive information from agents masquerading as passengers as they arrived at the station. From there, messages were transported by a network of spies down the train line to Zaragoza, the nearest city. Canfranc, then, was a crucial node in a pan-European network of spies that helped disrupt the German war machine.

Like many travelers to Canfranc today, I arrived via the airport in Zaragoza, the regional capital. Zaragoza is an underrated destination compared with Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Following the Umayyad invasion from North Africa in the eighth century, it became a major city in the north of Muslim Spain. At its center is a Moorish fortress, the Aljafería Palace, which is built in a magnificent architectural fusion of European and Islamic styles known as Mudejar. On the bank of the Erbo River, which courses through Zaragoza, stands a monumental Baroque basilica whose central dome is surrounded by four towers. But for me, the biggest lure was the opportunity to admire the art of the area’s most famous son, Francisco Goya.

After spending the night at the NH Collection Gran Hotel de Zaragoza, I walked over to the Goya Museum. It’s a small institution that packs a big punch. The star attractions are Goya’s etchings, displayed in a large, crepuscular room that protects these delicate artworks from light damage.

Goya’s etchings rank among his strangest and most personal pieces. “Los Caprichos,” a series of 80 prints, is a pitch-black satire on religious hypocrisy, corruption, and superstition. These images feature grotesque goblins dressed as clergymen; a donkey in an aristocrat’s silk coat studying his family tree; a woman pulling teeth from the mouth of a hanged man to be used as lucky charms. In another series, “The Disasters of War,” the devilish comedy of “Los Caprichos ” is replaced by documentary horror. The etchings captured the violence of conflicts like the Peninsular War, which ravaged Spain between 1808 and 1814.

From Zaragoza I drove two hours across the tinder-dry plains of northern Spain to Jaca, a compact city with a Romanesque cathedral. It dates from the 11th century, when the king of Aragon decided to turn his territory into a stopping point for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela, 500 miles to the west. Pilgrimage was good business: you had to be wealthy to take several months off work and pay your way across Europe. Jaca did well from the foot traffic. In the Middle Ages, the road outside the cathedral passed 16 shoe shops.

Related: How To Plan the Perfect Trip To Madrid

After a meal of venison carpaccio at a small restaurant, La Cocina, I drove into the mountains to Canfranc. Having been cooped up in the car, I wanted to explore the landscape, so the following morning I met up with Fernando Garrido, a wiry mountain guide with silver hair and a deep tan. Garrido, a partner in a Jaca-based company, Aragon Aventura, is a serious mountaineer. For 30 years he has held the world record for spending the most time at high altitude: he stayed, alone, for two months straight on the summit of Mount Aconcagua, in Argentina, at an altitude of more than 22,000 feet. 

Thankfully, our plan was more down to earth. It was a blue and shimmering Sunday, and we decided to head to Ordesa & Mount Perdido National Park, a 90-minute drive southeast of Canfranc. We hiked into a deep canyon, following the course of a river that had been reduced to a slow trickle by a two-month drought. The canyon’s sheer limestone walls rose almost 3,000 feet, and birds of prey circled on the thermals. 

Yet the hotel’s brand of nostalgic luxury is only one reason to visit; the other is its history. The village of Canfranc may be tiny and remote, but its border location has given it an outsize strategic importance for centuries. The evidence is everywhere.

As we walked, Garrido pointed out the fajas, the narrow paths that run along the cliff edges. Looking at the thin lines they traced across the rock, I couldn’t help thinking about those wartime refugees I had heard about in Canfranc. During the German occupation, the route became more perilous, and despite Le Lay’s help, many were arrested at the station. In hopes of avoiding the authorities, thousands walked across the Pyrenees on foot, clinging to these narrow, cliff-edge paths as they searched for safety.

That night, I sat down to dinner at Canfranc Estación’s Restaurant Internacional, which is run by Eduardo Salanova and Ana Acín. Chef Salanova’s food is a fusion of local ingredients and avant-garde presentation. That evening’s 15-course tasting menu included foie gras with strawberries, local caviar, a terrine poached in mulled wine, and sous-vide eggs. (Another restaurant, Canfranc Express, opened after my visit in a restored train car outside the hotel, and has since been awarded a Michelin star.)

As I ate, a fog descended over the valley and a gentle rain began to fall. Through the window I could see the silhouettes of Canfranc’s old cargo warehouses and, beyond them, the wooded hillsides. Sitting there in the warm glow, I thought back to the stories my Argentine guides had told me — about the secret agents running messages through this building, about the villagers sewing notes into the linings of their clothes to protect them from the Gestapo. The setting was worthy of a wartime spy thriller, and as I sat in the opulent dining room I imagined myself waiting not for my dessert to arrive but for a tap on the shoulder from a clandestine contact bearing important papers and, along with them, a chance of freedom. 

Where to Stay

Canfranc estación, a royal hideaway hotel.

This spectacular mountain hotel is worth a trip in itself. Tours of the property and the surrounding valley can be arranged through the concierge.

NH Collection Gran Hotel De Zaragoza

Previous guests at this imposing hotel in the center of town include Walt Disney and Ernest Hemingway. Stop by the excellent restaurant, La Ontina, for seasonal dishes like braised white asparagus.

Where to Eat

Jaca la cocina.

A small but stylish restaurant in Jaca that serves regional dishes like venison carpaccio and olla jacetana, a stew of beans and pork.

Aragon Aventura

Fernando Garrido, my hiking guide, co-owns this Jaca-based adventure company . He offers walking excursions as well as a range of other mountain activities, including canyoning and snowshoeing.

Goya Museum

This small museum in Zaragoza has the world’s finest collection of Goya’s etchings.

Pirineo Esencial

Knowledgeable guides Ana Badino and Marcelo Boveri offer tours of Canfranc and the surrounding valley .

A version of this story first appeared in the May 2024 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Full Speed Ahead."

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Reading time: 0 min Published on 21 February 2023, updated on 16 April 2024

Being the UK’s nearest neighbour and boasting one of the best transport infrastructures in the world, France is wonderfully easily accessible to us Brits, whichever way you choose to travel. Airlines are expanding French routes every year, with maximum flight times of two hours; ferries are a great option for families or road trippers; and France’s reliable rail network spans all four corners of the country, making train travel a delightfully scenic option for those with more time.

The extensive, centralised French rail network is without doubt the most practical form of transport for travelling around the country, with every major city boasting a comprehensive network of services to its suburban areas. Towns are linked by TER (Trains Express Régionaux) trains, while major cities are served by high-speed TGV (Trains à Grande Vitesse) services.

From London, take the Eurostar direct from St-Pancras to Paris, Lille, Lyon, Avignon or Marseille, before connecting to the TGV or TER for any onward journeys. In many cases you’ll only need to make one change of train, meaning less hassle and more time to sit back and enjoy the French scenery.

Voyages-sncf.com is your European rail expert. Trains from London to Paris, onward connections throughout France and rail passes can all be booked via their website or call centre.

Those wishing to travel by train with their car can choose the Eurotunnel option, with Channel crossings taking just 35 minutes between Folkestone and Calais. A car is probably the best way to explore France in total freedom – make sure you read our dedicated guide to d riving in France before you set off.

For further details on travelling to France by train, click here.

Did you know France is separated from the UK by just 18 nautical miles at the narrowest part of the Channel, between Dover and Calais?

Multiple daily ferries make this straightforward, speedy journey, but no need to depart from Dover if you’re travelling by sea – from Plymouth all the way along to Brighton, other British ports are connected to France by Brittany Ferries , P&O Ferries and DFDS Seaways , with a range of crossing times (including overnight) either as a foot passenger or with your car.

For further details on UK-France ferry routes and services, click here.

There are several coach companies such as Eurolines and BlaBlaBus (formerly OuiBus) offering straightforward, low-cost transfers to France from London and other UK cities. Travel from a UK city centre to a French city centre on an air-conditioned coach with reclining seats, plenty of legroom and onboard toilets. You'll get free Wi-Fi and power sockets to keep in touch while you travel.

Eco-conscious travellers can choose FlixBus , whose efficient coaches are proven to have an excellent carbon footprint per driven passenger-mile.

For detailed info on UK-France coach services, click here.

France’s air connections with the UK are growing every year, and today it’s possible to fly from and to more cities than ever before, both in and out of season.

For those landing in Paris, the capital has two airports: Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle (25 km north of the city) and Orly (14 km south), both linked to the centre by shuttle buses and the suburban rail service (RER). Several other cities also have an international airport: Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Strasbourg and Toulouse , and these cities also have good air links with Paris. Many smaller cities and towns are served by airports that connect through the capital.

Low-cost carriers easyJet , Flybe , Jet2 and Ryanair offer an extensive range of flights from the UK to France, alongside services from British Airways and Air France . The main carriers serving France from Ireland are Aer Lingus and Ryanair.

For detailed info on flights to France from the UK, click here.

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Fighting 'intensifies in eastern Ukraine as troops fall back'; UK estimates 450,000 Russian losses since war began

Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi says his troops have taken up new positions west of Berdychi, Semenivka and Novomykhailivka in order to conserve their forces while armed forces minister Leo Docherty tells the UK Defence Journal tens of thousands have deserted Russian's military since February 2022.

Sunday 28 April 2024 22:34, UK

• Fighting intensifies in eastern Ukraine as troops fall back
• UK minister estimates 450,000 Russian losses since war began
• Tajikistan citizens warned not to travel to Russia
• 'Well-provisioned' Ukrainian troops could prevent Russian advances
• Russia destroys 17 drones launched by Ukraine
• Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

That's all from our live coverage for tonight. For a reminder of today's updates, you can scroll back through this live blog. 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Ukraine is still waiting for promised supplies from its allies, urging the international community to hurry up. 

In his nightly video address today, he said: "We are expecting those volumes and scope that can change the situation on the battlefield in Ukraine's interests." 

He also said he had spoken with US House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries, and had thanked Congress for passing the long-awaited aid package for Ukraine. 

"In my conversation with Mr Jeffries, I underscored that Patriot systems are needed, and as soon as possible," he said. 

Ukrainian forces are facing a worsening position in the east and are still awaiting the delivery of US weapons. 

Mr Zelenskyy has repeatedly called for more air defence systems to protect its citizens and infrastructure, particularly the Patriot systems. 

Russia will start restricting those called up for military service from leaving the country, according to news site Meduza. 

Electronic summonses will reportedly be sent out from 1 November.

Those who are called up will not be allowed to leave Russia, and they will face further restrictions if they do not go to a military registration and enlistment office within 20 days.

In that case, they will not be allowed to register to run a business, drive a car, take out loans, or conduct real estate transactions, Meduza said.

New satellite imagery appears to show damage at Russia's Kushchyovskaya military airbase in the Krasnodar region. 

Planet Labs shared images comparing how the base looked on 19 March compared with today. 

A source in Ukraine's security and defence forces earlier told Ukrainian media that Kyiv had launched drone strikes against the airbase and two oil refineries overnight. 

They told the Kyiv Independent the SBU and Ukraine's Defence Forces hit the airbase where "dozens of military aircraft, radars, and electronic warfare devices were stationed".

Earlier we brought you news of a Russian drone strike on the Black Sea city of Mykolaiv. 

The attack set a hotel ablaze and damaged energy infrastructure, Ukrainian officials said. 

Vitaliy Kim, the governor of the southern Mykolaiv region, said in an update the attack had "seriously damaged" the hotel.

The strike also damaged heat-generating infrastructure in the city.

There were no casualties, he said. 

A priest sprinkles holy water on believers holding willow branches during an Orthodox Palm Sunday service. 

The service is being held in Donetsk, in an area occupied by Russian forces. 

Russia gained full control of the city of Donetsk in October 2022, but the area has been a major site of fighting since 2014. 

The majority of people in Ukraine are Orthodox Christian, although they follow different branches. 

As we've been reporting, Russia has been pushing forward in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region. 

Ukrainian military officials say their troops are falling back to new positions in at least three places along the frontlines. 

But they are facing public criticism about the transparency of their military updates. 

Ukrainian military blogger Myroshnykov and Ukraine's DeepState monitoring group, which updates daily changes in frontline positions, both say the updates have been unrealistic. 

DeepState shared a video on social media of a Russian soldier being killed in a drone strike in the village of Soloviove, arguing such footage was being used to mask a bigger picture. 

"You can watch with pleasure forever the video of a Russian [soldier] being torn to pieces, but nearby there is another location that requires attention: Muscovites calmly moving around the village, keeping it under control. 

"The [Ukrainian] Defence Forces inflict fire damage on them, and one can repeat at least a billion times that two-thirds of the village is under the control of the Ukrainian military, but the picture of reality is completely different." 

It appeared to be referring to a statement from Nazar Voloshyn, a spokesperson for Ukraine's military in the east, who also said the nearby village of Ocheretyne was still two-thirds controlled by Ukraine. 

However, DeepState says it believes Russian troops have been in control of the centre of Ocheretyne for at least three days. 

The site accused some military spokespersons of incompetence last week. 

Police have arrested a 57-year-old Russian on suspicion of murder following the killings yesterday evening, German news agency dpa reported. 

The two Ukrainians were 23 and 36 years old, and lived in the southern German county of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

They were killed at a shopping centre in the village of Murnau in Upper Bavaria.

The names of the victims and suspect have not been released due to German privacy rules. 

It is not clear if the men knew each other. 

More than one million Ukrainian refugees fled to Germany following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. 

Donald Trump's stance on Ukraine is "not as black and white as some people think", the Polish foreign minister has said. 

The former US president, who is running for election again this year, has said he will not commit to providing Ukraine with defence assistance. 

Republicans aligned with Mr Trump were also the reason behind a six-month delay to aid for Ukraine. 

But foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski said in an interview with the Axel Springer media company that Mr Trump had sent Ukraine anti-tank missiles before Russia's invasion "when others were not doing it". 

He was referring to Javelin anti-tank missiles supplied by the US in 2018. 

Mr Sikorski also said Mr Trump was "right in urging us all in Europe to spend more on defence".

He said he "did not hear any protests from Trump" once the $61bn aid package for Ukraine was approved. 

"So, I hope that candidate Trump has seen that this opposition to helping Ukraine is not actually popular in the United States, that it is harming his chances [to be re-elected]," he added.

Earlier we reported that a top Ukrainian general said troops had fallen back from three villages in the east of the country. 

We can now bring you more from Oleksandr Syrskyi, the chief of Ukraine's armed forces, about the situation on the ground.

Mr Syrskyi said the Donetsk region (in the east) remains one of the hottest sectors of the frontline as Russia continues its offensive.

He described the situation in the eastern cities of Pokrovsk and Kurakhove as "the most difficult one" now.

Russia is reportedly using up to four brigades (anywhere from an estimated 8,000 to 32,000 personnel) to conduct assault operations in the direction of both the cities, which lie west of Avdiivka, which was captured earlier this year. 

Mr Syrskyi said the situation is changing "dynamically" on the frontline as a result. 

Meanwhile, Mr Syrskyi said the situation in the south also remains "intense" as Russia tries to advance near the village of Krynky in Kherson.

It also wants to advance towards the villages of Robotyne and Verbove villages in Zaporizhzhia.

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