Seat reservation for Spain

Question

I bought an Interrail pass for Spain.

From what I understand, some train tickets are included in the pass, while others require an additional purchase.

How do I reserve seats? Do I need to go to the station the day before, for example? Or should I buy tickets on the Spanish railway company’s website or app?

Do all trips require a supplement? Or are there some trips where seat reservations aren’t necessary?

Thanks for all your advice—I’m a little bit confused.

Schelte · Answer

Most trains between cities in Spain require seat reservations. Only notable exceptions are Rodalies (regional trains in Catalonia) and Cercanías trains (suburban trains around several larger cities).

Reservations can be made through a few possible channels:

At a Renfe ticket office. Be aware they can sell out, so if you're only arriving in Spain shortly before your trip that might be risky, especially around holidays.
Through the interrail booking portal, happyrail.com or raileurope.com. All charge a €2 fee per reservation, on top of reservation costs. My preferred option is Happyrail, as they cover more trains (also MD) and allow seat selection (depending on the fare this is free or at an extra cost). Obviously I try to book them through ticket offices when possible to save on additional fees.
At ticket offices in Germany, funnily enough. They don't charge booking fees.

For Iryo, whose trains are also included, the interrail booking portal is the only way to book reservations.

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