Connecting Spain and France through high-speed rail

A new high-speed rail connection between Spain and France is taking shape. Supported by the CEF Transport programme, the ‘Y Vasca’ railway line will seamlessly link the Basque cities of San Sebastián, Bilbao and Vitoria-Gasteiz with France and the wider European high-speed rail network.

Enhancing cross-border connections in the Basque Country

The ‘Y Vasca’  is part of the Bergara–San Sebastián–Bayonne cross-border rail connection  and is a crucial missing link in the TEN-T Atlantic Corridor, connecting the Iberian Peninsula with the rest of Europe.

Both in the 'Y Vasca' and in the broader cross-border rail connection, EU support has made it possible to advance a series of strategic works in both Spain and France, including:

• construction of the Mondragón–Astigarraga section of the Y Vasca high-speed line
• upgrading the Astigarraga–Irun cross-border railway
• remodelling of the San Sebastián railway station to accommodate high-speed services
• implementation of the Bergara junction, a key node that connects the three branches of the ‘Y Vasca’ line
• preliminary studies for future international connections and for upgrades to the Hendaye–Irun border station and the existing Dax–Vitoria-Gasteiz line

These investments are helping to complete a modern, high-capacity rail corridor that will enable efficient cross-border operations between Spain and France.

A sustainable and efficient alternative for passengers and freight

The ‘Y Vasca’ high-speed rail connection is expected to generate major benefits for both passengers and freight operators, improving the quality, safety and capacity of the network while reducing travel times and operational costs.

By encouraging a modal shift from road and air to rail, the connection will also contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions and supporting the EU’s climate and energy goals. The improved interoperability through the adoption of UIC gauge, electrification and modern signalling systems, will ensure smooth cross-border traffic and increase the overall resilience of the TEN-T network.

Connecting people, regions and markets

The strengthened rail link between Spain and France is more than an infrastructure investment — it is a step towards a more connected, competitive and sustainable Europe.

It will boost regional development, facilitate the movement of goods and people, and support economic growth on both sides of the border.

Background

CEF Transport funding is currently provided under two main projects:

• Project 2014-EU-TM-0600-M
• Project 21-ES-TG-BERGARA JUNCTION

CEF Transport is the key EU funding instrument for the development of high performing, sustainable and interconnected networks, with a focus on the development and modernisation of the TEN-T network. Since 2014, CEF has supported nearly 1 800 projects worth over €46 billion in the Transport sector.