High-speed trains and tourists: what is the link? Evidence from the French and Spanish capitals

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to analyse the factors influencing tourists' choice of a destination and the role of High Speed Rail (HSR) systems in this choice. The methodology proposed consists in analysing two capitals in Europe, i.e. Paris and Madrid where HSR services are important, to investigate the factors influencing holidaymakers in choosing these cities, and the role of HSR in this choice.