Trains to Madrid | Tickets & Train Times

Trains to Madrid

When travelling to the Spanish capital, trains are always a good option to keep in mind. Madrid has excellent rail connections to Iberian cities like Lisbon, Barcelona, and Seville, while low carbon journeys from France, the UK, and Italy are all possible when travellers book train tickets. Factor in excellent value and plenty of leg room, and trains are a great way to travel.

Which is the main train station in Madrid?

Most international and domestic express trains will arrive at Madrid's Atocha station. Located just east of the city centre, Atocha is a huge station, with plenty of shops and eateries on-site. It's also a Metro hub, making it simple to reach hotels anywhere in Madrid. Some services may also arrive at Chamartin, in northern Madrid. Again, it has excellent transport connections, and is even more convenient for those headed to Barajas Airport or the Bernabeu Stadium.

Which train companies offer trains to Madrid?

Almost all trains to Madrid are operated by Renfe. Spain's national rail carrier offers standard fares, as well as Ave services, which tend to be significantly faster.

Why travel by train to Madrid?

Taking the train to Madrid makes a lot of sense, providing travellers aren't flying into Barajas Airport. Anyone who is trying to reach Madrid from Barcelona, Bilbao, or Seville can easily do so via Renfe services, which tend to be as fast as flights when transfers are included. Trains have the added bonus of allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery of central Spain, and the general experience is more relaxed than taking buses or flights. Finally, international rail connections offer an eco-friendly way for travellers to see Spain, so there are plenty of reasons to book trains to Madrid.

Before you travel to Madrid by train - good to know!

Upon arrival in Madrid, getting hold of a Madrid Tourist Travel pass is a good move. The pass provides unlimited public transport journeys in the centre of Madrid, and can be purchased for 1-7 days. Once a travel card has been secured, Madrid is full of possibilities. The Prado is a world-class museum, and the opulent Royal Palace isn't to be missed. Reina Sofia is a superb gallery, and is rivalled by the Thyssen Collection. And if travellers want something different, a visit to Iglesia Patólica will always amuse, with its witty parodies of conventional religion.