10 Tips For Train Travel From Barcelona To Madrid
In this short guide, we provide 10 simple tips to help make your train travel from Barcelona to Madrid stress free.
There is no doubt that train travel in Spain is one of the best ways to relax and enjoy the wonderful scenery. Travelling by train from Barcelona to Madrid takes you on a scenic journey that passes through beautiful landscapes along the way. Not only does it offer you the chance to sit back and relax but it is also a greener alternative than other forms of transport.
1: Choosing The Right Train:
This might sound silly but ensuring you choose the right train for your travel, is essential. As a result, it will save you a great deal of time. There are several different types of train services that run from Barcelona to Madrid. These trains include:
- High Speed AVE trains
- Regional Trains
- Night Trains
The ‘High Speed AVE’ train is the fastest service, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. However, the regional trains are a much longer option and can take up to as long as 9 hours on some routes. As you can imagine, the High Speed AVE train from Barcelona to Madrid is the most expensive option. Obviously, the train you choose will be the one that best suits your own time schedule and budget.
2: Book In Advance:
As we have mentioned throughout this website, booking travel and travel extras in advance can save you a lot of time, stress and money. Train tickets are limited and can be in high demand, especially during peak periods. Due to this fact, it is always best to book your train ticket from Barcelona to Madrid in advance, where possible.
3: Check For Restrictions:
Although travelling by train does allow you to travel with more luggage than on other forms of transport, there are restrictions. Always check before you book your ticket, if there are any restrictions on such things as luggage and times of travel.
4: Departure Times and Arriving Early:
The last thing you want is to miss your train! So, to avoid any disappointment, ensure you arrive at the train station well ahead of your departure time. Many train stations are big and can be a little confusing to navigate, especially when abroad, in unfamiliar surroundings. As a result, try to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes prior to your departure time. This will allow you to find the right departure platform for your train and take your seat on the train.
5: Pack Food and Drinks:
Although the majority of trains do now have either a buffet car or trolley service, do not rely on there being one. Sometimes, for whatever reason there may not be food or drink available on the train. Packing your own food and drinks for your journey will ensure you are not caught out and can also save you a small fortune. Having a bottle of water with you is always advisable, especially on hot Summer days and longer journeys.
6: Comfortable Clothing:
Don’t forget that the train journey from Barcelona to Madrid is at least 2.5 hours or longer. This means that you will be sitting for a long period of time on the train. Dressing in comfortable clothing is always a good idea and will make your journey much more comfortable. If you are travelling during the Winter months, then having an additional layer such as a cardigan or fleece is recommended.
7: Tickets:
Make sure you have your tickets! If you need to download them to your phone, print them out or collect them at the station, make sure you do so before travel. Have your tickets handy, as you may need to show them several times on your journey. You may be required to show your ticket at the gate, on the train and also when exiting the platform at Madrid.
8: Scenic Views – Have Camera Ready:
As previously mentioned, one of the advantages of rail travel in Spain is being able to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The train journey from Barcelona to Madrid offers passengers the ability to see beautiful landscapes, so ensure you don’t miss them and have your camera ready!
9: Keep Safe – Familiarise Yourself With Your Surroundings:
Unfortunately, as with any other country in the world, crime does happen, especially in crowded places and major cities. Always familiarise yourself with your surroundings and ensure you keep your valuables hidden and out of sight. Make yourself familiar with the emergency exits and procedures on the train.
10: Pre-Plan Your Arrival In Madrid:
Although Madrid train station has a very good transport network, it is always a good idea to pre-plan your onward journey. Madrid can be busy, especially at peak times so a little advanced research and planning can save you time, stress and money. Planning your route to your final destination or booking your transfer in advance is a smart way to travel.
Conclusion:
Taking the train from Barcelona to Madrid is a great way to travel between the two major Spanish cities. However, if you are prepared before travelling, it can make the experience much more enjoyable. Whether you are travelling for leisure or business, hopefully these 10 simple tips will help save you time, stress and money. Planning ahead and familiarising yourself with your surroundings, will help you keep safe and ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable journey.
We hope this short guide provided a few useful tips for your train travel from Barcelona to Madrid.