I've taken the first class night train from Lisbon to Madrid and on forward, and it was a memorable experience both times. I'd like to do it again with my wife, for her first time. Does anyone know if it still exists, and if so, how we can make a reservation and learn of the expense, requirements, etc. for a ride in April?
It still runs.
Purchase tickets, not reservation, with http://www.renfe.com/ the Spanish rail operator.
Not sure what you intend with 'requirements, etc.'
By "requirements", I guess I meant things such as needing to pick up tickets ahead of time, time required to reserve in advance?...stuff like that. Maybe there aren't any other restrictions, but the Spanish web site you listed doesn't seem to offer any help for me, as it doesn't respond with the specific info I want.
My intention is to reserve a first class sleeper from April XX. Can't seem to navigate the site to give me the info I am wanting. Guess I'll just have to keep pounding my head on the keys until I can get something that responds.
Try this instead of renfe http://petrabax.com/renfe/tickets/TrainsList.aspx
Lisboa-Estacion Oriente - Madrid-Chamartin 10H43m Tourist cabin $56 Grand class cabin $178
21:27 8:10
Hi Michael,
Check out http://www.seat61.com/international-trains/trains-from-Barcelona.htm#Spain-Portugal
The Man in Seat 61 is a great source for everything you want to know about trains in Europe. He also has a section about navigating the renfe website.
'By "requirements", I guess I meant things such as needing to pick up tickets ahead of time, time required to reserve in advance?.'
As I said, you cannot reserve, you purchase your tickets and print yourself or at the station with your detail.
One the many guides for RENFE, and as mentioned by Dawn above, is here -
http://www.seat61.com/Spain-trains.htm#How_to_use_www.renfe.com
What 'specific info'? All you seem able to say here is 'stuff' and 'restrictions'. Have you tried the help facility 'Irene', on the right of the RENFE page?