We plan to take the train from Toledo to Seville. I have read that Atocha is large and confusing, and since this will be the beginning of our trip, we will not be familiar with the station. The train I would like to take (arrives earlier in Seville) gives us 32 minutes to get from our Toledo train to the train for Seville. Is this enough time, or should we take the later train, which gives us an hour to make the transfer?
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23684 posts
Thirty minutes is fine. And you are not allowed in the platform area until 30 minutes prior to departure. You will go through a very light airport style screening at the head of the platform area. An hour would give the opportunity to use the restrooms and maybe something to drink or eat. And the Atocha station is worth a short visit. I would probably take the hour since I am never in a hurry.
Posted by
OP
Cincinnati
102 posts
Frank, thanks for your quick reply. We would prefer to take the train with the 32 minute transfer time, as we would like to get to Seville. Is it difficult to find the platform? Does it take long to get through the screening?
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23684 posts
Finding a platform is just like finding gates at airports. They are all clearly numbered. Just know your next train number (on the ticket) and look at the departure board for platform number. The boards are obvious.
Security check is pretty light and quick. Be prepared to show your tickets when you get to the head of the platform.
Posted by
Washington DC
28573 posts
Atocha houses local trains (cercanias) as well as long-distance trains, so be sure you are headed toward the right set of platforms. I'm one who finds the station confusing, but if you already have your tickets in hand, you should have more than enough time. There is often at least one uniformed Renfe employee floating around the ticket lobby. Show your Seville ticket and he or she will point you in the right direction.
I don't know whether you'll be able to move directly from the platform the train from Toledo arrives on to the screening area for your Seville train without going all the way up through the lobby.