I cannot figure out the web site and want to buy train tickets from Madrid to Granada any tips? And what ticket do I buy? They have a lot of options?
With all the petty crime mentions on this site, I am assuming driving and stopping with small suitcases in the car is not a good idea
These tickets are normally very easy to buy, unless you are trying to buy them too far in advance. What is your day of travel?
Perhaps this link will help you understand the features of the different ticket types
https://www.renfe.com/es/en/viajar/prepare-your-trip/billetes-ave-y-largadistancia/all-tickets
You do have to be careful and make sure things are out of sight but we have driven with no problems. Petty crime, pickpockers, etc., are frequently discussed on travel sites as a concern but you are not entering a criminal zone. We have spent close to a year in Europe with never a problem -- But we are careful and there is always next time.
There are lots of options for train and train/bus combinations from Madrid to Granada involving Renfe or Iryo for the train and Alsa for the bus. We have been in Spain since February and have used the Trainline app/website to compare options as it shows both trains and buses.
Renfe's long-distance train has two types of seats, and three classes, or categories of ticket. It's confusing.
Seats:
Basico, or 2nd class seats are perfectly comfortable. Arranged as 2+2. Wider and more legroom than coach on a plane.
1st class seats can be sold as either Confort or Premium. They've got a 1+2 set up, and are wider with more legroom.
Tickets:
Basico has is the most restrictive, less flexible fare, with 2nd class seats.
Elige fare are more flexible. 'Elige Standard' will be in 2nd class seats. Or pay more for 'Elige Confort' in 1st class seats.
Premium fares are the most flexible, always 1st class seats, with lounge access and food service included.
*Some trains don't have food service offered, in which case 1st class seats will be only be sold as Elige Confort
*Only 2nd class seating offers a formal Quiet Car. The 1st class cars are less dense and have fewer families, so are quieter than normal. But you could still get stuck next to someone on the phone.
thank you!
