Plane Granada to Madrid

Are you looking at train travel dates more than six months out? Too early. Just look at the train schedules about a month from now. Taking a plane for that short of a distance does not make sense time wise.

I tried last month. Plane canceled. I will take the train next time.

See my experience in this recent thread, post #2. https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/spain/train-or-flight-from-madrid-to-granada

I think there are probably only three direct (i.e no change), fast Ave services from Granada to Madrid each day. It wouldn't be a major route compared to others.

But, if you look for rail options with changes, there should be more. In particular via changing at Antequera Santa Ana or Cordoba.

The coach (bus) option mentioned above is certainly a possibility, but, obviously, slower than taking a direct train. It is also quite a dull route by road in terms of scenery. You might see a few minor towns and windmills, but not much in general.

Flying is usually fine - but adds time when you consider the fuss involved of air travel. Granada airport is small and an easy taxi ride from Granada centre. But Madrid airport is huge.

I guess I'd decide based on how important it is to arrive in Madrid at your preferred time.

There are only 3 trains, and the timing isn't great. But flying involves time at the airport and risk as to whether the plane will leave on time, etc. We ended up doing a car transfer. It was pricey, but we got to spend more time in Madrid and it was worth it to us.

Thank you all for the advice and response! I have not looked into the bus and private transfer option. But will check this out.

There's a lot of rail service between Cordoba and Madrid; it's just the Granada-Cordoba leg of the trip that has limited service.

Another option is to take the train to Malaga (there are lots of trains, and good prices
since iryo serves the route as well as Renfe). The bus station in Malaga, from which
you can catch a bus to Granada, is located right next door to the train station.

Note, though, that the bus station in Granada is a bit out of the way from the city center.