Just wanting to confirm that one can purchase AVE train tickets to Cordoba at Madrid Airport. Also is it safe to buy on the day as we fly in from South America ... I have seen other posts from a couple of years back so looking to update information if necessary ... thank you Rory
(i) Yes, one can. I'm assuming you arrive at T4 - if not you may need to go to T4 anyway.
(ii) I'm sure you know this, but in case not the AVE train departs from Madrid's central Atocha station, not the airport. So you first need to go into the city. There are a few options for this, but If you buy an AVE ticket at the airport you can get a free local ("Cercanías") train ticket from T4 to Atocha included.
(iii) Mostly you are fine to leave it to your arrival day. If you go to the Renfe website you can get an idea of the availability. For example, for tomorrow nearly all Madrid - Cordoba services have seats left. Although none are still available at the cheapest "promo" fare. However if you're arriving on or around a public holiday there may be less choice with many services sold out. What's your arrival date?
Thank you ... we arrive March 10 so seems ok to book at airport ... thanks again for your help... Rory
Yep, just go to the Renfe office at the Cercanias station - follow the train/Renfe signs. They'll sell you tickets on the next train to Cordoba - taking into account the Cercanias schedule and the transfer time in Madrid.