Next month we're flying into Madrid via Frankfurt then planning to take a train to Seville. I'm assuming we clear border control for the Schengen area in Frankfurt, and we are not checking bags. Given that, I'm wondering how long it would take to clear Madrid's airport to help me schedule the right train. Tx
Posted by
Chicago
1217 posts
It depends a bit on what airline you are flying in on, thus what terminal you arrive in.
Also, what Madrid train station you are departing from.
Assuming Iberia, you can take the commuter rail from T4 to Atocha, which is free
if you have the Sevilla ticket booked with Renfe.
Metro involves connections so less desirable.
If you come into one of the other terminals, the bus may be the better option since
it is direct to Atocha.
If you are departing on a train from another station, the commuter train may be the
best option in any case since it stops at Chamartin.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
24065 posts
Our experience with MAD (twice) is that it is easy to get in and out of. I would not book any train tickets in advance. You will clear the airport in 30 minutes or so. There is a ticket office in the airport for the train where you can buy you tickets and catch the bus to the train station assuming you are leaving from Atocha. The Spanish trains have a light security screening on the platform so that will add a couple of minutes of getting to your train. The ticket will provide good info.
Posted by
OP
49 posts
Flying Lufthansa, which looks like it uses T1. Train to Seville will depart from Atocha. In looking at this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRjyWKX_HvU, I see options: 1) take internal airport shuttle to T4 and pick up train to Atocha or 2) take express bus from T1 to Atocha.
Re: waiting t buy train ticket to Seville until we arrive, two questions: 1) will it be significantly more expensive and 2) could it sell out? We are scheduled to arrive MAD at 1p on a Sunday. I was aiming for a 3p train to Seville if we can swing it. Thoughts? Tx
Posted by
837 posts
Remember, there are trains to Seville every half hour. You're gonna be fine whatever option you choose.
I guess, for me the biggest issue would be trying to eliminate standing in line or navigating a kiosk to buy a same-day ticket when I'm rushing to catch the next available train. So I might prebook a fare that allows me flexibility to take another train. That precooked ticket is heavily discounted so even buying the higher flexible fare might be cheaper than the same-day ticket.