My friend and I are traveling from Seville to Lisbon by train using our Eurail passes. Unfortunately, it looks like the best option is to connect in Madrid (I am visiting Madrid earlier in my trip), but I will have to change train stations arriving at Atocha and departing for Lisbon from Chamartin. What is the best way to get to Chamartin? We only have 50 minutes and each have two pieces of luggage. If we take a taxi, should we reserve the taxi in advance or are there plenty of taxis available at 10:00 pm at Atocha station? Thanks.
Posted by
Cary, NC
687 posts
As far as I know the only sensible way by train is via Madrid. You could go by bus, but then you'd have to go via Faro. There are plenty of trains from Seville, why don't you take an earlier one? I would take the metro between stations, no worries about traffic (10:00 pm is dinner time in Spain). Pack light...
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
The only option by train is through Madrid. And there is only an overnight train to Lisbon. 50 minutes is just enough time to transfer stations, but if you have the option of an earlier train to Madrid, I'd take it. There is rail service between stations. With your tickets into and out of Madrid, the trip is free, just show them your tickets/passes at the turnstiles. It a cercanias train (local service) but direct. RS says they generally leave on track 2 and are frequent. No need for bus, taxi or metro.
Posted by
Albuquerque, NM, USA
38 posts
Exactly. There are regular metro trains going between Chamartin and Atocha. I have taken the night train from Madrid to Lisbon, we got our own compartment, it was a blast! Waking up in Portugal was amazing. Don't forget to visit the drink car, have a beer or glass of wine, and hang with local travelers.
Posted by
OP
Mesa, AZ, US
4 posts
Thanks so much for all the great travel tips. You've been a big help.
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
Just a clarification - the rail connection I mention is NOT the Metro - it is part of RENFE. The metro also links the two stations but not directly - you must change and it costs a regular metro ticket.