Transportation

Planes

  • For longer distances (i.e. Madrid to Sevilla, or Barcelona to Sevilla), we recommend taking a plane
  • Domestic airlines offer low prices and are totally worth the time saved and price

Trains

  • They’re a fantastic way to get around in Spain
  • Spanish trains are affordable, comfortable, convenient, they run on time, and provide a wonderful view of Spain’s countryside
  • Use this sites to get a general idea of cost and times for trains
  • Use the train’s app/online services or a kiosk whenever possible (it’s way faster and easier!)
  • Only wait in line if you absolutely have to do so
  • REMEMBER to stamp your ticket BEFORE you board the train at one of the validation boxes, otherwise you will get a huge fine (a staff member will check tickets for validation during the train ride)
  • You can travel on a sleeper train to save on accommodation and arrive first thing in the morning
  • Other basic train travel tips:
    • Don’t wait to board your train until the last minute
    • Be prepared to send your bags through a security scanner
    • Keep your ticket handy
    • Ask staff member to tell you when your station is coming up

Buses

  • Buses are another great way to get around town
  • If you’re lucky and going in the off-season (September – May), they shouldn’t be too crowded 
  • Be aware that around rush hour (5-6 pm), they can get quite busy

Walking

  • Remember that people in Spain (and Europeans in general) walk everywhere!
  • Bring good walking shoes!
  • It’s a wonderful way to get around and get a feel for your city and Spain in general

Other Transportation Tips

  • Rome 2 Rio — You may use this website for best ways to get from A to B, but be sure to double-check the bus and train schedules before you plan. It’s a good way to see multiple methods of travel and compare cost, times, etc.
  • Google Maps — is accurate and helpful
  • Strikes — Note that strikes may happen. They are usually announced beforehand and sometimes drivers will still operate through the strike.

Use these sites or apps to plan trips and get tickets

  • www.renfe.com
  • Or you can buy them in person (use a kiosk whenever possible — it’s way faster!)
  • Only wait in line if you absolutely have to

REMEMBER

  • ALWAYS stamp your ticket BEFORE you board the train at one of the yellow boxes
  • ALWAYS stamp your ticket when you board the bus
  • If you don’t do this, you can get a huge fine (a staff member will check tickets for validation during the train or bus ride)
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