Madrid Atocha train station is a must-visit attraction in Madrid.
We know that raises an eyebrow—even train enthusiasts such as ourselves encourage travelers to head into the city center as soon as they step off the platform.
But Madrid Atocha train station is worthy of a wander for the way it’s honored the station’s roots while evolving the station with literal roots. From what to eat and buy to the sprawling in-station botanical garden, here’s everything you need to know about the largest of the train stations in Madrid.
Image Credit: Getty Images, fotoVoyager. Image Location: Madrid Atocha Station.
Your guide to Madrid Atocha train station
What is the main train station in Madrid?
Madrid’s main train station is Madrid Atocha. The station is divided into two sections: the high-speed AVE train station in Madrid is the Puerta de Atocha section in the old part of the station, while the Atocha-Cercanías section has connections to standard-speed trains.
Are there two train stations in Madrid?
Yes, there are two train stations in Madrid: Madrid Atocha and Madrid Chamartín. Atocha station is in the south of the city and is the largest in Madrid. Chamartín is in the north of Madrid and is your go-to if you’re headed to northern cities like Bilbao or taking a trip west to Portugal. There are more than 300 metro stations in Madrid, so make sure you note that Atocha and Chamartín are only for "proper" trains.
What is the famous train station in Madrid?
Madrid Atocha is almost certainly the “famous” train station you’ve heard about. That’s not a knock to Madrid Chamartín, either—Chamartín has a bowling alley and roller-skating rink so it’s notable in our book. Atocha, though, is a stunner. The original part of this circa-1850s station was converted into a botanical garden, filled with thousands of plants rivaling the collection at Madrid’s Real Jardín Botánico. Between the botanics and the beauty, Atocha is a blissful station worthy of its famed reputation.
Image Credit: Getty Images, quintanilla. Image Location: Madrid Atocha Station.
How far is Madrid Atocha station from the airport?
Madrid Atocha is approximately 20 min from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, aka Madrid-Barajas (MAD). Both a taxi and the train may plus/minus a few minutes, though the train is far cheaper and has a more predictable schedule than searching for a taxi.
Súper importante: you can’t purchase tickets from Atocha to Madrid airport online, so arrive a few minutes early to purchase them at Atocha station.
Is there airport-style security at Madrid Atocha station?
If you’re taking a high-speed intercity train (AVE, Iryo or Ouigo trains) from the Planta Primera or Planta Baja platforms, you’ll need to go through an X-ray baggage check. It’s not a full TSA situation here—there are no metal detectors and your shoes can stay on—but the lines can get busy at peak times, so leave at least 15–20 mins for security before your departure.
What is the best site to buy train tickets in Spain?
With the exception of getting an Atocha station to Madrid airport ticket in person, the best site to buy train tickets in Spain is Trainline. We show you the cheapest train tickets available for trains from Madrid and beyond. Download the Trainline app and you can have your tickets in your pocket long before you reach the platform.
Image Credit: Getty Imgaes, Alexander Spatari.
What to do in and around Madrid Atocha
If there’s one reason to stop at Madrid Atocha train station, it’s to see the lush gardens in its atrium but this Renfe train station in Madrid is far more than a serene terminus. If you’ve got time to spare before catching your AVE or Renfe train, feel free to shop a bit and grab a bite to eat.
Shopping in Madrid Atocha
Mr. Blue is your guy for men’s fashion while Calzedonia has stylish looks for all genders and ages. Those trip essentials you forgot back home? Superskunk has you covered from electronics and backpacks to water bottles and travel pillows. Natura and The Body Shop have the style and skincare products that’ll make you feel one with the natural elements of Atocha’s botanical garden.
Eating at Madrid Atocha
No one will shame you for eating in Atocha instead of a Spanish tapas bar in the city. Folks flying from Miami to Madrid will recognize the Wynwood restaurant Rodilla in Atocha. Those crazy about sweets shouldn’t ignore the pastry case at Dolcemania. Mahoudrid will give you the Spanish croquettes and other tasty plates you crave without venturing far from your platform.
First time in Madrid? Dance on over to these seductive flamenco bars.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Daniel Hernanz Ramos. Image Location: Madrid Atocha Station.