Train connection Madrid

[Dem]

I arrive at Barajas on direct flight from US at 6:30 AM w/ checked baggage. Can I make the 10:30 train to Santiago? Or would it be better to plan on taking the afternoon train (1:15?)? Can I purchase a ticket that would be valid on either? Or do I need to lock into a specific time? Thanks ~

 

[henrythedog]

OK, so your train will leave Madrid Chamartin which is the northern station. Accessible by metro or Cercanias train from the airport. There is a pre-boarding security so arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure.

Allowing for the arrival time being ‘wheels down’ not even ‘aircraft come to a stop’ ; immigration, baggage collection etc. I’d still say, yes, you could go that without much stress.

You can book a flexible ticket BUT there is no guarantee that there will be capacity on the later train if your primary booking is for the earlier train.

If you want to cover all the angles book a flexible ticket on both trains. You can cancel >1 hour before departure. If not, just do what I would - book the later train and have a decent lunch.

 

[Former member 102963]

OK, so your train will leave Madrid Chamartin which is the northern station. Accessible by metro or Cercanias train from the airport. There is a pre-boarding security so arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure.

Allowing for the arrival time being ‘wheels down’ not even ‘aircraft come to a stop’ ; immigration, baggage collection etc. I’d still say, yes, you could go that without much stress.

You can book a flexible ticket BUT there is no guarantee that there will be capacity on the later train if your primary booking is for the earlier train.

If you want to cover all the angles book a flexible ticket on both trains. You can cancel >1 hour before departure. If not, just do what I would - book the later train and have a decent lunch.

Fully agree! Sorry to be pedantic, but unless things have changed then published arrival time, is the time on stand, engines off, chocks on, etc, as opposed to the wheels touching the runway. Same principle with departure!

 

[henrythedog]

Fully agree! Sorry to be pedantic, but unless things have changed then published arrival time, is the time on stand, engines off, chocks on, etc, as opposed to the wheels touching the runway. Same principle with departure!

Of course, you’re correct; but I’m certain Ryanair have sounded their ‘on time’ trumpet when the pilot’s first sighted the runway at times.