Madrid Central Railway Station Information: WiFi, Luggage, Access, Airport

Madrid Central Railway Station, also known as Madrid Puerta de Atocha, is a bustling transportation hub located in the heart of Madrid, Spain. With a rich history dating back to its opening in 1851, this station is not only a gateway to other cities in Spain but also a landmark in its own right.

In this article, we will explore the various features of Madrid Central Railway Station, including its history, amenities, and services. We will also provide practical information for travelers, such as how to get to the station from both Madrid-Barajas and Madrid-Torrejón airports, the availability of WiFi, and whether there is luggage storage on-site. Additionally, we will discuss the station’s operating hours to help travelers plan their journeys more effectively.

History

Madrid Central Railway Station, originally called Estación de Mediodía, was inaugurated in 1851. The station was rebuilt after a fire in 1892 by MZA railway company, designed by Alberto de Palacio Elissagne and Gustave Eiffel. The station was completely remodeled in 1985 by Rafael Moneo, and a new modern terminal was built adjacent to the original building to serve both high-speed and regional and local commuter lines. In 1992, the original building was converted into a concourse with shops, cafes, and a nightclub.

The station is served by two Madrid Metro stations, Estación del Arte and Atocha Renfe metro station. The latter provides access to Line 1 and a connection to Line 11 is scheduled to be constructed in the first half of the 2020s.

The station was renamed “Atocha” in December 2021, after the liberalization of Spain’s railway industry and the entry of new rail companies into the Spanish market, and will be renamed again as Puerta de Atocha after writer Almudena Grandes on 19 November 2022.

How to get from Madrid-Barajas Airport to Madrid Central Railway Station?

Traveling from Madrid-Barajas Airport to Madrid Central Railway Station can be done in a few different ways. Here are the three main options, with their respective pros and cons:

Bus

Operator: EMT (Bus line 203) (Madrid Municipal Transport Company)

Cost: €5

Frequency: Runs frequently from 5:56 until 23:26

Travel time: Approximately 1 hour

Transfers: No transfers required

FASTEST OPTION – Taxi

Operator: TeleTaxi Madrid or Taxi Reserva

Cost: Around €50-€65

Frequency: Available 24/7

Travel time: Estimated 20-25 minutes

Transfers: Direct transfer from Madrid-Barajas Airport to Madrid Central Railway Station

This is an ideal option for those who value convenience and speed over cost, as well as those who want to avoid navigating public transport.

CHEAPEST OPTION – Train

Operator: Cercanías Madrid

Cost: €2.60 (Tickets can be purchased at the station)

Frequency: Runs frequently from 06:00 until 23:00

Travel time: Around 30 minutes

Transfers: No transfers required

This option is good for travelers who want a balance of convenience and cost-effectiveness.

In summary, the best option for you will depend on your priorities. If you are looking for the cheapest option, taking the metro is the way to go. If you value speed and convenience above all else, taking a taxi is the best choice. Finally, if you want a good balance between cost and convenience, the train is a good option.

WiFi at Madrid Central Railway Station

Madrid Central Railway Station offers free WiFi for all its visitors. The WiFi network is available throughout the station, including the waiting areas, platforms, and ticketing areas.

To access the WiFi network, visitors simply need to connect to the “WIFI Estación de Madrid – ADIF” network and follow the on-screen instructions. No password is required to connect to the network.

The WiFi network at Madrid Central Railway Station is generally reliable and fast, allowing visitors to browse the web, check emails, and use social media without any issues. However, during peak hours when there are many people using the network simultaneously, the speed may slow down.

In addition to the free WiFi, there are also several charging stations throughout the station where visitors can charge their devices. These charging stations are usually located near the waiting areas and platforms.

Overall, the availability of free WiFi at Madrid Central Railway Station is a great convenience for travelers who need to stay connected during their journey.

Is there luggage storage in Madrid Central Railway Station?

Yes, there is luggage storage available at Madrid Central Railway Station. The facility is located on the first floor of the station and is operated by the company “Left Luggage“. You can store your luggage for a few hours or several days, depending on your needs. According to the official website of Madrid Central Railway Station, the luggage storage service is available every day from 07:00 to 23:00.

The price for luggage storage at Madrid Central Railway Station varies depending on the size of your luggage and the length of time you wish to store it. Generally, prices start at around €5 for a small item for a few hours and go up to €10 or more for larger items stored for several days.

To use the luggage storage service at Madrid Central Railway Station, simply bring your luggage to the Left Luggage office and they will provide you with a secure storage tag. You can then pay the fee and leave your luggage in their care. When you return to collect your luggage, just present your storage tag and pay any outstanding fees.

Is Madrid Central Railway Station open 24/7?

Madrid Central Railway Station operates on specific opening hours that vary depending on the day of the week and time of year. From Monday to Sunday, the station is open from 5:00 in the morning until 1:00 a.m. the next day.

It’s essential to note that train schedules may differ from the station’s opening hours. Therefore, it’s always wise to check the timetable before planning your trip to avoid any inconvenience. Besides, some services within the station, such as shops and restaurants, may operate on different opening hours than the station itself.

Central Railway Station is an essential gateway in Madrid, providing a gateway to various locations both within Spain and beyond. With its convenient location and multiple transport options available, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to explore the city or venture further afield. The station’s facilities, such as WiFi and luggage storage, also make it a convenient stop for travelers in need of a break during their journey.

It’s important to note that the station operates on specific opening hours, so it’s essential to plan your journey in advance and check the schedules and services available. Additionally, certain services within the station may have differing hours of operation, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time to avoid any potential inconveniences. By doing so, travelers can ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience at Madrid Central Railway Station.

Whether you’re arriving from the airport or departing to your next destination, Madrid Central Railway Station is an ideal transport hub to consider. With its convenient location and range of transport options, it provides easy access to various destinations within Spain and beyond. Its amenities, including WiFi and luggage storage, also add to the convenience of the station. By planning ahead and checking schedules and services, travelers can make the most of their time at Madrid Central Railway Station and have a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Hotels in Madrid

Budget Accommodation in Madrid – €

Hostal Esmeralda – an affordable option in one of the most central areas to stay in Madrid.

Hispano Gran Vía – a good value for the money option to stay close to the Gran Via.

Reasonably Priced Accommodation in Madrid – €€

Best Western Hotel Los Condes – a great hotel right next to the Gran Via.

NH Madrid Atocha – an excellent hotel close to the Madrid Atocha Station.

Luxurious Hotels in Madrid – €€€

Relais & Châteaux Orfila – a great luxurious hotel in Madrid with easy access to the metro.

Gran Hotel Inglés – an excellent high-end hotel in one of the best central locations to stay in Madrid.

Other Travel Resources to Spain

If you are considering traveling to the capital of Spain or other parts of the country, you might want to check some of our other guides to Spain. Check the best places to stay in A Coruna or where to stay in Barcelona. You can also read about the cost of living in Madrid or how to get from Madrid to Valencia.

Do you have a trip planned to Spain or are you already in the country? Leave your thoughts and questions in the comment box below