Madrid to Pamplona

[Sansthing]

I was wondering if anyone has done this by train? Last time I took a bus but found the journey rather long as I had jetlag.I believe there is a bus service from the airport to a rail station now. Is there more than one rail station in Madrid for Pamplona? Also is the train direct or do you have to change somewhere? I know the RENFE site is supposed to be a bit of a nightmare but I´m willing to give it a go. Unfortunately while I am entitled to the over 60 discount it appears you can only get your discount card at a station, so I can´t get one until I am in Spain... a question of the cart before the horse!
Anyway, if any of you good folks can help me out with some info it will be much appreciated. Thanks.
Sandra :arrow:

 

[Vigdis]

I am flying Iberia from Madrid to Pamplona in March.
You might want to check that out as it will take you there much faster (?)

 

[Sansthing]

Thanks for your suggestion. I had looked into that option, but after my Camino and before returning home to Brazil I am planning a quick visit to England which will be easier from Madrid rather than Pamplona.
Sandra :arrow:

 

[sillydoll]

There is a Renfe office in the airport. It is on the lower level, just to the right when you exit customs. They can sell you a ticket there. Then you can take the Metro to Chamartin.

Ryanair flies from Santiago to Stanstead. You could fly there and then back to Madrid.

 

[Lillian Rodriguez]

hello sansthing,
The train Madrid-Pamplona departs from Atocha-Renfe station, reachable via metro from the airport with a few transfers in about 45 minutes, faster than the bus ride. I've taken this train before and will probably do it again this year. If you need directions for the metro, pls let me know.

The ride to Pamplona takes roughly 3 hrs, costs 58,30 E and departs at 10:35, 15:05 and 18:35. Two trains on Sundays 10:35, 15:05. There's a ,50 c discount for online purchases.

Aside from the price advantage versus air flights, it's a relaxed ride with a few stops on the way so you get time to rest and recover.

Buen camino, whichever way you do it!

 

[peregrina2000]

And don't forget that if you want to skip the metro and its several changes from Barajas to Atocha, there is a new "Airport Express" mentioned on other threads here that stops in Plaza Colon, Cibeles (I think), and then Atocha. May be a little longer, but it would be much more relaxing, in my opinion.

 

[Sansthing]

Thanks for all your suggestions, which I have been weighing up. It now appears that there is an ALSA bus from Madrid airport to Pamplona which would save a lot of hassle even if it takes longer than the train, and it is also half the price!
Sandra :arrow: