Ease of getting to SJPdP

[bbates225]

Love this forum. It's been invaluable, but I would like to ask for input to help alleviate my biggest fear. I'm in my early 70's but healthy and in good shape. I walk and hike a lot (will train more for actual Camino) so I'm pretty sure I can walk the CF barring any unforeseen issues. I've traveled in Europe before but have always had a local language speaking guide. I'm traveling from So. California - alone - because though I have friends, their ideas of travel are air-conditioned buses and 5-star hotels, so this will be my first solo venture. Here is my fear... I know to get from here to there I can go via Paris or Madrid. I know no French or Spanish, though being from So. California, I believe I could pick up Spanish much easier. Once arriving at either airport, how difficult would be the language barrier to get from either airport to SJPdP via bus, train, cab, etc.? What are the methods of transportation to get from the airport to the other modes of transportation. i.e. train and/or bus station? How helpful are locals? I'm leaning towards Madrid at this point and wanting to travel in September this year. Pretty last minute which will add to airfare but this is what I'm shooting for. Sorry for long message... just wanted to get some background in as well.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

The bus from Madrid to Pamplona leaves from the T-4 terminal at the airport.

The bus from Pamplona to SJPdP leaves from the bus terminal where the Madrid bus arrives.

Few speak English, but they are accustomed to communicating with travelers who do not speak Spanish. They are generally quite helpful.

 

[HalfDomeOrBust]

The bus from Madrid to Pamplona leaves from the T-4 terminal at the airport.

The bus from Pamplona to SJPdP leaves from the bus terminal where the Madrid bus arrives.

Few speak English, but they are accustomed to communicating with travelers who do not speak Spanish. They are generally quite helpful.

I agree with Falcon and everything he said. Especially about the part where people are very helpful...

My Spanish was not that good last year and I made it with no trouble. I'm 64. You can do it. Ed

 

[VNwalking]

Here's what I did coming from Hawaii:
Flight to Paris (CDG)
Connect to Orly by Air France bus
Flight to Biarritz
Pick-up by Caroline (EXPRESS BOURRICOT, Tel: (+33) (0)6 61 96 04 76, Email: apcaroline@hotmail.com, website: www.expressbourricot.com)
Arrive SJPP.
Piece of cake.
No less expensive than the train and a whole lot easier. Give yourself 4 hours at least for the CDG-orly connection for customs and to catch the bus...and in case of traffic.

 

[bbates225]

The bus from Madrid to Pamplona leaves from the T-4 terminal at the airport.

The bus from Pamplona to SJPdP leaves from the bus terminal where the Madrid bus arrives.

Few speak English, but they are accustomed to communicating with travelers who do not speak Spanish. They are generally quite helpful.

Thank you Falcon. So much easier than I though it would be. Guess I have to find something else to be worried about (just kidding). You have no idea how much this eases my mind.

 

[bbates225]

I agree with Falcon and everything he said. Especially about the part where people are very helpful...

My Spanish was not that good last year and I made it with no trouble. I'm 64. You can do it. Ed

Thanks so much. I've been planning this for so long but life keeps getting in the way. I'm hoping this year for sure.

 

[HalfDomeOrBust]

Thanks so much. I've been planning this for so long but life keeps getting in the way. I'm hoping this year for sure.

I think we all suffer in some way that Life seems to get in the way. Ever since I made my flight reservations about three weeks ago it seems there is a point everyday that I think, "Geez, can I really get away again to do another Camino"? We just have to continue with our commitment and do it!! And of course losing the price of our plane tickets is also a driver.....Ed

 

[bbates225]

Here's what I did coming from Hawaii:
Flight to Paris (CDG)
Connect to Orly by Air France bus
Flight to Biarritz
Pick-up by Caroline (EXPRESS BOURRICOT, Tel: (+33) (0)6 61 96 04 76, Email: apcaroline@hotmail.com, website: www.expressbourricot.com)
Arrive SJPP.
Piece of cake.
No less expensive than the train and a whole lot easier. Give yourself 4 hours at least for the CDG-orly connection for customs and to catch the bus...and in case of traffic.

Thanks, does sound easy though not necessarily a piece of cake for me. I'm still leaning towards Madrid.

 

[Icacos]

Love this forum. It's been invaluable, but I would like to ask for input to help alleviate my biggest fear. I'm in my early 70's but healthy and in good shape. I walk and hike a lot (will train more for actual Camino) so I'm pretty sure I can walk the CF barring any unforeseen issues. I've traveled in Europe before but have always had a local language speaking guide. I'm traveling from So. California - alone - because though I have friends, their ideas of travel are air-conditioned buses and 5-star hotels, so this will be my first solo venture. Here is my fear... I know to get from here to there I can go via Paris or Madrid. I know no French or Spanish, though being from So. California, I believe I could pick up Spanish much easier. Once arriving at either airport, how difficult would be the language barrier to get from either airport to SJPdP via bus, train, cab, etc.? What are the methods of transportation to get from the airport to the other modes of transportation. i.e. train and/or bus station? How helpful are locals? I'm leaning towards Madrid at this point and wanting to travel in September this year. Pretty last minute which will add to airfare but this is what I'm shooting for. Sorry for long message... just wanted to get some background in as well.

Others can help you regarding logistics far more than I can. I just want to say, "Congratulations," on leaving your air-conditioned buses and 5-star hotel friends to enjoy their thing, while you branch off to do yours. It sounds like you will find the Camino entirely to your liking. Buen Camino! I will be with you in spirit.

 

[bbates225]

I think we all suffer in some way that Life seems to get in the way. Ever since I made my flight reservations about three weeks ago it seems there is a point everyday that I think, "Geez, can I really get away again to do another Camino"? We just have to continue with our commitment and do it!! And of course losing the price of our plane tickets is also a driver.....Ed

You are so right. At this point I think I just need to stop worrying about everything and just buy that ticket. Like you said, losing the price of a plane ticket should motivate me enough to look forward and stop searching the shadows for excuses.

 

[MTtoCamino]

Thanks, does sound easy though not necessarily a piece of cake for me. I'm still leaning towards Madrid.

Being that I have not had a great deal of higher education With no formal language. I went thru Paris to Barritz my issue was @ the Orly airport & my lack of French. I just had to be patient & be aware as they had me sit in the wrong gate. Once the planes arrived I knew the airline of the plane. I figured it out, but the lack of sleep was a killer. I would do it again & I still have the directions I wrote to find the bus to Orly out of CDG .
Yet every person I spoke to who arrived in Madrid had no issues, my return flight was out of Madrid. The Spanish are very kind people.

 

[Mark Lee]

Thanks, does sound easy though not necessarily a piece of cake for me. I'm still leaning towards Madrid.

Last summer I flew to Madrid from the US. Took the Alsa bus from T4 to Pamplona. Had pre-arranged through Corazon Puro (www.corazonpuro.es) for them to pick me up at the bus station and spend the night at their pensiones. They fed me dinner and breakfast and dropped me off about 100 meters from the pilgrim's office in St Jean.
cheers

 

[HalfDomeOrBust]

Last summer I flew to Madrid from the US. Took the Alsa bus from T4 to Pamplona. Had pre-arranged through Corazon Puro (www.corazonpuro.es) for them to pick me up at the bus station and spend the night at their pensiones. They fed me dinner and breakfast and dropped me off about 100 meters from the pilgrim's office in St Jean.
cheers

Hi Mark, I think that I will do the same thing as you did. I get into Madrid this year also and last year I had a connecting Iberia Flight to Pamplona then had Puro pick me up. This year it appears that Iberia does not have the approx 11:00 AM flight any longer to Pamplona which would allow me to get get there in time to be picked up. Looks like the bus for me...

Sure do wish I could get a flight though as it would allow me to do some Pamplona touring ahead of when we hike back thru....
Ed

 

[whariwharangi]

2100. Paris

2101 This section discusses transportation services in Paris.

Index 2100
2102 Paris Airports
2103 Getting around in Paris
2104 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport
2105 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare d'Austerlitz
2106 Charles de Gaulle Airport to TGV Massey
2107 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Gare Montparnasse
2120 Trains in France
2121 Paris Train Stations
2125 Paris to London by Eurostar
2135 Paris to Barcelona by train
2150 Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port

2102 Paris Airports

Paris has two major airports. Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is known as Roissy and is located NE of Paris. Orly Airport (ORY) is located to the South of Paris.

CDG and Orly:
http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/

2103 Getting around in Paris

Paris Transit Network
http://www.ratp.fr/plan-interactif/carteidf.php?lang=uk

Paris RER/Metro route planner - SNCF Transilien
http://www.transilien.com/itineraire/rechercheitineraire/init

Air France Shuttle Bus with service from CDG to Orly airport (#3) and to Gare Montparnasse (#4)
http://en.lescarsairfrance.com/

Easybus offers discount bus service from CDG to Paris Center (Louvre)
http://www.easybus.co.uk/en/

2104 Charles de Gaulle Airport to Orly Airport

There are two transit options from CDG Airport to Orly Airport.

a. RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Station Antony. Take Orly Val (name of train) from Station Antony to Orly airport Terminal Sud and Terminal Ouest. Allow 1:30 hours.

b. Air France bus from CDG airport direct to Paris Orly airport. Allow 1:15 hours.

2105 CDG Airport to Gare d'Austerlitz

RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Saint Michel Notre Dame RER station. Walk from RER station to Metro. Take Metro line 10 from Cluny la Sorbonne to Gare Austerlitz. Allow 1 hour.

2106 CDG Airport to TGV Massy

RER Line B (destination B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Massy-Palaiseau RER station. The Massy TGV station is located next to the RER station.


2107 CDG Airport to Gare Montparnasse.

There are two transit options from CDG airport to Gare Montparnasse:

a. RER Line B (destination B2 Robinson or B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Gare du Nord. Paris Metro Line 4 from Gare du Nord to Metro Station Montparnasse Bienvenue. Allow 1:00 hour. Allow an additional 15 minutes to walk from the Metro station to Gare Montparnasse.

~Note there are 3 points where it is possible to transfer from RER B to Metro line 4. A transfer at St Michel may be preferable as Gare du Nord is a large station and will require orientation time.

b. Air France operates a bus service from CDG direct to Gare Montparnasse. Allow 1:15 hours.

2120 Trains in France

SNCF
http://www.sncf.com/

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

SNCF TER
http://www.ter-sncf.com/

SNCF Railway Map
http://www.bonjourlafrance.com/france-map/sncf-map-large.htm

2121 Paris Train Stations

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Terminal 2 train station
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frmlw/accueil/

Gare de Massy TGV
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frdju/accueil/

Note in additon to CDG 2 and Massy there are 6 major train stations in Paris:

Paris Gare d'Austerlitz
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpaz/accueil/

Gare Paris Bercy
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpbe/accueil/

Gare Paris Est
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpst/accueil/

Paris Gare de Lyon
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frply/accueil/

Paris Gare Montparnasse
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpmo/accueil/

Paris Gare du Nord.
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frpno/accueil/

Map of TGV train network in Paris:
http://www.bonjourlafrance.com/france-trains/images/tgv-map-paris.jpg

2125. Paris to London by Eurostar

Eurostar trains operate between Paris Gare du Nord and London St Pancras International Station
http://www.eurostar.com

2135 Paris to Barcelona by Train

SNCF and Renfe operate high speed trains between Paris Gare de Lyon and Barcelona Sants.

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

2150 Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port

2151 This section discusses how to get from Paris to Saint Jean Pied de Port.

Index 2150
2152 Executive Summary
2153 Fly from Paris to Biarritz and train to SJPdP
2154 Train from Paris to SJPdP
2155 Train stations between Paris and Bayonne
2156 Saint Jean Pied de Port
2157 Author's Pick

2152 Executive Summary

There are at least two viable options for getting from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport to Saint Jean Pied de Port (SJPdP):

a. Fly from Paris to Biarritz and take the train from Bayonne to SJPdP.

b. Take the train from Paris to Bayonne and transfer to another train from Bayonne to SJPdP. Stations in Paris with trains to Bayonne include: CDG 2, Gare d'Austerlitz, Gare Montparnasse, and Gare Massy.

Note: at time of writing the tracks to SJPdP are washed out April 2014. Service is by an SNCF operated bus. The schedule for TER 62 is changing often so check again just prior to travel.

2153 ~Option 1 Fly from Paris to Biarritz and train to SJPdP

a. Fly from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Biarritz Airport (BIQ). Easy Jet provides service; or,

b. Fly from Paris Orly Airport (ORY) to Biarritz Airport (BIQ) Air France provides service.

The Chronoplus urban bus #14 leaves from the doors of Biarritz Airport and goes to Gare de Bayonne. Allow 40 minutes.

The SNCF TER train #62 travels from Bayonne to terminus at SJPdP.

Biarritz Airport (BIQ)
http://en.biarritz.aeroport.fr/

Chronoplus
http://www.chronoplus.eu/

SNCF TER Aquitaine
http://www.ter-sncf.com/Regions/Aquitaine/fr/Default.aspx

2154 ~Option 2 - Train from Paris to SJPdP.

TGV trains travel towards Bayonne from three train stations in Paris.

a. There is a TGV station located at Charles de Gaulle Airport CDG 2.

b. There is a TGV station located at Gare Montparnasse in central Paris. There is greater frequency of service from Gare Montparnasse than from CDG 2.

c. TGV trains make a stop at Gare Massy.

SNCF TGV trains leave from Paris enroute to Bordeaux or Irun. Often there is a transfer required at Bordeaux. TGV trains from Bordeaux terminate in Irun. TER trains from Bordeaux terminate in Pau or Hendaye. If your train is bound for Pau another transfer is required at Dax. Trains bound for Hendaye or Irun stop in Bayonne.

SNCF Intercites night trains travel from Paris Gare Austerlitz to Hendaye and stop in Bayonne.

SNCF TER train #62 travels from Gare Bayonne to terminus at SJPdP

You will get limited results if you try to find a schedule for a train from Paris to SJPdP. I'd suggest planning your trip from Paris to Bayonne then Bayonne to SJPdP.

SNCF
http://www.sncf.com/

SNCF - train schedule and tickets:
http://www.voyages-sncf.com/billet-train/horaires

SNCF TER Aquitaine
http://www.ter-sncf.com/Regions/Aquitaine/fr/Default.aspx

2155 Train Stations between Paris and Bayonne

Gare Bordeaux - Saint Jean (Saint Jean is name of main station in Bordeaux)
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/en/frboj/accueil/

Gare Bordeaux - Saint Jean according to Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gare_de_Bordeaux-Saint-Jean

Gare de Dax
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/fracg/accueil/

Gare de Bayonne
http://www.gares-en-mouvement.com/fr/frxby/accueil/

2156 Saint Jean Pied de Port

Saint Jean Pied de Port
http://www.st-jean-pied-de-port.fr/default.aspx

2157 Author's pick

If I were traveling to SJPdP by way of Paris I would:

a. Determine if it was cost effective and time effective to fly from Paris to Biarritz. Time effective means arriving in time to catch a train from Bayonne to SJPdP on the same day.

b. If arriving at CDG and taking the train is the better option ... take the train from CDG 2 if the schedule is viable.

c. RER Line B (destination B2 Robinson or B4 Saint Remy les Chevreuse) from CDG airport to Gare du Nord. Paris Metro Line 4 from Gare du Nord to Metro Station Montparnasse Bienvenue. Allow 1:00 hour. Allow an additional 15 minutes to walk from the Metro station to Gare Montparnasse.

d. If arriving at Orly ... take the Orly Val to station Antony and RER train to Massy. Tracks from CDG2 and Montparnasse converge before Massy.

 

[whariwharangi]

2000 Madrid

2001 This section discusses transportation services in Madrid.

Index 2000
2002 Madrid Airport
2003 Getting Around in Madrid
2004 Train Service Madrid
2005 Madrid Train Stations
2006 Madrid Airport to train station Puerta de Atocha
2007 Madrid Airport to train station Chamartin
2008 Bus Service Madrid
2009 Madrid Bus Stations
2010 Madrid Airport Access to Bus Station T4
2011 Madrid Airport to Bus Station Avendida de America
2012 Madrid Airport to Estacion Sur de Autobuses de Madrid
2013 Madrid Airport to Bus Station Moncloa
2050 Madrid to Roncesvalles and Saint Jean Pied de Port via Pamplona

2002 Madrid Airport

The airport in Madrid is called Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). There are 4 terminals. T1, T2, and T3 are in one building while T4 is connected via shuttle. Terminal 4S is connected to Terminal 4 by Automatic People Mover (APM) and has a shuttle stop.

Madrid Airport (MAD)
http://www.aena-aeropuertos.es/csee/Satellite/Aeropuerto-Madrid-Barajas/en/

2003 Getting around in Madrid

Connections to Madrid include subway (Metro), light rail transit (Cercanias), and bus (EMT).

Madrid Metro has stations at T1-T2-T3 and at T4. The trains run every 6 - 12 minutes.

Madrid Cercanias has a station at T4. The trains run every 30 minutes.

Empresa Municipal de Transportes (EMT) route 200 provides bus service from the airport T1-T2-T3 and airport T4 to Intercambiador de Avenida de America, a major urban bus, intercity bus and metro connection hub.

EMT Madrid Aeropuerto Express operates a bright yellow express bus every 13 -20 minutes from the airport T1-T2-T3 and airport T4 to Puerta de Atocha Renfe station.

Madrid Metro
http://www.metromadrid.es/en/index.html

Madrid Metro Map
http://www.metromadrid.es/export/sites/metro/comun/documentos/planos/Planomayo2013.pdf

Madrid Cercanias (operated by Renfe)
http://www.renfe.com/viajeros/cercanias/madrid/index.html

EMT Madrid provides Madrid transit bus services

http://www.emtmadrid.es/

EMT Madrid Aeropuerto Express
http://www.emtmadrid.es/lineaAeropuerto/index.html

2004 Train Service Madrid

Renfe operates Spain's national train network.

Renfe
http://www.renfe.com/index.html

2005 Madrid Train Stations

Madrid has two major Renfe train stations operated by adif; Puerta de Atocha and Chamartin.

Chamartin Renfe Station Madrid
http://www.adif.es/es_ES/infraestructuras/estaciones/17000/informacion_000295.shtml

Puerta de Atocha Renfe Station Madrid
http://www.adif.es/es_ES/infraestructuras/estaciones/60000/informacion_000070.shtml

2006 Madrid Airport to train station Puerta de Atocha

a. Puerta de Atocha is reached by Metro. Take line 8 from airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Nuevos Ministerios; line 10 to Tribunal; and, line 1 to Renfe Atocha.

b. Puerta de Atocha is reached by Renfe Cercanias direct from Madrid Airport T4

c. Puerta de Atocha is reached by EMT Madrid Aeropuerto Express bus direct from Madrid Airport T1-T2-T3 or T4.

2007 Madrid Airport to train station Chamartin

a. Chamartin is reached by Metro. Take line 8 from airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Nuevos Ministerios; and, line 10 to Chamartin.

b. Chamartin is reached by Renfe Cercanias direct from Madrid Airport T4.

2008 Bus Service Madrid

There are hundreds of bus companies in Spain. Usually the best tactic is to refer to bus station information at your destination for listings of bus service providers and schedules.

ALSA is a major bus carrier with service to Madrid.
http://www.alsa.es/en/

Avanza bus is a major bus carrier with service to Madrid.
http://www.avanzabus.com/web/default.aspx

2009 Madrid Bus Stations

There are several bus stations in Madrid. I've listed four. There likely are other stations that I'm not aware of at time of writing.

There is a bus station at Madrid Airport T4. See Transport and Access tabs.
http://www.aena-aeropuertos.es/csee/Satellite/Aeropuerto-Madrid-Barajas/en/

Estacion Sur de Autobuses de Madrid
http://www.estacionautobusesmadrid.com/frameset.html

Intercambiador de Avenida de America
http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intercambiador_de_Avenida_de_América

Moncloa
http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estación_de_Moncloa

2010 Madrid Airport Access to Bus Station T4

There is a bus station at T4 Barajas Airport. A shuttle connects T1-T2-T3 with T4.

2011 Madrid Airport to bus station Avenida de America

a. Intercambiador de Avenida de America (Madrid) is co-located with the Metro. Take line 8 from Barajas airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Colombia; and, line 9 to Avenida de America.

b. EMT route 200 provides bus service from the airport T1-T2-T3 and airport T4 to Intercambiador de Avenida de America

2012 Madrid Airport to Estacion Sur de Autobuses de Madrid

a. Estacion Sur de Autobuses de Madrid is located near the Méndez Álvaro Metro Station. Take line 8 from Barajas airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Colombia; line 9 to Avenida de America; and, line 6 to Méndez Álvaro. Exit the Metro to find the bus station.

b. Take Renfe Cercanias train from T4 Barajas airport to Méndez Álvaro.

2013 Madrid Airport to bus station Moncloa

Madrid Moncloa is co-located with the Metro. Take line 8 from Barajas airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Nuevo Ministerios; and, line 6 to Moncloa.

2050 Travel from Madrid to Roncesvalles and Saint Jean Pied de Port via Pamplona

2051 This section describes travel from Madrid to Roncesvalles and Saint Jean Pied de Port via Pamplona.

Index 2050
2052 Executive Summary
2053 Madrid to Pamplona by Train
2054 Madrid to Pamplona by Bus
2055 Pamplona
2056 Pamplona to Roncesvalles
2057 Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port
2058 Saint Jean Pied de Port

2052 Executive Summary

There are at least 3 options for travel from Madrid to Pamplona.

a. Travel by plane from Madrid to Pamplona.

b. Travel by Renfe train from Madrid to Pamplona.

c. Travel by bus from Madrid to Pamplona.

The urban bus to Roncesvalles and the international bus to Saint Jean Pied de Port leave from the bus station in Pamplona.

Note that bus service from Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port is seasonal. The alternative is to travel via Bayonne or hire a taxi.

2053 Madrid to Pamplona by train

The Renfe train route from Madrid to Pamplona goes via Zaragoza. Transfers may be required so check the itenerary.

Renfe
http://www.renfe.com/index.html

2054 Madrid to Pamplona by bus

ALSA operates buses to Pamplona from Barajas Airport T4, and Estacion (or Intercambiador) de Avenida de America. Note there is usually a transfer at Soria or Zaragoza.

ALSA
https://www.alsa.es/

2055 Pamplona

Pamplona Airport (PNA)
http://www.aena-aeropuertos.es/csee/Satellite/Aeropuerto-Pamplona/en/Home.html

Estacion de Autobuses de Pamplona
http://estaciondeautobusesdepamplona.com/Inicio.aspx

Pamplona Renfe Station
http://www.adif.es/es_ES/infraestructuras/estaciones/80100/informacion_000111.shtml

2056 Pamplona to Roncesvalles

Urban bus service to Roncesvalles is provided by Autocares Artieda and departs from Estacion de Autobuses de Pamplona. Note it does not operate on Sundays.

Autocares Artieda
http://www.autocaresartieda.com/?scc=svpropios

CONDA provides ~seasonal~ bus service from Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port. The bus makes a stop in Roncesvalles (even on Sundays).

2057 Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port

CONDA (a subsidiary of ALSA) provides ~seasonal~ bus service from Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port. The bus makes a stop in Roncesvalles and Valcarlos. The SJPdP bus stop is located near the junction of Route d'Uhart and Route d'Arneguy. Trip time is one hour 45 minutes. The bus then returns from SJPdP to Pamplona. The Conda site advises that you purchase the ticket from Pamplona to SJPdP separately from any other bus ticket.

Use the ALSA schedule international tab and click the 'query without date' button.

The bus service usually starts just prior to Easter and terminates at the end of autumn. Schedules are not usually updated more than one month in advance.

The bus from Pamplona to SJPdP ran daily 1000 13 June to 31 August 2014, 1430 1 June to 30 Sept 2014, and 1730 17 March to 30 September 2014. The schedule for the 1430 bus was extended first to 3 Nov 2014 and again to 7 Dec 2014.

ALSA
https://www.alsa.es/

Conda
http://www.conda.es/

2058 Saint Jean Pied de Port

Saint Jean Pied de Port
http://www.st-jean-pied-de-port.fr/default.aspx

 

[whariwharangi]

Once arriving at either airport, how difficult would be the language barrier to get from either airport to SJPdP via bus, train, cab, etc.? What are the methods of transportation to get from the airport to the other modes of transportation. i.e. train and/or bus station?

Its like any airport anywhere. There are signs indicating with a symbol and an arrow. If you've done your map recce of the airports and know where to go to get your next bus or train and who the service providers are its not hard. Just make sure you have enough flex in your plan so that you don't end up in a situation where you missed the bus by 5 minutes and don't know if there is another one later.

Don't forget you need to get home. Its easier to get from Santiago to Madrid than from Santiago to Paris.

 

[bbates225]

Being that I have not had a great deal of higher education With no formal language. I went thru Paris to Barritz my issue was @ the Orly airport & my lack of French. I just had to be patient & be aware as they had me sit in the wrong gate. Once the planes arrived I knew the airline of the plane. I figured it out, but the lack of sleep was a killer. I would do it again & I still have the directions I wrote to find the bus to Orly out of CDG .
Yet every person I spoke to who arrived in Madrid had no issues, my return flight was out of Madrid. The Spanish are very kind people.

That bit about sitting at the wrong gate is exactly what my "fear" is all about. Not only does Madrid still appeal to me, but it seems it would be much easier to get from Santiago back to Madrid for the flight home.

 

[bbates225]

Its like any airport anywhere. There are signs indicating with a symbol and an arrow. If you've done your map recce of the airports and know where to go to get your next bus or train and who the service providers are its not hard. Just make sure you have enough flex in your plan so that you don't end up in a situation where you missed the bus by 5 minutes and don't know if there is another one later.

Don't forget you need to get home. Its easier to get from Santiago to Madrid than from Santiago to Paris.

I do have to work out the timing issues but I don't think that should be too hard (hopefully). And yes, after my initial post I did think about the return flight and everything I've read said it was much easier to get to Madrid from Santiago than to Paris as you said. Thanks for the advice.

 

[bbates225]

2000 Madrid

2001 This section discusses transportation services in Madrid.

Index 2000
2002 Madrid Airport
2003 Getting Around in Madrid
2004 Train Service Madrid
2005 Madrid Train Stations
2006 Madrid Airport to train station Puerta de Atocha
2007 Madrid Airport to train station Chamartin
2008 Bus Service Madrid
2009 Madrid Bus Stations
2010 Madrid Airport Access to Bus Station T4
2011 Madrid Airport to Bus Station Avendida de America
2012 Madrid Airport to Estacion Sur de Autobuses de Madrid
2013 Madrid Airport to Bus Station Moncloa
2050 Madrid to Roncesvalles and Saint Jean Pied de Port via Pamplona

2002 Madrid Airport



The airport in Madrid is called Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). There are 4 terminals. T1, T2, and T3 are in one building while T4 is connected via shuttle. Terminal 4S is connected to Terminal 4 by Automatic People Mover (APM) and has a shuttle stop.

Madrid Airport (MAD)
http://www.aena-aeropuertos.es/csee/Satellite/Aeropuerto-Madrid-Barajas/en/

2003 Getting around in Madrid

Connections to Madrid include subway (Metro), light rail transit (Cercanias), and bus (EMT).

Madrid Metro has stations at T1-T2-T3 and at T4. The trains run every 6 - 12 minutes.

Madrid Cercanias has a station at T4. The trains run every 30 minutes.

Empresa Municipal de Transportes (EMT) route 200 provides bus service from the airport T1-T2-T3 and airport T4 to Intercambiador de Avenida de America, a major urban bus, intercity bus and metro connection hub.

EMT Madrid Aeropuerto Express operates a bright yellow express bus every 13 -20 minutes from the airport T1-T2-T3 and airport T4 to Puerta de Atocha Renfe station.

Madrid Metro
http://www.metromadrid.es/en/index.html

Madrid Metro Map
http://www.metromadrid.es/export/sites/metro/comun/documentos/planos/Planomayo2013.pdf

Madrid Cercanias (operated by Renfe)
http://www.renfe.com/viajeros/cercanias/madrid/index.html

EMT Madrid provides Madrid transit bus services

http://www.emtmadrid.es/

EMT Madrid Aeropuerto Express
http://www.emtmadrid.es/lineaAeropuerto/index.html

2004 Train Service Madrid

Renfe operates Spain's national train network.

Renfe
http://www.renfe.com/index.html

2005 Madrid Train Stations

Madrid has two major Renfe train stations operated by adif; Puerta de Atocha and Chamartin.

Chamartin Renfe Station Madrid
http://www.adif.es/es_ES/infraestructuras/estaciones/17000/informacion_000295.shtml

Puerta de Atocha Renfe Station Madrid
http://www.adif.es/es_ES/infraestructuras/estaciones/60000/informacion_000070.shtml

2006 Madrid Airport to train station Puerta de Atocha

a. Puerta de Atocha is reached by Metro. Take line 8 from airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Nuevos Ministerios; line 10 to Tribunal; and, line 1 to Renfe Atocha.

b. Puerta de Atocha is reached by Renfe Cercanias direct from Madrid Airport T4

c. Puerta de Atocha is reached by EMT Madrid Aeropuerto Express bus direct from Madrid Airport T1-T2-T3 or T4.

2007 Madrid Airport to train station Chamartin

a. Chamartin is reached by Metro. Take line 8 from airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Nuevos Ministerios; and, line 10 to Chamartin.

b. Chamartin is reached by Renfe Cercanias direct from Madrid Airport T4.

2008 Bus Service Madrid

There are hundreds of bus companies in Spain. Usually the best tactic is to refer to bus station information at your destination for listings of bus service providers and schedules.

ALSA is a major bus carrier with service to Madrid.
http://www.alsa.es/en/

Avanza bus is a major bus carrier with service to Madrid.
http://www.avanzabus.com/web/default.aspx

2009 Madrid Bus Stations

There are several bus stations in Madrid. I've listed four. There likely are other stations that I'm not aware of at time of writing.

There is a bus station at Madrid Airport T4. See Transport and Access tabs.
http://www.aena-aeropuertos.es/csee/Satellite/Aeropuerto-Madrid-Barajas/en/

Estacion Sur de Autobuses de Madrid
http://www.estacionautobusesmadrid.com/frameset.html

Intercambiador de Avenida de America
http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intercambiador_de_Avenida_de_América

Moncloa
http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estación_de_Moncloa

2010 Madrid Airport Access to Bus Station T4

There is a bus station at T4 Barajas Airport. A shuttle connects T1-T2-T3 with T4.

2011 Madrid Airport to bus station Avenida de America

a. Intercambiador de Avenida de America (Madrid) is co-located with the Metro. Take line 8 from Barajas airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Colombia; and, line 9 to Avenida de America.

b. EMT route 200 provides bus service from the airport T1-T2-T3 and airport T4 to Intercambiador de Avenida de America

2012 Madrid Airport to Estacion Sur de Autobuses de Madrid

a. Estacion Sur de Autobuses de Madrid is located near the Méndez Álvaro Metro Station. Take line 8 from Barajas airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Colombia; line 9 to Avenida de America; and, line 6 to Méndez Álvaro. Exit the Metro to find the bus station.

b. Take Renfe Cercanias train from T4 Barajas airport to Méndez Álvaro.

2013 Madrid Airport to bus station Moncloa

Madrid Moncloa is co-located with the Metro. Take line 8 from Barajas airport T1-T2-T3 or T4 to Nuevo Ministerios; and, line 6 to Moncloa.

2050 Travel from Madrid to Roncesvalles and Saint Jean Pied de Port via Pamplona

2051 This section describes travel from Madrid to Roncesvalles and Saint Jean Pied de Port via Pamplona.

Index 2050
2052 Executive Summary
2053 Madrid to Pamplona by Train
2054 Madrid to Pamplona by Bus
2055 Pamplona
2056 Pamplona to Roncesvalles
2057 Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port
2058 Saint Jean Pied de Port

2052 Executive Summary

There are at least 3 options for travel from Madrid to Pamplona.

a. Travel by plane from Madrid to Pamplona.

b. Travel by Renfe train from Madrid to Pamplona.

c. Travel by bus from Madrid to Pamplona.

The urban bus to Roncesvalles and the international bus to Saint Jean Pied de Port leave from the bus station in Pamplona.

Note that bus service from Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port is seasonal. The alternative is to travel via Bayonne or hire a taxi.

2053 Madrid to Pamplona by train

The Renfe train route from Madrid to Pamplona goes via Zaragoza. Transfers may be required so check the itenerary.

Renfe
http://www.renfe.com/index.html

2054 Madrid to Pamplona by bus

ALSA operates buses to Pamplona from Barajas Airport T4, and Estacion (or Intercambiador) de Avenida de America. Note there is usually a transfer at Soria or Zaragoza.

ALSA
https://www.alsa.es/

2055 Pamplona

Pamplona Airport (PNA)
http://www.aena-aeropuertos.es/csee/Satellite/Aeropuerto-Pamplona/en/Home.html

Estacion de Autobuses de Pamplona
http://estaciondeautobusesdepamplona.com/Inicio.aspx

Pamplona Renfe Station
http://www.adif.es/es_ES/infraestructuras/estaciones/80100/informacion_000111.shtml

2056 Pamplona to Roncesvalles

Urban bus service to Roncesvalles is provided by Autocares Artieda and departs from Estacion de Autobuses de Pamplona. Note it does not operate on Sundays.

Autocares Artieda
http://www.autocaresartieda.com/?scc=svpropios

CONDA provides ~seasonal~ bus service from Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port. The bus makes a stop in Roncesvalles (even on Sundays).

2057 Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port

CONDA (a subsidiary of ALSA) provides ~seasonal~ bus service from Pamplona to Saint Jean Pied de Port. The bus makes a stop in Roncesvalles and Valcarlos. The SJPdP bus stop is located near the junction of Route d'Uhart and Route d'Arneguy. Trip time is one hour 45 minutes. The bus then returns from SJPdP to Pamplona. The Conda site advises that you purchase the ticket from Pamplona to SJPdP separately from any other bus ticket.

Use the ALSA schedule international tab and click the 'query without date' button.

The bus service usually starts just prior to Easter and terminates at the end of autumn. Schedules are not usually updated more than one month in advance.

The bus from Pamplona to SJPdP ran daily 1000 13 June to 31 August 2014, 1430 1 June to 30 Sept 2014, and 1730 17 March to 30 September 2014. The schedule for the 1430 bus was extended first to 3 Nov 2014 and again to 7 Dec 2014.

ALSA
https://www.alsa.es/

Conda
http://www.conda.es/

2058 Saint Jean Pied de Port

Saint Jean Pied de Port
http://www.st-jean-pied-de-port.fr/default.aspx

Awesome info. Thanks so much!!!!

 

[Mark Lee]

Hi Mark, I think that I will do the same thing as you did. I get into Madrid this year also and last year I had a connecting Iberia Flight to Pamplona then had Puro pick me up. This year it appears that Iberia does not have the approx 11:00 AM flight any longer to Pamplona which would allow me to get get there in time to be picked up. Looks like the bus for me...

Sure do wish I could get a flight though as it would allow me to do some Pamplona touring ahead of when we hike back thru....
Ed

The bus ride was comfortable and had one stop with change over to a different bus. Since I arrived early in Madrid and had plenty of time, I made my reservations online with Alsa. All I had to do was step out the terminal, show the driver my printed ticket and board the bus.
You could always just spend the night in Pamplona and take the bus to St Jean the next day.

 

[whariwharangi]

I do have to work out the timing issues but I don't think that should be too hard (hopefully). And yes, after my initial post I did think about the return flight and everything I've read said it was much easier to get to Madrid from Santiago than to Paris as you said. Thanks for the advice.

Its not the timing that is the problem. If your plans go awry due to a late plane arrival(for example) ... you need a plan B ... because otherwise you need to ask questions ... and the language bit may become a problem.

For instance there was a pilgrim who arrived too late to catch her bus at T4 as planned. The desk clerk tried to tell her to go to Avenida de America to catch the next bus (which was not slated to stop at the airport). And language became a barrier.

 

[MTtoCamino]

That bit about sitting at the wrong gate is exactly what my "fear" is all about. Not only does Madrid still appeal to me, but it seems it would be much easier to get from Santiago back to Madrid for the flight home.

Since I can not understand or have a conversation in any language other than English & after visiting The UK they would most likely take issue with that. Yet I did take some private Spanish from a lady living in my home town. Best thing I did. She also explained some of the customs. I retained as much as I could Put as much as I could on my tablet Google search & I was off.
Things I learned:
Most 30 & younger speak English as well as I do
Most 50 & younger speak more english than I speak Spanish
If you go to any pharmacia your lack of Spanish will be aided by the very smart young people in the place.
When you get into the farm country all bets are off unless you find someone with Dread Locks hair they are another group that seemed well traveled.
If you are smart like me you walk with someone that is fluent in all kinds of languages. So simply ask as you go.

 

[Siom]

Thanks, does sound easy though not necessarily a piece of cake for me. I'm still leaning towards Madrid.

Hi, I understand you're most likely to arrive in Madrid. But for those who are reading this post, there's flight in Paris CDG to SJ via easyjet. Just need to find the terminal.

 

[efdoucette]

Another option.
There is a train station at the CDG airport. The train takes you to Bayonne connecting through Bordeaux. Nice way to see the french countryside. Bayonne is a small station, easy to get a train (sometimes bus) to SJPdP.

 

[HalfDomeOrBust]

Hi, I understand you're most likely to arrive in Madrid. But for those who are reading this post, there's flight in Paris CDG to SJ via easyjet. Just need to find the terminal.

Is SJ in your reply Saint Jean PDP?

 

[Siom]

Is SJ in your reply Saint Jean PDP?

Yup. Was replying on mobile phone, so just used shorter abbreviation.

 

[Mark Lee]

Hi, I understand you're most likely to arrive in Madrid. But for those who are reading this post, there's flight in Paris CDG to SJ via easyjet. Just need to find the terminal.

A flight from Paris to St Jean Pied de Port? Are you sure? I was not aware that there was an airport servicing St Jean?

 

[mspath]

A flight from Paris to St Jean Pied de Port? Are you sure? I was not aware that there was an airport servicing St Jean?

The flight is from CdG/Paris to Biarritz. Next take bus from Biarritz airport to Bayonne railroad station and the train/bus to SJPdP

 

[NavyBlue]

Hello,

Most 50 & younger speak more english than I speak Spanish [...]
your lack of Spanish will be aided by the very smart young people in the place.

Yes, to some extent. But a piece of advice : learn some minimal transactional Spanish (Hello, Thank you, Please, Could you help me...) and use it to do the first step. And smile... People will get out of their way to help you with all the English they can gather. If you expect (american) English as a service to be delivered right away, you might scare them or be considered as arrogant.

Same picture in France. Just my 2 cents worth.

 

[Mark Lee]

The flight is from CdG/Paris to Biarritz. Next take bus from Biarritz airport to Bayonne railroad station and the train/bus to SJPdP

Yeah, I knew about that one, but it's not really a flight to St Jean. It's a flight to Biarritz. I wouldn't want any prospective pilgrims to get the misconception that it is.

 

[waveprof]

You'll be fine without much spanish so long as you TRY when you get there. Simply not being the person who assumes everyone speaks Spanish (or Basque in the first stage) will go a long way.

That said, I'm a big believer that if you plan to go to ANY foreign language location you should learn, in advance, how to say hello, goodbye, thank you, sorry, and to count up from one to whatever the largest number in your party is (so if traveling alone, learn the number one, if traveling with two companions, learn the numbers one two and three)

 

[joe g texas aggies]

Love this forum. It's been invaluable, but I would like to ask for input to help alleviate my biggest fear. I'm in my early 70's but healthy and in good shape. I walk and hike a lot (will train more for actual Camino) so I'm pretty sure I can walk the CF barring any unforeseen issues. I've traveled in Europe before but have always had a local language speaking guide. I'm traveling from So. California - alone - because though I have friends, their ideas of travel are air-conditioned buses and 5-star hotels, so this will be my first solo venture. Here is my fear... I know to get from here to there I can go via Paris or Madrid. I know no French or Spanish, though being from So. California, I believe I could pick up Spanish much easier. Once arriving at either airport, how difficult would be the language barrier to get from either airport to SJPdP via bus, train, cab, etc.? What are the methods of transportation to get from the airport to the other modes of transportation. i.e. train and/or bus station? How helpful are locals? I'm leaning towards Madrid at this point and wanting to travel in September this year. Pretty last minute which will add to airfare but this is what I'm shooting for. Sorry for long message... just wanted to get some background in as well.

I live in SoCal, Orange County. If you want to start a private conversation with me, I will be happy to help you. I am also in the same age range as you. I just returned from the CF less than two weeks ago.

 

[ThisIsSpain]

2100. Paris



b. Air France bus from CDG airport direct to Paris Orly airport. Allow 1:15 hours.

.

Huge amount of great information. THANKS

...... but I MUST take issue on this

"b. Air France bus from CDG airport direct to Paris Orly airport. Allow 1:15 hours."

I would say from personal experience ....... Allow 2 hours MINIMUM ......and I'd be happier suggesting two and a half hours. (It's 50 minutes without traffic by taxi) If you are well away from the bus terminal at CDG, just miss a bus, hit rush-hour Paris traffic etc ...... OUCH if you believe 75 minutes is OK!

For me CDG is the worst large airport in Western Europe and a fifteen minute walk gate to gate is no fun if you know where you are going and speak the language ...... even worse if you are lost and don't speak French.

Heathrow/Gatwick, Schipol, Frankfurt (not great for the camino) Barcelona and Madrid would all get my nod over CDG.

Buen camino a todos

 

[Siom]

Yeah, I knew about that one, but it's not really a flight to St Jean. It's a flight to Biarritz. I wouldn't want any prospective pilgrims to get the misconception that it is.

yes, you are right. my mistake. cdg goes to biarritz, not SJPdP.

 

[bbates225]

You'll be fine without much spanish so long as you TRY when you get there. Simply not being the person who assumes everyone speaks Spanish (or Basque in the first stage) will go a long way.

That said, I'm a big believer that if you plan to go to ANY foreign language location you should learn, in advance, how to say hello, goodbye, thank you, sorry, and to count up from one to whatever the largest number in your party is (so if traveling alone, learn the number one, if traveling with two companions, learn the numbers one two and three)

Fortunately I do know the five words - in Spanish - that you recommended

 

[waveprof]

My wife (a Spanish professor) is suggesting that learning how to say "this" and/or "that" is also useful. Because then you can point to anything you want and be understood.

 

[bbates225]

My wife (a Spanish professor) is suggesting that learning how to say "this" and/or "that" is also useful. Because then you can point to anything you want and be understood.

Very helpful... I will do that. Thanks

 

[mspath]

I would add to those most necessary basic words in any language that for "toilet". Half a lifetime ago when in the old USSR I asked the polite equivalent of " where might I wash my hands ?" Led then to a single issolated sink (!!) ever since wherever I may be I learn the common term for "loo".

 

[bbates225]

I would add to those most necessary basic words in any language that for "toilet".

Yep... know that one too

 

[joe g texas aggies]

Love this forum. It's been invaluable, but I would like to ask for input to help alleviate my biggest fear. I'm in my early 70's but healthy and in good shape. I walk and hike a lot (will train more for actual Camino) so I'm pretty sure I can walk the CF barring any unforeseen issues. I've traveled in Europe before but have always had a local language speaking guide. I'm traveling from So. California - alone - because though I have friends, their ideas of travel are air-conditioned buses and 5-star hotels, so this will be my first solo venture. Here is my fear... I know to get from here to there I can go via Paris or Madrid. I know no French or Spanish, though being from So. California, I believe I could pick up Spanish much easier. Once arriving at either airport, how difficult would be the language barrier to get from either airport to SJPdP via bus, train, cab, etc.? What are the methods of transportation to get from the airport to the other modes of transportation. i.e. train and/or bus station? How helpful are locals? I'm leaning towards Madrid at this point and wanting to travel in September this year. Pretty last minute which will add to airfare but this is what I'm shooting for. Sorry for long message... just wanted to get some background in as well.

My son and I arrived at CDG on April 9, in the midst of an ATC strike. We had planned to fly easyJet to BIQ. That flight was cancelled. We found an SNCF train that left from the CDG terminal to BIQ a couple of hours later, arriving in BIQ at about the same time as the flight would have. The train is more expensive than the flight.

I flew from LAX directly to CDG on AF flight. No connections en route and all that implies. I highly recommend that you look into this flight, since you live in SoCal.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Here is a blog on getting to Pamplona from Madrid, with photos, that I did for my walking group to read:

http://caminosantiago2.blogspot.com/2013/12/getting-from-madrid-to-pamplona-and.html

From Pamplona, there are buses, taxis, and ride shares to Roncesvalles and/or SJPP.
For the EASIEST, I'd reserve a room at Corazon Puro.
They will pick you up in Pamplona and deliver you to SJPP for a very good price.

 

[HalfDomeOrBust]

Lots of great data here Annie. Thank you very much... Ed

 

[bbates225]

My son and I arrived at CDG on April 9, in the midst of an ATC strike. We had planned to fly easyJet to BIQ. That flight was cancelled. We found an SNCF train that left from the CDG terminal to BIQ a couple of hours later, arriving in BIQ at about the same time as the flight would have. The train is more expensive than the flight.

I flew from LAX directly to CDG on AF flight. No connections en route and all that implies. I highly recommend that you look into this flight, since you live in SoCal.

I do believe direct flights are the easiest and less chance of your backpack not arriving at the same time you do (another fear - I have several . I've done the direct flight from LAX to CDG via AF, but with a tour group. Got off the plane and onto a bus with a tour guide. Without that ever present local-language speaking tour guide or at least a friend to get lost with, I always fear the worst. Not really a coward... just older and wiser.

 

[bbates225]

I live in SoCal, Orange County. If you want to start a private conversation with me, I will be happy to help you. I am also in the same age range as you. I just returned from the CF less than two weeks ago.

I would be happy to start a "private" conversation with you as I know that some on this forum do just that. Thing is - and please don't laugh - I don't know how. Simple as it most undoubtedly is, could/would you or someone walk me through it? Thanks in advance.

 

[mspath]

Click on either the avatar photo or name of whomever you wish to converse with. This will bring up their basic info. If they allow conversations next tap the terms "start a conversation" which will be highlighted and then fill in the blanks to write and send your message.

 

[Carol06]

Silly question time. If taking the train from Bayonne to SJPDP, do you have to buy your ticket ahead of time or can you buy it on arrival at Bayonne? Last time we had pre bought our train ticket, only to find there was a strike on that line and we had to taxi to SJPP.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

do you have to buy your ticket ahead

No, and no reservations are taken. They are said to add a bus if the first one is full.

 

[bbates225]

Click on either the avatar photo or name of whomever you wish to converse with. This will bring up their basic info. If they allow conversations next tap the terms "start a conversation" which will be highlighted and then fill in the blanks to write and send your message.

Thank you... 'tis simple. Just needed your help to guide me to it

 

[Carol06]

No, and no reservations are taken. They are said to add a bus if the first one is full.

No, and no reservations are taken. They are said to add a bus if the first one is full.

Thank you Falcon. I did wonder. When I went three years ago the women I started walking with had bought the tickets for us through their travel agent in Canada. Much easier to buy them in Bayonne.