Alicante-Terminal to Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes train with AVE

My Renfe AVE Train Journey from Alicante Terminal to Madrid Puerta de Atocha

Introduction

After spending a few relaxing days in Alicante, I was ready to head back to Madrid, one of my favorite cities for its constant energy, food scene, and walkable neighborhoods. I chose to travel from Alicante Terminal to Madrid Puerta de Atocha with Renfe AVE, Spain’s flagship high-speed train service. It’s easily the smoothest and most efficient way to connect the coast and the capital. Here's what to expect if you’re planning to take this same exciting route.

Route Overview

The Renfe AVE Alicante to Madrid route covers around 420 km in about 2 hours and 30 minutes, linking Alicante Terminal with Madrid Puerta de Atocha. Opened as part of Spain’s expanding high-speed rail network, this line makes it possible to reach Madrid in less than half the time of a long-distance bus or car trip. Compared with flying from Alicante to Madrid, taking the train means skipping airport lines and arriving directly in the city center, which is a major advantage for both tourists and locals.

Transportation Experience

I booked my Alicante Terminal to Madrid Puerta de Atocha train ticket on Omio. The Omio app made it simple to compare times and fares before choosing the best option. I’d considered taking the bus to Madrid Atocha, but the AVE service was the better choice for both speed and comfort, especially since I was traveling with luggage and wanted a quiet workspace onboard. Renfe’s trains run reliably on schedule, so I felt confident planning meetings later that day. I always choose a window seat, not just for the scenery, but because it’s ideal for resting or catching up on work during the trip. ### Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Renfe AVE trains to Madrid Puerta de Atocha depart from Alicante Terminal. The station is fairly compact, easy to navigate, and just a short walk from the city center. Inside, you’ll find a Tim Hortons café, small souvenir stands, and a convenience shop for last-minute snacks or drinks. Security and ticket checks are quick, so arriving about 30 to 40 minutes before departure is plenty of time. Be sure to bring your passport or ID, as you will need it for Renfe's check-in. I stopped at Tim Hortons for a croissant and coffee, a familiar favorite, which made the perfect start to the journey.

When arriving at Madrid Puerta de Atocha from Alicante terminal, I immediately felt the city’s pace pick up. The station itself is beautiful, featuring a lush indoor garden. There are several cafés in the area, such as Café & Té, and easy access to the Metro (Line 1), buses, and taxis. From here, major neighborhoods like Sol and Chueca are about 10 to 15 minutes away by Metro. That’s exactly what I did. I took the Metro for €1.50 from Atocha Station to the city center.

Schedule & Frequency

There are two daily Renfe AVE departures from Alicante Terminal to Madrid Puerta de Atocha. The first train is at 4:35 PM and the other around 8 PM. I like the mid-afternoon slot, as it still lands just in time for dinner. Plan for about 2 hours and 30 minutes for the ride, plus 10 to 15 minutes for Metro transfers on arrival. Trains are punctual and rarely experience delays, which makes timing connections easy. ### Onboard Experience & Services Taking the train from Alicante Terminal to Madrid Puerta de Atocha was a real pleasure aboard Renfe’s modern high-speed AVE service. I sat in Turista Class on the left-hand side of the train, right next to the window. It was perfect for quick naps, and it gave me steady views throughout the trip.

On the train to Madrid, I stored my small carry-on bag in the luggage rack by the entrance, while my backpack stayed under the seat with my laptop, charger, and a small pouch. Renfe AVE trains have onboard Wi-Fi via the PlayRenfe platform, which worked really well after a quick sign-in using the ticket code. It was surprisingly fast and more than enough for checking emails and maps. I had downloaded a playlist beforehand, just in case, but Spotify was working great.

Each seat had its own power outlet, and the fold-down tray was sturdy enough for my laptop. There’s a café car on board as well, but I wasn’t too hungry after my croissant at the Tim Hortons in Alicante Terminal. The train also had clean, well-maintained restrooms located at each end of the carriage, which is what you expect with Renfe.

Outside the window, I enjoyed watching the landscape gradually change. The palms gave way to open plains and vineyards under the late-afternoon sun. It was the kind of view that makes you relax without realizing it. Every time I take this route, I’m reminded just how comfortable and reliable Spain’s train network is.### Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown I booked my Renfe AVE ticket for the train to Madrid Puerta de Atocha a few days in advance on Omio. Booking early usually saves around €10–€15 compared with same-day prices, and you can choose your preferred seat directly in the app. Here's what I spent on the trip:

Budget breakdown:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

When planning your train trip from Alicante Terminal to Madrid Puerta de Atocha, keep these travel tips in mind:

• Arrive 30–40 minutes early: Check-in is straightforward, but ID verification is required for all passengers.
• Book a midday train: These departures tend to be quieter, and the sunlight makes for great photography from your window seat.
• Bring your own snacks: The café-bar is convenient, but I prefer grabbing something from the station bakery before boarding.
• Download your ticket in the Omio app: It’s faster than printing and still works without Wi-Fi once you’re on board.