You can buy train tickets directly from the operator or through a reseller. The reseller is typically slightly more expensive (3-5%) but can provide an easier booking experience, especially if you travel with more than one operator.
These operators provide a complete journey either as a direct connection or through their partners. Even if a change of trains is involved, it’s all part of a single itinerary managed by the same train company or its partners, offering a smoother and more coordinated travel experience.
Some operators don’t run direct trains the whole way, but they serve either the departure or arrival station. In many cases, you can combine two of these operators to complete your journey by changing trains along the way. This is often a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel — especially if you’re comfortable piecing together your own itinerary.
Just keep in mind that these are separate journeys, which means a delay on the first leg could cause you to miss the second without automatic compensation or rebooking. It’s a great option for confident travelers who don’t mind a bit of extra planning.
FlixBus is primarily known as a long-distance bus service operator rather than a traditional rail operator. It offers budget-friendly travel options that connect numerous cities across Europe by road. While FlixBus has ventured into offering rail services under the brand FlixTrain in countries like Germany, its operations between Madrid and Seville are typically focused on bus services. As for train services, travelers on this route are more commonly served by Renfe, the national railway company of Spain.
Renfe offers modern, high-speed AVE trains that connect Madrid to Seville. The AVE trains are designed for comfort and speed, offering various classes including Turista (second class) and Preferente (first class). Amenities on board typically include spacious seating with ample legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and an entertainment system. First-class passengers may enjoy additional perks such as larger seats, meal services, and access to exclusive lounges before departure. Renfe’s customer support services are available both online and at train stations, providing assistance with ticket purchases, travel information, and reservations. For first-time travelers, understanding the train schedules and booking tickets in advance is recommended to secure the best pricing and preferred seating.
For a non-Spanish resident, both the Interrail Global Pass and the Eurail Pass are valid for train travel from Madrid to Seville. The Interrail One Country Pass for Spain is also valid for this route for non-Spanish residents. Spanish residents cannot use the Interrail Passes for travel within Spain. Since Eurail Passes are for non-EU residents, they can be used by such travelers on this route.
Arriving in Seville by train, you’ll most likely disembark at Santa Justa Station, a central hub that connects seamlessly with various local transportation options. From there, the city’s tram system, known as MetroCentro, is a convenient choice as it travels through the city center with stops at major tourist spots and commercial areas. To access the tram, you can take a short walk to the Prado de San Sebastián station, where the tram services start and run towards the historic areas.
Seville’s metro system, while limited compared to other European cities, is efficient for reaching certain parts of the city. Seville has only one metro line, Line 1, with the closest station to Santa Justa being Nervión or San Bernardo, both a short walk or bus ride away. This metro line connects the southern suburbs with the city center and is useful if you’re heading towards districts like Los Remedios or Utrera.
For more flexibility, taxis are widely available around the city and Santa Justa Station. They are relatively affordable and a hassle-free way to reach your destination directly. You can easily spot them marked with a distinctive white color and a green light when available.
Ridesharing services like Uber also operate in Seville, offering a modern alternative to traditional taxis. You can use the app to book a ride from your current location to any destination in the city, providing a convenient and cashless experience.
In addition to these options, buses are plentiful and serve extensive routes across Seville. TUSSAM operates the local buses, which are recognizable by their orange color. You can catch bus lines from Santa Justa or nearby stops to travel virtually anywhere within the city. Buying a rechargeable travel pass at the station or kiosks simplifies rides if you plan on frequent bus use.
Each transportation mode has its own merits, so your choice will largely depend on your destination, budget, and preference.
Seville serves as a key hub in Spain’s extensive rail network, offering efficient connections both domestically and internationally. Domestically, Seville is well connected by the AVE high-speed train network. The AVE service provides a fast and comfortable connection to Madrid, with the journey taking approximately 2.5 hours and frequent daily departures. Another popular domestic route is from Seville to Barcelona, which takes about 5.5 to 6 hours on high-speed trains, offering a scenic journey along Spain’s diverse landscapes. Seville also connects well to other major cities such as Malaga, which is about 2 hours away, and Valencia, approximately a 4-hour journey, enabling easy exploration of Spain’s diverse regions. Internationally, although direct train services from Seville to cities outside Spain are limited, travelers can reach destinations like Lisbon by taking a regional train or bus to Huelva or Badajoz and connecting to a train service towards Portugal. For further international travel, one can travel to Madrid and transfer to trains bound for France and beyond. Paris can be reached from Madrid via high-speed trains in about 10 hours including transfers. These train services offer a convenient and picturesque way to explore both Spain and beyond.
The best time to visit Seville is during the spring months of March to May and the fall months of late September to early November. In these periods, the weather is typically pleasant with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot. Spring sees the renowned Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril, two of Seville’s most spectacular festivals that highlight the city’s rich culture and traditions. Train travel during these months can be bustling due to festival-goers, so booking in advance is advisable. Prices for accommodation and activities may rise during these peak times, but the vibrant atmosphere and unique experiences are well worth it. Fall offers slightly fewer crowds after the summertime lull but maintains delightful weather and a rich tapestry of cultural events. Traveling by train in late September to November might provide more economical options in terms of both tickets and accommodations, as this period is outside the peak tourist season.
When traveling from Madrid to Seville by train, it’s important to pack a variety of items to ensure a comfortable journey and a pleasant stay in Seville. You will need to bring your ticket for the train, either printed or on a mobile device. For identification, carry a government-issued ID or passport, as this is typically required for travel in Spain. Although Madrid and Seville share the same type of electrical outlets (Type F, with a standard voltage of 230V), it’s wise to pack universal power adapters and chargers for your electronic devices. Bring headphones or earbuds if you plan to listen to music or watch movies on your devices. A book or e-reader is useful for passing the time on the roughly two-and-a-half-hour journey. Consider packing snacks or refreshments, even though trains often have a café car or vending machines. A water bottle is handy to stay hydrated during your journey and while exploring Seville.
For comfort, a light sweater or jacket may be necessary, as trains can be cool due to air conditioning. Sunglasses, a hat, or a sunscreen are advisable for the sunny weather in Seville. Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you will likely spend a lot of time exploring the city’s historic sites. A compact umbrella or raincoat could be beneficial, especially if rain is in the forecast. For documentation, it’s a good idea to carry a list of emergency contacts and copies of important documents such as your ID or passport, in case of loss or theft. A travel guide or a map of Seville could enhance the cultural and historical experience of your visit. Lastly, if you have any personal hygiene or medication requirements, make sure to pack these in your carry-on luggage.