We are going to be catching a train from Lisbon to Madrid on Dec 23rd. Do we need to book in advance?

Question

on Dec 23rd. Do we need to book in advance?

Answer 1

You must be joking. There IS only one train a day that runs directly from Lisbon to Madrid, the overnight train hotel, 2200 from Lisboa Santa Apolonia, 2209 from Lisboa-Oriente, arrives Madrid Chamartin at 0840. You're travelling a day or two before Christmas. Even if it was not compulsory to reserve your place on all long-distance trains in Spain and Portugal (which it is), it is only common sense to book in advance as space is very limited.

Answer 2

i would advise you do book in advance that way you can reserve your seats and don't have to stand up, just think its holiday season it will be packed.

Answer 3

Don't think you need to book in advance. You should be ok!

Answer 4

www.cp.pt and www.renfe.es will give you the answer.

On the Iberian Peninsula all long distance trains MUST be booked, especially the hotel train between Lisboa and Madrid. Most probably you can buy the train ticket (including reservation) in British Rail offices (with German Rail you can) or in a travel agency.

Do it well in advance (2 weeks before might not be enough), it is holiday season then!!!!