Timetables
If
you use trains regularly, you should obtain route maps ( mapas
de carreteras)
and timetables ( horarios)
on arrival in Spain. However, bear in mind that most times are
approximate only, and with the exception of timetables for fast (e.g.
AVE)
and international trains, they shouldn’t be relied upon, although
local trains are generally punctual. At major stations, arrivals (
llegadas)
and departures ( salidas)
are shown on large electronic boards. It’s wise to double-check
departure times and not rely on announcements. You also shouldn’t
trust the list of trains posted at a station, but confirm trains and
times at a ticket or information office. When you buy a train ticket
with a reserved seat, the train number and departure time are printed
on it.
Train
timetables ( horarios
de trenes)
are published in national, regional and local versions, and also for
individual routes and train types (e.g. long-distance). All
timetables are available online and RENFE publish a range of special
guides and information, plus an ‘Atlas of Spanish Railways’ (
Atlas
de Ferrocarriles Españoles)
containing a selection of maps of Spain. Train timetables are printed
for most major domestic and international rail routes, often in the
form of a handy pocket card.
Note
that many services operate daily ( diario)
or only on working days ( laborables),
which may include Saturdays, and a limited service is operated on
Sundays and holidays ( domingos
y festivos).
