Granada Railway Station

Granada Railway Station (Estación de Granada) is the modern gateway to one of the most beautiful cities in Andalusia. Located near the city centre, this transport hub connects Granada with Madrid, Barcelona, and other regions of Spain thanks to the network of high-speed AVE trains and regular routes. Following extensive renovation, the station has become a convenient and functional space while retaining its significance for travellers eager to see the Alhambra.

It is important for passengers to know that the station consists of a single main terminal, making it difficult to get lost here. Access to platforms for high-speed trains is granted only after passing through security control (baggage scanning), which begins shortly before departure. The main entrance is located on Avenida de Andaluces, and navigation inside the building is intuitive thanks to clear signage.

• Official Website: Information on schedules and services is available on the portals of the infrastructure operator Adif and the carrier Renfe.
• Address: Avenida de Andaluces, s/n, 18014 Granada, Spain.
• Opening Hours: The station is open daily, approximately from 06:00 to 23:30 (times may vary depending on the schedule of the first and last train).
• Information Desk: Adif information counters are located in the main hall.
• Luggage Storage: The station may not have automatic lockers; it is recommended to check current information on-site or use luggage storage services in the city.
• Accessibility: The station is equipped for passengers with reduced mobility, and the Atendo assistance service is available (advance booking required).

Getting to Granada station is quite simple, as it is well integrated into the city's transport network.

Metro (Light Rail): The most convenient way is to use the Granada metro line. The Estación Ferrocarril stop is located right outside the station building. This is a quick way to travel to other districts of the city.

Buses: City buses (for example, lines 4, 11, 21, and 33) stop near the station, connecting it with the historic centre and northern districts. The stop is located on Avenida de Andaluces.

Taxi and Walking: A taxi rank is located directly in front of the main entrance. If you prefer walking, the journey to the centre (Cathedral area) will take about 20–25 minutes at a brisk pace along a fairly straight road.

Despite its compact size, Granada Railway Station offers passengers the necessary range of services for a comfortable wait.

In the terminal building, you will find:

• Ticket Offices and Machines: Renfe sales office and machines for self-service purchase and printing of travel documents.
• Waiting Areas: A general area with seating in the hall and a separate Sala Club lounge for passengers with premium tickets.
• Connectivity and Electronics: Wi-Fi is available on the premises (registration may be required), and some zones have sockets for charging gadgets.
• Restrooms: Clean restrooms, including cabins for people with disabilities and a baby changing area.
• Other: Car rental desk and ATMs.

If you need a snack before your journey, there is a cafeteria operating within the station itself. Here you can order coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and soft drinks. It is a convenient option for a quick bite if there is little time left before your train.

For a more substantial meal, it is worth stepping out of the station building. On Avenida de Andaluces and in the adjacent blocks (Pajaritos district), there are many typical Spanish cafes and eateries. Here you can try traditional tapas or order a full lunch ("menú del día") at a reasonable price. The average bill in such places is usually affordable, and the atmosphere is more authentic than in the station buffet.

The history of railway transport in Granada began in the second half of the 19th century, when the city was first connected to Bobadilla. The historic station building, which has survived to this day, is an example of classic railway architecture of that time.

A key stage in modern history was the massive reconstruction and adaptation of the tracks to accommodate high-speed trains (AVE). This process took several years, during which rail services to the city were partially restricted, and passengers had to use bus transfers. The grand opening of the updated service and the arrival of the first AVE train in 2019 was a landmark event, finally integrating Granada into Spain's high-speed railway network.

To ensure your trip goes smoothly, consider a few important points:

• Arrival Time: If you are travelling on a high-speed train (AVE, Avant), arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure. Mandatory baggage screening via an X-ray scanner is conducted before accessing the platform.
• Boarding: Access to trains closes 2 minutes before departure. Pay attention to announcements and information boards.
• Tickets: Keep your ticket (printed or QR code on your smartphone) handy not only for passing through the turnstiles but also for inspection on the train.
• Luggage: Never leave your belongings unattended at the station — this may trigger a security alert.