Ourense (Railway Station)

Ourense Railway Station (Ourense-Empalme) serves as the main transport gateway to the "city of thermal springs" and is a key hub in Galicia. The station features modern infrastructure and services both regional trains and high-speed AVE trains connecting the region with Madrid. The spacious terminal ensures a comfortable wait and easy navigation for all categories of travellers.

It is important for passengers to know that the station is divided into zones, and access to high-speed train platforms is via security checkpoints. A clear system of signs and electronic display boards helps with orientation inside. The main entrance is located on the square side, where taxi ranks are also found, making transferring to city transport maximally convenient.

• Official website: www.adif.es
• Information phone: +34 912 320 320 (Renfe)
• Address: Calle Eulogio Gómez Franqueira, s/n, 32001 Ourense, Spain
• Opening hours: daily from 05:30 to 23:45
• Luggage storage inquiry: please ask at the information window
• Accessibility: Atendo assistance service for passengers with reduced mobility

Reaching Ourense Station from the city centre is quick and convenient. The most popular option is using city buses that run from various districts; the stop is located right outside the terminal exit. This is a budget-friendly and reliable way to reach historical landmarks or thermal zones.

A trip by taxi from the central Plaza Mayor will take about 10–15 minutes. A walking route via the famous Roman Bridge is also available, taking approximately 20 minutes. The walk will allow you to enjoy views of the river Miño, but please consider the terrain if you are carrying heavy luggage.

The infrastructure of Ourense Station is designed for passenger convenience. The building houses ticket offices and self-service machines for purchasing and printing tickets. Waiting halls are equipped with comfortable seating, and clean restrooms and baby changing rooms are available.

Among additional services, it is worth noting the presence of car rental desks, which is ideal for independent travel around Galicia. A Wi-Fi zone is active throughout the station (depending on the operator), and a specialised assistance service is provided for citizens with reduced mobility during boarding and disembarking.

For a quick snack, a cosy cafeteria operates on the station premises. Here you can order hot coffee, fresh pastries, sandwiches, or a traditional Spanish tortilla. It is an excellent option to refresh yourself before your journey, with an average check of around 5–10 Euros.

If you have time to spare, we suggest stepping out onto the street adjacent to the station. Within walking distance, there are local cafés and eateries serving full meals and Galician snacks. This allows you to experience the local cuisine in a more relaxed atmosphere without straying far from the station.

The history of Ourense Railway Station dates back to the mid-20th century. The station, often referred to by locals as "Empalme" (meaning "junction" or "link"), replaced the old station and became a vital logistics centre, uniting several railway lines of northwestern Spain.

The newest chapter in the station's history is connected with the arrival of high-speed AVE trains. Large-scale reconstruction and modernisation of the tracks have significantly reduced travel time to the country's capital, transforming Ourense into a strategic transport hub for the region and giving a powerful boost to tourism development.

When planning a trip through Ourense Station, try to arrive no later than 30 minutes before departure. This is especially relevant for passengers on high-speed trains, as the baggage scanning procedure is mandatory and may take some time during peak hours.

The station is safe and well-guarded, but do not leave personal belongings unattended. If you have a long overnight transfer, please note that the building closes for several hours at night. For a short wait during the day, you can visit the nearby thermal springs on the riverbank, which are within walking distance.