Palencia Railway Station (Estación de Palencia), often referred to as the North Station, is a key transport hub for the province and an important point on the railway map of Spain. The station building combines the charm of historic late 19th-century architecture with the functionality of modern infrastructure, serving both regional trains and high-speed AVE services.
The station is conveniently located next to the Jardinillos park, making it easily accessible for travellers. Inside, passengers are welcomed by a bright and spacious lobby with clear navigation, while access to the platforms is organised via a convenient underground passageway, fully equipped for all categories of citizens.
City
Palencia
Country
Spain
Type
Railway station
It is important for passengers to know that the station has one main entrance from the city side. Access to trains is via turnstiles, so please keep your tickets close at hand. The platforms are equipped with electronic display boards showing real-time information on train arrivals and departures.
Contact Information
Official website: www.adif.es (infrastructure) or www.renfe.com (tickets and schedule).
Address: Calle de los Jardinillos, s/n, 34005 Palencia, Spain.
Opening hours: The station is open daily from 05:45 to 00:00 (times may vary on public holidays).
Luggage storage info: Automated lockers may currently be unavailable; it is recommended to check with security staff at the entrance.
Accessibility information: The station is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility; the free Atendo assistance service is available (advance booking required).
How to Get There
Getting to Palencia Railway Station is very simple thanks to its central location.
On foot: From the main city square (Plaza Mayor) or the Cathedral, you can reach the station in a leisurely 10–15 minute walk. The route passes through a picturesque park, making the stroll pleasant.
Public transport: City buses stop right near the station entrance. Routes connect the station with the university campus, the hospital, and residential districts.
Taxi: There is an official taxi rank directly at the station exit. A trip to any point in the central part of Palencia will take about 5–7 minutes and is reasonably priced.
Services and Amenities
Palencia Station offers passengers a necessary set of services for a comfortable start to their journey.
The main lobby houses ticket counters for long-distance and regional trains, as well as self-service machines for quick ticket purchases. There is a waiting hall with seating where you can rest before your journey.
Amenities also include clean washrooms and baby changing tables. Wi-Fi is available throughout the station (registration on the Adif network is required). Special attention is paid to accessibility: elevators to the platforms and ramps are operational, making movement convenient for passengers with suitcases and people with limited mobility.
Dining Options
If you are hungry before your journey, there are several options for refreshments at the station.
Inside the building, there is usually a cafeteria where you can order coffee, soft drinks, fresh pastries, or traditional Spanish bocadillos (sandwiches). This is an ideal option for a quick snack if there is little time left before your train. Prices here are reasonable.
If time permits, we recommend stepping out of the station building. Within a radius of 200 metres, especially along Calle Mayor and near the park, there are numerous cafes and restaurants where you can have a full lunch or try local tapas before departure.
Station History
The history of railway transport in Palencia began in the second half of the 19th century. The current station building was constructed in 1875 by the "Northern Railway Company" (Compañía de los Caminos de Hierro del Norte de España). The architecture is executed in the French style characteristic of that time, combining stone, brick, and metal.
For decades, the station played a strategic role, linking Madrid with northern ports and France. A significant milestone in its history was the recent modernisation, allowing it to accommodate high-speed AVE trains, which significantly reduced travel time to the capital without compromising the historic appearance of the façade.
Passenger Tips
A few useful tips for passengers at Palencia Station:
Arrival time: Arrive at the station at least 15–20 minutes before departure. Boarding high-speed trains (Alvia, AVE) requires passing luggage security control through a scanner, which may take some time.
Tickets: It is most advantageous to buy tickets online in advance, as prices may be higher on the day of departure, and seats may be sold out. If buying on the spot, consider potential queues at the counter.
Transfers: The station is compact, so transferring here is quick and stress-free. Watch the information screens carefully to find the track number of your next train.
