Zamora (Railway Station)

Zamora Railway Station (Estación de Zamora) is not just a transport hub, but a true architectural monument, often cited as one of the most beautiful stations in Spain. Located in the Castile and León region, it serves as a vital point on the high-speed AVE train routes connecting Madrid with Galicia. The station building impresses with its Neoplateresque façade, resembling a palace or a temple rather than an ordinary station, immediately immersing travellers in the city's historic atmosphere.

The station is organized in an intuitive and convenient way for passengers. The building features three main platforms and several tracks, which are easy to navigate thanks to a pedestrian subway and elevators. The main entrance leads into a spacious vestibule with high ceilings, housing ticket counters and a waiting area. Navigation within the station is duplicated in English, making transfers and finding the right train easier.

• Official Website: www.adif.es (infrastructure management company site).
• Address: Ctra. de la Estación, s/n, 49012 Zamora, Spain.
• Information Phone (Renfe): +34 912 320 320 (general information and booking).
• Opening Hours: The station is open daily, approximately from 06:00 to 23:30 (depending on the train schedule).
• Support for Passengers with Reduced Mobility (Atendo): It is recommended to request assistance at least 12 hours before travel via the official website or by phone.
• Luggage Storage: Currently, automatic lockers at the station may be unavailable or operating with restrictions; it is recommended to check current information at the information desk upon arrival.

Getting to Zamora Railway Station is quite simple, as it is located relatively close to the historic centre, although not in its very heart.

By Foot: A walk from the city's main square (Plaza Mayor) will take about 15–20 minutes. The route is direct and passes through picturesque streets, however, consider your luggage, as the sidewalks can be narrow.

Public Transport: City buses run regularly between the station and the centre. Look for Line 1, which connects the station with key points in the city. The stop is located right in front of the station building exit.

Taxi: A taxi rank is located at the main entrance. A trip to the city centre usually takes 5–7 minutes and is inexpensive, making it the most convenient option for tourists with suitcases.

Despite its historic interiors, Zamora Station offers a modern range of services necessary for the traveller. In the main hall, you will find staffed ticket counters, as well as self-service ticket machines that accept cards.

A comfortable hall with seating is provided for waiting for trains. Free Wi-Fi is available on the premises (requires registration on the Adif network), allowing you to stay connected. Clean restrooms and a baby changing area are also available for passengers. Special attention is paid to accessibility: the station is equipped with ramps, elevators for platform access, and tactile navigation for visually impaired passengers.

A small cafeteria usually operates within the station premises. Here you can order hot coffee, soft drinks, fresh pastries, or traditional Spanish sandwiches (bocadillos). This is an excellent option for a quick snack before your train departs. The average price here is quite reasonable.

If you have 30–40 minutes to spare, you can step out of the station building. In the immediate vicinity, on Carretera de la Estación street, there are several cafes and local eateries serving heartier local dishes. However, for a full gastronomic experience, it is better to head to the centre of Zamora.

The history of Zamora Railway Station is full of drama and long waits. The design began back in 1927 under the direction of architect Marcelino Enríquez, but due to various historical events, including the Civil War, construction dragged on for decades. The grand opening took place only in 1958.

The building is constructed in the Neoplateresque style, characteristic of Spanish architecture of that period, using local stone which gives it a golden hue at sunset. The station became an important milestone in the region's development, linking Zamora with Madrid and Galicia. Today, it is recognized as a site of cultural interest and combines historic grandeur with high-speed rail technology.

When planning a trip via Zamora Station, please note that boarding high-speed trains (AVE and Alvia) requires a security check (luggage scanning). It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 15–20 minutes before the train departs.

Tickets and Boarding: Keep your tickets (printed or digital) handy, as checks are carried out before accessing the platform. Access to trains is usually announced 10–15 minutes before arrival.

In winter, the waiting hall can be cool, so keep warm clothing with you. If you have a long layover, it is better to leave your belongings (if luggage storage is working) and take a walk to La Marina Park, which is on the way to the centre.