Snap Shot Wednesday: Atocha Train Station, Madrid

This week, we’re back with the Snap Shot Wednesday feature. Showcasing Madrid’s most important transport terminal, the photo above gives you a glimpse of the interior of Atocha train station. Besides connecting Madrid to various destinations all over Spain and the rest of Europe, Atocha plays an important role in Madrid’s infrastructural development.

From the outside, the Atocha train station is an outstanding landmark. The brown brick exterior, typical of Spanish traditional edifices, complements the glass facade on the main entrance of the 1950s building. Within the station, a completely different world awaits. Besides the endless flow of people and bustling bars and cafes, you’ll find yourself entering into a green patch of oasis right in the middle of the train station.

A gorgeous garden stands in the center of all the activities. Tall green palm trees stand alongside luscious shrubs and blossoming flowers. A small pond sits at a corner, where tortoises and fishes swim languidly. Wandering through this oasis, it’s hard to imagine that you’re actually indoors, within a covered building. Tired of waiting for your train? This is the perfect spot to unwind and catch your breath.

Atocha train station is also situated at the palpitating heart of the city. Standing at the crossroads of Madrid’s museum district, it is highly accessible to all the main attractions, restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for accommodation in Madrid, this area would be perfect as a base.

From this train station, you can catch regional trains RENFE or Cercanias to nearby cities such as Aranjuez, or other cities in Spain such as Seville, Barcelona and Vigo.

Details of Atocha Train Station:

Website: Atocha Train Station

Address: Plaza Emperador Carlos V, Madrid 28012

Location: Atocha train station

Tel: +34 902 24 02 02

Email: estaciones@adif.es

Photo credit: Creative Commons flickr image by marcp_dmoz.