Hi there, time to tap the fodorites huge base of knowledge and experience again.

We'll be flying into Madrid and would like to spend time exploring Toledo. Seville is our ultimate destination however.

So, is it possible to pick up a train at the Madrid airport (MAD) and travel to Toledo. Then, possible to pick up the train and head to Seville?

Or, put another way, does the high speed rail between Madrid and Seville run through MAD and Toledo?

I've searched the boards but don't see this specific question addressed.

Also, while I have your ear, most folks seem to think Toledo is just a day trip. Is it worth more time than that. We're thinking of spending a night at least.

Thanks as always!

No and No.

The AVE does not go to the airport. Madrid-Toledo AVE & Madrid-Seville AVE are on different lines.

I think the concensus is Toledo is worth 2 days/1 night. It is doable as a daytrip b/c the AVE is only 30 minutes, but there's enough to see/enjoy for 2 days.

yk,

Thanks so much for the info. So, if I understand you correctly, in order to accomplish out plans we'd need to:

1. Travel from MAD to the Mardid rail station.

2. Hop a train to Toledo.

3. Then go back to Madrid

4. Hop the train from Madrid to Seville.

If you know, can you give me a sense of how much of a hassle this is. Toledo looks and sounds wonderful and we'd like to include it in our plans -- however, not at all costs.

Thanks!

Not too much hassle, Toledo is only 30 minutes from Madrid. Get a hotel not far from Atocha Station in Madrid (museums area will do fine) and it will be easier. I mean, you go from the airport to Atocha station ..hop the AVE to Toledo and spend the night there. Next day go to Madrid..spend the time you want to be there..and then get the AVE to Sevilla.
It all depends how many days do you have for the whole trip.

ditto what kenderina says. It's really not that much of a hassle. The trains (esp the AVE) in Spain are very efficient and always on time.

Both AVE trains to Toledo and Seville leave from Madrid Atocha station. So when you return from Toledo to Madrid - if you don't want to spend time in Madrid, you can just change for your AVE train to Seville at Atocha.

kenderina and yk,

Terrific. Thank so much for the help and good information. I certainly appreciate it.