I will be traveling from London (Heathrow) to Madrid on Saturday, October 16th. My flight arrives in Madrid around 7:15 pm (19:15). My goal is to get to Valencia. I was thinking of taking the train from Madrid to Valencia. However, not certain if I'll have enough time to make it to Valencia in a decent time to check into a hotel. I am in no hurry, and even thought of spending the night in Madrid, and enjoying the train ride when there is light outside. I don't want to be rushed to make the train. That would mean clearing customs, taking a taxi to Antocha Train Station, and then hoping I get on the train in time. Thoughts? Anyone ? I'm okay if I make it to Valencia around mid-night.

Sturion - I faced exactly this dilemma a couple of years ago. For me it was a bit of a no brainer as my flight didn't get into Madrid until 9pm so I was definitely going to spend the night there and catch the train to Valencia the next day. Based on my experience, even though you have an earlier arrival time, I'd do the same thing. Firstly you don't know how long it's going to take to get through immigration and customs [or indeed if your plane will be on time] and secondly it takes longer than you might think to get to Atocha plus they have quite substantial security arrangements at Spanish stations now so there is a security check to go through before you can board the train.

I would book a hotel in central Madrid, get there as quickly as possible and enjoy a nice evening there. Madrid will certainly be open for business whatever time you arrive and there are several trains on the Sunday morning which would get you to Valencia in time for lunch.

Thank you Annhig .... I just needed to hear someone say it. That's been my thought all along. Why bother putting on extra layer of deodorant and sweating it I'll just arrive in Valence, cool, calm, and collected ~ Best to you !

Pleased to have helped. I don't know if you know Atocha, but if not it's worth finding the garden in the middle of it - an amazing tropical oasis! The Renfe app is good too - I bought all my train tickets on it. [Forgive me if I'm teaching my granny to suck eggs].

I love Valencia - hope you have a great time.