How to get to Madrid?
Many new students in Segovia initially choose to travel to Madrid using the AVE high-speed train because it seems like the fastest and most convenient option. The ride itself only takes about 25 minutes. However, once students get used to the city and how transportation works, most of them eventually switch to taking the bus instead.
The main reason is that the AVE station in Segovia is located on the outskirts, so you first need to reach it by bus or taxi. Then, when you arrive in Madrid, the train leaves you in the Chamartín area, which is not in the city center. If your plan is to spend time in central Madrid—around Gran Vía, Sol, or Malasaña—the AVE becomes less practical because you still have a long way to go.
On the other hand, the AVE is very convenient if you are going to the University campus at the Towers, which is located in Chamartín and sits right next to the train station. For that specific route, the AVE is the fastest and easiest option.
For everyday visits to Madrid’s city center, though, most students eventually realize that the bus is cheaper, direct, and drops you exactly where you want to be, making it the preferred choice after the first few weeks.
BUS & TRAIN
Bus
The Avanza bus to Madrid departs from Segovia’s main Bus Station, located near the city center, making it very easy for students to reach on foot. Tickets usually cost between €5 and €6 one way, and the trip takes about 1 hour, arriving in Moncloa, a central and convenient area of Madrid with direct metro connections to the rest of the city. Because it’s cheap, direct, and accessible, many students prefer the bus for spending the day in central Madrid.
You can purchase the bus tickets at the station or through their website. I do recommend for you to purchase them in advance, because they tend to run out very often.
Train
The RENFE AVE train is much faster, taking only 25 minutes, but it is usually more expensive, often ranging from €13 to €40 one way depending on when you book. The train also departs from Segovia-Guiomar, a station located on the outskirts of the city, so you must first take a local bus or taxi to get there. When you arrive in Madrid, the AVE drops you off in Chamartín.
You purchase the tickets online and make sure to do this in advance, as they often run out.