Hotel Train Lisbon to Madrid

In the closing chapter of our vacation, we boarded the train bound for Madrid, where our flight back to Paris awaited us.

Our train tickets were secured well in advance, and I personally visited the inconspicuous Spanish Railway ticket office in bustling Boulevard Haussmann, a hidden gem amidst the lively shopping hub.

As Indians experiencing the intricacies of a Hotel Train, a unique experience awaited us. The night train connecting Lisbon and Madrid offered four ticket options. The chair car, the most economical choice, was followed by four-person cabins, categorized by gender. Next were two-person cabins, with the option of first class boasting an attached shower and toilet, while the other featured a personal washbasin. Operated by the Accor Hotel Group, one of Europe’s largest hotel chains, these cabins exceeded our expectations.

Opting for a two-person cabin with a washbasin, we were pleasantly surprised by the hospitality and the cabin’s comfort. Reflecting on our choice, we pondered the allure of the first-class cabins and wondered if the additional cost would have been worth it. Although first-class passengers enjoyed inclusive dinners and breakfasts, our fare only covered breakfast.

The enchanting experience of a train service often seen in Hindi movies became a reality for us. Perhaps, in a whimsical thought, our beloved Laloo-jee could one day travel in such luxury and introduce a similar service from Patna. A delightful dream indeed!