Elche, Valencia Community to Madrid, Community of Madrid from $19: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• Onboard services on the Renfe AVE trains between Elche and Madrid include a catering service offering meals, snacks, and drinks. You can order food from the onboard menu, which features local Spanish cuisine. For those in First Class and Business Class, there's often a complimentary meal served at your seat. Economy Class offers a snack cart service you can purchase from during the journey.

• The train operator for this route is mainly Renfe, which provides several seating options: First Class (preferente), Business Class (club), and Economy Class (turista). First Class features wider seats and more legroom, as well as complimentary meals. Business Class offers a spacious environment with greater comfort and amenities. Economy Class is more budget-friendly, with standard seating, yet still comfortable for the journey. You can find more details on their website: renfe.com

• When you arrive at Madrid’s Atocha station, expect a bustling environment with various facilities. You can leave luggage at the station's luggage lockers if you wish to explore the city without your bags. Atocha also has restrooms and showers available, particularly in the executive lounge. Make sure to check the station's layout on their official site for a smoother navigation: renfe.com

• The fastest way to get from Atocha station to Madrid city center is to use the Metro. You can take Line 1 (the light blue line) directly from Atocha to the Gran Vía station, which is a central location in Madrid. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes, and trains run frequently. Alternatively, you can catch bus lines 001 or 27 which also connect Atocha to various city center spots. Make sure to check the latest schedules on Madrid's public transport website: emtmadrid.es

• Book your ALSA bus tickets in advance online at ALSA to secure the best prices and ensure a seat, especially during weekends or holiday periods when services can fill up quickly.

• Upon arrival at Estación Sur de Autobuses in Madrid, utilize the well-marked Metro connections from the station; the nearby 'Méndez Álvaro' station can take you to major city areas, including Atocha and Plaza España, making your transition into the city smooth.

• Consider packing snacks or a light meal for the trip, as the 4h 50m journey may lead to hunger; there are few service stops, and you can find some delicious options at local cafes in Elche before you leave for a tastier experience.