If you’re planning a trip to Europe, you may have noticed that there is no direct train between the two major cities of Lisbon and Madrid. This can be quite surprising, considering the proximity of these two capital cities and the extensive rail network throughout Europe.
So why is it that there is no train connecting Lisbon and Madrid? Let’s explore the reasons behind this.
The Distance Between Lisbon and Madrid
One reason why there is no direct train between Lisbon and Madrid is because of the distance between these two cities. While they may seem close on a map, they are actually over 600 kilometers apart. This means that any train journey between Lisbon and Madrid would take several hours, which may not be practical for many travelers.
The Gauging Problem
Another reason why there is no direct train between Lisbon and Madrid has to do with the gauge of the railway tracks in Spain versus Portugal. Gauge refers to the width between the rails on a railway track, and in Spain, it is wider than in Portugal.
This means that trains from Spain cannot cross over into Portugal, as their wheels will not fit on the narrower Portuguese tracks. As a result, any train journey between these two countries would require a change of trains at the border.
The Lack of Infrastructure
In addition to these issues with distance and gauging, there is also a lack of infrastructure connecting Lisbon and Madrid by rail. While both cities have extensive rail networks within their own countries, there are few direct connections between them. This means that travelers would need to change trains multiple times in order to make the journey from one city to another.
The Alternatives
While there may not be a direct train between Lisbon and Madrid, there are still several options for travelers who want to make this journey. One option is to take a bus or drive, as there are several highways connecting these two cities. Another option is to take a flight, as there are several airlines that offer regular flights between Lisbon and Madrid.
Conclusion
In summary, the lack of a direct train between Lisbon and Madrid can be attributed to several factors, including the distance between the two cities, the gauging problem, and the lack of infrastructure connecting them by rail. However, there are still several alternatives available for travelers who want to make this journey. Whether you choose to take a bus, drive or fly, you can still enjoy all that these two vibrant cities have to offer.