The Train (Al Andalus)
The Al Andalus train is one of the most luxurious trains in the world with international recognition. It began operating in Andalusia in 1983 under the name “Al Andalus Expreso”, thus the Andalusian community has been, and continues to be, its main itinerary. For some years, it has had combinations with other places in Spain (Extremadura Route, Wine Route, Camino de Santiago Route…), although it has also been marketed as the unique itinerary, most years as the Andalusian Route, routes through the heart of Arab Spain, with Granada, Cordoba, Jerez, Ronda, Seville… visiting several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The original composition
This train has had the legendary “Orient Express” as its main model, with interior decoration in the “Belle Epoque” style, a mark of elegance and comfort, but with the technological advances of our century. The original composition (Al Andalus Expreso) consisted of 14 cars (with names of cities and monuments of Andalusia): 2 restaurant cars, 1 lounge and games car, 1 bar car, 5 sleeping cars, 2 shower cars, 1 kitchen, 1 generator van, and 1 engine. Additionally, it had a capacity for 74 travelers. Currently, its composition has changed somewhat as detailed in the section: The lounge cars of the “Al Andalus train”
History
The Al Andalus Expreso operated from 1985 to 2005, managed by the company Iberrail, which went bankrupt in 2005, causing the train to stop running. The cars were left stranded at the San Pablo station in Seville, deteriorating over the years. As an anecdote, and during this time, this train was occasionally used for filming documentaries or as part of a movie set, as happened with its appearance in the filming of the movie “Knight and Day” starring Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz.
However, in 2012, after a tender conducted by RENFE, the owner of the train, the Spanish company FEVE took over the management of the service, which, based on its experience with the Transcantabrico, re-established the route under the name Al Andalus train.
It’s not just a trip
As an added value, the Al Andalus train, unlike other luxury tourist trains such as the Orient Express, is not just a luxury train journey, but it is complemented with a full program of guided visits and excursions in different languages, cultural and nature activities, gastronomic tastings, as well as free time to visit the destinations at your own pace.
The Lounge Cars of the “Al Andalus Train”
Current Train Composition
All cars are equipped with air conditioning and heating. The current composition of the Al Andalus train has some variations compared to the original, which we detail below: 15 cars: 1 kitchen car, 2 restaurant cars, 1 bar car, 1 lounge and games car, 7 sleeping cars, 1 staff car, 1 generator van, and 1 engine. The maximum capacity of the train is 64 travelers.
Sleeping Cars
On the other hand, the 5 sleeping cars come from those luxury cars that were built in France in 1929. They were used by the British monarchy for their holiday travels from Calais to the French Riviera. Therefore, when acquired by RENFE in 1983, they were restored, taking into account every minute detail.
Lounge Cars
The Al Andalus train has 4 lounge cars for common use by its travelers, considered authentic railway jewels. They are air-conditioned lounges connected to each other, open 24 hours a day for the use and enjoyment of all passengers. Due to their interior extensions, it is considered the best luxury train in the world in terms of spaciousness.
Giralda, Medina Azahara, Alhambra, and Gibralfaro
The bar car Giralda is an ideal place to have a drink and chat with other passengers. In the other lounge car Medina Azahara, you can relax and contemplate the wonderful landscapes or enjoy various games. These lounges are suitable for enjoying some evening entertainment at the end of the day (live performances, parties, or simply listening to music). On the other hand, the other lounge cars, Alhambra and Gibralfaro, have been conceived as restaurants, where daily breakfast is served, which can be chosen à la carte or buffet, and you can also taste the rich local gastronomy and Spanish cuisine prepared by prestigious chefs. On other occasions, according to the schedule, meals will be held in selected top-level restaurants in the places where visits are planned.
Dress Code
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear during the day for visits or excursions. In the evening, and especially for the gala dinner, a more formal outfit can be chosen, although no specific dress code is required at any time.
Deluxe Suite and Grand Class Room
The suites of the Al Andalus train are very complete accommodations, as they have all kinds of amenities. The day or night arrangement changes. During the day, it becomes a comfortable private lounge with a sofa, and at night, the beds are opened and it becomes a bedroom. All accommodations on the Al Andalus train are air-conditioned and can be adjusted independently.
Deluxe Suite
It stands out for its elegance and spaciousness. It is arranged as a bedroom and private bathroom. The double bed measures 200×150 cm, which during the day transforms into a sofa and has the possibility of incorporating a small bed. It has a wardrobe, luggage rack, safe, and minibar. The bathroom is private and spacious with a shower, hairdryer, and a set of toiletries, with an exclusive fragrance and toiletry bag.
The Deluxe Suite of the Al Andalus train combines the elegance and glamour of luxury trains of the past with the conveniences of this century.
Grand Class Room
A charming suite with a private bathroom and two single beds, which during the day become armchairs. It has a wardrobe, luggage rack, minibar, safe… Its private bathroom is equipped with a shower, hairdryer, and toiletries, with an exclusive fragrance and toiletry bag. Individually adjustable air conditioning.
Itineraries 2025
