The Madrid–Aranjuez railway opened on 9 February 1851, the second line in mainland Spain after Barcelona–Mataró. It became popular partly because it carried produce from the Aranjuez orchards to Madrid, above all strawberries. In 2026 it turns 175.
Since 27 May 1984, the Strawberry Train has recreated that journey with wooden carriages and actors in period costume. Today it’s run by the Spanish Railways Foundation and leaves from the Railway Museum at Delicias.
Autumn 2026
According to the Railway Museum, the autumn season runs from 3 October to 8 November:
| Month | Dates |
|---|---|
| October | 3, 4, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 24, 25 and 31 |
| November | 1, 7 and 8 |
- Departure: Madrid Railway Museum at 10:00. Arrives in Aranjuez around 11:00.
- Return: from Aranjuez station at 18:38, back in Madrid around 19:30.
- New for 2026: a Halloween-themed route with pumpkin picking and a tractor ride on an Aranjuez farm, on some October dates.
- Tickets: several itineraries, with visits included or transport only, at different prices. Buy them through the official channels.
What to do with seven hours in Aranjuez
- 11:00–13:00. Royal Palace with a pre-booked ticket, and the Parterre.
- 13:30. Lunch with produce from the orchards.
- 15:30–18:00. The Island Garden or the Prince’s Garden, or a boat trip on the Tagus. On Wednesdays and Sundays the palace’s free slot starts at 15:00 (for EU and Ibero-American citizens).
- 18:15. A relaxed walk to the station.
What if you stay?
The train leaves at 18:38, just as the light gets best. If you can, stay the night and return the next day by commuter train: where to stay.
Questions people ask
When does the Strawberry Train run?
In spring and autumn, at weekends and on some holidays. In autumn 2026: 3, 4, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 24, 25 and 31 October and 1, 7 and 8 November.
What time does the Strawberry Train leave and return?
It leaves Madrid's Railway Museum at 10:00, reaches Aranjuez around 11:00 and returns from Aranjuez station at 18:38.
Sources and official links
Last reviewed:
