Travel Tips
Check-in Information
The welcome for the Costa Verde Express Oviedo weekend journey begins at Oviedo station. Guests are requested to arrive from 6:30 p.m. on Friday, allowing ample time to settle into their suites before the train's scheduled departure at 9:30 p.m. Please ensure you have your passport or valid identification readily available for check-in. The station address is Calle de Uría, s/n, 33003 Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.
Dining Schedule
Meals on the Costa Verde Express are a highlight, served in the elegant dining cars. Breakfast is typically a gourmet buffet or à la carte, available at flexible times in the morning. Lunch and dinner times are fixed and announced daily by your guide, usually around 1:30 p.m. for lunch and 8:30 p.m. for dinner. The bar carriage is open for drinks and snacks for most of the day, from morning until late evening, providing a relaxed setting to socialize or enjoy a quiet moment. Specific meal times may vary slightly based on the day's excursion schedule.
Dress Code
During the day, a smart casual dress code is appropriate for comfort and practicality, especially for excursions. Think comfortable trousers, shirts, blouses, and sensible walking shoes. In the evenings, the atmosphere on board is one of refined elegance. While formal attire isn't strictly required, guests typically opt for elegant casual wear. For men, a jacket is often worn for dinner, while women might choose smart dresses, skirts, or tailored trousers. Jeans and shorts are generally not suitable for the dining cars in the evening.
Electricity & Connectivity
The Costa Verde Express operates on a 220V electrical system, utilizing standard European two-pin plugs (Type F). We recommend bringing appropriate adapters if your devices use different plug types. Each suite is equipped with electrical outlets for charging. Additionally, USB charging points are available within the suites for convenience. Wi-Fi is available in the common areas of the train, though connectivity can be intermittent in certain remote areas along the route. It's best to consider this an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the scenery.
Climate & Weather
Northern Spain, particularly Asturias, experiences a mild and often humid climate, even in summer. The summer months of July and August, when this tour operates, typically see pleasant temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F). However, the region is known for its Atlantic influence, meaning occasional rain showers are possible, even during summer. Packing layers is highly recommended, including light jackets or sweaters for cooler evenings and a waterproof outer layer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for excursions.
Onboard Amenities
Each Grand Class Suite is well-appointed with a range of amenities to enhance your stay. The private bathrooms include a hairdryer and a selection of luxury toiletries. Laundry service is available onboard for a small charge, though it is limited to a few items per person per day with a typical 24-48 hour turnaround. Guests will find a well-stocked minibar in their suite, offering a selection of beverages. Dressing gowns are provided for your comfort.
Medical Information
While there is no dedicated doctor permanently stationed onboard the Costa Verde Express, the train staff are trained in basic first aid. In the event of a medical emergency, the train can make unscheduled stops at the nearest town with medical facilities. Guests requiring specific medications should ensure they bring an adequate supply for the duration of the journey. No specific vaccinations are generally required for travel to Spain, but it is always advisable to consult your personal physician regarding any health concerns or recommendations prior to travel.
Luggage
Space in the suites is comfortable but finite. We recommend guests bring two medium-sized suitcases per person, each not exceeding 20kg, along with a small carry-on bag. Soft-sided luggage is generally easier to store within the suite. Train staff will assist with luggage handling at stations. It's advisable to keep essential items and valuables in your carry-on.
Currency
The official currency in Spain is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted onboard the train and in most establishments in the towns visited. ATMs are readily available in larger towns like Oviedo and Llanes for cash withdrawals. It's always useful to carry a small amount of local currency for smaller purchases or tips.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1What is the check-in process for the Costa Verde Express Oviedo weekend journey?
The check-in for your Costa Verde Express weekend journey begins at 6:30 p.m. on Friday at Oviedo station, located at Calle de Uría, s/n, 33003 Oviedo. You should arrive at least one hour before the scheduled departure time of 9:30 p.m. Upon arrival, you will be met by the train staff, who will assist you with your luggage and escort you to your private Grand Class Suite. Please ensure you have your passport or valid identification ready for verification.
2What type of accommodation is available on the Costa Verde Express?
The Costa Verde Express features luxurious Grand Class Suites. Each suite is approximately 10 m² (108 ft²) and includes a private bedroom area, a separate living room with a sofa, a wardrobe, desk, minibar, and a full private bathroom with a shower, hairdryer, and luxury toiletries. Guests can choose between a double bed (200x180cm) or two single beds (185x80cm), subject to availability. All suites are air-conditioned and designed for maximum comfort and privacy.
3What meals are included on the Costa Verde Express Oviedo weekend journey?
Your tour price includes all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners as per the itinerary. Breakfasts are served onboard and can be a gourmet buffet or à la carte. Lunches and dinners are served either onboard in the elegant dining cars or at selected local restaurants, offering a taste of regional cuisine. Beverages, including water, soft drinks, coffee, tea, selected wines, and alcoholic drinks, are included with all meals and in the bar carriage.
4What is the dress code on the Costa Verde Express?
During the day, a smart casual dress code is recommended for comfort, especially for excursions. For evenings, the atmosphere onboard is one of elegant casual. While formal wear is not compulsory, many guests choose to dress up for dinner; a jacket for gentlemen and smart dresses or tailored separates for ladies are common. Jeans and shorts are not considered appropriate for the dining cars in the evening.
5Is there Wi-Fi and electricity on the train?
Yes, the Costa Verde Express provides 220V electricity outlets with standard European two-pin plugs (Type F) in each suite, along with USB charging points. Wi-Fi access is available in the common areas of the train, such as the lounge and bar carriages. However, please be aware that due to the nature of some routes through remote areas, Wi-Fi connectivity may be intermittent at times.
6What is the cancellation policy for the Costa Verde Express weekend journey?
The cancellation policy for the Costa Verde Express is tiered based on the proximity to your departure date. If you cancel more than 45 days prior, a 15% fee applies. For cancellations between 45 and 30 days, the fee is 25%. Between 29 and 15 days, it rises to 50%. From 14 to 7 days, 75% of the total price is forfeited. For cancellations less than 7 days before departure, 100% of the total price is retained. All cancellations must be submitted in writing.
7What should I pack for a journey on the Costa Verde Express?
For your Costa Verde Express journey, we recommend packing comfortable layers, as Northern Spain's climate can be variable even in summer. Include light jackets or sweaters for cooler evenings and a waterproof outer layer in case of rain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for excursions. For evenings onboard, elegant casual attire is suggested. Remember your passport or ID, any personal medications, and a European plug adapter if needed. Soft-sided luggage is recommended for easier storage in your suite.
8Are alcoholic beverages included on the Costa Verde Express?
Yes, selected alcoholic beverages are included in your tour price. This includes a selection of wines and other alcoholic drinks served during meals, as well as in the bar carriage throughout the day and evening. Premium or specific high-end alcoholic beverages may incur an additional charge, but a generous selection is part of the all-inclusive experience.
9Is there medical assistance available onboard the train?
While the Costa Verde Express does not have a dedicated medical doctor onboard, the train staff are trained in basic first aid and emergency procedures. In the event of a medical emergency, the train can make unscheduled stops at the nearest town with appropriate medical facilities. Guests with specific health concerns or requiring regular medication should consult their doctor before travel and carry an adequate supply of their prescriptions.
10Can I make changes to my Costa Verde Express booking?
Amendments to confirmed bookings, such as date changes or itinerary modifications, may be possible but are subject to availability and may incur an administration fee. Name changes are generally permitted without charge up to 30 days prior to departure; changes requested closer to departure may be subject to fees. It is always best to contact Palace Tours as soon as possible if you need to make any alterations to your reservation.