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Train Barcelona Madrid

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Train Barcelona Madrid

Passengers
Adults
26 - 59 years
Select your origin and destination before adding discount cards.

Barcelona Madrid Train

Traveling between Barcelona and Madrid by train is one of the fastest, most comfortable, and efficient options. With high-speed trains like AVE, Ouigo, Iryo, and Avlo, you have plenty of choices to suit your budget and needs. We offer all the information you need to make the best travel decision, from schedules and prices to onboard services and how to book your tickets.

Save Time and Avoid Stress


High-speed trains connect these two cities in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making them the fastest option after flying, but without the stress of security checks or long waiting times at airports. The ease of boarding and disembarking from the train is one of the major advantages. Additionally, the stations are located in the center of both cities, saving you time on transfers.

Flexibility of Schedules and Prices


There are over 40 daily trains covering the Barcelona-Madrid route, allowing you to choose from many schedule options. Whether you need to travel early in the morning or late at night, there will always be a train that fits your schedule. Competition among companies such as Renfe, Ouigo, Iryo, and Avlo has also made prices more competitive. Tickets can be found starting from €7 with Avlo, depending on how far in advance you book and the company you choose.

Onboard Comfort


Traveling by train allows you to enjoy more space and comfort compared to other means of transportation. Both Renfe AVE and Iryo trains are equipped with free Wi-Fi, seat plugs, catering services, and café carriages. The comfort and the ability to stretch and walk around the train make the journey more enjoyable.

Lower Environmental Impact


High-speed trains are a much more sustainable option compared to flying. If you care about the environment, choosing the train for your trip between Barcelona and Madrid significantly reduces your carbon footprint.

Cheap Trains Barcelona Madrid

The average train journey time between Barcelona and Madrid is 2 hours and 42 minutes, although the fastest train covers the route in just 2 hours and 29 minutes. Each day, approximately 41 trains travel the 506 kilometers between the two cities. You can find tickets from €7 if you book in advance, making the train an economical and efficient option for this route.

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The cheapest (from average) schedule

6:35 h

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The cheapest day (on average)

Friday

First train 05:40
Last train 21:00
Duration From 2h 29min
Distance 506 km
Frequency 41 trains per day
Connections Direct trains available
Ticket price From €7
Companies OUIGO, iryo, Renfe, Avlo, ALSA

Train schedules from Barcelona to Madrid

Check the available train schedules from Barcelona to Madrid for Sun. 22 Dec. 2024

AVE
5:40h
Barcelona Sants
8:23h
Madrid Atocha
2h 43m
iryo
5:45h
Barcelona Sants
8:28h
Madrid Atocha
2h 43m
AVE
5:50h
Barcelona Sants
9:10h
Madrid Atocha
3h 20m
OUIGO
6:30h
Barcelona Sants
9:15h
Madrid Atocha
2h 45m
Avlo
6:35h
Barcelona Sants
9:20h
Madrid Atocha
2h 45m
iryo
7:05h
Barcelona Sants
9:35h
Madrid Atocha
2h 30m
AVE
7:32h
Barcelona Sants
10:10h
Madrid Atocha
2h 38m

Cheap train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid

We help you compare all train tickets for traveling from Barcelona to Madrid, making it easy to choose the most economical ticket to save you time and money.

To find cheap train tickets, in addition to comparing prices, we suggest you book your trip as early as possible from Barcelona to Madrid, as the most affordable tickets are usually the first to sell out.

Another recommendation is to take advantage of offers and promotions launched by operators throughout the year. Both traditional and low-cost trains offer discounts that can help you save on your trip.

If you already know when you’ll be returning to Barcelona from Madrid, it’s advisable to book your round-trip ticket in the same purchase, as you’ll usually get a better price than booking tickets separately.

Classes in AVE, Avlo, OUIGO, and iryo from Barcelona to Madrid

Compare the different classes offered by iryo, AVE, OUIGO, and Avlo to travel from Barcelona to Madrid

  • AVE
  • Avlo
  • OUIGO
  • iryo

On-board services on AVE, Avlo, OUIGO, and iryo

More information about the onboard services on trains departing from Barcelona to Madrid, and discover the amenities they offer during the journey to make your experience more pleasant and comfortable.

  • AVE
  • Avlo
  • OUIGO
  • iryo
  • Luggage
    In AVE, you can bring up to three pieces of luggage that, together, should not exceed 290 cm and a total weight of 25 kg. The maximum permitted dimensions for each piece of luggage (suitcases, bags, backpacks, folded baby strollers) are 85x55x35 cm. Additionally, musical instruments traveling in their case and not exceeding dimensions of 30x120x38 cm are also considered hand luggage.
    Food and drink
    On AVE trains, passengers can enjoy an on-board food and beverage service, including a café car with options such as hot dishes, sandwiches, snacks, and a variety of hot and cold drinks. Additionally, some trains offer the possibility of seat service in preferential class, adding extra comfort during the journey.
    Entertainment

    The onboard entertainment service on the AVE includes access to a wide variety of content through the PlayRenfe platform. Passengers can enjoy movies, series, music, and other programs via their mobile device, tablet, or laptop by connecting to the train's free Wi-Fi network. Additionally, some trains have individual screens on the seats.

    Traveling with children

    Traveling with children on AVE trains is a comfortable and convenient experience. These trains offer spacious seats and feature diaper-changing areas in the bathrooms. In addition, children under 4 can travel for free if they do not occupy a seat, and there are discounts for children up to 14 years old. During the journey, younger travelers can enjoy free Wi-Fi and the onboard entertainment system, making the trip more enjoyable for the whole family.

    Pets
    On AVE trains, it is allowed to travel with pets as long as they meet certain requirements. Pets must travel inside an appropriately sized carrier, and their weight must not exceed 10 kg. Additionally, a specific ticket must be purchased for them, and only one pet is allowed per traveler. Animals must remain in their carrier throughout the journey.
    Accessibility

    The AVE trains are designed to ensure full accessibility for people with reduced mobility. They have adapted seats and accessible bathrooms, as well as ramps and elevators at the stations. The on-board staff is also available to provide assistance during boarding and disembarking.

  • Luggage
    With your Avlo ticket, you can bring two pieces of luggage at no additional cost: one hand luggage piece measuring 36x27x25 cm and one cabin suitcase measuring 55x35x25 cm. If you need to add an extra piece, it must meet the maximum dimensions of 85x60x35 cm or not exceed 180 cm in total. This will incur a fee of €10 when purchasing the ticket or €30 at the station.
    Food and drink
    In Avlo trains, there is no cafeteria or mobile bar service, but vending machines are available, offering cold and hot drinks as well as a variety of snacks and appetizers. It is worth noting that payment in these machines can only be made with a card.
    Entertainment

    On Avlo trains, onboard entertainment is more limited compared to other services such as the AVE. Currently, they do not offer entertainment systems like screens or integrated digital platforms, but passengers can enjoy the comfort of their seats and take advantage of the Wi-Fi connection available on certain sections to access their own devices and content during the journey.

    Traveling with children
    Traveling with children on Avlo trains is a convenient and affordable option, as they offer special rates for the little ones. Children under 14 can enjoy reduced-price tickets, starting from 5€. Additionally, the train provides a comfortable and safe environment for families, with vending machines on board for snacks and drinks, making the journey a more enjoyable experience.
    Pets
    On Avlo trains, traveling with pets is allowed, but certain conditions must be met. Only one small pet per passenger is permitted, with a maximum weight of 10 kg, and it must travel inside a carrier with dimensions not exceeding 60x35x35 cm. Additionally, an extra ticket for the pet must be purchased. The carrier must be placed in designated spaces, and the pet must remain inside it throughout the journey.
    Accessibility
    The Avlo trains are accessible for people with reduced mobility. They have reserved spaces for wheelchair users and assistance available for boarding and disembarking. In addition, the trains are equipped with access ramps and adapted bathrooms to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all travelers.
  • Luggage
    With your OUIGO ticket, you have the possibility to board without any extra cost, and you can choose between: 2 pieces of hand luggage not exceeding 36x27x15 cm or 1 hand luggage item with maximum dimensions of 36x27x15 cm and 1 additional piece of luggage that does not exceed 55x35x25 cm. To travel with additional or XL luggage (up to a maximum of 30 kg), you can purchase the OUIGO PLUS option.
    Food and drink
    Although Ouigo trains do not have a bar service, you can bring your own food and drink on board. Additionally, there are vending machines on the train where you can buy snacks, cold and hot drinks.
    Entertainment
    The Ouigo trains offer a digital entertainment service through their platform, where you can access movies, series, music, and games from your own mobile device by connecting to the train's Wi-Fi network.
    Traveling with children
    The Ouigo trains offer reduced fares for children under 14, making it an affordable option for families. Young children can travel on an adult’s lap at no additional cost if they don’t occupy a seat.
    Pets
    You can travel with your pet on Ouigo trains if it weighs less than 10 kg and is in an appropriate carrier. It is necessary to purchase a specific ticket for pets.
    Accessibility
    The Ouigo trains are equipped for passengers with reduced mobility. There are reserved spaces for wheelchairs, and assistance is available to facilitate boarding and alighting.
  • Luggage

    At Iryo you are allowed to carry up to three pieces of luggage in total. This includes up to two large suitcases with dimensions of 85x55x35 cm and one hand luggage of 36x27x15 cm. It is important that the total weight does not exceed 25 kg.

    Food and drink
    The Iryo trains feature a café car where a variety of food and drink options are available for purchase, including snacks, sandwiches, and hot and cold drinks. Additionally, they offer a catering service that can be reserved prior to the journey.
    Entertainment
    The onboard entertainment system on Iryo trains includes access to a digital platform where passengers can enjoy movies, series, music, and more, through a fast and free Wi-Fi connection, as well as 5G connectivity.
    Traveling with children
    Traveling with children on Iryo trains is easy and comfortable, as they offer special fares for children between 0 and 13 years old. Additionally, the trains provide spacious areas and services that ensure a pleasant journey for families.
    Pets
    Iryo trains allow small pets weighing less than 10 kg to travel, provided they are in an appropriate carrier. Pets must remain inside the carrier for the entire journey, and, depending on the type of ticket, an additional fee may apply.
    Accessibility
    The Iryo trains are fully adapted for people with reduced mobility. They feature access ramps, accessible seats, and adapted bathrooms to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all passengers.

Comparison of High-Speed Trains: AVE, Ouigo, Iryo, and Avlo

Below, we show you a comparison of the different trains operating between Barcelona and Madrid so that you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Renfe AVE is ideal if you are looking for flexibility and comfort, with more options for changes and onboard services. Ouigo and Avlo are perfect for those looking for low prices, while Iryo offers a premium service with 5G Wi-Fi, ideal if you need constant connectivity during the journey.

AVE
Avlo
OUIGO
iryo
Maximum speed
320 km/h
320 km/h
320 km/h
320 km/h
Free Wi-Fi
Restaurant service
Individual outlets
Seat Selection
Flexibility

Book Your Train Ticket: Quick and Easy Process

Booking a ticket for the train between Barcelona and Madrid is a very simple and quick process. The key steps to complete your reservation without issues:

  • Select the departure date and time that suits you best.

  • Compare prices among different companies to find the best offer.

  • Complete the purchase using a secure payment method.

  • Receive your electronic ticket. You no longer need to print the ticket; you can carry it on your mobile and present it directly to the train staff.

Station Guide: Barcelona Sants and Madrid Atocha

Barcelona Sants is the main train station in the city and is very well connected to public transport, including the metro, buses, and taxis. The station offers services like restaurants, shops, comfortable waiting areas, free Wi-Fi, and more.

Arriving with some time to spare allows you to enjoy a coffee before boarding. It’s a very accessible and well-organized station, making the departure process quick and efficient.
The Atocha Station in Madrid is an iconic landmark of the city. In addition to being a transport hub, it is known for its interior tropical garden, offering a unique atmosphere. Here you can also find restaurants, shops, device charging points, and excellent connections with the metro and buses.

Getting around Atocha is quite easy, and the signs guide you smoothly to your destination, whether within the station or connecting to other areas of Madrid.

Main Tourist Attractions in Madrid

Once in Madrid, there is much to see and do. If you have time after your train journey, be sure to visit some of the most important tourist spots:

  • The Prado Museum: One of the world’s most important museums, featuring works by great artists such as Velázquez and Goya.

  • Retiro Park: A green oasis in the city center, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

  • Puerta del Sol: The heart of Madrid, a vibrant place where important events, such as New Year's Eve, are celebrated.

  • The Royal Palace: The official residence of the Spanish royal family, although it is currently only used for ceremonies.

Trains from Barcelona

Trains from Madrid

Barcelona Madrid Train Schedules


The route between Barcelona and Madrid is the busiest in Spain, with almost 40 high-speed trains daily. The first train departs from Barcelona Sants at 5:40 AM, while the last one leaves at 9:00 PM.

With so many trains available each day, you can easily choose the best time to travel from Barcelona to Madrid, as there are multiple trains each hour offering different prices, services, and conditions.

We recommend checking the schedules before buying your ticket, as prices can vary significantly if you depart a few minutes earlier or later.

The train schedules from Barcelona to Madrid may vary depending on the day of the week, the time of year, or ticket demand. Additionally, train speed also matters, as some high-speed trains make more stops than others, affecting the total travel time.

Barcelona Madrid Train Journey


Traveling by train between Barcelona and Madrid is a fast, comfortable, and hassle-free option. In just 2 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll be in the heart of Madrid, saving time compared to driving or airport transfers.

Forget about hassles like going to the airport or driving for hours. Travel directly from the center of Barcelona to the heart of Madrid while taking advantage of the journey to read, watch a movie, or simply relax.

Whether you travel from Barcelona to Madrid with AVE, OUIGO, Avlo or iryo, you’ll enjoy a comfortable seat, with access to wifi, a folding table, and the option to get up at any point during the trip to stretch your legs.

Renfe Barcelona Madrid


Renfe is the main operator on the high-speed Barcelona-Madrid route, being the first company to connect both cities with the AVE.

As the national operator, Renfe has the trust of users and offers extensive coverage. Apart from the AVE, Renfe also operates Avlo, its low-cost train line, offering tickets from just €7, thus complementing its high-speed AVE service.

Many users choose Renfe to travel from Barcelona to Madrid by train due to the wide range of schedules it offers. Undoubtedly, it is the operator that covers the most daily departures and also offers a variety of train tickets. With AVE, you have options ranging from more economical tickets to first-class experiences, while with Avlo, you can get tickets at super competitive prices.

Barcelona Madrid Round Trip Train


In addition to one-way tickets, you can also purchase round-trip tickets for the Madrid - Barcelona train route. Generally, buying both tickets together allows you to get better prices. If you already know your return date, we recommend booking both journeys at once.

As a rule of thumb, you can save up to 20% if you purchase your round-trip tickets together, compared to booking separate tickets.

The process of purchasing round-trip tickets on trenes.com is very simple: just select the round trip option when making your purchase, and after choosing your outbound ticket, you’ll be shown the return options.

On trenes.com, you can combine different rail operators for your round trip. For instance, you can go from Barcelona to Madrid on AVE and return on OUIGO, or go with Iryo and come back with Avlo.

High-Speed Barcelona Madrid


Since 2008, Barcelona and Madrid have been connected by high-speed trains, thanks to AVE, quickly becoming the preferred option for travelers from both cities.

Traveling at high speed from Barcelona to Madrid not only offers comfort and sustainability but also saves a lot of time, as in just 2 hours and 30 minutes you can go from Barcelona to the capital.

In recent years, new operators like OUIGO, Avlo, and iryo have expanded high-speed train options between the two cities. This has meant more schedules, lower prices, and a greater variety of services.

Low-Cost Barcelona Madrid Train


With the entry of new operators, you can find economical train tickets with low-cost trains from Barcelona to Madrid. Both Avlo and OUIGO offer train tickets for under €10, making travel between these two cities an affordable and attractive option.

If you want to book low-cost tickets to go from Barcelona to Madrid on high-speed rail, you’ll need to act quickly, as the cheapest tickets are the first to go. Stay ahead and take advantage of the sales openings, offers, and discounts from the rail operators, or buy your ticket as early as possible.

Finally, it’s worth noting that even though they’re low-cost, these trains offer a complete selection of onboard services, such as Wi-Fi, seat outlets, reading lights, foldable tables, and an entertainment portal to make your trip from Barcelona to Madrid fly by.

Traveling by train from Barcelona to Madrid

If I buy train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid, do I have to print the tickets?

It is not necessary, we will send you the tickets both to your email and to your mobile phone so that you can travel without problems just by showing your mobile phone. We recommend, if you have the possibility to print them, that you do so in case you have problems with the coverage or with the battery of your mobile phone.

What is the price of the trains from Barcelona to Madrid?

Train prices from Barcelona to Madrid can vary greatly, from 7€ to 314€ . The most important thing, if you are looking for the cheapest ticket, is that you buy it as far in advance as possible , this way you will get the best offers and prices. The price also changes depending on the rate or the class and schedule you choose.

How far in advance do I have to be at the Barcelona station?

Normally we recommend that you be at the train station 30 minutes before the train's departure to go with tranquility and comfort.

Is there a direct train from Barcelona to Madrid or will I have to change?

There are direct trains from Barcelona to Madrid, so normally you will not need to change on your journey. You can go from Barcelona to Madrid by train directly without getting off the train or changing stations.

What is the duration of the train trip from Barcelona to Madrid?

The duration of the train journey between Barcelona and Madrid will depend on its stops. Normally the average duration of the trip is 2 hours and 30 minutes , there is usually not much time difference between trains, it will depend on the stops you have to make in other stations.

Can I change or cancel my train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid?

There are two options, there are tickets that, if they allow changes and cancellations and others do not, these are usually cheaper. It is very important that you choose the rate that suits you best at the time of purchase.

How fast do trains travel from Barcelona to Madrid?

Trains going from Barcelona to Madrid travel at an average speed of 300 km/h, although at times they can reach much higher maximum speeds.

How far does the train travel from Barcelona to Madrid?

Trains traveling from Barcelona to Madrid cover a distance of approximately 506km and the average duration of the train journey is 2 hours and 30 minutes.

When does the first train depart from Barcelona to Madrid?

Normally, the first train leaves Barcelona at 05:40h and arrives at Madrid at 08:23h. The schedule for the first train may change for holidays or weekends.

When is the last train from Barcelona to Madrid?

Normally, the last train that can be taken leaves from Barcelona at 21:00h and arrives at Madrid at 23:46h . The last train schedule may change for holidays or weekends.

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