Easily compare and book your next trip with Busbud
Trusted by 65M+ travelers every year looking for bus and train tickets
Serving 2M+ bus and train routes in more than 80 countries
Dedicated customer service from booking to travelOne passenger / one way
According to 14 reviews, Renfe received a 4.5-star rating for this journey. Travelers were especially satisfied with the seats and the temperature, but some complained about the value for money. Renfe ticket prices on this trip start at $17.00
The company Renfe didn't send me a pdf ticket and I lost my ticket and I have to buy another ticket. Waste of time and bad customer service.
Customers have expressed positive opinions about the spacious and comfortable seats, as well as the clean environment of Iryo train. The service is described as fast and efficient.
It was easy and simple and on time.
Great assistance from all workers. They made the experience be as efficient and easy as possible. They were very kind, even during the holiday season. I recommend them to everyone
Amazing! Comfortable, easy and felt luxurious!
OUIGO is a high-speed low-cost train service operated by the French national railway company, SNCF. It offers affordable and fast travel options for passengers and has recently expanded its services to Spain. OUIGO's rescheduling policy allows passengers to change their travel plans up to 30 minutes before departure, for a 30€ fee. This gives passengers more flexibility and peace of mind when booking their trips. As they are a low-cost company, their luggage policy only allows travelers to take one small hand luggage and a suitcase not bigger than 55x35x25cm. If you need to get around fast at affordable rates, OUIGO might be the best choice.
I am soooo annoyed that they closed the door earlier, we arrived there at 7:01am and they do not allowed us to get in anymore, well there was not even anyone at the door.
Overall good experIence
Traveling by train from Madrid to Barcelona is a popular and convenient way to explore two of Spain's most famous cities. The journey between Madrid and Barcelona is one of the busiest train routes in Spain, with trains departing frequently throughout the day and three different train companies operating daily trains on this route.
The train journey from Madrid to Barcelona takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the type of train you choose. Two main types of trains operate on this route: high-speed AVE trains and slower regional trains.
Here's what you should know before booking your train tickets from Madrid to Barcelona:
Renfe has two types of trains:
High-speed AVE trains: this is the fastest option for traveling from Madrid to Barcelona, taking about 2.5 hours, with 4 stops along the way. With free Wi-Fi, dining cars and USB plugs available in every seat, these
AVE trains depart from Madrid's Atocha station and arrive at Barcelona's Sants station. Two different classes are available: standard and comfort.
Regional trains: These are slower regional trains than the AVE, taking around 9 hours to reach Barcelona. They make frequent stops along the way and offer cheaper fares than the AVE trains. If you're on a budget, they are an option to consider.
For budget-conscious travelers seeking an affordable way to get around Spain, Ouigo's high-speed and low-cost trains are a good choice. They depart 5 times a day from Madrid (Atocha station) and head to Barcelona (Sants station), stopping in Zaragoza and Tarragona.
The main advantage with OUIGo is their affordability. They provide lower-priced tickets compared to other high-speed rail options in Spain. Ouigo trains also have free Wi-Fi, plenty of legroom, and an onboard bar selling drinks and snacks. They also offer two ticket types: standard and XL seats. As this is a low-cost company, there's no personnel onboard and you can only travel with a small carry on bag.
For a unique travel experience in Spain, check out Iryo trains, which started to operate in late 2022. Traveling at 360km/h, Iryo trains are efficient and reliable, providing a smooth journey and gourmet onboard service on their trains from Madrid to Barcelona, which has 16 daily departures.
Iryo trains prioritize sustainability and meet the latest environmental standards for eco-friendly transportation. These trains are made from 95% recyclable materials and run on 100% renewable energy. Not only are they fast and quiet, but they are also an environmentally conscious option for travelers. And their prices are good too.
| AVE | IRYO | OUIGO | |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRICE | Competitive | Competitive | low-cost |
| FOOD | Snacks, dishes and drinks | Gourmet restaurant | Snacks and drinks |
| LUGGAGE | 3 pieces, up to 25kg | 1 hand luggage + 2 suitcases. 25kg total | 1 small hand luggage + 1 piece 55cm x 35cm x25 cm |
| AMENITIES | 5G WiFi, Power Outlets | 5G WiFi, Power Outlets | 5G WiFi, Power Outlets for a fee |
| REFUNDS | Only for Elige and Premium tickets | Partial refunds for all travelers | No refunds |
When it comes to booking train tickets, we recommend that you book in advance to secure the best prices and seats. You can purchase train tickets online with Busbud, as we help you find, compare and book the best ticket for your travel needs.
Traveling by train from Madrid to Barcelona is an excellent way to explore these two vibrant cities. With frequent departures, comfortable trains, and beautiful scenery along the way, this journey is sure to be an enjoyable and unforgettable experience.
Puerta de Atocha station, in Madrid, where most of the trains to Barcelona depart fromㅤ
| Daily Trains | 31 |
| Earliest and Latest Train Departures | 6:30AM - 9:10PM |
| Minimum Price | $29 |
| Average Ticket Price | $42 |
| Minimum Trip Duration | 2h29m |
| Average Train Trip Duration | 2h45m |
| Distance | 312 miles (502 km) |
| Train Companies on This Route | Renfe, Iryo, OUIGO |
Madrid Atocha railway station, Plaza del Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid, Spain
Madrid Puerta De AtochaC. de la Hiedra, 5, 28036 Madrid, Spain
Madrid-ChamartinPríncipe Pío, 28008 Madrid, Spain
Madrid-Príncipe PioEstación de Nuevos Ministerios, 28046 Madrid, Spain
Nuevos MinisteriosCarrer de Viriat, 10, 08014 Barcelona, Spain
SantsCarrer d'Alí Bei, 80, 08013 Barcelona, Spain
NordC-33, 140, 08026 Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona Clot-AragoAvinguda Meridiana, 11, 08030 Barcelona, Spain
Avinguda Meridiana, 11Av. del Marquès de l'Argentera,, 08003 Barcelona, , Spain
Estación de Francia
The average train ticket price from Madrid to Barcelona is $42. The best way to find train tickets from Madrid to Barcelona is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!
A train trip between Madrid and Barcelona is around 2h 45m, although the fastest train will take about 2h 29m. This is the time it takes to travel the 313 miles that separates the two cities.
The number of trains from Madrid to Barcelona can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 31. Some trains are direct while others have layovers. Simplify your train trip from Madrid to Barcelona by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.
When taking the train from Madrid to Barcelona, you can travel comfortably and safely with Renfe, Iryo, OUIGO.
Once in Barcelona, you can exploring the city. The top sights and things to do are Parc del Laberint, Parc de L'Espanya Industrial, National Art Museum of Catalonia, Poble Espanyol Architectural Museum, Casa Mila.
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Madrid to Barcelona, as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from $21 to $184 for a train ticket from Madrid to Barcelona based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $21 which is on 2024-04-30.
Usually RENFE_AVE will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.
If you want to make the most of your train ride, there are a few things you can do.
💺 First, try to snag a window seat so you can enjoy the scenery as you travel.
🥪 If you get hungry, there's no need to worry - the trains have a food and drink cart that comes by regularly, as well as a bar car.
🔌 The trains also are equipped with bathrooms and power outlets. Most of them include free Wi-Fi as well, so you can sit back and work while on the journey.
Once you have your ticket, all you need to do is board the train and enjoy the ride! If you have time, make sure to take a look out the window to see some of Spain's stunning scenery. And when you arrive in Barcelona, you'll be ready to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer. ㅤ
Barcelona is an amazing city with so much to offer. Are you visiting for the first time or do you need recommendations for specific things? Here are our top picks!
Visit the Sagrada Familia: This iconic basilica is a masterpiece of architecture and design, and definitely worth a visit.
Explore the Gothic Quarter: This historic neighborhood is full of narrow, winding streets, charming cafes, and beautiful buildings.
Relax on the beach: Barcelona has several beaches to choose from, including Barceloneta and Nova Icaria. So, take a dip in the sea and soak up some sun!
Check out Park Guell: This colorful park is another masterpiece designed by Gaudí, and offers beautiful views of the city.
Experience the local cuisine: From tapas to paella, Barcelona has a lot of delicious food to offer. Be sure to visit the Boqueria Market for some of the freshest and most delicious local produce.
Explore the art scene: Barcelona has a rich artistic heritage, with many museums and galleries to explore. The Picasso Museum and Joan Miro Foundation are two must-see spots.
Enjoy the nightlife: Barcelona has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of clubs, bars, and lounges to choose from. Check out the Port Olympic area for some of the best options.
Take a day trip: If you have some extra time, consider taking a day trip to Montserrat or Girona. Both are beautiful destinations just a short train ride away.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful! Barcelona is a fantastic city with so much to offer, and I'm sure you'll have an unforgettable time exploring it all.
| Vehicle Type | Travel Time | Avg Price | Daily Departures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle TypeBus | Travel Time7h 50m | Avg Price$46 | Daily Departures28 |
| Vehicle TypeTrain | Travel Time2h 45m | Avg Price$42 | Daily Departures31 |
| Vehicle TypeCarpool | Travel Time6h 30m | Avg Price$42 | Daily Departures14 |
The best way to travel between Madrid and Barcelona is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost $42 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from $15. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Barcelona, choose the train, as it will take you from Madrid to Barcelona in about 2h 45m - that's the fastest way to get there!
Busbud helps you easily search, compare and book intercity bus tickets on a worldwide scale with our comprehensive list of bus routes and schedules. With several language and currency options available, Busbud seeks to cater to international bus travelers no matter where they are in the world. Busbud partners with safe and reliable bus companies throughout the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others so you can buy tickets without a worry.
