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- This trip is recommended because it is the: CheapestDeparture time: 26 April atDeparture city: BarcelonaDeparture location: SantsArrival time: 26 April atDestination city: MadridDestination location: Madrid-Chamartin
- This trip is recommended because it is the: 2nd CheapestDeparture time: 26 April atDeparture city: BarcelonaDeparture location: SantsArrival time: 26 April atDestination city: MadridDestination location: Madrid Puerta De Atocha
- This trip is recommended because it is the: FastestDeparture time: 26 April atDeparture city: BarcelonaDeparture location: SantsArrival time: 26 April atDestination city: MadridDestination location: Madrid Puerta De Atocha
- Departure time: 26 April atDeparture city: BarcelonaDeparture location: SantsArrival time: 26 April atDestination city: MadridDestination location: Madrid Puerta De Atocha
- Departure time: 26 April atDeparture city: BarcelonaDeparture location: SantsArrival time: 26 April atDestination city: MadridDestination location: Madrid Puerta De Atocha
Train Barcelona to Madrid: Trip Overview
Train Companies
According to 12 reviews, Renfe received a 4.5-star rating for this journey. Travellers were especially satisfied with the staff and the timeliness, but some complained about the value for money. Renfe ticket prices on this trip start at US$17.00
RENFE AVE Barcelona Madrid recent customer reviews
On time, clean train, plenty of leg room
Amazing! Clean, comfortable, great journey, great staff. I come from England and it made me appreciate how terrible our train service is.
According to 22 reviews, Iryo received a 4.5-star rating for this journey. Travellers were especially satisfied with the staff and the timeliness, but some complained about the Wi-Fi. Iryo ticket prices on this trip start at US$19.00
iryo Barcelona Madrid recent customer reviews
Very orderly boarding process. Clean and very comfortable train. On time departure and arrival.
It was fast 300km per hour
Tickets purchased in Australia and no need to redeem them for Spanish tickets. Arrival/Departure information displays boards easy to navigate, carriages clearly marked and seat allocations easy to follow. The carriage was very clean and welcoming, more than enough leg room but unfortunately our seats weren't next to a window so l missed out on viewing the countryside.
Based on 52 reviews, the company was rated 4.4 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the staff and the seats but often complained with the Wi-Fi. OUIGO ticket prices on this trip start at US$15.00
OUIGO Barcelona Madrid recent customer reviews
Very good
We took a train
Barcelona to Madrid Trains
The train between Barcelona and Madrid is a great way to travel between these two cities: it's pleasant, quick, and simple, and you also get to see some beautiful Spanish countryside on your trip.
There are two types of trains on this route: Renfe's AVE and Renfe's regular trains. The AVE is a high-speed train that makes the trip in about two and a half hours, while the regular takes about eight hours. Both trains are comfortable and offer great views of the countryside, so it's really up to you which one you choose.
Barcelona to Madrid fast train (AVE)
The fastest way to go from Barcelona to Madrid is to take the high-speed train (AVE). The train is a very convenient way to travel, with the train station located in the center of Barcelona.
The journey takes about two and a half hours to go through 506 km. This means that you can easily make a day trip from Barcelona to Madrid, or even stay overnight in Madrid and return to Barcelona the next day.
The high-speed train (AVE) from Barcelona to Madrid reaches speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour! This train is one of the fastest in Europe, and it's a great way to get between these two cities quickly. The AVE also has WiFi onboard, so you can stay connected while you travel.
Train times from Barcelona to Madrid
There are 15 daily departures on the journey from Barcelona to Madrid, on average. The first train leaves at 7 am and the latest leaves at 8 pm.
The train station on this route
Estación Barcelona Sants: This train station is located in the center of Barcelona, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city. To get there, you can take the metro (the train station is Sants Estació, served by green line L3 and blue line L5), or you can take a bus or taxi.
Estación Atocha: The train station is located in the center of Madrid, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city. You can get there by metro (blue line 1, stop Estación del Arte) or take a bus, as there are many lines with stops nearby.
Estación Madrid Chamartín: Charmartín is the station where the regular trains from Renfe arrive. The train station is located in the north of Madrid, about 30 minutes from the city center. You can get there by metro (take line 1 - blue, to metro stop Pinar de Chamartin) or by taking a 20-minute bus (lines C1, C2, C7 and C10 to the city center).
Train companies on this route
The two companies that operate on this route.
Renfe train from Barcelona to Madrid
Renfe is a company providing both high-speed trains and regular trains. They are the main train company in Spain and provide a great variety of travel times, as well as plenty of space for luggage and amenities onboard.
OUIGO train from Barcelona to Madrid
Ouigo is the other train company that operates on this route, with only a few departures per day. They also provide a comfortable journey and space for luggage, but their schedule may not be as convenient as Renfe's.
Save time and money with the train from Barcelona to Madrid
Taking the train is a more eco-friendly option than flying, as it reduces air pollution and noise. You're also less likely to encounter delays when traveling by train than if you were driving or flying. Train rides are also less susceptible to stormy weather, so you can be sure that you will arrive on time.
Also, you won't have to check in early or worry about missing your flight because you only have to be at the station about 15 minutes before departure. Because you'll avoid the trip to the airport, which is usually distant from city center, you will also save on transfers or taxis.
Finally, taking the train is often cheaper than flying. If you're on a budget, this is definitely something to keep in mind. The train is generally more comfortable than flying or taking the bus. You'll have plenty of space to stretch out and relax.
Price of train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid
The average price of train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid is €135 for a one-way ticket in standard class. But if you book in advance and have flexible travel times, you have a chance to find AVE tickets for about €25 or at least the same price as the regular train.
The best way to save money on train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid is to make a reservation ahead of time. If you book your journey at least several weeks or even months ahead of time, you may typically save up to 25% off the price. You may also take advantage of special pricing and discounts; be sure to keep an eye out for them. Another tip is to travel during the week as train tickets are usually cheaper then.
The summer is the busiest season for tourism in Spain, which can impact ticket costs and availability. Make sure to book early to reserve your tickets; this will ensure that you get good seats. Busbud makes it simple to locate the most affordable fares and purchase ahead of time. It's quick, safe, and convenient!
Information on this train trip
Daily Trains | 29 |
Earliest and Latest Train Departures | 05:40 - 21:25 |
Minimum Price | US$22 |
Average Ticket Price | US$43 |
Minimum Trip Duration | 2h29m |
Average Train Trip Duration | 2h45m |
Distance | 312 miles |
Train Companies on This Route | Renfe, Iryo, OUIGO |
Where are the popular train stations and stops in Barcelona and Madrid?
Carrer 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 FranciaMadrid 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 MinisteriosFrequently asked questions on the trip Barcelona - Madrid
The average train ticket price from Barcelona to Madrid is US$43. The best way to find cheap train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid 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 Barcelona and Madrid 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 Barcelona to Madrid can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 29. Some trains are direct while others include transferring trains. Simplify your train trip from Barcelona to Madrid by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.
When taking the train from Barcelona to Madrid, you can travel comfortably and safely with Renfe, Iryo, OUIGO.
Trains travelling between Barcelona and Madrid leave from Sants or Nord and arrive at Madrid Puerta De Atocha, Madrid-Chamartin, Madrid-Príncipe Pio.
Find cheapest prices for trains
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 Barcelona to Madrid as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from US$21 to US$137 for a train ticket from Barcelona to Madrid based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at US$21, which is on 2024-04-27.
Usually RENFE_RENFE, 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.
Barcelona to Madrid Trains
There are a few things you can do to make the most of your train journey. First, try to get a window seat so you can enjoy the scenery as you go. There's no need to be concerned if you're hungry - on most trains, there is a food and drink cart that passes by repeatedly, as well as a bar car.
Luggage restrictions are rather liberal, and they're rarely enforced. Usually, you can bring three bags weighing up to 25 kg (55 lbs) in total.
You'll also find bathrooms in all cars and power outlets should be available too. Most trains have free Wi-Fi, so you can sit back and work while on the journey.
With the ticket in hand, board the train and enjoy the ride. Make sure to take a look out the window to see some of Spain's stunning scenery. And when you arrive in Madrid, you'll be all set to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.
When in Madrid
Madrid is the capital of Spain and the third largest city in the European Union. It's home to some of the world's most iconic architecture, including the Royal Palace and Prado Museum. The city is also renowned for its art, food and nightlife.
Whether you're visiting Madrid for a few days or a longer stay, there's plenty to keep you entertained. Be sure to check out some of the city's top attractions, such as the Royal Palace, Prado Museum and Retiro Park.
And of course, no visit to Madrid would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Tapas are a must, and you can wash it all down with a glass of sangria.
Ready to plan your trip? There are plenty of things to see and do in Madrid. Here are some of our top picks:
Visit the Royal Palace
Explore the Prado Museum
Explore Reina Sofia Museum to see iconic 20th-century art and pieces like Picasso's "Guernica"
Go see "Plaza Mayor", "Puerta del Sol", "Cibeles Fountain" and other Madrid landmarks
See the sunset at "Templo de Debod"
See a football game at "Estadio Santiago Bernabeu"
Visit "El Rastro", Madrid's world-famous flea market
Stroll through Retiro Park
Check out the city's street art
Sample tapas and traditional Madrid dishes, like potato tortilla and churros
Experience Madrid's lively nightlife scene
Whether you're visiting Madrid for a few days or staying for weeks, you'll find plenty to keep you busy.
Will you be returning to Barcelona by train?
Train from Madrid to BarcelonaWhy choose Busbud?
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