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Train Madrid to Barcelona: Trip Overview
Train Companies
According to 14 reviews, Renfe received a 4.5-star rating for this journey. Travellers 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 US$17.00
RENFE AVE Madrid Barcelona recent customer reviews
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.
iryo Madrid Barcelona recent customer reviews
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!
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 Madrid Barcelona recent customer reviews
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
Madrid to Barcelona Trains
Many people travel between Madrid and Barcelona, as these are two of Spain's most popular tourist destinations. The train is the greatest way to get between these two cities: it's pleasant, quick, and simple.
Another perk is that you'll also get to see some beautiful Spanish countryside on your trip! If you're going to Spain, make sure to add Madrid and Barcelona to your itinerary and take the train for a pleasant trip between these two wonderful cities.
The trip from Madrid to Barcelona is about 506 kilometers long. The time it takes varies depending on the type of train you take, but it usually takes between two and three hours if you go for the AVE high-speed train.
AVE Madrid to Barcelona, the fastest way to travel
The AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) is the high-speed train that links Madrid with Barcelona. The journey time is just 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it the fastest way to travel between the two cities.
These trains can reach up to 310 kilometers per hour, which is pretty impressive! The AVE also has a bar and restaurant car, so you can buy snacks and drinks on board. Keep in mind that you need to make a reservation in advance if you want to take the AVE.
The AVE trains are comfortable, with air conditioning, spacious seats and plenty of legroom. On board, you'll find a selection of hot and cold drinks, as well as snacks and light meals.
Taking the AVE is definitely the best way to travel between Madrid and Barcelona if you're looking for speed and comfort. These train tickets are usually more expensive than the regular trains, but if you book early, you can sometimes find good deals and similar prices, which makes the AVE the best cost-benefit choice for this trip.
Regular Madrid to Barcelona Trains
If you're on a budget and not in a hurry, there are other trains that can get you between these two cities without breaking the bank. The regular trains that run between Madrid and Barcelona are called "Media Distancia" or "Regionales" trains, and they make stops at small towns along the way.
The journey time is usually about eight hours, so even though you'll find cheaper tickets, you'll also need more time to get to your destination.
Train times from Madrid to Barcelona
Every day, there are about 16 trains going from Madrid to Barcelona, so you should have no trouble finding one that works with your itinerary. The first train departs at 7 am and the latest leaves at about 8:30 pm, leaving you plenty of time to get to your destination in Barcelona on the same day.
The train station on this route
Estación Atocha: Madrid's main railway station is within walking distance of many attractions in the city, making it a convenient place to travel from. You may reach it by subway (blue line 1, stop Estación del Arte) or bus; there are several lines with stops nearby.
Estación Madrid Chamartín: Charmartín railway station is where the regular Renfe trains arrive. The train station is located 30 minutes from Madrid's center by bus (take lines C1, C2, C7 or C10 to the city centre).
Estación Barcelona Sants: This train station is located in the heart of Barcelona, so it's simple to get around from any part of the city. You can take the subway and get off at Sants Estació (lines L3 or L5) or take a bus or taxi to get there.
Train companies on this route
Two companies serve this route:
Renfe train from Madrid to Barcelona
Renfe is a Spanish railway company that operates both high-speed trains and conventional trains. They are the country's major train operator, providing a wide range of departure times as well as luggage and comfort for passengers.
OUIGO train from Madrid to Barcelona
Ouigo is the only other train company that runs on this route, with just a few departures every day. They also provide pleasant trips and luggage storage, although their schedule may not be as flexible as Renfe's.
How to find cheap tickets from Madrid to Barcelona
The best way to save money on train tickets from Madrid to Barcelona 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!
Convenience is a plus
The train is the most comfortable and enjoyable method to get from Madrid to Barcelona. Also, taking the train means going from one city center to another without having to go through the airport hassle or worrying about long journeys to the airport.
Both the AVE high-speed trains and the regular trains connect cities across Spain, so you can easily reach other destinations, like Valencia, Seville or Malaga.ㅤ
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Information on this train trip
| Daily Trains | 31 |
| Earliest and Latest Train Departures | 06:30 - 21:10 |
| Minimum Price | US$29 |
| Average Ticket Price | US$42 |
| 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 Madrid and Barcelona?
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
Frequently asked questions on the trip Madrid - Barcelona
The average train ticket price from Madrid to Barcelona is US$42. The best way to find cheap 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 include transferring trains. 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.
Trains travelling between Madrid and Barcelona leave from Madrid Puerta De Atocha or Madrid-Chamartin and arrive at Sants, Nord, Barcelona Clot-Arago.
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 Madrid to Barcelona as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from US$20 to US$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 US$21, which is on 2024-04-24.
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.
About the trains from Madrid to Barcelona
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 Barcelona, you'll be all set to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Save time and money with the train
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 the city centre, you will also save on transfers or taxis.
Tips to enjoy the train ride
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. Usually, you can bring three bags weighing up to 25 kg (55 lbs).
🔌 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.
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What to do in Barcelona
There's always something to do in Barcelona. The Sagrada Familia and Park Guell are two of the city's most famous tourist destinations. If you're looking for something a little more low-key, take a stroll down Las Ramblas or enjoy the view from Tibidabo Mountain.
Barcelona is also home to many museums, including the Museu Picasso and the Museum of Contemporary Art. If you're interested in architecture, don't miss a chance to see some of Antoni Gaudi's work. You can also find plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to keep you busy.
And, of course, there's no way to visit Barcelona without spending some time at the beach. There's plenty of room to unwind in the sun with over four miles of beaches.
Whether you're visiting for a few days or a few weeks, Barcelona has something for everyone. So hop on a train and enjoy everything this incredible city has to offer!
Parc Guell is one of Barcelona's attractions. ㅤ ㅤ
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What's the cheapest way to go from Madrid to Barcelona?
| Vehicle type | Travel time | Avg price | Daily departures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle typeBus | Travel time7h 50m | Avg priceUS$46 | Daily departures29 |
| Vehicle typeTrain | Travel time2h 45m | Avg priceUS$42 | Daily departures31 |
| Vehicle typeCarpool | Travel time6h 40m | Avg priceUS$43 | Daily departures13 |
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 US$42 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from US$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!
Will you be returning to Madrid by train?
Train from Barcelona to Madrid
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