The average journey time by train between Barcelona and Madrid is 2h 43m, with around 24 trains per day. The quickest journey time from Barcelona to Madrid is 2h 30m on a high-speed Renfe AVE train. The first train departs Barcelona Sants station at 05:50 and the last at 21:15, covering a distance of just over 500km and arriving into Madrid’s main railway station, Madrid Atocha. All trains between Barcelona and Madrid are run by Renfe, Spain’s national train company.
Whether you’re heading to Madrid to check out the world-famous Bernabéu Stadium or spend an afternoon wandering in the greenery of Retiro Park, travelling from Barcelona to Madrid by train is one of the easiest ways to get to the Spanish capital. A popular route with both locals and tourists, it’s quicker than flying and you will arrive right in the heart of the city at Madrid Atocha station. AVE trains will get you to Madrid in style, but if you feel like making the journey extra special, upgrade to a Preferente (First Class) ticket to enjoy complimentary snacks and reclining leather seats during your journey.
Keen to find out more? Start your search for train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid in the Journey Planner at the top of the page – we’ll show you train times and ticket prices. To help you find cheap tickets, we’ll highlight the cheapest fares on your travel date. Scroll down for more information about this journey, including ticket prices and FAQs.
Renfe is the national train operator in Spain. It has the widest network of high-speed trains in Europe, linking major cities with AVE, AV-City, Avant, Alvia, and Euromed trains. Long-distance routes are served by Altaria and Talgo trains, while regional routes are operated by Media Distancia, Regional and Express Regional trains. Renfe also operates on international routes to France and Portugal. Renfe trains offer four different travel classes, depending on the train you’re travelling on – Turista (Standard), Turista Plus (Premium Economy), Preferente (Business Class) and Club (First Class).
AVE is Renfe's flagship high-speed service, with trains capable of reaching up to 193 mph (310 km/h). It’s one of the fastest trains in Europe and connects the main cities of Spain. Most AVE trains offer four comfort classes – Turista (standard class), Turista Plus (wider, more comfortable seats), Preferente (lounge access, wide leather seats, food and drink service) and Club (First Class equivalent, with 1-1 configuration, ultra-wide seats, gourmet food and drink and lounge access). All AVE trains have air conditioning, power sockets, free WiFi and a buffet carriage serving a selection of food and drinks.
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid by booking early.§
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
The average journey time by train between Barcelona and Madrid is 2 hours and 50 minutes, with around 13 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from Barcelona to Madrid is 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid can start from as little as $6.29 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Barcelona to Madrid without having to change trains. There are 13 direct trains from Barcelona to Madrid each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from Barcelona to Madrid leaves at 05:30. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Barcelona to Madrid leaves at 07:40. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from Barcelona to Madrid cover a distance of around 314 miles (506 km) during the journey.