About the journey from Seville to Madrid by train
The average journey time by train between Seville and Madrid is 2 hours and 38 minutes, with around 24 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.
Travel by train from one of Spain’s most beautiful and architecturally stunning cities to the capital with us. You might think the journey from Seville to Madrid is too far for a train, but thanks to Renfe’s high-speed rail services, you can wake up in Seville for breakfast and be boating your way around the lake at Parque del Buen Retiro in Madrid before lunchtime.
The good news doesn’t stop there either. Renfe trains are fantastically well equipped with luxurious First Class carriages - look out for Preferente or Club tickets to experience it. You’ll be able to travel much more comfortably than you would by air, even if you just take the Standard Class carriage. So, knowing all that, what are you waiting for? Book a ticket above! Or, if you need more info, we’ve got everything you’ll need below.
Seville to Madrid by train
AVE, Renfe, Alvia and Media Distancia trains from Seville to Madrid
AVE
Renfe
Alvia
Media Distancia
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 two comfort classes – Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (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. There are three fares for AVE services: the cheapest but least flexible Básico fare, the Elige fare (slightly pricier but more flexible), and the Premium fare for seats in Confort Class.
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Renfe is the national train operator in Spain. It operates trains on the longest high-speed railway network in Europe, and the second-longest in the world. The country's major cities are linked up by the high-speed AVE and Avlo trains, while other long-distance routes are served by Altaria, Talgo, Alvia and Euromed trains. Renfe also operates cross-border services into neighbouring Portugal and France. Depending on which service you are travelling on, you'll usually find two classes on Renfe trains - Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class). Fare types range from the cheapest (but least flexible) Básico fare, to the more flexible Elige fares, to the Premium fare for seats in Confort carriages.
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Renfe's Alvia services combine high-speed tracks with lower speed sections, reaching speeds of up to 155 mph (250 km/h) on international lines and 125 mph (200 km/h) on conventional lines. These trains connect the cities of Madrid, Barcelona and Alicante with the other main Spanish cities. Alvia offers two types of classes – Turista (Second Class) and Preferente (First Class). The latter has wider seats, carriages with fewer seats, offers complimentary food and drinks, free newspapers, and access to parking and Club meeting rooms.
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Renfe's Media Distancia are regional trains operated by CAF locomotives that run on medium-distance routes not covered by Avant high-speed trains. Most Media Distancia trains have one class. However, there are some that will have Turista (Second Class) and Preferente (First Class). These trains also have spaces for bicycles, and all seats are equipped with power sockets and reading lights.
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Cheap train tickets from Seville to Madrid
Book in advance
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 Seville to Madrid by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
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.
Choose a slower or connecting train
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!
Look out for special deals
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.
FAQs for Seville to Madrid
How long does the train from Seville to Madrid take?
The average journey time by train between Seville and Madrid is 3 hours and 7 minutes, with around 22 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.
What's the fastest journey time between Seville and Madrid by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Seville to Madrid is 2 hours and 27 minutes.
How much does the train from Seville to Madrid cost?
Train tickets from Seville to Madrid can start from as little as $20.26 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.
Is there a direct train from Seville to Madrid?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Seville to Madrid without having to change trains. There are 16 direct trains from Seville to Madrid each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Seville to Madrid leave?
The first train from Seville to Madrid leaves at 06:43. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Seville to Madrid leave?
The last train from Seville to Madrid leaves at 21:35. 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.
What's the distance between Seville and Madrid by train?
Trains travelling from Seville to Madrid cover a distance of around 242 miles (390 km) during the journey.