Taking the train from Alicante to Madrid
Served by Alacant Terminal railway station, Alicante is well connected to Spain’s top destinations. If you’re one of the many visitors looking to explore Madrid from Alicante, consider the train as both a quick and affordable way to travel. Using less C02 than cars and planes, you’ll also be doing your bit for the environment by taking the train.
Soaring through the mainland by high-speed Renfe train in just two and a quarter hours, you’ll have enough time to enjoy a glass of something chilled and a snack before arriving into Madrid’s city centre to start your adventure!
Getting off at Madrid Atocha station, you’ll be at the heart of the Spanish capital. The Royal Palace is just a short hop on the Cercanias metro, while the Museo Nacional del Prado and El Retiro Park are within walking distance of the station. Need more inspiration? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Madrid, including the best restaurants, parks, museums and shops to go to.
Keen to learn more about the journey from Alicante to Madrid? Have a look at the helpful information below, including ticket prices and FAQs.
Alicante Terminal to Madrid by train
| Journey time | From 2h 22m |
|---|---|
| Price | €23.20 - €181.60 |
| Distance | 223 miles (359 km) |
| Frequency | 8 trains per day |
| Departure station | Alicante Terminal |
| Arrival station | Madrid |
| Changes | Direct trains available |
| Train and bus operators | Renfe, ALSA |
Renfe, AVE and Alvia trains from Alicante Terminal to Madrid
Renfe
AVE
Alvia
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).
More information
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.
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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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Cheap train tickets from Alicante Terminal to Madrid
- lowest price found‡
- from€23.20
- 2 weeksin advance‡
- avg. single price€55.24
- on the day‡
- avg. single price€64.75
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 Alicante Terminal 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 guide to check when European train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
Journey details
How long does the train from Alicante Terminal to Madrid take?
The average journey time by train between Alicante Terminal and Madrid is 2 hours and 43 minutes, with around 8 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 Alicante Terminal and Madrid by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Alicante Terminal to Madrid is 2 hours and 22 minutes.
How much does the train from Alicante Terminal to Madrid cost?
Train ticket prices from Alicante Terminal to Madrid can start from as little as €23.20 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Alicante Terminal to Madrid?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Alicante Terminal to Madrid without having to change trains. There are 7 direct trains from Alicante Terminal 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 Alicante Terminal to Madrid leave?
The first train from Alicante Terminal to Madrid leaves at 06:08. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Alicante Terminal to Madrid leave?
The last train from Alicante Terminal to Madrid leaves at 20:10. 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 Alicante Terminal and Madrid by train?
Trains travelling from Alicante Terminal to Madrid cover a distance of around 223 miles (359 km) during the journey.
