The average train time from Madrid to Barcelona is 3h, although it takes just 2h 30m on the fastest direct Renfe Ave services. There are around 26 trains per day running from Madrid to Barcelona, the first train leaves Madrid Atocha at 06:10 and the last train leaves at 21:30.
As two of the biggest cities in Spain, it’s no surprise that Madrid to Barcelona is one of our most popular train routes with locals and tourists. Whether you’re heading to Barcelona for a wander along Las Ramblas or to admire La Sagrada Familia, travelling by train means your journey starts and ends in both city centres, cutting out the hassle of airport transfers and waiting around before your flight.
If you want to travel in style, why not choose a First Class train ticket from Madrid to Barcelona? Renfe AVE trains have a Preferente class that offers wider reclining seats, more privacy and access to Renfe's First Class lounge at the station. Just look for Preferente tickets in our Journey Planner. Want to find out more about First Class train travel in Europe? Check out our guide to First Class v Second Class on European trains.
Keep reading for train times, FAQs about the journey and tips of how to find cheap train tickets. Ready to book? Search your search in our Journey Planner at the top of the page.
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 Madrid to Barcelona 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 Madrid and Barcelona is 3 hours and 38 minutes, with around 14 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.
AVE high-speed trains from Madrid to Barcelona can travel at speeds of up to 193 mph (310 km/h). The fastest journey time from Madrid to Barcelona by train is 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Barcelona can start from as little as €5 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.
Yes. There are 13 direct AVE trains that travel from Madrid to Barcelona each day with an average journey time of 3 hours and 38 minutes.
The first train from Madrid to Barcelona leaves at 04:51 from Madrid Atocha. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Madrid to Barcelona leaves at 07:15 from Madrid Atocha. 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 Madrid to Barcelona cover a distance of around 314 miles (506 km) during the journey.
All trains travelling from Madrid to Barcelona are operated by Renfe – the national train operator in Spain.
Yes. When boarding the train from Madrid to Barcelona, all passengers must pass through a security control point for a ticket and baggage check before departure. This is a requirement on all trains in Spain and the check-point usually closes two minutes before the train is due to depart.