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Trains from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)

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  1. Home
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  3. Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)

Taking the train from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main) in 14 hours 43 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)? We’ve got you covered.

It usually takes around 22 hours 55 minutes to travel the 898 miles (1445 km) from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main) by train, although you can get there in as little as 14 hours 43 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 6 trains per day running on this route. You’ll need to make 2 changes along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line.

Train tickets from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main) are usually cheaper when you book in advance compared to buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.

Keen to book your train tickets to Frankfurt (Main)? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.

Trains to Frankfurt (Main) from Madrid

First train

06:16

Last train

13:18

Departure stationMadrid
Arrival stationFrankfurt (Main)
Journey time

From 14h 43m

Distance

898 miles (1445 km)

Frequency

6 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Train and bus operators

BlaBlaCar Bus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)?

Want to know more about your journey from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Frankfurt (Main) from Madrid?

To get to Frankfurt (Main) from Madrid, why not take the train? With 6 trains per day and an average journey time of 22 hours and 55 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main) by train?

On average, it takes around 22 hours and 55 minutes to travel from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main) by train, although you can get there in 14 hours and 43 minutes on the fastest services. With 6 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)?

The fastest time a train can travel the 898 miles (1445 km) from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main) is 14 hours and 43 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)?

There are no direct trains that run between Madrid and Frankfurt (Main). You’ll need to make at least 2 changes along the way.

What are the train times from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)?

Check out the next trains departing from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main) for Tuesday 21st October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
05:1619:5914h 43m, 2 changes
06:2708:5226h 25m, 8 changes
06:5708:5225h 55m, 9 changes
11:5709:5922h 2m, 2 changes
12:1811:5923h 41m, 2 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main)?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Madrid to Frankfurt (Main) starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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